Howdy there, fellow dog lovers! Are you tired of seeing dogs that look like Pitbulls and never knowing whether you are truly looking at a Pitbull dog or not? I’m here to help!
First off, one of the reasons why this confusion might start is because Pitbull is actually an umbrella term describing more than one dog breed. This is why you might’ve heard of several dog breeds being called a Pitbull.
Most dog owners, however, think about American Pit Bull Terriers when they say “a Pitbull” so I’ll consider Pitbull a standalone breed to avoid confusion.
Many dogs that have similar features are called Pit Bull dogs, although most don’t even belong to the Pit Bull breeds.
So, if you’d like to know what are these dogs that look like Pitbull (but aren’t), here are 20+ pups that are usually confused for one another:
1. American Bulldog
I have to start with the American Pit Bull Terrier’s twin brother, the American Bulldog.
Their similarities shouldn’t come as a surprise, considering how American Bulldogs are one of five Pit Bull breeds.
However, they are two entirely different dogs with different personalities and backgrounds – although it goes without saying they have very similar physical traits.
2. English Bulldog
To continue with Bulldog pups, we also have English Bulldogs.
While the similarities between these pups and Pitbulls are not as obvious, their facial features are kind of alike—but this is where the similarities end.
English Bulldogs are known for their gentle and somewhat goofy personalities. They are great family dogs and true coach potatoes, and their playfulness can make them appear mischievous.
3. Staffordshire Bull Terriers
Also known as the AmStaffs, these pups have lots of characteristics in common with Pitbulls – which isn’t surprising due to the breeds’ shared history. In fact, AmStaffs are also one of the five Pitbull breeds.
While not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) due to the club’s disagreement to accept any breed associated with dog fighting, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club was allowed to become the official AKC Parent Club for the breed.
4. Cane Corsos
The Italian Mastiffs are one of the tallest dogs on our list, and this size difference is typically the first indication that you are not looking at the Pitbull dog.
These pups have a ferocious look that can put Pitbulls to shame. They are guard dogs suitable for active families who have experience with large breeds and are not a good choice for beginners.
The two dogs are so often connected that there is even a Cane Corso Pitbull mix that is thought to be one of the best watchdogs out there!
5. Ca De Bou Dog
The Ca de Bou or Perro de Presa Mallorquin or the Majorcan Mastiff is a Spanish breed not many people in the United States have heard of.
This is a muscular dog that was once known for its aloof temperament. Nowadays, however, selective breeding has softened this pup’s temperament, making it more affectionate and suitable for families.
While the breed has been accepted by the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) for a very long time, the AKC recognized it in 2008.
6. Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is yet another huge breed that is often mistaken for a Pitbull due to similar facial features and a somewhat bad reputation.
These large hunting dogs were once used for hunting animals such as pumas and wild boars! Today, however, they are typically kept as guard dogs and used for military or police work.
And if you wish to see just how massive these pups can be, check out this Dogo Argentino growth chart!
7. Dogue De Bordeaux
Now, for some more experienced dog enthusiasts, the fact that someone would confuse Dogue De Bordeaux with Pitbulls might seem weird. However, you would not believe how many people have confused the two, probably due to their massive bodies and flat faces.
Sadly, just like many large dog breeds, Dogue De Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, has a pretty short lifespan, and most will live only up to 10 years.
This is due to numerous health problems that come with their size, including heart and orthopedic problems and gastric dilatation volvulus (bloat).
8. Perro De Presa Canario
Presa Canario is a dog that gets confused not only with large Pit Bulls but Cane Corsos as well! This is most likely due to their large size, muscular bodies, and black coat.
Also, while Pitbulls originate from the United States and Cane Corsos from Italy, Presa Canarios, as their names state, come from the Canary Islands in Spain.
Unfortunately, due to their bad reputation, Presa Canarios are forbidden in some parts of the world, such as New Zealand and Australia.
9. Boerboel
Did you know there are 9 Boerboel colors out there? Yup, these pups come in more varieties than you might think! Still, no matter the color, they often get confused with other breeds, including Pitbulls.
The name Boerboel comes from the Afrikaans words boer (farmer), and boel, a shortening of boelhond, which means Bulldog. Yes, this breed was typically kept by farmers who needed a dog that would keep their cattle safe from baboons and leopards.
Unfortunately, just like many other breeds on this list, Boerboels are banned or restricted in many areas of the world.
10. Olde English Bulldogge
Despite its name, the Olde English Bulldogge is not British. Instead, it is the American counterpart to the already-mentioned English Bulldogs.
These pups were developed with the goal of producing dogs that look just like bulldogs but have friendlier personalities and longer lifespans.
Compared to regular English Bulldogs, these pups have longer legs and short tails instead of a bobtail. This is probably why they look more like Pitbulls than their British cousins.
11. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs
Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs are yet another American breed of Bulldogs, which is why they have many similarities with Pitbulls.
In fact, they are believed to be the cousins of the Olde English Bulldogges, and you can easily see the same traits in both breeds.
The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs were initially used for bull baiting, just like most other Bulldog breeds. They were later used as cattle and pig herders, although nowadays many people keep them as family pets.
12. Boston Terrier
In-person, Boston Terriers might confuse many people, as they look just like Pitbulls but much smaller.
These adorable doggies come in several colors and patterns, but all have the same flat face, floppy ears, and bobtails.
And let’s not mention the adorable blue eyes found in this breed! Aren’t they just the most adorable pups out there!?
13. Australian Bulldog
Known for their affectionate nature and calm temperaments, Australian Bulldogs are distant cousins of English Bulldogs.
They are people pleasers who want nothing more than to make their owners happy. However, they might be a bit mischievous in attempts to get your attention.
It’s a good thing they are so cute, so we’ll forgive them just about anything.
14. Pug
Pugs are small brachycephalic dogs that make some people think they are looking at some tiny Pitbull mix.
Despite their small size, many people still think they are dangerous or aggressive because they remind them of Pitbull breeds.
I mean, just look at that silly face. How could such a pup ever cause any harm?
15. American Bully
American Bullies are popular dogs that look like Pitbulls on steroids.
As the newest Pit Bull breed, American Bullies are, in fact, descendants of American Pit Bull Terriers who were bred with other dogs, such as English Bulldogs, in an attempt to correct their temperaments.
And this was successful! While Bullies are courageous dogs, they want nothing more than to cuddle with their owners all day long. It’s not something you’d expect from such a muscular pup.
16. Boxer
I cannot talk about dogs that look like Pitbulls without mentioning Boxers. These pups have strong muscles, long legs, and a proud stature that makes them stand out from the rest.
Despite being some of the most popular guard dogs out there, they are playful and affectionate. Still, they are not good beginner dogs, as they can become quite territorial and need quite a lot of training and socialization.
17. Leavitt Bulldog
Leavitt Bulldogs are essentially a variety of Olde English Bulldogges, although there are some visible differences between the two.
They are a distinguished line created by David Leavitt, who wanted to have a special dog different from those produced by other breeders.
The Leavitt Bulldog Association was founded in 2005, and many people consider Leavitt Bulldogs to be an entirely separate breed of dogs. This is, however, yet to be approved by any major kennel club.
18. Ambullneo Mastiff
The Ambullneo Mastiff is a highly intelligent guard dog that has yet to become a household name. It is the result of crossbreeding the Neapolitan Mastiff and English Mastiff, which were then bred with a Pitbull.
So, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that these pups have features in common with both Pitbulls and Mastiff-type dogs.
This is a territorial dog that is gentle with its family members, making it a suitable fit for most families, even young children. Still, socialization is essential if you wish to keep your pup well-behaved.
19. Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a fierce guardian with a gentle side. They can be as cuddly and affectionate as they can be scary!
Bullmastiff is often confused with an XXL Bully, which is often confused with a Pitbull. This is where the confusion comes from.
Still, you can recognize a Bullmastiff by its unique colors and markings, large stature, and brachycephalic face not many big dogs have.
Just remember – Bullmastiffs can be cautious around strangers, so they need lots of socialization and proper training.
20. Banter Bulldogge
Okay, I think everyone can understand why a Banter Bulldogge would be confused with a Pitbull. These two look almost exactly the same!
Banter Bulldogges are a fairly new Boxer mix with various Bulldog breeds. They are friendly but protective, and they can adapt to living in apartments as long as you provide them with daily walks and sufficient training.
These pups are playful yet hardworking, always ready to alert you in case of intruders. You’ll hardly get a better watchdog than a Banter Bulldogge!
21. Bully Kutta
Bully Kuttas are large, headstrong dogs originating from India.
Their name originates from the words Bohli, which means heavily wrinkled, and Kutta, which is a Hindi-Urda word for dog. It doesn’t take much to understand why they’re called that way.
While they might not look exactly like Pitbulls, their facial structure makes many people confuse the two.
Just like many other foreign breeds, Bully Kutta is yet to be recognized by the AKC.
22. Chamuco Dog
Including this one might be cheating. Why, you might ask? Because the Chamuco Dog is also known as the Mexican Pitbull, it is a Pitbull of a sort.
It isn’t known how Chamuco Dogs came to be. However, it is certain they have the American Pit Bull Terrier and Staffordshire Terrier blood in them.
Unfortunately, just like standard Pitbulls, Chamuco Dogs were used as fighting dogs for decades. Despite this, they make good pets, as long as you know how to tame their wild instincts.
23. Chinese Bone Mouth Shar Pei
Chinese Bone Mouth Shar Pei is probably not the first canine that falls on your mind when you think of dogs that look like Pitbulls. Still, many people confuse the two, probably due to their muscular bodies and droopy faces.
Shar Peis are, next to Chow Chows, the only two dog breeds with blue tongues. This is also the easiest way to differentiate them from Pitbulls. No Pitbull would ever have a blue tongue!
24. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog looks like a crossbreed between a Pitbull and a Bernese Mountain Dog. However, it is an entirely separate breed that was recognized by the AKC back in 1995.
These dogs are descendants of the Mastiff-type dogs used by Julius Caesar as war dogs in the Swiss Alps. Yes, that’s how this breed is!
Did you know that Greater Swiss are actually the descendants of Bernese Mountain Dogs and Rottweilers? That’s right, we wouldn’t have these two breeds without the mighty Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.
That being said, this breed has nothing to do with Pitbulls. Still, many people find the resemblance uncanny.
25. Fila Brasileiro
The Fila Brasileiro is a working dog originating from Brazil. Due to their large size, these pups were used to hunt big animals such as jaguars.
Sadly, they have a dark past. Back in the 18th century, slave masters used Fila Brasileiro dogs to return slaves that had escaped, searching for freedom. This is also where they’ve got their name, as filar means to return in Portuguese.
Probably due to this, these pups are banned or restricted in many countries worldwide.
26. Patterdale Terrier
Okay, not all dogs on this list look just like Pitbulls. Some look like tiny Pitties or even Pitbull puppies. Just look at this cutie!
The Patterdale Terrier is a small terrier dog that resembles a Pitbull. In fact, it is commonly used when breeding smaller varieties of Pitbull breeds, such as the Pocket Bully.
This pooch has a typical Terrier personality, which means active, energetic, and territorial.
The Patterdale is one of the few Terrier breeds bred exclusively to be a working dog and not a show dog. While recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC), it is yet to be accepted by the AKC.
27. Black Mouth Cur
Lastly, there is a Black Mouth Cur, also known as the Yellow Black Mouth Cur, Southern Cur, and Southern Black Mouth Cur. This is a medium dog originating from the United States, just like our beloved Pittie. However, this is where their similarities end.
The Black Mouth Cur was originally used as a hunting dog that went after all sorts of animals, from squirrels and raccoons to feral pigs, deer, and even bears!
Not only this, but it was also kept as a herding dog, keeping all the cattle safe. What a hard-working pup!
Final Words
There you have it – an extensive list of many dogs people often mistake for Pitbulls.
While there is no doubt that some of these pups are quite similar to Pitties, others might not be as obvious. It’s probably prejudiced toward dangerous-looking breeds that are immediately called Pitbulls, even though they have nothing to do with the breed.
Which one of these dogs that look like Pitbulls is your favorite? Did you ever mistake some of them with Pitties? Let us know!
Vanja’s passion for writing started at an early age, which is why she pursued Journalism as her college degree. She can research any topic and find all the information before you bat an eye, which is a great thing for her job but a terrible one for her husband.
Even as a young child, she fell in love with everything fluffy – but dogs have a special place in her heart due to her childhood companion, a Corgie named Archie.
Motivated by her experiences and driven by a desire to give back to her four-legged companions, she spends her free time volunteering at a local dog shelter.