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5 Types of Pit Bull Dog Breeds

By
GEMMA JOHNSTONE
Updated on 09/21/22

Reviewed by
NELVA J. BRYANT

The Spruce / Kristie Lee

A pit bull isn't a specific breed—there are in fact many types of pit
bulls. Pit bull is an umbrella term that's used for several breeds. Pit
bull-type dogs often face unfair discrimination. These dogs were bred
for their muscular build and consequently have been used in
inhumane dogfighting sports. This has given them an inaccurate
reputation as being overly aggressive dogs. In fact, pit bull-type dogs
are usually incredibly loving, loyal, and gentle with their family
members. They also tend to be playful and eager to please.

Here are the five breeds that are most commonly referred to as types
of pit bull dogs.

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Pit bull-type dogs typically have muscular, stocky builds with deep
chests and large, square heads. They’re notoriously determined dogs.
When given a task, whether it be learning a new trick or digging a
hole, they won’t give up easily. And they usually love people,
including strangers, and crave attention. Training and socialization
from a young age are important for pit bulls. Otherwise, their size
and strength can be difficult to handle, as they might pull hard on a
leash or jump up on people to greet them.

Tip
Due to the stigma surrounding these breeds, certain areas have
banned ownership of pit bull-type dogs. Make sure to check your
local legislation before bringing one of these dogs home.

01 American Bully
of 05

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sobakabarobaka / Getty Images

The American bully is a relatively new breed that was first developed
in the '80s and '90s. Recognized by the United Kennel Club in 2013
but not yet by the American Kennel Club, the breed came from the
American pit bull terrier and other bulldog-type breeds. In
comparison to the American pit bull terrier, bullies are much
broader, more compact, and have a wider head. Bullies from
responsible breeders have been specifically developed for their gentle
and affectionate temperament. But bullies are still strong and athletic,
so they need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy.

Breed Overview
HEIGHT: 13 to 20 inches

WEIGHT: 65 to 85 pounds

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Compact, strong, thickset, and

muscular; short and smooth coat; comes in a wide variety of coat
colors and patterns

Continue to 2 of 5 below.
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02
of 05
American Pit Bull Terrier

Tara Gregg / Getty Images

The American pit bull terrier is another breed recognized by the

United Kennel Club but not the American Kennel Club. Its ancestors
were 19th-century terriers and bulldogs that came from the United
Kingdom, and the breed took shape in North America in the late 19th
century. Sadly this breed has been commonly used for dogfighting.
Although modern American pit bull terriers can have a high prey
drive and don't always get along with other dogs, they're known for
forming strong bonds with their families. And as with most pit bull
types, they tend to be loyal and affectionate.

Breed Overview
HEIGHT: 17 to 20 inches

WEIGHT: 30 to 65 pounds
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 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Muscular build; short coat; colors
include black, white, brindle, fawn, blue, red, brown, tan, and
gray

03 American Staffordshire Terrier

of 05

Lunja / Getty Images

The American Staffordshire terrier also has roots in the terriers and
bulldogs of 19th century England. Its development in late 19th
century North America resulted in a dog that was larger than its
English relatives. The breed wasn't used as commonly for fighting as
some of the other pit bull types, which resulted in more mellow dogs.
But Am Staffs still can have a high prey drive and don't always get
along with other dogs. However, they're known for being loyal,
playful, and good-natured with their families.

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Breed Overview
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 HEIGHT: 17 to 19 inches

WEIGHT: 50 to 80 pounds

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Short coat; variety of colors

including black, brown, blue, fawn, red, and liver; brindle pattern
and/or white markings are also seen

04 Staffordshire Bull Terrier

of 05

Jennifer Hellbom / Getty Images

Despite the Staffordshire bull terrier's development in the 19th

century for dogfighting, the breed today is more closely associated
with being unfailingly loyal and affectionate with its family. These
dogs often love nothing more than snuggling with their owners, and
they tend to be patient and gentle with children. They are a breed
that is best suited to a household where they will have company for
most of the day, as they can be prone to separation anxiety. Ad
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Carlos L. Mendez / Getty Images

The American bulldog is a descendant of English bulldogs, which

were developed in the 17th century for bull baiting—a blood sport
that involved dogs fighting bulls. In North America, bulldogs became
working dogs on farms and all-around friendly companions. They
tend to be extremely affectionate with their families, often wanting to
sit in laps despite their large size. They also often love kids. But they
can be very protective of their families, so training and socialization
are a must to ensure they will be friendly to people outside of your
household.

Breed Overview
HEIGHT: 20 to 28 inches

WEIGHT: 60 to 120 pounds

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Stocky build; deep chest; short

muzzle; typically white with patches of brindle, red, black, or
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 FAQ
What dog breeds make a pit bull?
There is no specific breed called a pit bull; pit bulls are either
American bullys, American pit bull terriers, American Staffordshire
terriers, Staffordshire bull terriers, American bulldogs, or a mix of
these breeds.

How much is a pit bull dog?

It depends on whether you're seeking a pedigreed dog or not.
Recognized breeds can cost from $1000 to 3000 for a puppy;
generic pit bulls are available at nearly every shelter or foster
organization in this country, for the mere price of an adoption fee.

What size is a pit bull?

Pit bulls are medium to large sized dogs, ranging in size from 30
to 90 pounds.

How long do pit bulls live?

Pit bulls have an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years.

RELATED:
5 Bulldog Breeds for Families

WORKING DOG BREEDS

What Is a Pit Bull?

By JENNA STREGOWSKI

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