Kinds of Pitbull Dogs: Complete Breed Guide & Comparison
Explore the different kinds of pitbull dogs including APBT, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire, and American Bully with care tips.
Understanding the Different Kinds of Pitbull Dogs
The term "pitbull" isn't actually a single breed—it's an umbrella category that encompasses several distinct breeds sharing common ancestry in 19th-century bull-and-terrier crosses. When people search for kinds of pitbull dogs, they're typically referring to four recognized breeds: the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT), American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff), Staffordshire Bull Terrier (Staffy), and the newer American Bully. Each has unique characteristics, care requirements, and temperaments despite their shared heritage.
| Characteristic | American Pit Bull Terrier | American Staffordshire Terrier | Staffordshire Bull Terrier | American Bully |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight Range | 30-60 lb (14-27 kg) | 55-70 lb (25-32 kg) | 24-38 lb (11-17 kg) | 70-120 lb (32-54 kg) |
| Height | 17-21 in (43-53 cm) | 17-19 in (43-48 cm) | 14-16 in (36-41 cm) | 16-20 in (41-51 cm) |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years | 12-16 years | 12-14 years | 10-12 years |
| Coat Type | Short, smooth, stiff | Short, smooth, glossy | Short, smooth, soft | Short, smooth, glossy |
| Energy Level | High | Moderate-High | High | Moderate |
| AKC Recognition | No (UKC only) | Yes (1936) | Yes (1974) | No (UKC/ABKC) |
| Best For | Active families, sport | Families, companionship | Apartments, families | Companionship |
Historical Origins: From Working Dogs to Family Companions
The pitbull-type breeds trace back to early 1800s England, where breeders crossed Old English Bulldogs (used for bull-baiting) with various terriers to create agile, tenacious dogs for blood sports. After these sports were banned in 1835, immigrants brought these dogs to America in the mid-1800s, where they evolved into versatile farm dogs, cattle catchers, and family protectors.
The American Kennel Club first recognized the Staffordshire Terrier (now American Staffordshire Terrier) in 1936, while the United Kennel Club registered the American Pit Bull Terrier as its very first breed in 1898. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier gained AKC recognition in 1974, and the American Bully emerged as a distinct breed in the 1980s-1990s, with UKC recognition in 2013.
Physical Characteristics & Breed Standards
While all pitbull-type dogs share muscular builds, broad heads, and short coats, their physical specifications vary significantly:
American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT)
The most athletic of the group, APBTs are lean and agile. Males typically weigh 35-60 lb (16-27 kg) at 18-21 inches tall, while females range 30-50 lb (14-23 kg) at 17-20 inches. They have a wedge-shaped head, pronounced cheek muscles, and a tapered tail. Coat colors include brindle, black, blue, red, fawn, and various combinations with white markings.
American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff)
AmStaffs are stockier and heavier-boned than APBTs. Males stand 18-19 inches and weigh 55-70 lb (25-32 kg); females are 17-18 inches at 40-55 lb (18-25 kg). They have a broader skull, more pronounced stop (forehead-to-muzzle angle), and a slightly shorter muzzle. Their build prioritizes power over speed.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier (Staffy)
The most compact variety, Staffies pack impressive muscle into a smaller frame. Males weigh 28-38 lb (13-17 kg) at 14-16 inches; females are 24-34 lb (11-15 kg) at 14-16 inches. They feature a short, deep head with pronounced cheek muscles, rose or half-pricked ears, and a level topline.
American Bully
The heaviest and most muscular, American Bullies come in four size classes: Pocket (under 17 inches), Standard (17-20 inches), Classic (lighter build), and XL (over 20 inches). Standard males weigh 70-120 lb (32-54 kg). They have an extremely broad chest, heavy bone structure, and a blocky head with pronounced jaw muscles.
Temperament & Personality: Beyond the Stereotypes
Despite media portrayals, well-bred pitbull-type dogs consistently score above average on temperament tests. The American Temperament Test Society reports an 86% pass rate for American Pit Bull Terriers and 85% for American Staffordshire Terriers—higher than many popular family breeds.
Core Temperament Traits
- Human-Oriented: These dogs form intense bonds with their people and often follow owners room-to-room. They're notorious "velcro dogs" who prefer physical contact.
- Playful & Energetic: Most retain puppy-like enthusiasm well into adulthood (3-5 years). They excel at agility, weight pull, and interactive games.
- Courageous & Confident: Bred for tenacity, they approach new situations with curiosity rather than fear, though this can manifest as stubbornness during training.
- Affectionate: Known for enthusiastic greetings, lap-sitting (regardless of size), and gentle mouth behavior when taking treats.
- Dog Selectivity: Many exhibit same-sex aggression or general dog selectivity after reaching social maturity (2-3 years), requiring careful management in multi-dog households.
Important Behavioral Notes
- High Prey Drive: Squirrels, cats, and small animals may trigger chase instincts. Early socialization helps but doesn't eliminate this trait.
- Mouthy Behavior: Puppies and young adults use their mouths extensively during play. Redirect to appropriate chew toys consistently.
- Separation Anxiety Risk: Their strong attachment can lead to destructive behavior when left alone for extended periods (4+ hours regularly).
- Not Natural Guard Dogs: Despite their appearance, most pitbulls greet strangers warmly. Protection training is neither appropriate nor necessary.
Exercise & Activity Requirements
Pitbull-type breeds are athletic dogs that need structured physical and mental exercise to prevent boredom-related behaviors like excessive chewing, digging, or escape attempts.
| Breed | Daily Exercise | Recommended Activities | Mental Stimulation |
|---|---|---|---|
| APBT | 60-90 minutes | Running, agility, weight pull, fetch, swimming | Puzzle toys, scent work, trick training (15-20 min) |
| AmStaff | 45-60 minutes | Brisk walks, flirt pole, hiking, obedience work | Food puzzles, hide-and-seek, training sessions (15 min) |
| Staffy | 45-60 minutes | Fetch, agility, interactive play, short runs | Training games, chew toys, sniffing walks (10-15 min) |
| American Bully | 30-45 minutes | Moderate walks, gentle play, swimming | Basic training, puzzle feeders, gentle games (10 min) |
Important exercise considerations: Avoid forced running or jumping on hard surfaces until growth plates close (12-18 months). Brachycephalic tendencies in some American Bullies mean exercise should be limited during hot weather (above 80°F/27°C). Always use a secure harness rather than collar-only for leash walking—these are powerful dogs.
Health Issues & Genetic Predispositions
While pitbull-type dogs are generally robust, certain conditions appear with higher frequency in these breeds. Always consult your veterinarian about breed-specific health screening.
| Condition | Prevalence | Symptoms | Prevention/Management |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hip Dysplasia | 15-20% (APBT/AmStaff) | Hind leg stiffness, bunny-hopping gait, reluctance to jump | OFA/PennHIP screening of parents, weight management, joint supplements |
| Skin Allergies (Atopic Dermatitis) | 20-30% across breeds | Itchy paws/belly, recurrent ear infections, hot spots | Identify allergens, omega-3 supplements, medicated shampoos, Apoquel/Cytopoint if needed |
| Demodectic Mange | 10-15% (Staffies/APBTs) | Hair loss patches, redness, secondary infections (usually puppyhood) | Immune system support, veterinary treatment with ivermectin or Bravecto |
| Hypothyroidism | 8-12% (AmStaff/APBT) | Weight gain, lethargy, hair thinning, cold intolerance | Annual thyroid panels after age 4, lifelong hormone replacement if diagnosed |
| Congenital Heart Disease (Aortic Stenosis) | 5-8% (American Bully) | Exercise intolerance, fainting, heart murmur detected on exam | Cardiac screening of breeding stock, avoid breeding affected dogs |
| Cerebellar Ataxia (Staffies) | 1 in 100 (Staffy-specific) | Uncoordinated movement, tremors, wide-based stance (onset 6-12 months) | DNA test available—only breed clear-to-clear matings |
Recommended health screenings: Hip evaluation (OFA or PennHIP), cardiac exam, thyroid panel, and breed-specific DNA tests (NCL-A for Staffies, cardiac screening for Bullies). Reputable breeders provide documentation of these tests on both parent dogs.
Grooming & Maintenance
The short, single-layer coats of pitbull-type dogs make them relatively low-maintenance, but they do shed year-round with seasonal increases.
Weekly grooming routine:
- Brush 2-3 times weekly with a rubber curry brush or bristle brush (5-10 minutes) to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils
- Wipe facial folds (especially American Bullies) with damp cloth or unscented wipe to prevent yeast/bacterial buildup
- Check and clean ears weekly with veterinary ear cleaner—floppy-eared individuals are prone to infections
Monthly maintenance:
- Bathe every 4-8 weeks or as needed using oatmeal-based or sensitive-skin shampoo (these breeds are prone to skin irritation)
- Trim nails every 2-4 weeks—if you hear clicking on floors, they're too long
- Brush teeth 2-3 times weekly minimum; daily is ideal to prevent periodontal disease
Seasonal considerations: Apply pet-safe sunscreen to pink-skinned areas (nose, belly, ear tips) during summer months. These dogs have minimal natural protection against UV damage. In winter, protect short coats with a fitted sweater when temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C) for extended outdoor time.
Training & Intelligence
Pitbull-type dogs rank in the above-average range for working/obedience intelligence, typically learning new commands in 15-25 repetitions and obeying known commands 85% of the time or better. However, their confidence and occasional stubbornness require specific training approaches.
Effective training methods:
- Positive reinforcement: High-value treats (real chicken, cheese), toy rewards, and enthusiastic praise work far better than punitive methods
- Short sessions: 5-10 minute training blocks, 2-3 times daily, prevent boredom and maintain focus
- Early socialization: Critical window is 8-16 weeks. Expose puppies to diverse people, surfaces, sounds, and vaccinated friendly dogs
- Impulse control: Teach "leave it," "wait," and "drop it" early—these are safety commands for strong dogs
Common training challenges: Leash pulling (use front-clip harness and reward-based loose-leash training), jumping on people (teach "four on the floor" by rewarding calm behavior), and dog reactivity (work with a certified behavior consultant using counter-conditioning at sub-threshold distances).
Avoid: Shock collars, prong collars, choke chains, and "alpha roll" dominance techniques. These methods increase fear and aggression while damaging your relationship. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior strongly recommends against aversive training methods.
Family Suitability & Living Considerations
With Children
Well-socialized pitbull-type dogs are typically excellent with children in their family, known for tolerance of clumsy petting and gentle play. However, their size and energy mean interactions with children under 10 should always be supervised. Teach children never to approach a sleeping or eating dog, and provide the dog with a child-free retreat space.
With Other Pets
This varies significantly by individual. Many pitbulls live peacefully with other dogs, especially when raised together or properly introduced as adults. However, dog selectivity or aggression can emerge between ages 1-3. Same-sex households carry higher risk. Cat compatibility depends on prey drive—some coexist peacefully, others cannot safely live with cats. Always supervise initial introductions and never leave animals together unsupervised until trust is established over months.
Apartment Living
Staffordshire Bull Terriers and American Bullies adapt well to apartments if exercise needs are met. APBTs and AmStaffs can live in apartments but thrive with yard access. Major considerations: many landlords and insurance companies maintain breed restrictions for pitbull-type dogs, regardless of temperament. Check local housing policies and consider renter's insurance that covers your specific breed.
Cost of Ownership
Pitbull-type dogs represent a moderate to significant financial commitment, particularly when purchasing from health-tested breeding programs.
Puppy Purchase Prices (2026)
- American Pit Bull Terrier: $1,000-$2,500 from health-tested breeder; $50-$300 rescue/adoption
- American Staffordshire Terrier: $1,500-$3,000 from AKC breeder; $100-$400 rescue
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier: $1,500-$3,500 from AKC breeder; $200-$500 rescue
- American Bully: $2,000-$5,000+ (XL and "micro" varieties command $3,000-$10,000); $300-$600 rescue
First-Year Costs
| Expense | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Spay/neuter | $200-$600 |
| Initial vaccinations (DHPP, rabies, bordetella) | $150-$300 |
| Microchip | $50-$75 |
| Supplies (crate, harness, bed, bowls, toys) | $300-$600 |
| High-quality food (annual) | $400-$800 |
| Training classes (group or private) | $150-$500 |
| Pet insurance (annual premium) | $400-$800 |
| Total first year | $1,650-$3,675 |
Ongoing Annual Costs
After the first year, expect $1,200-$2,500 annually for food, routine veterinary care, preventatives (heartworm/flea/tick), insurance, and replacement supplies. Emergency veterinary care can cost $1,000-$5,000+ per incident—pet insurance or a dedicated emergency fund is strongly recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this breed right for first-time owners?
Staffordshire Bull Terriers and American Bullies can work for committed first-time owners willing to invest in training and socialization. APBTs and AmStaffs are better suited to owners with prior dog experience due to their higher energy, strength, and potential dog selectivity. Regardless of breed, first-time owners should budget for professional training classes and commit to ongoing socialization.
How much exercise does this breed need daily?
Exercise needs range from 30-90 minutes daily depending on the specific breed and individual energy level. APBTs require the most (60-90 minutes of vigorous activity), while American Bullies need less (30-45 minutes of moderate exercise). All benefit from both physical exercise and mental stimulation through training, puzzle toys, or scent work.
What health problems is this breed prone to?
Common issues include hip dysplasia (15-20%), skin allergies (20-30%), demodectic mange (10-15%), hypothyroidism (8-12%), and breed-specific conditions like cerebellar ataxia in Staffies. Responsible breeders screen for these conditions. Regular veterinary care and maintaining healthy weight significantly reduce risk.
How big does this breed get (adult weight/height)?
Sizes vary significantly: Staffies are smallest at 24-38 lb and 14-16 inches; APBTs range 30-60 lb at 17-21 inches; AmStaffs are 40-70 lb at 17-19 inches; American Bullies are heaviest at 70-120+ lb and 16-20+ inches. Always ask breeders for parent dog sizes to estimate adult weight.
Is this breed good with children/other pets?
Well-socialized pitbull-type dogs are typically excellent with children in their family, though supervision is essential due to size and energy. Compatibility with other dogs varies by individual—many live peacefully with housemate dogs, but dog selectivity can emerge in adulthood. Cat compatibility depends on prey drive and requires careful assessment.
How much does this breed cost to buy and maintain?
Puppy prices range from $1,000-$5,000+ depending on breed and breeder reputation (rescues cost $50-$600). First-year expenses typically total $1,650-$3,675 including veterinary care, supplies, and training. Ongoing annual costs run $1,200-$2,500 for routine care, food, and insurance.
Breed-Specific Legislation Note: Many jurisdictions maintain breed-specific restrictions on pitbull-type dogs. Before acquiring one of these breeds, check your local municipal codes, homeowner's association rules, and renter's insurance policies. The AVMA opposes breed-specific legislation, but local laws vary significantly.
Jonas Cole
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
