A Beginner’s Guide to Different Pit Bull Breeds

I have always been fascinated by the different breeds of Pitbull. The term “pit bull” refers to a group of breeds descended from terriers and bulldogs. This fact is not well-known among prospective dog owners since the “pit bull” name is loosely used.

In reality, several distinct pit bull dog breeds have different histories, personalities, and physical features. I am also fascinated by these breeds since they are versatile and can be trained to perform various tasks. Thus, I want to familiarize myself with the different breeds of Pitbull.

So I researched and discovered that the American Kennel Club recognizes six distinct breeds of Pitbull. In this blog post, I am going to discuss each of them. So, let’s get started.

Overview of the Different Breeds of Pitbull and Their Origins

In order to help you better understand the various breeds of Pitbull, I will discuss them in detail.

1: American Bully

The American bully is a breed first developed in the 1980s and ’90s, combining the American pit bull terrier and other bulldog-type breeds. The breed is recognized by the United Kennel Club since 2013 but not officially recognized by the American Kennel Club. Their sturdy and muscular build makes them a preferred choice for dog enthusiasts and breeders.

One of the essential characteristics of the American bully is its loyalty to its owners. This trait directly results from the breed’s breeding history, which was initially bred as a guardianship breed. They are fiercely protective of their owners and display it through their body language. Despite their muscular build and intimidating appearance, the American bully is an exceptionally gentle and affectionate breed, especially towards children.

The American bully has a unique appearance with a big head, broad chest, and heavy bones. They typically stand between 13 to 21 inches at their shoulder, and their weight varies from 30 to 150 pounds, depending on their breed type and the breeder’s preference. They come in various colors and patterns, including solid, spotted, brindle, and flashy colors.

2: Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier stands out among other pitbull breeds for its stocky build, muscular body, and sleek coat. These dogs typically weigh between 24 to 38 pounds and are 14 to 16 inches tall. Their coats can come in a range of colors, such as brindle, black, blue, and red. One of the most recognizable features of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is its strong jaw and broad head, which gives them a formidable appearance.

 

Their affectionate and loving disposition sets Staffordshire Bull Terriers apart from other pitbull breeds. These dogs are known to be incredibly loyal to their owners and crave companionship. They are great with children and are often patient and gentle with them. Despite their history, Staffordshire Bull Terriers are not aggressive by nature. In fact, with proper socialization and training, they can be some of the most obedient and well-behaved dogs around.

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are descendants of the bulldogs and terriers bred for bull-baiting and dogfighting in England. However, when such gruesome sports were outlawed, breeders began crossing bulldogs with terriers to create a new breed that was smaller and more agile. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was developed as a result, and it soon gained popularity as a companion dog due to its friendly and loving nature. In 1935, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club was founded in England to promote and standardize the breed.

Today, Staffordshire Bull Terriers are beloved pets across the world. They are known for their loyalty and affection and make great family dogs. However, it’s worth noting that they are active and energetic dogs that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. As with any breed, it’s important to research and understand their needs before bringing one home.

3: American Staffordshire Terrier

The breed was developed in England in the 19th century by crossing bulldogs with various terrier breeds. These dogs were then brought to America, further developed, and eventually became known as the American Staffordshire Terrier. They were originally bred for dog fighting, a popular sport, but have since become known for their loyal and affectionate nature.

One of the most endearing qualities of the American Staffordshire Terrier is their love for their family. They show unwavering loyalty and will go to great lengths to protect their owners. They are known to be very intuitive and empathetic, so they can often sense when their owners are feeling down or upset. This makes them ideal therapy dogs, and they have been known to provide emotional support to many different types of people.

In addition to their loyalty, American Staffordshire Terriers are also very affectionate with their families. They love to snuggle with their owners and are known for being patient and gentle with children. They are also very intelligent dogs and enjoy learning new things. It makes them perfect for families looking for a trained dog to do tricks and obedience exercises.

Despite their loving nature, it is important to note that American Staffordshire Terriers are still a breed requiring much training and socialization. They can be aggressive towards other dogs if they are not properly introduced to them. However, with the right training and socialization, these dogs can also become great companions for other pets.

4: American Pitbull Terrier

The American pit bull terrier is a breed that has been around for many years. Its ancestors were bulldogs and terriers brought to the United States from the United Kingdom in the 19th century. The breed was developed in North America and became famous for its strength, agility, and courage.

As with any breed, the American pit bull terrier can have some behavior issues. However, these issues are not unique to this breed. All breeds can have problems if they are not properly trained and socialized. In fact, many pit bulls are excellent family dogs known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners and families.

One misconception about American pit bull terriers are vicious and aggressive breeds. This is not true! The breed was initially used in dog fighting, so they have a bad reputation. But that doesn’t mean that all pit bulls are fighters. In fact, many pit bulls are gentle and laid-back dogs that would rather cuddle up next to you than fight.

Another idea is that pit bulls are not good with children. This misconception comes from a few bad incidents that have been heavily publicized in the past. However, once again, this is not true. In reality, many pit bulls are excellent with children and can be great family pets. With proper socialization and training, a pit bull can be just as good a family pet as any other breed.

Pit bulls are not a breed for everyone, and that’s okay. But it’s important to note that pit bulls are not the vicious animals that they are often made out to be. With proper training and socialization, they can be excellent pets that bring joy and happiness to their owners.

5: American Bulldog

American bulldogs were first bred in the 17th century in England for bull baiting. This blood sport involved dogs fighting bulls. Because of their strong jaws and agile bodies, bulldogs were ideal for this task. However, bulldogs were no longer needed for this purpose as bull baiting became outlawed in England. Instead, they were exported to America, where they became working dogs on farms. American farmers used them as guard dogs, catchers of feral pigs, and even as companions.

In terms of physical appearance, the American bulldog can weigh between 60 to 120 pounds and can grow up to 28 inches tall. Unlike other bulldog breeds, American bulldogs have longer legs, giving them a more athletic appearance. They have a boxy head, sturdy build, and a short, smooth coat that can range in color from white to brindle. This breed can be mistaken for an English bulldog, but they are taller, leggier, and leaner.

American bulldogs are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature. They are incredibly loving and protective of their families and can be good with children when socialized properly from a young age. They are also intelligent and trainable; however, they can sometimes be stubborn. These breed can excel in obedience, agility, and even search and rescue tasks with proper training. That’s why they are becoming one of the amazing breeds of Pitbull.

As with any big-breed dog, American bulldogs need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. They are not apartment dogs and need plenty of space to run and play. They also love to chew, so providing them with appropriate chew toys is necessary to prevent them from destructively chewing your furniture. Regular grooming, including brushing their teeth and coat, is also necessary to keep them healthy and comfortable.

6: Bull Terrier

Bull terriers have been around for quite some time. They originated in the UK in the late 19th century, where Jemmy Hinks first bred them. Hinks wanted a breed that was muscular, athletic, and looked good. He crossed the old English bulldog with the white English terrier to create a bull terrier as we know it now. Bull terriers were initially bred for a dogfighting sport known as “ratting” but soon became popular as a companion breed because of their entertaining and lively personality.

Bull terriers are a unique breed of pit bulls and are not commonly known as pit bulls. Unlike other pit bull breeds, bull terriers have an egg-shaped head, which makes them stand out. They are also muscular, athletic, and agile and have short and glossy coat in various colors, including white, brindle, black, and red.

These silly dogs are known for their quirky personality, and you can’t help but laugh at their antics. They have an infectious sense of humor, and their clownish behavior will have you chuckling. However, bull terriers can sometimes be stubborn, making them challenging to train. It’s essential to start training them early and be consistent.

One thing about bull terriers that makes them stand out from other breeds is their love for people. They crave human attention and affection and will go to great lengths to get your attention. They make great family pets and are great with children if you supervise them. These breed also get along well with other dogs, although they can be bossy at times.

You can consider These different breeds of pitbulls if you are looking for a loyal and affectionate companion. All of these breeds have unique characteristics and personalities, so do your research before bringing a pit bull home.

Things to Consider Upon Bringing Home a Pitbull

Once you’ve decided which breed of pit bull is best for you and your family, there are some important things to consider before bringing them home.

1. Training is Key

Training and socialization are critical for pit bulls if you want them to be well-behaved pets. They are intelligent and eager to please, but they are also strong-willed and can be stubborn at times. This means that consistent training and positive reinforcement are essential. Enrolling your pit bull in obedience classes or working with a professional trainer can help establish boundaries and redirect any unwanted behavior.

2. Insurance and Legal Considerations

Unfortunately, owning a pit bull can impact your ability to obtain homeowners’ or renter’s insurance and make finding suitable housing more challenging. Some insurance companies and landlords have breed-specific restrictions, meaning you may need to pay higher premiums or face rejection altogether. Additionally, some cities and states have breed-specific legislation prohibiting or regulating pit bull ownership. It’s crucial to research the laws and regulations in your area before adopting a pit bull.

3. Socialization with Other Dogs

Pit bulls tend to be dog-aggressive, which means they may not get along with other dogs. Early socialization and training can help prevent this behavior, but it’s important to note that pit bulls may never be fully trustworthy around other dogs. As a responsible owner, you must monitor your pit bull’s interactions with other dogs and avoid situations that may trigger aggressive behavior.

4. Responsibility and Liability

Owning any dog is a big responsibility, but it’s even more important for pit bulls. As a powerful breed, pit bulls can cause serious injury if they are not properly trained and socialized. Taking precautions such as using a leash and muzzle when in public and keeping your pit bull securely confined at home is crucial. As an owner, you also need to be prepared for legal and financial liability if your pit bull were to cause harm to another person or animal.

5. Love and Loyalty

Despite the unique considerations of pit bull ownership, there is no denying the love and loyalty these dogs can bring into your life. They are affectionate and devoted to their owners, often going above and beyond to protect and comfort them. With the right training and care, a pit bull can make a wonderful addition to any household.

Owning a pit bull can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience with the right preparation and care.

Famous Pitbulls and Their Stories 

These pups have wiggled their way into our hearts. Here’s a few of the most famous pit bulls that have made headlines and impacted society in amazing ways.

☛Bud

Bud was not an ordinary pit bull; his story is not average. In 1903, Dr. Horatio Nelson Jackson embarked on a journey with his assistant Sewall K. Crocker and his beloved pit bull, Bud. Their mission was clear – they wanted to be the first to cross the United States in automobiles. This journey was difficult, and the team faced numerous challenges that only strengthened their will to complete the venture.

What made Bud so unique was his involvement in this epic road trip. Dr. Jackson provided Bud with his pair of goggles to protect the dog’s eyes from the strong wind and dust. The goggles became a symbol of Bud’s participation in the road trip and are now a part of the Smithsonian Museum exhibit.

Bud’s story doesn’t end at the road trip. The brave pit bull became a celebrity and went on to star in a movie titled Pups of Liberty, where he was hailed as a hero. In this film, Bud portrayed a life-saving hero, a role that became a significant part of his legacy.

☛Petey

Let’s talk about Petey’s real name – Pal. Pal was trained and owned by Harry Lucenary before he made his big-screen debut. The black ring around his eye that we all know and love was added by makeup. Interestingly enough, the ring wasn’t always on the same eye. Sometimes it was on his left, and other times, on his right eye. This tidbit, shared by Pitbullsontheweb.com, proves how iconic the ring around his eye is. It is one of the most recognizable features of any dog breed.

Moreover, Petey’s charming personality was infectious. In every scene he was in, he would light up the screen. Often, he was seen playing with the kids and showcasing how friendly and gentle pit bulls can be. Petey’s popularity positively represented the breed, which was a crucial aspect during that time. Today, pitbulls still face negative stereotypes, but then and now, pets like Petey prove that these dogs can be loving and loyal companions.

☛Sergeant Stubby

Stubby’s story began in 1917, when he wandered into an army training camp in Connecticut. The soldiers immediately took a liking to him, and when it was time for the troops to ship out to France, Stubby was smuggled aboard the ship. He quickly became a source of comfort for the soldiers and was soon given the role of a mascot for the 102d Infantry, Yankee Division.

The pitbull was not just a symbol of hope and comfort for the soldiers but also a significant asset to the regiment. Stubby was trained to warn his fellow soldiers of incoming gas attacks, and he could differentiate between the smell of mustard gas and chlorine gas, saving countless soldiers’ lives. Stubby also became skilled at locating wounded soldiers on the battlefield, and his keen senses helped many of them receive medical treatment quickly.

Still, it was an incident that occurred in the German trenches that earned Sergeant Stubby his most significant recognition. Stubby managed to capture a German spy, attempting to map out the trench defenses by biting him in the leg and holding him down until the soldiers arrived. This act of courage was recognized by the commanding officer, who promoted Stubby to the rank of sergeant, making him the first dog to receive a rank in the military.

These beloved pit bulls have positively impacted society, and their stories are great reminders of the love and loyalty these dogs can bring into our lives.

Grooming Tips for Pitbulls of All Breeds

Now lets talk about proper grooming for pit bulls of all breeds. Since proper grooming helps to maintain a healthy coat and skin, all breeders and owners of any pit bull must follow these tips:

1: Brushing

Brushing your Pitbull regularly is one of the most important grooming tasks you can do. It helps to remove loose hair, dirt, and even dead skin cells. This, in turn, keeps their coat looking healthy and shiny. You should aim to brush your Pitbull at least twice a week. You can use a slick brush if they have a shorter coat, while a rubber curry brush is best for longer-haired breeds. Make sure to brush in the direction of their coat growth, and don’t forget to brush their underbelly and legs.

2: Bathing

For most Pitbull breeds, it’s recommended to bath them every 6-8 weeks. However, if your pup loves to roll in the mud or gets into something smelly, you may need to bathe them more frequently. When it comes to shampoo, choose a product that’s gentle on their skin and won’t strip their coat of its natural oils. Warm water is best, and rinse thoroughly to avoid dry skin. After their bath, pat them dry with a towel and brush their coat while it’s still damp to avoid any tangles.

3: Nail Care

Keeping your Pitbull’s nails trimmed is essential for their health and comfort. Long nails can cause them pain and even lead to joint problems over time. Aim to trim their nails every 6-8 weeks, depending on how quickly they grow. Use a set of sharp dog nail clippers and take care not to cut into their quick – the pink part of their nail that contains blood vessels. If your dog gets nervous during nail trims, try using treats or distracting them with their favorite toy.

4: Ear Cleaning

Pitbulls can be prone to ear infections, so keeping their ears clean and dry is essential. Check their ears regularly for any signs of wax build-up or discharge. Use a dog-specific ear-cleaning solution and a cotton ball or pad when cleaning. Be gentle, and never insert anything into their ear canal, which can cause damage. If their ears seem particularly smelly or inflamed, it’s best to consult your vet to ensure there’s no underlying issue.

5: Teeth Brushing

Keeping your Pitbull’s teeth clean is important for their overall health and hygiene. Aim to brush your dog’s teeth at least 2-3 times per week. Use a toothbrush and toothpaste made specifically for dogs. Never use human toothpaste, as it can be toxic to pets. Start slow, and make it a positive experience with treats and praise. If your dog isn’t a fan of toothbrushing, try a dental chew or a water additive that helps to reduce plaque.

Following these tips can help keep your furry friend healthy, happy, and looking their best. Always consult your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s health or grooming needs.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I identify the specific breed of my Pitbull?

The term Pitbull is not a breed but an umbrella term that refers to several dog breeds that share physical and behavioral traits. The most common breeds that fall under the Pitbull umbrella are American Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Bull Terrier. It can be challenging to identify the specific breed of your Pitbull as they can have many physical similarities. However, a DNA test could provide reliable information on their breed and ancestry.

Are Pitbull breeds suitable for first-time dog owners?

While Pitbull breeds are loyal and loving, they are not always the best fit for first-time dog owners. Pitbulls require socialization, training, and proper exercise to thrive, and inexperienced owners may struggle to provide those qualities. Moreover, Pitbulls have a high prey drive and may not be suitable for families with small children or other pets. That being said, Pitbulls can be wonderful pets for responsible and patient owners willing to take the time and effort to care for them.

Can Pitbull breeds live in apartments or require a large yard?

Pitbull breeds can adapt to living conditions in apartments or houses with small yards as long as they receive enough exercise and mental stimulation. Pitbulls are active dogs that enjoy daily walks, playtime, and training sessions to keep them healthy and happy. If you live in an apartment or don’t have a large backyard, make sure to provide your Pitbull with enough physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

How can I help my Pitbull overcome aggression issues?

Pitbull type dogs can develop aggressive tendencies if not properly socialized, trained, and cared for. If your Pitbull displays signs of aggression, such as growling, biting, or lunging, seek professional help from a qualified dog trainer or behaviorist. Aggression issues in dogs require patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques to overcome.

Can Pitbulls live with other pets?

Pitbulls can get along well with other pets, including dogs and cats, if they are socialized early and have positive experiences. Introduce your Pitbull to other pets gradually and under supervision, rewarding good behavior and correcting unwanted behavior. Keep in mind that Pitbulls have a high prey drive and may not be suitable for living with small animals like rabbits or hamsters.

Final Words

Overall, learning about the different breeds of pitbull has been an eye-opening experience for me. I can say that each pitbull is unique in its way. It’s easy to see why they’ve become such popular pets – loyal, loving, and downright adorable. Whether you’re looking for a playful companion or a protective guard dog, a pit bull is perfect for your lifestyle. Despite the misconceptions that surround these breeds, I can’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to admire their beauty and learn more about their distinct personalities. I’m excited to see where my pitbull journey takes me next.