10 Dogs That Get Mistaken For Pitbulls
Not every muscular, broad-headed dog you see is a Pitbull—but you wouldn’t be the only one to think so. Some breeds resemble such strikingly that even experienced dog lovers do a double take. Are you curious to see which breeds make the list? Let’s set the record straight!
American Bulldog
The American Bulldog is one of the most commonly mistaken breeds for pit bulls because of its broad shoulders and square head. Initially bred for farm work and guarding, it is taller and stockier than most pit bull types.
Dogo Argentino
Due to its white coat and heavily muscled build, the Dogo Argentino carries the same strength and agility associated with pit bulls. It is a formidable working breed with a firm bite force and high pain tolerance.
Staffordshire Bull
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier shares a direct ancestry with the American Pit Bull Terrier, which explains its compact and muscular build. Although it closely resembles a pitbull, it is shorter and more compact and weighs between 24 and 38 pounds.
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is often mistaken for a pittie due to its cropped ears and powerful build. Originating from Roman battle dogs, it has a bite force of 700 PSI. Unlike pit bulls, which are built for agility, it excels in guarding.
Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog
A rare breed similar to Pitbulls, the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog was bred to protect livestock and property in the American South. With a square muzzle and muscular body, it mirrors some features but is often heavier and possesses stronger guarding instincts.
Boxer
High energy and a square-shaped muzzle make the Boxer a frequent pitbull lookalike. It combines endurance with intelligence. Unlike pitbulls, Boxers have a more extended, leaner build and a signature underbite, which adds to their distinct expression.
Presa Canario
A broad chest and thick frame often lead to the Presa Canario being misidentified. Because it was developed in the Canary Islands for guarding livestock, it possesses strong protective instincts. Although smaller and more agile, they can reach an imposing 140 pounds.
American Bully
The American Bully is one of the most mistaken breeds for a pitbull because of its heavily muscled body and exaggerated physical traits. But it is a distinct breed recognized by the United Kennel Club. Compared to pitties, Bullies have shorter legs and a bigger build.
Olde English Bulldogge
This breed shares the thick-set body of a pitbull but with more pronounced wrinkles and a heavier bone structure. The Olde English Bulldogge’s balanced temperament and muscular frame make it a powerful yet adaptable companion. It was developed to recreate 18th-century English Bulldogs.
Bullmastiff
Weighing up to 130 pounds depending on the gender, the Bullmastiff is considerably larger than any pitbull but shares a similarly broad head and muscular frame. They were used to track and pin down poachers without excessive aggression.
