16 Dog Breeds That Look Like Pitbulls (But Aren’t)

Breeds
By Jonas Becker

Pitbulls, with their muscular build and distinctive features, are often a misunderstood breed. Many dogs share similar physical traits to Pitbulls, leading to confusion among dog enthusiasts and potential dog owners. These breeds, while resembling Pitbulls, have their own unique characteristics and histories. Understanding these differences can help in making informed decisions about pet ownership.

Boxer

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A Boxer’s playful energy is matched by its strong build. With a square muzzle and broad chest, it’s easy to mistake this breed for a Pitbull. Known for their loving and protective nature, Boxers make loyal family pets.

Their expressive faces and high intelligence allow them to excel in obedience training.

Despite their robust appearance, Boxers are gentle with children, making them a popular choice among families. Did you know? Boxers were originally bred in Germany as hunting dogs, known for their ability to hold prey until their owners arrived.

American Bulldog

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With a stocky build and a powerful stride, American Bulldogs often resemble Pitbulls. These dogs are known for their strong work ethic and courage.

Their loving and protective demeanor makes them excellent companions for active families.

American Bulldogs have a rich history of being used on farms for various tasks. Their gentle nature with family members contrasts their tough exterior. Interestingly, these dogs have been part of American culture since the early settlers used them as utility dogs around their homesteads.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

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Staffordshire Bull Terriers, with their muscular frame and intense gaze, are often confused with Pitbulls. Despite their formidable appearance, they are affectionate and gentle.

Their compact size and agility make them perfect for urban living.

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are known for their loyalty and form strong bonds with their families. Historically, they were bred in England for bull-baiting, but today, they thrive as loving family pets. Their playful nature and resilience are adored by many dog enthusiasts worldwide.

Bull Terrier

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Bull Terriers are known for their unique, egg-shaped heads and muscular bodies. Their playful antics often bring joy to their families.

These dogs possess a surprising amount of strength and agility.

While they might look tough, Bull Terriers are known for their devotion and friendliness. Originating in England, they were originally bred as fighting dogs but have since evolved into affectionate companions. Their clownish personality and high energy levels make them ideal for active households.

Dogo Argentino

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The Dogo Argentino is a strong, athletic dog, often mistaken for a Pitbull due to its imposing stature and short coat. These dogs are fearless hunters and protectors.

Despite their appearance, they are gentle and affectionate with their families.

Bred in Argentina for big-game hunting, their loyalty and bravery are unmatched. Dogos require experienced handlers who can meet their exercise needs and provide proper socialization. Known for their resilience, they thrive in active environments with ample space to roam.

American Staffordshire Terrier

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American Staffordshire Terriers, with their muscular build and confident personalities, closely resemble Pitbulls. Their loving and friendly nature makes them wonderful family pets.

These dogs are known for their intelligence and adaptability.

Originally bred in the United States for farm work and companionship, they excel in various canine sports. Their strong loyalty and protective instincts are balanced by their playful and affectionate side. Ideal for families who can offer them attention and exercise, they thrive in loving environments.

Presa Canario

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Presa Canarios are powerful dogs, often compared to Pitbulls due to their muscular build and fearless demeanor. Known for their protective instincts, they make excellent guard dogs.

While independent, they form deep bonds with their families.

These dogs originated from the Canary Islands and were used for working livestock. Presa Canarios require strong leadership and consistent training. Their calm yet assertive nature is admired by experienced dog handlers. Despite their formidable presence, they are affectionate and devoted to their loved ones.

Cane Corso

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The Cane Corso, with its commanding presence and athletic build, might be mistaken for a Pitbull. These Italian mastiffs are known for their intelligence and trainability.

Their protective instincts and calm demeanor make them ideal guardians.

Despite their size, they are gentle giants with their family members. Historically, Cane Corsos were used for hunting large game and guarding property. Today, they continue to serve as loyal companions and protectors. Their dignified appearance and steady temperament make them a favorite among dog enthusiasts.

Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog

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With a noble lineage, the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is often confused with Pitbulls due to its strong build. These dogs are known for their loyalty and protective nature.

Their gentle disposition contrasts their imposing appearance.

Originating in the southern United States, they were bred for guarding and working livestock. Alapahas are intelligent and require consistent training and socialization. Their affectionate nature and strong bonds with their families make them cherished pets. Known for their resilience, they thrive in active environments with loving owners.

Bullmastiff

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Bullmastiffs, with their massive frames and formidable presence, are often mistaken for Pitbulls. Despite their size, they are gentle and affectionate with their families.

These dogs are known for their protective instincts and loyalty.

Originally bred in England to guard estates, they are natural protectors. Their calm and composed nature makes them excellent companions for families. Bullmastiffs require proper training and socialization to thrive. Their loving nature and steadfast devotion are admired by dog lovers worldwide. Fun fact: They were known as the “Gamekeeper’s Night Dog” for their role in guarding estates.

Olde English Bulldogge

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The Olde English Bulldogge, with its robust build and playful demeanor, is sometimes mistaken for a Pitbull. These dogs are known for their strength and agility.

Their friendly and outgoing nature makes them wonderful family pets.

Originating in England, they were bred to recreate the original bull-baiting dogs. Today, they are cherished companions with a love for play and interaction. Their enthusiastic personality and love for adventure make them ideal for active families. Known for their resilience, they thrive in environments where they can explore and engage in activities.

Ambullneo Mastiff

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Ambullneo Mastiffs, with their muscular frames and confident demeanor, often remind people of Pitbulls. These dogs are known for their guarding capabilities and loyalty.

Despite their formidable appearance, they are gentle and affectionate with their families.

Bred in the United States as protective companions, they require consistent training and socialization. Their calm and composed nature makes them excellent family pets. Known for their resilience, they thrive in environments where they are given tasks and responsibilities. Their strong bonds with their families are cherished by those who know them.

Renascence Bulldogge

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Renascence Bulldogges, with their strong build and friendly demeanor, are often mistaken for Pitbulls. These dogs are known for their intelligence and trainability.

Their affectionate nature and loyalty make them beloved family pets.

Originating in the United States, they were bred to recreate the original bulldogges from history. Today, they are cherished for their protective instincts and playful personalities. Their calm demeanor and strong bonds with their families make them ideal companions. Known for their resilience, they thrive in environments where they are loved and cared for.

Ca de Bou

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Ca de Bous, with their muscular build and confident stance, are often mistaken for Pitbulls. These dogs are known for their protective instincts and loyalty.

Their calm and composed nature makes them excellent guard dogs.

Originating from the island of Mallorca, they were used for guarding and bull-baiting. Today, they are cherished companions with a love for family life. Their strong bonds with their families and resilience are admired by those who know them. Known for their dignified appearance, they thrive in environments where they are respected and understood.

Valley Bulldog

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Valley Bulldogs, with their strong build and playful disposition, are sometimes mistaken for Pitbulls. These dogs are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature.

Their outgoing personalities make them wonderful family pets.

Originating in Canada, they were bred as working dogs and companions. Today, they are cherished for their playful antics and love for adventure. Their resilient nature and strong bonds with their families make them ideal for active households. Known for their enthusiasm, they thrive in environments where they can explore and engage in activities.

Bandog

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Bandogs, with their robust frames and confident demeanor, often resemble Pitbulls. These dogs are known for their guarding capabilities and fierce loyalty.

Despite their formidable appearance, they are gentle and affectionate with their families.

Bred for protection, Bandogs require experienced handlers who can provide consistent training. Their calm and composed nature makes them excellent family pets. Known for their resilience, they thrive in environments where they are given tasks and responsibilities. Their strong bonds with their families are cherished by those who know them well.