Different Type of Pitbull Dogs: Complete Breed Guide & Comparison

What Exactly Is a "Pit Bull"? Understanding the Different Type of Pitbull Dogs

When people search for a different type of pitbull dogs, they're usually surprised to learn that "pit bull" isn't a single breed at all. It's an umbrella term that covers several distinct, registered breeds plus a wide range of mixed-breed dogs that share a common ancestry in bull-and-terrier crosses from 19th-century England and Ireland. The confusion is understandable: these dogs share a muscular build, a broad skull, and a short coat, but their temperaments, sizes, and health profiles vary significantly.

In this guide, we break down the four breeds most commonly grouped under the pit bull label — the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT), the American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff), the Staffordshire Bull Terrier (Staffy), and the American Bully — plus a quick look at how mixed-breed "pit bull types" fit into the picture. You'll get exact weights, health data, exercise needs, and real ownership costs so you can decide which, if any, is the right match for your household.

Origin & History: Where the Different Type of Pitbull Dogs Came From

All pit bull-type breeds trace back to the Old English Bulldog and various terriers crossed in England and Ireland during the early 1800s. These crosses were originally bred for blood sports — bull-baiting and, later, rat-baiting and dog fighting — which selected for gameness, pain tolerance, and a powerful jaw grip. When these sports were outlawed in the UK in 1835, immigrants brought the dogs to the United States, where they were repurposed as farm dogs, hunting companions, and family guardians.

Here's how the four main breeds diverged:

• American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT): The original American landrace, recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1898. It was never bred for conformation showing, which preserved its working-dog athleticism. The UKC breed standard still emphasizes working ability.
• American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff): Developed from the same stock but selectively bred for a heavier, more uniform appearance. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1936 under the name "Staffordshire Terrier," later changed to American Staffordshire Terrier in 1972 to distinguish it from the smaller British Staffy.
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier: The English original, smaller and more compact. Recognized by the UK Kennel Club in 1935 and by the AKC in 1974. Bred primarily as a companion in industrial England's Midlands region.
• American Bully: The newest addition, developed in the 1990s by crossing APBTs and AmStaffs with English Bulldogs and other bulldog-type breeds. Recognized by the UKC in 2013 and the American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC). It comes in four size classes: Pocket, Standard, Classic, and XL.

Because breed-specific legislation (BSL) varies by city, county, and state, anyone considering a pit bull-type dog should check local ordinances. Some jurisdictions restrict or ban ownership of dogs that fall under the "pit bull" classification regardless of specific breed registration.

Physical Characteristics: Size, Build, and Coat Details

Even within a single breed, pit bull-type dogs can vary considerably. Here's what to expect from each:

American Pit Bull Terrier

The APBT is the most athletic of the group — lean, agile, and built for endurance. Males typically weigh 35–65 lb (16–29 kg) and stand 18–21 in (46–53 cm) at the shoulder; females are 30–50 lb (14–23 kg) and 17–20 in (43–51 cm). The coat is short, stiff, and glossy, coming in virtually any color and pattern. The head is broad but proportionate, with a defined jaw and medium-sized rose or half-prick ears (natural; cropped ears are increasingly discouraged).

American Staffordshire Terrier

The AmStock is stockier and more heavily muscled than the APBT, with a broader skull and a deeper chest. Males: 55–70 lb (25–32 kg), 18–19 in (46–48 cm); females: 40–55 lb (18–25 kg), 17–18 in (43–46 cm). Per the AKC breed standard, the AmStaff's coat is short, stiff, and close-lying, with any color permissible though solid or parti-color is preferred. Over 80% white is discouraged in the show ring.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The smallest of the four, the Staffy is compact and surprisingly heavy for its height — a 14–16 in (36–41 cm) dog that packs 28–38 lb (13–17 kg) of muscle. Males tend toward the upper range; females are typically 24–34 lb (11–15 kg). The coat is smooth and short, with accepted colors including red, fawn, white, black, blue, or brindle, with or without white markings.

American Bully

The American Bully's size varies dramatically by class. Standard males stand 17–20 in (43–51 cm) and weigh 66–120 lb (30–54 kg); Pocket males are 14–17 in (36–43 cm) at a similar stocky build. XL males can reach 20–23 in (51–58 cm) and exceed 120 lb (54 kg). The build is wider, more exaggerated, and more bulldog-like than any of the terrier-derived breeds, with a massive head and heavy bone.

Temperament & Personality: What to Expect from Each Breed

Pit bull-type dogs share some common behavioral threads, but generalizing across all four breeds leads to mismatched expectations. Here are the core traits, breed by breed:

Five Core Temperament Traits

1. Human-directed affection: All four breeds are notably people-oriented. APBTs and AmStaffs tend to form intense bonds with one or two people, while Staffies are famously social with everyone they meet. American Bullies lean toward a calmer, more laid-back affection. This is not a breed that does well with long periods of isolation — separation anxiety is common if left alone for more than 4–6 hours regularly.
2. High pain tolerance and physical resilience: Bred historically for gameness, these dogs often don't show obvious signs of injury or illness until a condition is advanced. This means owners need to be proactive with health monitoring rather than waiting for visible distress signals.
3. Dog selectivity to dog aggression: This is the trait that requires the most honest assessment. APBTs have the highest prevalence of same-sex dog aggression — studies cited by the Merck Veterinary Manual note that dog-directed aggression is a known breed characteristic in terriers generally, and APBTs score higher than average. AmStaffs and Staffies tend to be more dog-tolerant but still require early socialization. American Bullies vary widely; some lines are very dog-social, others are not. None of these breeds are reliable off-leash in dog parks without careful assessment.
4. Prey drive: Moderate to high across all four breeds. Cats, small dogs, rabbits, and chickens may trigger chase behavior. Early socialization with small animals can help, but prey drive is genetic and cannot be fully trained away — management (leashes, secure fencing, supervised introductions) is always required.
5. Trainability and intelligence: These are smart, responsive dogs that excel in obedience, agility, and scent work when trained with positive reinforcement. They are sensitive to harsh corrections — force-free methods (treat-based reward, clicker training, LIMA principles) produce the best results. Shock collars, prong collars, and alpha rolls are counterproductive and can trigger defensive aggression.

Exercise & Activity Needs: Minutes, Types, and Schedules

Vague advice like "moderate exercise" doesn't cut it for these athletic breeds. Here are specific daily requirements:

Important exercise cautions:

• Brachycephalic considerations for American Bullies: The wider, flatter face of the American Bully (especially XL class) can cause breathing difficulty in heat. Avoid vigorous exercise when temperatures exceed 80°F (27°C). Watch for excessive panting, blue-tinged gums, or collapse — these are emergencies.
• Joint protection for puppies: Growth plates don't close until 12–18 months. Limit forced running, jumping from heights, and repetitive stair climbing until your vet confirms skeletal maturity.
• Leash requirement: Given dog-aggression risk and prey drive, off-leash exercise should only occur in fully fenced, private areas — never in open dog parks with unfamiliar dogs.

Common Health Issues: Breed-Specific Conditions to Watch For

Pit bull-type dogs are generally robust, but each breed carries specific genetic risks. Always consult your veterinarian for breed-appropriate screening — early detection dramatically improves outcomes.

Health Screening Checklist Before You Buy or Adopt

If purchasing from a breeder, request documentation of the following for both parent dogs:

• OFA or PennHIP hip evaluation (rated Excellent, Good, or Fair)
• OFA cardiac evaluation (echocardiogram for AmStaff and Staffy)
• L2-HGA and HC (hereditary cataract) DNA test results for Staffies
• OFA thyroid panel for AmStaff and APBT
• Dermatological history — ask about any history of demodex or chronic allergies

For rescue or shelter dogs, request any available veterinary records and budget for a comprehensive health screening within the first 30 days. A baseline exam, heartworm test, fecal panel, and full bloodwork typically cost $250–$500 at a general practice.

Grooming, Training, and Daily Care Requirements

The grooming side is straightforward — the short, single coat of all four breeds requires minimal maintenance:

• Brushing: Weekly with a rubber curry brush (e.g., Kong ZoomGroom, ~$8–$12) or a bristle brush. This removes loose hair and distributes skin oils. During seasonal sheds (spring and fall), bump to 2–3 times per week.
• Bathing: Every 4–8 weeks, or as needed. Use a gentle, soap-free dog shampoo — these breeds are prone to skin allergies, so avoid heavily fragranced products. Oatmeal-based or veterinary-formulated shampoos (e.g., Douxo S3, Malaseb for medicated needs) are solid choices.
• Nail trimming: Every 2–4 weeks. Overgrown nails alter gait and contribute to joint stress.
• Ear cleaning: Monthly, or more often if your dog swims. Use a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner; avoid cotton swabs deep in the canal.
• Dental care: Daily tooth brushing with enzymatic dog toothpaste is ideal. At minimum, aim for 3 times per week. Dental disease affects over 80% of dogs by age three, and pit bull types are no exception.

Training & Intelligence

All four breeds rate as above-average in trainability when methods match their temperament. These dogs are sensitive, eager to engage, and food-motivated — traits that make positive reinforcement extremely effective. Here's what works:

• Clicker training for precise behavior shaping — especially useful for leash manners and impulse control.
• High-value treats (real chicken, cheese, freeze-dried liver) for distracting environments.
• Short, varied sessions — 5–10 minutes, 2–3 times daily. Long, repetitive drills cause disengagement.
• Early socialization (8–16 weeks) with diverse people, surfaces, sounds, and dog-tolerant experiences. Note: socialization does not eliminate genetic dog aggression, but it builds confidence and reduces fear-based reactivity.

What to avoid: dominance-based training, alpha rolls, shock collars, and prong collars. These methods increase fear and anxiety in sensitive breeds and can escalate aggression. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) explicitly recommends against aversive training methods for all dogs, and the evidence is particularly strong for terrier-type breeds.

Family Suitability: Kids, Other Pets, and Living Situations

With Children

Staffordshire Bull Terriers earned the nickname "nanny dog" in England for their historical reputation with children — though this term is more folklore than documented fact. What is true: Staffies and APBTs tend to be sturdy, tolerant, and playful with children they're raised alongside. That said, no dog of any breed should be left unsupervised with children under 10. Teach children to respect the dog's sleep space, food bowl, and body language (lip licking, whale eye, stiffening = back off).

With Other Pets

This is where honest assessment matters most. Dog tolerance varies individually, but breed tendencies are real:

• Cats: Possible with early, careful introduction and management. Some APBTs and AmStaffs have high prey drive and will chase — never leave unsupervised.
• Other dogs: Same-sex aggression is the highest risk. Opposite-sex pairings tend to work better. Slow introductions over 2–4 weeks, using baby gates and parallel walks, reduce conflict.
• Small animals (rabbits, chickens, rodents): High risk. Prey drive is difficult to override. Secure, separate housing is non-negotiable.

Apartment Living

Staffordshire Bull Terriers and American Bullies adapt reasonably well to apartments if their exercise needs are met. APBTs and AmStaffs can work in apartments but thrive with yard access. All four breeds are people-oriented and do poorly when left alone for long hours — a dog walker or daycare is essential for owners who work full-time outside the home. Check your lease: many rental properties and HOAs restrict pit bull-type breeds regardless of temperament or training.

Cost of Ownership: Puppy Prices and Annual Care Budget

Budgeting realistically prevents surrender — pit bull-type dogs are among the most common breeds in shelters, and financial unpreparedment is a leading cause.

Cost Category	APBT	AmStaff	Staffordshire Bull Terrier	American Bully
Puppy Price (responsible breeder)	$1,500–$3,000	$1,500–$3,500	$2,000–$4,500	$2,000–$10,000+ (XL/classic lines)
Adoption Fee (rescue/shelter)	$150–$400	$150–$400	$200–$500	$200–$600
First-Year Vet Care (vaccines, spay/neuter, microchip)	$600–$1,200	$600–$1,200	$600–$1,200	$700–$1,500
Annual Ongoing Vet Care	$400–$800	$400–$900	$400–$800	$600–$1,500
Food (annual, quality kibble)	$350–$600	$400–$700	$250–$450	$500–$1,000
Pet Insurance (annual premium)	$480–$900	$480–$900	$480–$900	$600–$1,200
Training (group classes or private)	$150–$500	$150–$500	$150–$500	$150–$500
Total First-Year Estimate	$3,500–$7,500	$3,500–$8,500	$3,800–$9,000	$4,500–$16,000+

Insurance note: Several major pet insurance providers either exclude pit bull-type breeds or charge higher premiums. Providers like Embrace, Trupanion, and Healthy Paws do not have breed exclusions as of 2026, but always confirm before purchasing a policy. Homeowners or renters insurance may also require breed-specific liability riders — costs range from $25–$75/year added to your policy.

FAQ: Common Questions About the Different Type of Pitbull Dogs

This article provides general breed information and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for individualized health, nutrition, and behavioral guidance for your dog. If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic substance, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (24/7, consultation fee applies).