Did you know that a Pitbull isn’t a single breed of dog? Instead, the term describes a group of breeds which were originally bred for bullbaiting and dogfighting. Thankfully, both barbaric sports have since been outlawed, however, Pitbulls continue to be a popular pet due to their friendly, energetic, and loyal personalities.

If you’re considering adopting a Pitbull into your home, you’ll want to know which specific variety will suit you and your family the most. Keep reading to discover the 16 different types of Pitbulls, as well as their differences and what each breed looks like.

The 13 Types of Pitbulls:

1. American Pitbull Terrier

If you had to sum-up the American Pitbull Terrier (APBT) in just three words, it would be these: courageous, loyal, and confident. They’re keenly aware of their surroundings and will happily (or at times, over-enthusiastically) bark to alert you when someone has come to visit. Extremely intelligent, this breed can learn new tricks and commands with ease. Their weight ranges from 30 to 85 pounds, with males reaching a height of 18 to 19 inches and females reaching 17 to 18 inches.

2. Red Nose Pitbull

It’s important to point out the Red Nose Pitbull is a specific type of Pitbull, not a different breed. They’re categorized by their red and copper toned nose, fur, eyes, and nails, and are classed as a rare breed (therefore, fetching a much higher price tag than other Pitbull varieties). Just like the American Pitbull Terrier, these dogs are loyal, intelligent, and have a gentle temperament – especially when socialized with people and other dogs during their puppy stage. Their weight ranges between 55 and 66 pounds, while they have a thin, muscular build with long legs.

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3. Blue Nose Pitbull

Also a variety of Pitbull, rather than a different breed, the Blue Nose is easily identifiable due to its blue and grey toned nose, fur, eyes, and nails. They’re playful, full of energy, and intelligent, just like the more common APBT. Their height ranges from 1.5 to 2 feet tall and they weigh around 30-85 pounds. Blue Noses are sadly exposed to a number of health problems, including heart issues, alopecia, a weakened immune system, deafness, and cataracts, due to a recessive gene resulting in low melanin levels.

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4. Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier stands around 6-8 inches shorter than an American Pitbull Terrier, making them a compact, muscular, and agile dog. Their weight ranges between 24 and 37 pounds and they have a very friendly disposition, especially with children, making them a great family dog. Like all Pitbull-associated dog breeds, they’re intelligent, playful, and extremely loyal to their owners.

5. American Staffordshire Terrier

American Staffordshire Terriers are often confused with American Pit Bull Terriers, but the two have been bred separately for over 50 years now. American Staffordshire Terriers are very strong for their size and will reach a height of 16 to 19 inches, whilst weighing in at around 40 to 60 pounds. They are highly intelligent, however can grow bored easily, and have been known to pull the leash, chew, dig, and bark without proper attention and training. While the breed is happy and friendly among humans, they have a tendency to show aggression towards other dogs when not socialized.

6. Bull Terrier

The Bull Terrier is easily distinguished from other Pitbull breeds by its long, egg-shaped head and triangular eyes. They can reach up to 77 pounds in weight and are usually up to 22 inches in height.

They are an intelligent, independent, and highly active breed, meaning they require 30 to 60 minutes of exercise, play, and mental stimulation daily – or else they may become destructive. Early socialization is vital, otherwise this breed has been known to become aggressive towards other people and animals they do not know.

7. Monster Blue

The Monster Blue Pitbull is a less common type of Pitbull, but they still share a number of qualities with their counterparts. They are a cross between a Neapolitan Mastiff and a Dogue de Bordeaux and are known for their very thick, muscular build. These dogs have an extremely strong jaw, so it’s best to provide them with toys which can’t be easily chewed to pieces.

8. Chamuco

The Chamuco is a rare Mexican breed, which is believed to have been the result of crosses among the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Bully, Mexican Bulldog, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Pitbull Blue, American Staffordshire Terrier, and most likely, the Boxer. It has high-set ears with fallen tips and a low, short tail which tapers at the end. It is around 14 inches in height and weighs in at 25-40 pounds. It is a loyal, fearless, and protective dog.

9. Stuffawler

The Stuffawler is known for its wide grin, as well as its strong, muscular appearance and short legs. It weighs between 77 and 88 pounds and sadly, like many Pitbull varieties, was originally bred for fighting. This contributes to their “aggressive” reputation; however, a dog’s temperament will largely come down to the way it’s treated by its owner.

10. Colby

The Colby Pitbull is a muscular and bulky dog characterized by its broad, strong head and flat, wrinkled snout. The fully-grown adult weighs in at about 30 – 50 pounds, making it one of the lighter varieties of Pitbull. They’re very alert, agile, and active, and love nothing more than running around with their owners. They are naturally quite sociable, but like all dogs, should be introduced to people and other animals at a very young age.

11. Cobra

Another rare type of Pitbull, the Cobra is similar in appearance to the Red Nose, but instead is categorized by a white, unblemished coat of fur. The Cobra Pitbull also has black or blue eyes, with some dogs even having one eye of each color.

12. Pynat

The Pynat is an easily identifiable Pitbull because unlike its counterparts, it has a thin (yet still quite muscular) build. Originally used as a hunting dog, Pynats have a friendly demeanor and are both alert and intelligent. Its coat also differs, as it is usually brownish or tawny with streaks of another color.

13. Spike

Also known as a Pitmation, the Spike Pitbull is a result of breeding a Dalmatian with a Pitbull. Commonly, the breed will have white or light fur with black or dark spots, however this can vary. They are a friendly, quiet, energetic, and playful dog, making them perfect for families with children.

Final Thoughts

All in all, Pitbulls are highly intelligent dog breeds who make great pets – particularly when they receive appropriate training and socialization from an early age.

Whether you adopt the more common American Pitbull Terrier or a rarer breed such as the Cobra, Pynat, or Monster Blue, you’re sure to enjoy many happy years with your loyal, playful, and active new friend.