14 Dog Breeds That Look Like Pitbulls
When you picture a pitbull, a distinct image likely comes to mind: a muscular, medium-sized dog with a blocky head, short coat, and an athletic yet stocky build. However, "pitbull" is actually a broad term applied to several breeds with similar origins and appearances, rather than a single breed.
If you‘re drawn to the pitbull look but want to explore some lesser-known breeds, you‘re in luck. Today, we‘ll introduce you to 14 unique dog breeds that share key physical traits with the famous pitbull.
Understanding the Pitbull Family Tree
To understand why certain breeds resemble pitbulls, it helps to know some breed history. The ancestors of most bully breeds as we know them today were the result of crosses between bulldogs and terriers in England during the early 1800s. These strong, tenacious dogs were sadly often used for the inhumane blood sports of bull-baiting and dogfighting.
As these cruel sports were outlawed and fell out of favor, breeders began focusing on enhancing the gentle, affectionate side of these dogs‘ personalities. The American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and Bull Terrier are common examples of breeds that descended from these early bulldog-terrier crosses.
Physical Traits Shared by Bully Breeds
While each of the breeds we‘ll discuss has its own unique features and personality quirks, there are some key physical similarities you‘ll notice among dogs descended from the early pitbull-type dogs:
- Muscular, athletic build with defined muscles in the chest, shoulders and legs
- Medium to large size, typically weighing between 30-80 lbs
- Short, smooth, close-lying coat
- Wide, squared head with pronounced cheek muscles and short muzzle
- Small to medium-sized ears that may be cropped or natural
- Deep chest with wide-set front legs
- Tapered abdomen and muscular hindquarters
- Smooth, short, tapering tail (sometimes called a "whip" tail)
- Common coat colors include brown, brindle, fawn, white, black, and blue
It‘s important to note that a dog‘s physical appearance tells us little about their personality. The way a dog is raised, trained and socialized plays a much bigger role in determining temperament than breed or appearance alone.
14 Pitbull Lookalike Breeds
Now that you have a sense of what ties these breeds together, let‘s meet some handsome pups that share the famous pitbull look:
1. American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier was developed in the US by crossing Staffordshire Bull Terriers with other bully breeds. AmStaffs are known for their confidence, courage and strength. With proper training, they make intelligent, hard-working, and loyal companions.
2. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Often called "Staffies," this smaller British cousin of the pitbull is known for its muscular build, broad head, and boundless enthusiasm for life. Staffies may look tough, but they tend to be affectionate goofballs who love their families.
3. American Bulldog
Taller and heavier than the pitbull, the American Bulldog moves with a confident, lumbering gait. These powerful yet gentle giants have a strong work ethic and crave human companionship. Proper socialization is a must to encourage their naturally friendly nature.
4. Dogo Argentino
Also known as the Argentinian Mastiff, the all-white Dogo Argentino was developed as a big game hunting dog. Not for novice owners, Dogos require firm, consistent training to harness their strong guarding instincts and intense prey drive.
5. Cane Corso
This majestic Italian breed is significantly larger than the pitbull, but shares the short coat, muscular build, and deep devotion to family. Corsi are intelligent, even-tempered guardians who tend to be calm and stable when properly socialized.
6. Bull Terrier
With their unique egg-shaped heads and small, triangular eyes, Bull Terriers may not look exactly like pitbulls, but the family resemblance is clear in their muscular bodies and playful personalities. These charming clowns are one of the most popular bully breeds.
7. Boxer
Known for its alert expression and signature "kidney bean" head shape, boxers share the pitbull‘s deep chest, upright ears, and athletic grace. This joyful, energetic breed has a special affinity for children and thrives on attention from its beloved humans.
8. Ambullneo Mastiff
Developed by crossing several bully and mastiff breeds, the Ambullneo Mastiff is a powerful guardian who closely resembles the pitbull in both appearance and temperament. These loyal dogs need plenty of exercise and firm training to reach their full potential.
9. Bullmastiff
As one of the largest bully breeds, Bullmastiffs can weigh up to 130 lbs. These gentle giants share the pitbull‘s short coat, broad head, and muscular build. Bullmastiffs tend to be a bit calmer and more easygoing than their smaller cousins.
10. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog
Also known as the Otto Bulldog, this rare breed was developed as an all-purpose farm dog in the Southern US. Alapahas have a striking blue-gray and white coat, with a muscular build similar to the pitbull. They are known for their high intelligence and fearless devotion.
11. Dogo Guatemalteco
The national dog of Guatemala, this rare breed is similar in size and appearance to the American Pitbull Terrier. Dogo Guatemaltecos have a short white coat with dark markings, a muscular build, and an alert, loyal nature. They need plenty of exercise and firm leadership.
12. Presa Canario
Also called the Canary Mastiff, this Spanish breed has the broad head, muscular build, and strong guarding instincts associated with bully breeds, in an imposing large package. Presas need an experienced owner who can provide consistent training and socialization.
13. Olde English Bulldogge
This rare breed was developed to recreate the look of the original bulldog used for bull-baiting, but with a much friendlier temperament. Olde English Bulldogges have a powerful, muscular build and the wide, squared head associated with bully breeds. They tend to be courageous yet calm and tolerant.
14. American Bully
The newest breed to join the pitbull family, the American Bully was developed by crossing American Pitbull Terriers and Staffordshire Terriers with other bully breeds to enhance certain physical traits. With their exaggerated features and bulky build, American Bullies are a striking twist on the classic pitbull look.
Responsible Ownership of Bully Breeds
All dogs deserve a loving home, regardless of appearance. However, ownership of bully breeds comes with extra responsibility due to negative stereotypes and breed-specific legislation that unfairly targets these dogs.
Use these tips to set your bully breed pup up for success:
- Consider adopting an adult dog from a reputable rescue that can help you find the right fit for your lifestyle
- Commit to plenty of positive, reward-based training to build a strong bond with your dog and establish good manners
- Properly socialize your dog from puppyhood to encourage friendly, confident behavior
- Provide plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation through play, puzzles, and training
- Always supervise your dog around unfamiliar people and animals
- Keep your dog securely contained and leashed in public
- Educate yourself about breed-specific legislation in your area
- Make sure your dog is covered by your insurance policy
- Focus on being a considerate neighbor and canine ambassador to combat negative stereotypes
Pitbull Lookalikes: FAQ
Q: How do you tell what breed a pitbull is?
A: The term "pitbull" doesn‘t refer to a single breed, but rather a group of breeds descended from bulldogs and terriers. The most common breed referred to as a "pitbull" is the American Pit Bull Terrier. Other pitbull-type breeds include the American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and American Bully. The best way to determine a dog‘s breed is a DNA test.
Q: What two breeds make a pitbull?
A: Pitbull-type dogs descend from crosses between bulldogs and terriers. However, they are not the result of crossing two modern-day breeds. The American Pit Bull Terrier is a distinct breed that has existed since the late 1800s, with a lineage going back to the bull-and-terrier crosses used for blood sports in England.
Q: Is a pitbull a good family dog?
A: Pitbull-type breeds can make excellent family companions when paired with responsible owners who commit to training, socialization, and meeting the breed‘s exercise needs. All dogs are individuals, and a dog‘s suitability for family life depends more on temperament and upbringing than breed.
Q: What is the most pitbull-looking dog?
A: The American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier are the breeds most people picture when they think of pitbulls. The American Bully, a newer breed, has an exaggerated "pitbull" look. While mixed-breed dogs can also have a pitbull-like appearance, only DNA testing can confirm their ancestry.
Final Thoughts
While pitbull-type dogs have faced their share of controversy, they‘ve also earned a devoted following among those who appreciate the loyalty, athleticism, and charisma of bully breeds. By learning about the many breeds that share the famous pitbull look, dog lovers can better appreciate the unique traits that make each one special.
Whether you prefer a larger guardian breed like the Cane Corso, an all-purpose farm and family dog like the American Bulldog, or the clownish charm of the Bull Terrier, there‘s a bully breed to suit every lifestyle. The key is making an honest assessment of the time, training, and care you can provide.
When bully breed owners commit to responsible training, socialization, and management, they help create a more positive image for these deserving dogs. By showcasing their bully breed ambassadors engaging in therapy work, canine sports, and community service, caring owners are helping change the conversation around these unfairly stereotyped dogs.
Want to learn more about this diverse group of breeds? Check out the American Bully Daily, Dogo Argentino Club of America, and Your Dog Advisor‘s Bully Breed Guides for breed-specific info, training tips, and stories of bully breed heroes.
