Oh! I am sure you must have thought pitbull referred to a particular dog breed.
When you hear the term pit bull, I believe you envision a muscular, aggressive, agile, strong-tailed dog with a deep chest and tongue lolling.
Well, you are not completely right.
There is no specific breed of dog named Pit Bull; instead, it’s a popular umbrella for various breeds of dogs in the Bully Breed family.
Yes, you heard me right, the families of bullies.
It might surprise you to know the term bully has no connotation to their character or temperament.
It’s only a name largely due to the breed development in the 19th century in England, where they were bred to fight with bulls in a bloodsport that has now been long banned.
However, pit bulls are intelligent, loving, adorable, and protective dogs that are suitable for family living.
Here is a list of the 5 types of pit bulldog breeds.
1. American Pit Bull Terrier:
Unarguably one of the most popular bulls, they are unfortunately not recognised by the American Kennel Club.
However, they were recognised by the United Kennel Club in 2013.
They are a mix-breed between the bulldogs that had English ancestry and Terriers in the 19th century.
But quite unfortunately, they were the most used for bloodsports, earning them a negative stereotype that has still not been erased away.
Their history and heritage have been taunted for so long because of their prominent roles in bloodsport, bull baiting, and animal fighting.
They were the king of the ring when these prominent sports, now banned, were like the Super Bowl in England and other countries.
Read here to learn all there is about American Pit Bull Terrier
Breed Overview
Parent breeds: Old English Bulldog + Old English Terrier
Weight: 35-60 pounds (15.9-27.2 kg)
Height: 17-20 inches
Coat: Short, smooth, various colors
Lifespan: 12-16 years
2. American Staffordshire Terrier (Amstaff):
The American Staffordshire terrier is arguably one of the few bull breeds that do not have a negative stereotype as an aggressive and deadly dog.
This could be as a result of not having the name “bull” attached to their names.
In contrast to the American Pit Bull Terrier, they were recognised by the American Kennel Club in 1936.
They are great companion dogs that are loyal and also used as working dogs, service dogs, and therapy dogs due to their gentle nature despite their size.
Breed Overview
Parent breeds: Staffordshire Bull terrier + Old English Bulldog
Weight: 40-70 pounds
Height:17-19 inches
Coat: Short, smooth, various colors
Lifespan: 12-15 years
3. Staffordshire Bull Terrier (Staffy):
Popularly called staffy or nanny dogs, Staffordshire bull terriers have an unalloyed love for children and their owners.
Their affection level makes it difficult to tell if they were initially bred as fighting dogs.
They are very clownish and known for their playful antics.
If you have a good time and you need a large-size dog for yourself and your family, Staffordshire bull terriers should be the best pick for you.
However, if you don’t provide them with enough care and attention, they can suffer from separation anxiety.
The American Kennel Club recognised Staffordshire Bull Terriers in 1936, and the United Kennel Club and other reputable organisations registered them as well.
Breed Overview
Parent breeds: Old English terrier + Old English Bulldog
Weight: 24-38 pounds
Height:14-16 inches
Coat: Short, smooth, various colors
Lifespan: 12-14 years
4. American Bully:
American Bully is one of the newest breeds of dog.
They were bred in the southern United States in the 1990s, but the American Kennel Club has yet to recognise them.
They were developed to produce a more muscular breed, have. a better temperament, be more intelligent, and be trainable.
Breed Overview
Parent breeds: American Pit Bull Terrier + Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Weight: 65-85 pounds
Height:13-20 inches
Coat: Short, smooth, various colors
Lifespan: 10-14 years
5. American Bulldog:
American bulldogs, as well as American Pit Bull Terriers, are breeds that have a great transition history.
They were initially bred and used for bloosport, animal fighting, and bull baiting.
Later, after the ban of these games, they transitioned into working dogs, herding and protecting farm animals.
In today’s society, they are companion dogs.
From deadly fights to unconditional love, their history is simply amazing.
They are confident, friendly, intelligent, energetic, affectionate, outgoing, loyal, and great protectors of their families.
Breed Overview
Parent breeds: American Pit Bull Terrier + Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Weight: 60-120 pounds
Height:20-28 inches
Coat: Short, smooth, various colors
Lifespan: 10-14 years
FAQ
Are pit bulls dangerous and aggressive?
There is a common misconception that pit bulls are more dangerous and aggressive than other breeds of dogs.
This is misleading, and it was borne from their long history when they were used for bloodsport.
Responsible ownership of all types of pitbulls has shown they are not inherently dangerous or aggressive.
Are pit bulls low shedders?
Pit bulls are not hypoallergenic, and so they cannot be considered low shedders.
They are not suitable for individuals with allergies.
They will regularly to moderately release allergenic proteins through their dander, saliva, and urine, which is a trigger for individuals with allergies.
How much is a pit bull?
Pit bulls cost between $1000 and $3000.
However, adopting a pit bull from an animal shelter or rescue group is best advised.
Read here to know why you should adopt from an animal shelter.
How long do pit bulls live?
The average age for all types of pit bulls is 10 to 14 years.
Responsible pet ownership gives your pit bull the opportunity to reach their golden years while enjoying a quality life.