What Breeds Make a Pitbull Terrier? Origins, Traits, and More Explained

Many dog lovers wonder about the true makeup of these muscular, loyal companions when they see a “pitbull terrier” at the park or shelter. The confusion is understandable since pitbull isn’t actually a single breed at all.

Pitbull terriers are made from five main breeds: the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Bully, and American Bulldog.

These breeds all share common ancestors from 19th-century England, where bulldogs and terriers were crossbred to create the foundation for today’s bully breeds.

Understanding the specific breeds behind the pitbull name helps you make better decisions if you’re considering adoption and clears up common misconceptions about these often misunderstood dogs.

You’ll discover how their shared history shaped their physical traits and temperaments, plus learn what makes each breed unique despite their similar appearances.

Origins Of Pitbull Terrier

The pitbull terrier’s story begins in 19th-century England. Breeders crossed two now-extinct breeds to create what we know today as pitbull-type dogs.

The original foundation comes from two extinct breeds: the Old English Bulldog and the Old English Terrier.

The Old English Bulldog was a muscular 45-pound dog bred for bull-baiting. The Old English Terrier was an agile hunting dog also called the Black and Tan Terrier.

These crosses created the British Bull and Terrier in the 1800s. This extinct breed became the foundation for all modern pitbull breeds you see today.

What each breed contributed:

When bull-baiting was banned in 1835, these dogs were unfortunately used for dogfighting. The combination of bulldog strength and terrier agility made them effective fighters.

British immigrants brought these Bull and Terrier crosses to America in the mid-1800s. American breeders developed them into the American Pit Bull Terrier.

The United Kennel Club first recognized the American Pit Bull Terrier in 1898. The American Kennel Club later recognized a similar breed called the American Staffordshire Terrier in 1936.

Your pitbull carries the genetic legacy of those original English bulldogs and terriers from over 150 years ago.

What Breeds Make A Pitbull Terrier?

“Pitbull” isn’t actually a single breed. It’s a term that describes four main dog breeds: the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT), American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff), Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and American Bulldog.

All modern pitbull breeds trace back to two extinct breeds from 19th-century Britain. The Old English Bulldog and Old English Terrier were crossed to create the Bull and Terrier.

Original Foundation Breeds:

• Old English Bulldog (muscular, compact, 45 pounds)
• Old English Terrier (also called Black and Tan Terrier)
• Bull and Terrier (the direct ancestor)

The Bull and Terrier came to America in the 1800s. Breeders developed different varieties based on their needs. American Pit Bull Terriers emerged by 1898 as working farm dogs. American Staffordshire Terriers developed by 1936 as a refined version.

Modern Pitbull-Type Breeds:

The American Bully is a newer addition. It combines pitbull breeds with other bulldog breeds for a stockier build.

Each breed shares the same foundational genetics but has unique characteristics developed through selective breeding.

Characteristics Of Pitbull Terrier

Pitbull terriers are medium-sized, muscular dogs with short coats and well-built bodies. They typically weigh between 30-85 pounds depending on the specific breed type.

Physical Traits:

• Broad head with strong jaw
• Short, smooth coat in various colors
• Athletic, compact build
• Height ranges from 14-22 inches

These dogs are known for their loyal and affectionate nature with families. Despite negative stereotypes, pitbull terriers are generally friendly and eager to please their owners.

Temperament Features:

• High energy and playful
• Intelligent and trainable
• Confident and outgoing
• Strong desire to bond with humans

Your pitbull terrier will likely show exceptional devotion to family members. They often display gentle behavior around children, earning the nickname “nanny dogs” in some circles.

These companion animals require consistent training and socialization from an early age. Without proper guidance, their strength and energy can become challenging to manage.

Key Behavioral Traits:

Unfortunately, breed-specific legislation in some areas targets pitbull-type dogs due to misconceptions about their temperament. This has created unfair housing and insurance restrictions for responsible owners.

Your pitbull’s individual personality will depend greatly on breeding, training, and socialization rather than breed alone.