I never grew up around pitbulls, and like many people, most of what I heard about them came from headlines rather than real-life experiences.
That changed the day a friend asked me to watch her pitbull, Luna, for a weekend. I expected a tough, hyper dog, but instead, I met a gentle, goofy companion who leaned her whole body against me for cuddles and followed me everywhere I went.
That weekend completely shifted my perspective. Since then, I’ve taken the time to learn more about pitbull dog breeds, their history, their temperament, and why so many families absolutely adore them.
Understanding the different types of pitbulls helps new owners choose a breed that fits their lifestyle, especially since there are several varieties, each with unique traits, sizes, and personalities.
Table of Contents
All Pitbull Dog Breeds
When people search for the full pitbull dog breeds list, they’re usually surprised to learn that the word pitbull doesn’t refer to one breed but several.
While kennel clubs differ on exact classifications, most experts agree on four main pitbull-type breeds.
This section introduces them and provides context so you can add your own pitbull breeds with pictures chart for readers to reference visually.
| Breed Name | Other Names / Notes | Size | Weight Range | Temperament |
| American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) | True Pitbull | Medium | 30–60 lbs | Loyal, athletic, affectionate |
| American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff) | AKC-recognized | Medium | 40–70 lbs | Confident, friendly, strong |
| Staffordshire Bull Terrier | Stafford | Small–Medium | 24–38 lbs | Loving, brave, energetic |
| American Bully | Pocket, Standard, XL varieties | Medium–Large | 30–150 lbs | Gentle, social, strong |
| Bull Terrier | Egg-shaped head | Medium | 50–70 lbs | Playful, bold, quirky |
| Miniature Bull Terrier | Smaller Bull Terrier | Small–Medium | 20–35 lbs | Energetic, affectionate |
| American Bulldog | Often grouped as pit-type | Large | 60–120 lbs | Protective, loyal, active |
| Bullmastiff | Pit-type heritage | Large | 100–140 lbs | Calm, guard-oriented |
| Cane Corso (related) | Mastiff group | Large | 90–120 lbs | Powerful, loyal |
| Dogo Argentino | Hunting Pit-type | Large | 80–100 lbs | Strong, protective |
| Presa Canario | Guardian type | Large | 90–140 lbs | Confident, assertive |
| Olde English Bulldogge | Modern bulldog type | Medium–Large | 60–80 lbs | Friendly, strong |
| Boxer (related working type) | Occasionally grouped | Medium–Large | 50–80 lbs | Playful, athletic |
Pitbull Mix Dog Breeds List
Pitbull mixes are incredibly common because pitbulls are often used in breeding programs focused on athleticism, temperament, and agility. Popular mixes include:
- Labrabull (Pitbull + Labrador Retriever)
- Pitsky (Pitbull + Husky)
- Pitweiler (Pitbull + Rottweiler)
- German Pit (Pitbull + German Shepherd)
- Boxer Pit (Pitbull + Boxer)
- Bullypit (Pitbull + American Bulldog)
Each mix combines the physical strength of the pitbull with the unique traits of the other breed.
These mixes are excellent for active owners looking for loyal dogs with great energy. A pitbull mix dog breeds list chart can help readers visualize the range of possibilities.
| Pitbull Mix Breed | Mix Of | Size | Temperament |
| Pitador (Pitbull Lab Mix) | Pitbull × Labrador | Medium–Large | Friendly, active |
| Pitweiler | Pitbull × Rottweiler | Large | Protective, loyal |
| Pitsky | Pitbull × Husky | Medium | Energetic, vocal |
| Pitbull Boxer Mix | Pitbull × Boxer | Medium | Playful, strong |
| Pitbull German Shepherd Mix | Pitbull × GSD | Large | Intelligent, bold |
| Pitbull Mastiff Mix | Pitbull × Mastiff | Large–XL | Strong, calm |
| Bullboxer Staff | Pitbull × Boxer × Staffy | Medium | Athletic, smart |
| Pitbull Beagle Mix | Pitbull × Beagle | Medium | Curious, loving |
| Pitbull Dalmatian Mix | Pitbull × Dalmatian | Medium | Energetic, intelligent |
| Pitbull Golden Retriever Mix | Pitbull × Golden | Medium–Large | Friendly, affectionate |
Common Breeds of Pitbull
The most common pitbull breeds appear frequently in homes because of their outgoing personalities. The American Pit Bull Terrier remains the most recognized globally due to its long history in sporting and working tasks.
The American Staffordshire Terrier is more common in show settings and suburban homes. Meanwhile, the American Bully has exploded in popularity over the last decade, thanks to its friendly temperament and striking physical presence.
| Breed Name | Size | Weight | Notes |
| American Pit Bull Terrier | Medium | 30–60 lbs | True Pitbull |
| American Staffordshire Terrier | Medium | 40–70 lbs | AKC-recognized |
| Staffordshire Bull Terrier | Small–Medium | 24–38 lbs | Family-friendly |
| American Bully | Medium–XL | 30–150 lbs | Bully type |
| Bull Terrier | Medium | 50–70 lbs | Egg-shaped head |
| American Bulldog | Large | 60–120 lbs | Strong working dog |
Popular Pitbull Breeds
The most popular pitbull breeds today combine family-friendly traits with stunning looks. The American Bully leads popularity charts due to its gentle, social nature, while the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is beloved in the UK as a nanny dog known for patience with children.
The American Pit Bull Terrier, though less common in strict breed-registry environments, remains extremely popular in real-world households due to its loyalty and intelligence.
| Breed Name | Popularity Level | Temperament |
| American Bully (all types) | Very High | Gentle, social |
| APBT | High | Loyal, athletic |
| AmStaff | High | Confident, friendly |
| Staffordshire Bull Terrier | High | Loving, stable |
| American Bulldog | High | Protective, powerful |
| Pitsky | High (mixed) | Energetic, smart |
Rare Pitbull Breeds
Beyond the familiar types, there are pitbull-related breeds and variations that are less common. Some are regional, some are historic, and some are recognized only by specific registries.
If you’re preparing an expanded pitbull dog breeds list, this category helps highlight lesser-known but fascinating pitbull types.
| Breed Name | Why Rare? | Size |
| XXL American Bully | Limited breeding | XL |
| Blue Nose Pitbull | Rare coloration | Medium |
| Red Nose Pitbull | Special bloodline | Medium |
| Colby Pitbull | Historic bloodline | Medium |
| Pitbull Mastiff Mix | Rare cross | XL |
| Tiger Stripe Pitbull | Unique brindling | Medium |
Pitbull Dog Breed Price
Pitbulls range widely in price due to factors. Adoption fees usually range $75–$300, while breeder prices can run $800–$6500+ depending on the breed category.
A chart works nicely here to show price differences among your pitbull dog breeds list entries.
| Breed Type | Average Price (USD) |
| American Pit Bull Terrier | $500 – $2,000 |
| American Bully (Standard) | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| American Bully (XL) | $2,500 – $10,000 |
| American Bully (Pocket) | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Staffordshire Bull Terrier | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| American Staffordshire Terrier | $800 – $3,000 |
| Blue Nose Pitbull | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Red Nose Pitbull | $800 – $3,500 |
Pitbull Dog Breeds Colors
Pitbulls come in one of the widest color ranges of any dog type. Their coats can be solid, patched, brindled, or patterned in dozens of combinations. Some colors, like blue, merle, or lilac, can increase price significantly.
Before you add your image-based pitbull breeds with pictures chart, this section explains the genetics and variations behind their stunning coats.
| Color | Breeds That Commonly Have It |
| Blue / Blue Fawn | APBT, AmStaff, American Bully |
| Red / Red Nose | APBT, AmStaff |
| Black | All pitbull types |
| White | APBT, Bully, Staffordshire Bull Terrier |
| Brindle | APBT, Bully, Staffordshire Bull Terrier |
| Blue Brindle | APBT, Bully |
| Tri-Color | American Bully (rare) |
| Champagne | American Bully |
Pitbull Breeds Lifespan
The average lifespan of pitbull dog breeds is 12–15 years, though some live longer with proper care. Genetics, exercise, diet, and preventive vet checkups all influence longevity.
American Bullies often have slightly shorter lifespans depending on build type, while Staffordshire Bull Terriers may live on the longer end of the range. Your chart can compare lifespans across your entire pitbull dog breeds list.
| Breed Name | Lifespan |
| American Pit Bull Terrier | 12–15 years |
| American Staffordshire Terrier | 12–16 years |
| Staffordshire Bull Terrier | 12–14 years |
| American Bully | 10–14 years |
| Bull Terrier | 11–14 years |
| American Bulldog | 10–13 years |
Pitbull Temperament: What Owners Should Expect
One of the most misunderstood aspects of pitbull dog breeds is their temperament. Despite outdated stereotypes, most pitbulls are exceptionally affectionate and people-oriented.
They thrive on human interaction and are known for forming strong emotional bonds with their families.
These dogs are confident, intelligent, and eager to please, which explains why so many owners describe them as shadow dogs that follow their humans from room to room.
While they can be energetic and playful, pitbulls often enjoy downtime just as much, curling up on the couch, resting at their owner’s feet, or enjoying short bursts of activity throughout the day.
Their stable temperament makes them suitable for families, single owners, and even therapy roles when properly trained. However, because of their strength and enthusiasm, consistent training and early socialization are essential to help them grow into balanced, well-mannered companions.
Health Issues Common in Pitbull Breeds
Like all dogs, pitbulls are prone to certain health conditions, many of which stem from genetics or breed structure. The most commonly seen issues include hip dysplasia, skin allergies, thyroid imbalance, and certain heart conditions.
Some American Bullies may also experience breathing challenges due to shorter muzzles, depending on their type. Regular veterinary exams, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight significantly reduce the risk of long-term issues.
Skin problems are especially common due to environmental allergies, food sensitivities, or over-bathing, so owners should pay attention to coat condition and itching.
Responsible breeders perform health tests on parents to minimize inherited issues, which is why purchasing from ethical sources, or reviewing medical history for adopted dogs, is so important.
Understanding these potential health concerns helps owners provide proactive care and ensure their pitbull lives a long, comfortable life.
FAQs
Are pitbulls dangerous?
No. Pitbulls are not inherently dangerous; behavior depends on training, socialization, and environment.
Is there only one pitbull breed?
No, pitbull refers to a group of several breeds, not a single one.
What is the rarest pitbull color?
Merle and tri-color pitbulls are among the rarest.
What’s the difference between APBT and AmStaff?
APBTs are typically leaner and sportier; AmStaffs are broader and more muscular.
Are pitbulls good family dogs?
Yes, pitbulls are affectionate, people-focused, and loyal when properly trained.
What’s the average pitbull price?
From $100 (adoption) to $3000+ depending on breed and bloodline.