Pitbull dogs are famous across the globe for being descendants of bulldogs and terrier. They are a great animal breed in terms of companionship and support.
Pitbull dogs have a friendly nature, and this is the reason why millions of households in the United States keep them as pets. They continuously achieve excellent temperament scores and are proficient as K9 police dogs, therapy dogs, and service dogs.
With the media attention that all types of pitbulls receives, most of us are already familiar with their features and appearance.
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A Brief History About Pitbull Breeds
Terriers are quite famous for their feistiness and agility, and bulldogs are known for their absolute strength, combined together to develop the perfect fighting breed. The resultant breed was not only powerful and persistent; it was useful in terms of friendship as well.
Pitbull dog breed initially originated in Great Britain, where it was popular to bait on bulls and bears for entertainment. In 1835, the government put a ban on cruel blood sports by introducing the Cruelty to Animals Act.
To continue with the thrill and excitement, the participants quickly turned to dogfight events, as they were inexpensive to organize and more comfortable to hide from law enforcement agencies.
These dogfighting events involved gambling, and they also allowed owners to present their dog’s strength, quickness, and capability to stand the longest. These events were where the Pitbull type dog’s legacy initiated.
However, in the beginning, all fighting dogs were trained to become too violent and cruel towards other dogs. Still, the trainers ensured that as soon as the humans entered the ring, the dogs would not attack. This is where pitbull dogs gained their love of humans.
After the end of the Civil War, British immigrants started to come to the United States, with their fighting dogs. In a new country, the breed flourished even more as the American dogfighters wanted to come up with more powerful fighter dog breeds.
Physique and Appearance of Pitbull Dog Breeds
All of the pitbull breeds have an athletic and muscular appearance, though some are leaner than others. Some pitbull breeds are wider, and squatter and others are taller and slimmer. You can easily compare the weights and heights according to the standards provided by official clubs.
All pitbull dog breeds have a square fleshed nose, a square-shaped head, and bigger eyes. They have short coats that are feasible to maintain; you do not have to brush or bath them quite frequently.
Pitbull dogs have long and straight tails, and they have ears like roses, except if the owners crop them out. This look is still preferred and adopted by many.
Colors of Pitbull Dog Breeds
Pitbull dog breeds come in various colors, except for merle. Although there are merle-colored pitbull dogs out there, the color gene is naturally not present in the species, which means that the conventional dogs are bred with this genetic color at some point. If you ever see a merle Pitbull, you should know that it is not 100% pure in origin and will not be able to compete in any breed club.
The temperament of Pitbull Dog Breeds
Pitbulls have a quiet and robust temperament. They like humans and enjoy their company to the fullest. They are fun-loving and can actively mix in the family activities, whether it is a football game or a lazy day on the sofa.
This dog breed is quite sensitive and is particularly fond of children. If you want a nanny dog, this group is the one to look out!
Pitbull dog breeds need socialization, and they can display aggression against other dogs if kept in isolation. If you want your dog to get along with other species, it is essential to keep them friendly.
Pitbulls take instructions very well, so if you are determined, you will find an obedient partner in this dog breed.
Most Popular Types of Pitbull Dog Breeds
There are four types of pitbull breeds that are popular throughout the world. However, it cannot be very clear because some species are only important for particular Kennel Clubs.
Depending on the region, people discuss that the American Staffordshire Terrier and
Staffordshire Bull Terrier and American bully are two other popular types that have great significance as well.
Let’s talk about each of these breeds in detail.
1. American Pitbull Terrier
- Weight: 30 to 65lbs
- Height: 17 to 21inches
As mentioned earlier, this is the most common pitbull dog breed, and for most people, the original one too. These types of dogs cannot compete in the American Kennel Club, but the United Kennel Club regards them as an essential group.
According to the statistics, this pitbull dog breed has maintained its characteristics and attributes for about 150 years.
When the pitbull terrier specie arrived in the United States, farmers and ranchers noticed their obedience, skill, and athletically built. Several communities kept these dogs on the ground for hunting and guarding herds. At the end of the day, this breed type became a close companion for many families!
Out of all the popular pitbull dog breeds, the
This breed of pitbull dogs is quite expensive because of the original tag. It also comes with additional health conditions that should be taken into consideration. American Pitbull Terriers need constant exercise to stay happy and healthy.
2. American Staffordshire Terrier
- Weight: 40 to 80lbs
- Height: 16 to 20inches
The American Staffordshire Terrier generally goes by the short name ‘AmStaff.’ The American Kennel Club and the United Kennel Club both accept this pitbull dog breed. These dogs enlist to be the 85th most popular dog breed out of 193 breeds, but according to the research, they are much more prevalent in regular households.
This particular pitbull breed has been one of America’s favorite dogs, being a faithful pet of three American Presidents. Their sweet and loving nature is the reason why millions of people love to adopt them and keep around the children. Despite the athletic and muscular appearance, these terriers have the calmest and sweetest vibe.
This breed does not have a better reputation for fighting. Staffordshire terriers make excellent farm dogs and companions because of their mellow nature. Still, they do not get along well with other dogs under isolation and have a strong prey drive.
The short coat of this breed type comes in multiple colors, including brown, black, fawn, blue, liver, and red. If you are looking to buy a dog that will be the center of attention, an American Staffordshire Terrier is the best option!
3. American Bully
- Weight: 60 to 90lbs
- Height: 13 to 20inches
The American Bully comes from the
This type of pitbull dog breed has a larger physique due to which you have to follow specific nutrition requirements. There are three fundamental sizes: Standard, Pocket, Classic, and XL. The Classic American Bully, out of all the categories, is less muscular and has a narrow body.
Breeders from all over the world develop these dogs for their temperament. Despite their tough-looking appearance, they are great family dogs and make friendships with humans easily. With the appropriate training and socialization, you can keep them around children too!
American bullies are quite gentle and subtle with other animals as well. However, being strong and athletic, they need plenty of physical activities. You have to keep them busy in order to avoid any physical illnesses. This pitbull dog breed has similar features of the English Bulldog, American Bulldog, and English Bull Terrier.
4. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Weight: 20 to 40lbs
- Height: 14 to 16inches
These types of pitbull dogs are the most popular in Great Britain. In the United States, they are the 80th most popular breed due to their friendly nature. This popular breed is famous in all important Kennel Clubs, including the American Kennel Club and the United Kennel Club. They are quite brave, clever, and tenacious dogs and if you want to keep an affectionate pet, Staffordshire Bull Terriers are a good choice.
Out of all the pitbull dog breeds, these are the smallest dogs; their height can be a minimum of 7 inches. Being smaller, this group can be a great choice for those who do not have a lot of space around the house.
Despite their original purpose of dogfighting, the Staffordshire Bull Terriers are loyal and loving towards their families. This breed is best for a household where they will get plenty of attention throughout the day; they can be prone to separation anxiety as well.
Staffordshire bull terriers come in different colors including blue, black, fawn, brindle, white, and more. These dogs do not get along well with other animals due to which keeping them people-focused is the best option. With a suitable amount of socialization, they can learn to be with other dogs and can have companionship with small furry creatures.
Mixed Breeds
There are some additional mixed breeds of pitbull dogs as well that are quite popular among humans.
For example, a Rottweiler and Pitbull mix can have a hybrid dog that is affectionate, loving, and caring. The Rottweiler Pitbull mix is not a pure breed but has some important characteristics which are necessary to keep a household dog. These dogs might seem intimidating but become trained and social with an appropriate amount of training.
Pitbull Husky mix is another popular choice which is when a pitbull mates with a Husky (a Siberian Husky or an Alaskan Husky).
These groups are best for households that have an active and busy lifestyle. Like other hybrid dogs, they can gain physical appearance and behavioral characteristics from either parent. In any case, you have to learn and adapt to their lifestyle and requirements with time and learn to manage their needs accordingly.
Mixed breeds have different requirements than pure breeds and this is a factor you should consider ahead of time. You also have to note their behaviors to ensure they do not feel lonely or left out.
Summing it Up – Which Pitbull Dog Breed is the Best?
If you have kept strong and big dogs before, and have the time and patients to provide, you are in for a treat! Pitbull dogs are friendly, loyal, affectionate, and caring in all ways.
These breeds may have a wrong impression due to their size and stern appearance. But with training and temperament control, you will not have to face any issues! All types of breeds that we discussed are compatible and considerable for
Despite their harsh past, they turn out to be the sweetest canines one can ever keep. All they need is a comfortable home and an owner who is willing to invest time in physical activities and training!
Now, you have all the knowledge there is to know what a Pitbull dog is, how they are, and which types are best for your household. These types of dogs are most commonly found in rescue shelters so you should definitely think about welcoming one. If you want to buy one, you will surely have a companion for life.
