Types of Pit Bulls: Everything You Need to Know

Many people use the word Pitbull to describe a wide range of strong, loyal, and muscular dogs — but did you know that only one true Pitbull breed exists? In this guide, you’ll learn about the original American Pit Bull Terrier, its color variations, famous bloodlines, and other breeds often mistaken for pit bulls. By the end, you’ll understand what makes each type unique — and why they all share the same affectionate, courageous heart.

What are all the types of Pitbulls?

To be precise, there is only one original Pit Bull breed: the American Pit Bull Terrier.

However, the term "pit bull" is also commonly used to refer to several related breeds that share similar bull-and-terrier ancestry and physical characteristics.

These include 5 main breeds often grouped together as "pit bull-type dogs":

1. American Pit Bull Terrier
2. American Staffordshire Terrier
3. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
4. American Bully
5. Bull Terrier

Let's take a closer look at the American Pit Bull Terrier, its color variations and breeding lines, as well as the other related breeds. Not all of them have the same physique and temperament, so it is important to understand their differences before choosing the breed most suitable for you and your lifestyle.

American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT)

Many people believe they have an authentic Pitbull when they do not, because a purebred Pitbull must meet all the standards of the breed without exception. Let's see what the characteristics of the American Pit Bull Terrier are:

• An American Pit Bull Terrier should be of medium size and solid constitution, with defined musculature and an athletic body. The body is longer than high, especially in females, which are slightly longer than males.
• The head of a true American Pit Bull Terrier should be of medium length, with a broad and flat skull between the ears, and a muzzle which should be broad and deep, but shorter than the length of the skull.
• The eyes should be set medium deep in the skull, rounded and well separated. A purebred APBT may have any eye color except blue, which is not valid in the breed standard, according to the United Kennel Club.
• High set ears, natural or cropped. The tail should be a natural extension of the topline, tapering to the tip.
• The coat of a purebred American Pit Bull Terrier should be smooth, medium short, close fitting and somewhat stiff to the touch. Any color or combination of colors is acceptable except merle (a coat with dilute pigmentation) and albino white (albino dogs).
• The standard weight allowed in the American Pit Bull Terrier is between 35 lb and 60 lb for males, while the weight of females should be between 30 lb and 50 lb.
• The size of a true American Pit Bull Terrier is determined by the height at the withers (height at the withers is the measurement from the ground to the highest point of the shoulder blades) of 18 inches to 21 inches for males and 17 inches to 20 inches for females.
• Their hindquarters should be strong and muscular with a moderately broad back. They should be in balance with the forequarters.

What is the temperament of the American Pit Bull Terrier?

Contrary to common misconceptions about this often-misunderstood breed, the American Pit Bull Terrier is actually a dog with a loyal, affectionate, playful, and intelligent character. They are known for being devoted to their families and good with children when properly raised, though like all dogs, they should always be supervised around young children.

The breed is naturally confident and can have strong territorial instincts, which makes early socialization and consistent training essential from puppyhood. Unfortunately, in many countries they are classified as PPP (Potentially Dangerous Dogs), requiring them to be leashed and muzzled in public places, which can make proper socialization challenging.

The American Pit Bull Terrier is not recommended as a first dog for inexperienced owners. These dogs thrive with owners who understand canine behavior and can provide firm, consistent, positive training. They are also very energetic and athletic, requiring substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. This is not a breed that will be content with just short walks—they need active engagement, play, and challenging activities to stay physically and mentally healthy.

Color Variations of the American Pit Bull Terrier

Red Nose Pit Bull

The Red Nose Pit Bull is officially recognized by the ADBA (American Dog Breeders Association). It is characterized by having a reddish-brown or copper-colored nose, along with a red, copper, or brown coat. The eyes are often amber or light brown. This coloration is the result of specific recessive genes. The Red Nose dogs are sometimes traced back to old Irish family strains, though they are still American Pit Bull Terriers, just with distinctive coloring.

Red Nose Pit bull

Blue Nose Pit Bull

The Blue Nose Pit Bull is known for having a gray or blue-gray nose and coat color, with the eyes typically being gray or blue-gray as well. This is simply a color variation caused by recessive dilution genes, not a separate breed or subspecies. Blue Nose Pit Bulls are purebred American Pit Bull Terriers—the coloring is just one of many possible coat colors within the breed.

You may be interested in Raising Your Pit bull Blue Nose Puppy

Blue Nose Pit bull

Historical Breeding Lines of the American Pit Bull Terrier

Over the decades, different breeders have established distinct bloodlines of the American Pit Bull Terrier, each with slightly different characteristics while remaining within the APBT breed. These are not separate breeds, but rather family lines with documented pedigrees.

Colby Pitbull

One of the oldest and most famous APBT bloodlines, the Colby line was established by John Pritchard Colby in the late 1800s. These dogs tend to be athletic and lean, with a strong work drive. Historically, this line was bred for performance, but modern Colby dogs make excellent family companions when properly trained and socialized. They maintain the breed's characteristic intelligence and energy.

Like all APBTs, Colby Pit Bulls require experienced owners who can provide consistent training, socialization, and plenty of physical and mental exercise.

Related: Colby Pit bull: Characteristics, Temperament and Care

Colby Pitbull

Stuffawler Pitbull

Another historical bloodline from the early development of the American Pit Bull Terrier. These dogs were bred in the early 20th century and became known for their distinctive appearance. Some Stuffawler dogs appear to "smile" when panting, as their lips naturally curve upward—a trait some enthusiasts find endearing.

Like all pit bull-type dogs, proper training and socialization from puppyhood are essential. They are energetic, athletic dogs that need active families committed to meeting their exercise and mental stimulation needs.

Chamuco Pit Bull

Bred primarily in Mexico, the Chamuco (which means "devil" in Mexican Spanish) is sometimes called the Mexican Pitbull. This is a stocky, heavily muscled variant that tends to be somewhat shorter but more compact than the standard American Pit Bull Terrier. Within the range of pit bull-type dogs, the Chamuco is known for its powerful build and strong frame.

These dogs are very strong and athletic, requiring owners with experience handling powerful breeds. They need firm, consistent training and extensive socialization from a young age. Due to their strength and energy, they are best suited for experienced dog owners who can provide appropriate exercise, training, and structure.

Chamuco Pit bull

Crossbreeds with Pit Bull Genetics

Beyond the purebred American Pit Bull Terrier and its bloodlines, several crossbreeds have been developed that incorporate pit bull genetics along with other breeds. These are not American Pit Bull Terriers, but rather distinct crosses.

Monster Blue

The Monster Blue is a cross between the American Pit Bull Terrier and the Neapolitan Mastiff, resulting in a much larger, heavily muscled dog. This is not a purebred or a bloodline, but an intentional crossbreed. The Monster Blue can weigh 90-130 pounds or more, significantly larger than a standard APBT.

Blue or gray in color with light eyes, this crossbreed has a physical appearance somewhat similar to the American Bully, though the Monster Blue is typically larger. Unlike the American Bully (which is a recognized breed), the Monster Blue remains an informal cross without a unified breed standard.

Due to their size and strength, these dogs require experienced owners who can handle a very large, powerful animal. Early training and socialization are crucial, and they need high-quality nutrition to support their substantial frame.

Monster Blue Pit bull

Cobra Pit Bull

The Cobra is another crossbreed developed with pit bull genetics, though its exact lineage varies. These dogs are medium-sized, typically reaching 50-70 pounds and around 15-17 inches at the withers.

The Cobra's most distinctive characteristic is its predominantly white coloration. While some breeders prefer light-colored eyes for aesthetic reasons, it's worth noting that dogs with extensive white coats and dilute pigmentation can sometimes be more susceptible to certain genetic health issues, including vision and hearing problems. Prospective owners should work with responsible breeders who test for these conditions.

Like other pit bull-type dogs, the Cobra is active and energetic, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation to thrive.

Related Breeds: Separate but Similar

While the following breeds share common bull-and-terrier ancestry with the American Pit Bull Terrier, they are distinct, separately recognized breeds with their own breed standards, histories, and characteristics.

American Staffordshire Terrier

Often confused with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier (a different, smaller British breed), the American Staffordshire Terrier shares the same ancestral foundation as the American Pit Bull Terrier. In the 1930s, some breeders sought American Kennel Club (AKC) recognition for their dogs. The AKC accepted them but required a different name to distance from the "pit bull" association with dog fighting. They became known as "Staffordshire Terriers" (later renamed "American Staffordshire Terriers" in 1972).

The AmStaff (American Staffordshire Terrier) was developed with emphasis on conformation showing and consistent breed type. AmStaffs are generally stockier and slightly larger than APBTs, typically weighing 40-70 pounds and standing 17-19 inches at the withers, with males being larger than females. Some dogs were historically dual-registered as both APBT (with UKC) and AmStaff (with AKC).

The breed's character is confident, loyal, and good-natured with family members. AmStaffs are intelligent and trainable but require early socialization, consistent positive training, and regular exercise. They are athletic dogs that thrive with active families who can provide both physical activity and mental challenges. According to the American Kennel Club, they are known for their courage and tenacity combined with affection toward their families.

American Staffordshire Terrier

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Affectionately known as the "Staffy," the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a British breed that developed separately from the American Pit Bull Terrier, though both share bull-and-terrier ancestry. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is notably smaller than most pit bull-type breeds.

The Staffy's temperament is notably friendly, affectionate, and people-oriented. According to the AKC (American Kennel Club), they are particularly good with children when properly socialized and are often described as having a sweet, trustworthy nature. Staffies tend to be less dog-aggressive than some other bull breeds, though early socialization with other animals is still important.

This is a very active, playful breed that loves exercise and makes an excellent companion for hikers, runners, and active families. Despite their smaller size—typically weighing 24-38 pounds for females and 28-38 pounds for males, and standing 14-16 inches at the withers—they are muscular and athletic dogs. Their compact, powerful build reflects their terrier heritage.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

American Bully

The American Bully is a relatively new breed that was developed in the 1990s by crossing the American Pit Bull Terrier with the American Staffordshire Terrier and other bulldog breeds. Also known as the "Bully Pit," this breed was created specifically as a companion dog with a more compact, muscular build and a gentler temperament than traditional working terriers.

American Bullies are recognized by the United Kennel Club as a distinct breed. They come in several size varieties (Pocket, Standard, Classic, and XL), with weights ranging from 30 pounds for smaller Pocket Bullies up to 110+ pounds for XL varieties. Height typically ranges from 13-17 inches at the withers for Pocket varieties to 20+ inches for XL varieties.

The American Bully's temperament was intentionally bred to be more laid-back and family-friendly than working terriers. They are typically confident but not aggressive, loyal to their families, and generally good with children. While calm indoors, they still enjoy outdoor activities like walks, hikes, and play sessions. According to the United Kennel Club, the breed should display a pleasant, outgoing temperament with an eagerness to please.

Like all powerful breeds, American Bullies benefit from early socialization, positive reinforcement training, and consistent leadership from their owners.

American Bully

Bull Terrier

The Bull Terrier is another breed with bull-and-terrier ancestry, though it has been heavily influenced by other breeds to create its distinctive appearance. The breed was developed in England in the 19th century.

Colloquially known as the "egg-headed dog" due to its distinctive elongated, oval-shaped head, the Bull Terrier is immediately recognizable. It is a medium-sized dog, typically weighing 50-70 pounds according to American Kennel Club standards, though miniature Bull Terriers also exist as a separate variety.

As a companion, the Bull Terrier is playful, energetic, and devoted to its family. They are known for being affectionate, entertaining, and sometimes comically stubborn. Bull Terriers are intelligent but can be strong-willed, requiring patient, consistent training with positive reinforcement methods.

Like other terrier breeds, Bull Terriers have strong prey drive and can be reactive toward other animals, especially small pets. Early socialization and training are essential. They need daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Their unique combination of strength, energy, and independent thinking means they're best suited for experienced dog owners who understand terrier temperament and can provide firm but kind leadership.

Bull terrier

Which Pit Bull-Type Dog is Right for You?

Before adopting any pit bull-type breed, it's important to understand what these dogs need to thrive. These are not low-maintenance pets, and they require committed, responsible ownership.

Important considerations:

• Experience level: Pit bull-type dogs are not recommended as first dogs. They do best with owners who have previous dog training experience and understand canine body language and behavior.
• Energy requirements: These are athletic, energetic breeds that need substantial daily exercise—not just a few short walks, but real physical activity like running, hiking, or vigorous play sessions.
• Training commitment: All pit bull-type dogs benefit greatly from professional training and ongoing practice. Positive reinforcement methods work best. Never use harsh punishment or train for aggression.
• Socialization: Early and ongoing socialization is critical. Unfortunately, in areas where these dogs are classified as PPP (Potentially Dangerous Dogs), mandatory muzzling requirements can make proper socialization challenging.
• Legal requirements: Many regions have breed-specific legislation. You may need special licenses, liability insurance, muzzles in public, and other restrictions. Research local laws before adopting.
• Multi-pet households: Some pit bull-type dogs have strong prey drive or can be reactive toward other animals. Careful introductions and management are necessary. Some individuals may not be suitable for homes with other pets.
• Children: While properly trained and socialized pit bull-type dogs can be wonderful family pets, no dog of any breed should be left unsupervised with young children. Always supervise interactions and teach children how to behave appropriately around dogs.
• Financial commitment: These dogs require quality food to maintain their muscular builds, regular veterinary care, training classes, and potentially higher insurance costs. Be prepared for the financial responsibility.
• Time commitment: These breeds need owners who have time for daily exercise, training, mental stimulation, and companionship. They don't do well being left alone for long periods.
• Temperament variation: While breed tendencies exist, individual dogs vary. Work with reputable breeders or rescue organizations who can match you with a dog whose energy level and personality suit your lifestyle.

Related: 10 Questions to Ask When Buying a Puppy from a Kennel

Pit bull-type dogs can be loyal, affectionate, intelligent, and wonderful companions for the right owners. They require commitment, understanding, and responsible ownership, but for those who can meet their needs, they offer tremendous devotion and companionship. The key is being honest about your experience level, lifestyle, and ability to meet these breeds' substantial needs before bringing one home.

Conclusion

While the term “Pitbull” often describes several similar breeds, only the American Pit Bull Terrier is the true Pitbull.
Each related breed — from the American Bully to the Staffordshire Terrier — has its own look and temperament, but all share the same devotion, courage, and playful spirit that make them beloved companions.

Choosing the right type depends on your lifestyle — but no matter which you pick, a well-trained Pitbull-type dog will reward you with unmatched loyalty and love.