It’s a common misunderstanding among dog lovers that a Pitbull refers to one specific dog. Though we all generally have the same vision in mind when thinking of a Pitbull, this is actually just a term that describes a group of dogs with similar features.
In this article, we’ll discuss what it is that makes a dog a Pitbull, and the common types of Pitbulls in the dog world.
What Is A Pitbull?
The Pitbull is a term used to describe dogs with similar features of the Pit Bulldog that was present in the 19th century. This type of dog was either bred for work, used in bloodsport or were lovable family dogs.
They are known for their block-like face, their stocky and muscular builds, and their slightly squished face.
Now the term Pitbull is comparable to the term Hound, as it is used to describe a general type of dog.
Within the Pitbull, the term is the four distinct breeds that are recognized:
- American Pitbull Terrier
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- American bully
Aside from the recognized breeds are the millions of Pitbull mutts of the world that have a combination of the characteristics of the above breed.
This breed is so used in breeding, that on a regular basis 13 dog breeds are mistaken for Pitbulls.
The wide variety of Pitbull types were displayed in a recent photography project by the team at A Gold Photo Photography. By starting the Pitbull Picture Project they hoped to open up the public’s eyes to the many kinds of Pitbulls and help to boost adoptions for this wonderful breed.
Fast fact: Pitbulls are often used to create new breeds, such as Plott Hound Pitbull Mix
Characteristics Of A Pitbull
In order to understand the generalized term, Pitbull, it’s best that we cover the common characteristics that tie these dogs together. Common characteristics of Pitbulls include:
- Box like muzzle
- Muscular cheeks
- Small and deep-set
- Broad shoulders
- Short and glossy coat
- Muscular build
Types Of Pitbulls
Now that we’ve cleared up the Pitbull misconceptions and their common traits, let’s dive into the specific details of each breed.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is the smallest of the recognized Pitbull Breeds with weighing in at 25-38 lbs and standing at 15 inches in height.
Though they may be smaller than the other Pits, they still pack a punch! This tiny Pitbull is a rock-solid, muscular pup that is extremely athletic and powerful.
They are known for their muscular cheeks, their short yet stocky build, and a coat that comes in an array of colors. Their coat is often smooth and silky, making them the perfect dogs for cuddling.
This breed is known for being incredibly active, so it’s best that they live in a home with an active lifestyle.
As long as you can incorporate daily exercise and socialization into their lives, this breed can be an incredible companion to any family.
American Pitbull Terrier (APBT)
This breed stands taller than the other Pitbulls with their average height being about 6 inches taller than the other types.
This is quite possibly the most common type of Pitbull that the public recognizes as the breed as a whole, as they are most popular in the breeding world.
They are known for their stocky build, their muscular body type, and the large size of their heads.
This is the breed that is often referred to as the red nose the bluenose pit, as these are popular colors that breeders often try to create within this breed.
This breed is known for their lovable, playful, and loyal personality that makes them suited for any home. As long as this breed is well socialized, they can be an incredible member of your family.
Because this breed is the most sought after type of Pitbull, this type is prone to overbreeding. This means there is a large number of breeding related medical conditions.
If you choose to purchase this breed, make sure it comes from a reputable breeder with health certificates for each parent. One of the most common mixed Pitbull mixed breeds is Pitsky.
American Bulldog
The American Bulldog is known for their love of work and their athletic abilities. Whether they are chasing down cattle on the farm or jumping sky high for a frisbee, they are happy! When they are a part of an active family, they have everything they need.
This breed can range in size from 60 to 120 lbs depending on their parent’s size. With their wide range of weight is their range in height as well, as they can stand anywhere from 20 to 28 inches in height.
With their impressive structure is their wide range of coat colors. This breed can range from black to white, to brindle, to a combination of all three.
Due to this breeds high energy level, they are known for being excellent running companions. With the fierce love of exercise that these dogs have, it’s important to make sure you live in a home with a large yard or are at least dedicated to daily walks.
This breed is known for their intense love of being around their humans, so it’s best that they live in a home where their humans are home often.
They are known to experience severe separation anxiety when left alone, so if you are often away for work, this may not be the breed for you.
American Staffordshire Terrier
This breed is well known for the strong muscular build with a sweet and loving personality to go along with it.
Though this breed’s appearance can be intimidating, they love nothing more than spending time with the humans they love. This breed’s reputation is ironic, as they are truly teddy bears.
Along with their love of their family is there a need to please. Because of this, they are generally easy to train, as they just want to make you happy. As long as you provide a positive and stimulating learning environment, the American Staffordshire Terrier will thrive.
Make sure to never incorporate negative reinforcement into your training. Since this breed loves to please their owners so much, and negative reinforcement can be really discouraging for them.
This breed is one of the smaller forms of Pitbull, as they generally weight anywhere from 40 to 60 pounds and stand at about 18 inches in height. Though they may be a bit smaller than their other Pitbull relatives, they have enough love to make up for it. Since these dogs are so active, you need to make sure that you provide the best food for Pitbulls.
Pitbulls And Aggression
Unfortunately for Pitbulls, you’ve probably heard about their link to aggression. The Pitbull’s ancestors were originally bred for multiple forms of bloodsport.
They were tied to bull-baiting, dog fighting, and other aggressive sport that enabled this breed’s aggressive and protective tendencies. Unfortunately to this day, some individuals still exploit this breed for use in bloodsport.
Though you will see a long history of aggression in the Pitbull’s past, you will see just as many pieces of history that prove this breed is extremely lovable and kind when they are allowed to be.
You can find hundreds of pictures of Pitbulls previously dressed up in adorable outfits alongside the children in their family, testimonials of families in the past that referred to their Pitbulls as nanny dogs, and millions of Pitbull lovers that advocate for this breed’s ability to be wonderful family dogs.
Just like with any other breed that is known to have protective qualities, it’s important to socialize this breed from the start.
Any aggressive tendencies can be drastically minimized when introduced to other humans, animals, and new environments at a young age. As long as you continue to socialize this breed, you can have a loving and loyal addition to your family.
Types Of Pitbulls – Summary
The Pitbull has been around for quite some time and has finally begun to overcome their past. Thankfully this breed is finally accepted as a kind, fun-loving, and loyal member of the family.
No matter the type of Pitbull you bring into your home, you are sure to have a furry best friend for life.
