Though often used as a breed descriptor, “Pit Bull” is not, in fact, a recognized breed. Rather, it’s a catch-all for “bully breed” types of dogs, often mixes, known for their trademark broad heads, stocky and muscular build, and wide smiles. Sadly, the name “Pit Bull” often conjures negative associations, even though these dogs are, by and large, extremely people-friendly. Get to know these four pedigreed breeds often lumped together as Pit Bulls.

Photo dkov/bigstock.com

Cane Corso:
Intelligent, Intensely Loyal, Eager to Please

✓ 100+ pounds

✓ Majestic

✓ Fearless protector

✓ Smart

✓ Trainable (but can be assertive and willful)

Photo cynoclub/bigstock.com

Staffordshire Bull Terrier:
Clever, Brave, Family-oriented

✓ 24 – 38 pounds

✓ Steady

✓ Sweet-natured

✓ Patient with children

✓ Devoted to family

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Dogo Argentino:
Loyal, Courageous, Athletic

✓ 80 – 100 pounds

✓ Powerful: Developed to chase
and catch dangerous game

✓ High energy

✓ Very trainable

✓ Affectionate with family

Tip: The Dogo Argentino is instantly identifiable by his short, complete white coat.

Photo monika avonadoh/bigstock.com

American Staffordshire Terrier:
Good-natured, Confident, Highly Trainable

✓ 40 – 70 pounds

✓ Good-natured

✓ Smart

✓ Confident

✓ Extremely affectionate with family

►Looking for your breed match? Find more breed profiles at moderndogmagazine.com/breeds

This article originally appeared in the award-winning Modern Dog magazine. Subscribe today!