When you think of bully breeds, the two most popular ones that come to mind are the American bulldog and the Pitbull.
Though they share many similarities, there are some key differences between these two breeds that you should know before deciding which one is right for you.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at both breeds and compare them head-to-head so that you can make an informed choice about which one is best for your family.
If you’d like to get a quick overview of the key differences between the breeds, please see below:
American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – Breed Comparison
The American Pitbull Terrier (APBT) is a dog breed that was developed in the United States from about the early 1800s to the mid-1900s. The APBT was bred from British and Irish terriers and bulldogs and was originally used as a farm dog for hunting purposes.
There are various types of pitbull, including the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pitbull Terrier.
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a British breed that was developed in the early 1800s, while the American Staffordshire Terrier was developed in the United States from about the mid-1800s.
The American Pitbull Terrier is considered to be the original pitbull breed and was developed from a cross between the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier.
The American Bulldog is a descendant of the English Bulldog and was brought to the United States by settlers in the 1600s. They were used for farm work, as well as for guarding and hunting purposes.
Over the years, the American Bulldog has undergone several changes in appearance but is still recognizable as a descendant of the English Bulldog.
American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – Size Comparison
The American Bulldog is a large breed of dog, with males weighing anywhere from 70 to 120 pounds (32 to 54 kilograms) and females weighing 50 to 100 pounds (23 to 45 kilograms).
Their height typically ranges from 20 to 27 inches (51 to 70 centimeters).
Their chest is deep, and their shoulders are broad and muscular.
The American Pitbull Terrier is a medium-sized breed of dog, with males weighing 50 to 85 pounds (23 to 39 kilograms).
Pitbulls come in a variety of sizes. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier, for example, is a smaller pitbull breed that only weighs between 24 and 38 pounds (11 and 17 kilograms).
When it comes to height, American Bulldogs typically stand 20 to 27 inches tall (51 to 69 centimeters) tall at the shoulder, while most pitbulls measure 17 to 21 inches (43 to 53 centimeters) tall.
When it comes to chest size, American Bulldogs typically have a deeper and wider chest than pitbulls.
This is because American Bulldogs were originally bred as working dogs, while pitbulls were originally bred for fighting. As such, American Bulldogs tend to be more muscular overall than pitbulls.
American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – Coat Type & Colors
The American Bulldog has a short, stiff coat that is easy to groom. They are available in a variety of colors, including white, brindle, black, and red.
Pitbulls have a short, smooth coat that is also easy to groom. Like the American Bulldog, they come in a variety of colors. This includes white, black, brindle, and blue.
American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – Temperament
When it comes to temperament, American Bulldogs and Pitbull Terriers are both known for being loyal, loving, and protective of their family.
Both can make great companion dogs. However, there are some differences between the two breeds.
American Bulldogs are known for being laid back and easygoing. They are patient with children and get along well with other pets in the home.
Pitbulls, on the other hand, are known for being more high-energy and intense. They require a lot of exercise and can be too much for small children.
Pitbulls also have a strong prey drive and may not do well with other pets in the home.
As outlined above, the difference in temperament between the breeds should be considered, especially if you have young children or the elderly living in the home.
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American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – Protectiveness
Both American Bulldogs and Pitbull Terriers are known for being loyal and protective of their family.
American Bulldogs tend to be more laid back, while Pitbull Terriers are more high-energy. American Bulldogs are also known for being patient with children, while Pitbull Terriers can be too much for small children.
When it comes to loyalty and guardianship, both American Bulldogs and Pitbull Terriers are excellent choices. These breeds are both known for their protective instincts.
However, American Bulldogs are typically more reserved with strangers than Pitbull Terriers.
American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – Overall Strength
Pitbull Terriers are well known for their strength and agility. They were originally bred for bull-baiting, a cruel sport in which dogs were pitted against bulls.
The Pitbull Terrier was also used in dog fighting, another brutal bloodsport. Today, these dogs are still prized for their physical strength and power.
On the other hand, American Bulldogs were bred for working purposes such as farming and hunting.
They are a large and muscular breed, but they are not as heavily muscled as Pitbull Terriers.
American Bulldogs are less athletic than their Pitbull cousins, but they make up for it with their powerful build and immense strength.
When it comes to overall strength, American Bulldogs are the clear winner. These dogs were bred for bull-baiting and other physical activities.
As a result, they are much stronger than Pitbull Terriers. In fact, American Bulldogs are one of the strongest dog breeds in the world.
American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – Bite Strength compared
When it comes to bite strength, American Bulldogs and Pitbull Terriers are evenly matched. Both breeds have a bite force of about 235 pounds per square inch. This is about five times as strong as the average human bite.
American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – Training
When it comes to training, both American Bulldogs and Pitbull Terriers can be stubborn and headstrong. But with patience, firmness, and consistency, they can be trained to obey commands.
Puppy Training
The best time to start training your American Bulldog or Pitbull Terrier is when they are puppies. Puppies have shorter attention spans and learn new things more quickly than adult dogs.
Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. As your puppy masters these commands, you can move on to more advanced obedience training and tricks.
Pro Training Tips
Here are some tips to help you train your American Bulldog or Pitbull Terrier:
1. Be patient – Dogs of both breeds can be stubborn, so it’s important to be patient when training them. Never lose your temper or punish your dog – this will only make them more resistant to training.
2. Be consistent – It’s important to be consistent with your commands and your rewards. If you only give a treat occasionally, your dog will soon learn that they only have to obey sometimes.
3. Use positive reinforcement – Dogs respond better to positive reinforcement than negative punishment. When your dog does something you want them to, praise them and give them a treat.
4. Keep training sessions short – Training sessions should be short, so as not to bore or frustrate your dog. 5-10 minutes is usually long enough.
5. End on a positive note – End each of your training sessions on a positive note, with your dog obeying a command. This will leave them wanting to please you and eager to learn more.
Both American Bulldogs and Pitbull Terriers are intelligent breeds that can be trained to obey commands. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can have a well-behaved dog of either breed.
American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – Intelligence compared
Regarding intelligence, the American bulldog and the pitbull terrier rank near the top of the list. However, there are some differences between the two breeds.
The American bulldog is known for its loyalty and obedience, while the pitbull terrier is known for its tenacity and strength.
Both breeds are intelligent, but the American bulldog is generally easier to train.
Pitbulls are also considered to be more aggressive than American Bulldogs, which may make them less suitable for some families.
According to studies on both breeds, there are some differences in the way that the two breeds learn.
For example, American Bulldogs tend to be more food-motivated, while Pitbulls are more play-motivated.
This means that American Bulldogs may be easier to train with treats, while Pitbulls may be more responsive to toys and games.
In general, both American Bulldogs and Pitbull Terriers are intelligent breeds that can be trained to perform a variety of tasks.
However, there are some differences between the two breeds that may make one more suitable for your family than the other. If you’re looking for a loyal and obedient dog, the American bulldog may be a better choice.
If you’re looking for a tenacious and strong dog, the pitbull terrier may be a better fit.
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right breed for your family is to meet both breeds and see which one you connect with more.
American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – Exercise needs
If you are looking for a dog that will be a dedicated exercise partner, either the American Bulldog or the Pitbull Terrier may be a good fit.
Both breeds are athletic and have high energy levels. However, there are some important differences to consider when it comes to their exercise needs.
The American Bulldog is a larger more energetic breed, and as such, will require more regular exercise than the Pitbull Terrier. This breed loves to play and needs a good amount of space to run around.
A daily walk or jog will not be enough to tire out an American Bulldog – they need plenty of exercise and room to really stretch their legs.
The Pitbull Terrier is also a very active breed, but their smaller size means they don’t require as much exercise as the American Bulldog.
A daily walk or run will be sufficient to meet their needs. They also enjoy playing a wide variety of games and will benefit from a good amount of playtime on a daily basis.
So, which breed is right for you?
The American Bulldog is the better choice if you are looking for a dog that will be a true exercise partner.
However, the Pitbull Terrier may be a better fit if you don’t have a lot of space or time for daily exercise.
Whichever breed you choose, be sure to commit to providing them with their daily exercise requirement to ensure they stay happy and healthy.
American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – Are they Good with Other Dogs
The American Bulldog is a loyal and protective breed that makes a great family pet. They are good with other dogs but may be too rough for smaller breeds.
Pitbull Terriers are loyal and protective but can be aggressive toward other dogs. It is important to socialize both breeds from an early age so they can learn to get along with other dogs.
American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – Are they Good with Children?
The American Bulldog is a large, stocky dog with a short coat. They are excellent with children, and have a temperament that is suitable for children of all ages.
The Pitbull Terrier, on the other hand, is a medium-sized dog with a short coat. They can also be good with children but may be too rough at times, which can be dangerous for young children.
So, which breed is better for children?
It really depends on the individual dog and how they are raised. Some American Bulldogs and Pitbull Terriers are great with children, while others may not be suited for a home with small children.
American Bulldogs have a more stable temperament which would give them the edge in this area.
It is important to do your research before getting either of these breeds, along with choosing a reputable breeder.
American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – Nutrition needs compared
The American Bulldog is a larger breed of dog, and therefore requires more food than the Pitbull Terrier.
They also have a higher metabolism and require more calories.
The American Bulldog should be fed a high-quality kibble that is designed for large breeds, while the Pitbull Terrier can be fed a medium or large breed formula.
The American Bulldog requires more protein than the Pitbull Terrier. This is because they are a working breed and need extra protein to maintain their muscle mass.
They also require more fat, as this helps to keep their energy levels up. The Pitbull Terrier does not require as much protein or fat, as they are not a working breed.
The American Bulldog requires more calcium than the Pitbull Terrier. This is because they are prone to hip dysplasia, which can be alleviated with extra calcium.
The Pitbull Terrier does not require as much calcium, as they are not prone to hip dysplasia.
Dog Treats
The American Bulldog can have any type of dog treat, as long as it is safe for them to eat.
The Pitbull Terrier should not have any bones, as they can splinter and cause digestive issues. Instead, they can have chewy treats or soft treats that are easy to digest.
Table Scraps
The American Bulldog can have table scraps, as long as they are healthy and do not contain any bones. You can give them boiled chicken, fish, or lean meat.
You can also give them vegetables like carrots, green beans, and broccoli.
Just make sure to chop up the food into small pieces so they can easily digest it.
“Never give your American Bulldog table scraps that contain bones, as this can cause them to choke or get an intestinal blockage.“
American Pitbulls, on the other hand, should not have any table scraps.
Pitbulls are a very active breed and need a high protein diet to maintain their energy levels.
Table scraps are usually not high in protein and can actually lead to weight gain in Pitbulls. If you want to give your Pitbull a treat, there are many healthy options available at pet stores.
American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – Grooming
Shedding
Shedding is moderate for both the American Bulldog and Pitbull Terrier. They are both short-haired breeds, so they will not require as much grooming as some other breeds.
However, they will still need to be brushed regularly to remove any dead hair and keep their coat healthy and looking their best.
Bathing should only be done when necessary, as too much bathing can strip the natural oils from their skin and coat.
Ears
Both the American Bulldog and Pitbull Terrier are prone to ear infections. This is due to their floppy ears not allowing air to circulate properly inside the ear canal.
To help prevent ear infections, their ears should be checked regularly and cleaned when necessary. The hair inside the ear canal should also be trimmed to allow for better air circulation.
Nails
Both the American Bulldog and Pitbull Terrier will need their nails trimmed on a regular basis.
If the nails get too long, it can be uncomfortable for them to walk, and they may start to develop joint problems.
Teeth
Brushing your dog’s teeth is important for its overall health, and it is especially important for these two breeds.
Both the American Bulldog and Pitbull Terrier are prone to dental problems such as tartar build-up and gum disease.
To help prevent these problems, their teeth should be brushed on a daily basis. Dental chews and bones can also help keep their teeth clean and healthy.
Overall, the American Bulldog and Pitbull Terrier are both low-maintenance breeds when it comes to grooming. However, they still require some basic care to keep them looking and feeling their best.
Drooling levels
The American Bulldog is a drooler. Some may slobber more than others, but all will drool at some point, especially when they’re excited or drinking water. If you don’t like dog drool, this isn’t the breed for you.
American Bulldogs are also known to be very messy eaters. They tend to slop their food all over the place while they’re eating, so be prepared to clean up after them.
If you’re not willing to deal with a little extra mess, you may struggle with this breed.
American Pitbulls, on the other hand, drool less than American Bulldogs.
They may still slobber a little bit, especially when they’re excited or drinking water, but it’s nothing compared to the drooling of an American Bulldog.
When it comes to eating, American Pitbulls are much neater than American Bulldogs. They tend to eat with precision and don’t make as much of a mess.
Barking levels
The American Bulldog is not a big barker. They may bark when they’re excited or playing, but they’re generally quiet dogs.
The American Bulldog might be a good choice if you’re looking for a dog that won’t make much noise.
American Pitbulls are also relatively quiet dogs. They may bark when they’re excited or when they see something new, but they’re not known for being big barkers.
If you want a dog that’s mostly quiet, the American Pitbull might be a good fit for you.
American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – Adaptability to Weather
The American Bulldog is able to withstand cold weather better than the Pitbull Terrier. The Bulldog’s coat is thicker and provides more insulation, making it ideal for colder climates.
The Pitbull Terrier, on the other hand, has a thinner coat that does not provide as much warmth. In addition, the Pitbull Terrier is more susceptible to frostbite and other cold-weather injuries.
Both breeds can suffer from heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses when it comes to hot weather.
However, the American Bulldog is able to tolerate higher temperatures better than the Pitbull Terrier. This is because the Bulldog’s coat is shorter and less dense, allowing for better airflow and cooling.
Overall, the American Bulldog is more adaptable to both extremes of weather than the Pitbull Terrier.
If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, it is important to take precautions to protect both breeds from weather-related health problems.
American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – Health
American Bulldogs and Pitbull Terriers are both strong, athletic dogs that were bred for physical labor. However, these two breeds have different health concerns that owners should be aware of.
American Bulldogs – Health
American Bulldogs are more prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and allergies.
Other health issues known to the breed include cherry eye, deafness, and demodectic mange. Breathing issues can also be a problem for American Bulldogs due to their short snouts.
Pitbull Terriers – Health
Pitbull Terriers are also susceptible to hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, but their main health concern is heart disease.
Other medical issues that can affect Pitbulls include allergies, von Willebrand’s Disease, and idiopathic epilepsy.
Both breeds are also susceptible to certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma and mast cell tumors.
Therefore, it is important for owners of both breeds to have their dogs checked by a veterinarian regularly and to be aware of any signs or symptoms that could indicate certain health conditions.
American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – Life Expectancy
The average life expectancy of an American Bulldog is 10-15 years, while the average lifespan of a Pitbull Terrier is 12 to 14 years.
Dog owners can help maximize the lifespan of their furry friend by providing proper nutrition, plenty of exercise, and regular veterinary care.
American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – AKC Recognition
The American Bulldog and the Pitbull Terrier are both recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), but they are two different breeds.
The American Bulldog is a member of the AKC’s working group, while the Pitbull Terrier is a member of the AKC’s terrier group.
The AKC recognized the American Bulldog in 1967, while the Pitbull Terrier was recognized in 1930.
American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier – Puppy Prices
When it comes to choosing an American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier puppy, there are several things you need to take into consideration.
The price of each breed can vary significantly, so be sure to do your research before making a purchase.
In addition, it’s important to understand the difference between these two popular breeds, as outlined in this blog, as they have different personalities and needs.
The typical cost of an American Bulldog puppy is between $600 and $1200, while the average cost of a Pitbull Terrier puppy is $500 to $1000.
However, there are many factors that can affect the price of each breed, such as the breeder’s location, reputation, and whether the dog is purebred or mixed.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to choosing between an American Bulldog vs Pitbull Terrier, there is no clear winner. The best decision for you will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and lifestyle.
If you are looking for a laid-back companion that is good with children and other pets, then the American Bulldog might be the right breed for you.
However, if you are seeking an active, high-energy dog that loves to play and exercise, then the Pitbull Terrier might be a better fit.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which breed is right for you is to meet both breeds in person and see which one you connect with the most.
