Pitbulls are often misunderstood due to their muscular build and strong appearance—but they aren’t the only ones facing judgment based on looks. Many gentle and affectionate dog breeds are frequently mislabeled as Pitbulls simply because they share similar physical traits. These misidentifications can lead to unnecessary fear, confusion, and even challenges in housing or adoption.
In reality, several breeds with big hearts and loyal personalities are grouped unfairly under the “Pitbull” label. This blog post highlights 10 dog breeds that are commonly mistaken for Pitbulls, yet they each have unique temperaments and characteristics. Whether you’re a dog lover, a potential pet parent, or simply curious about these misunderstood breeds, you’ll discover that tough exteriors often hide incredibly gentle souls. Learn the truth behind the stereotypes and get to know these loving companions for who they really are. You might just find your next favorite furry friend in this list.
1. American Bulldog
The American Bulldog is a strong and athletic breed often mistaken for a Pitbull due to its muscular build, square head, and short coat. However, this breed has its own unique history and temperament. Originally bred to catch feral hogs and guard farms, American Bulldogs are known for their courage, loyalty, and protective nature. Despite their tough appearance, they are affectionate with family members and can be gentle, especially around children.
With proper socialization and training, they become excellent companions and watchdogs. Their physical resemblance to Pitbulls often leads to confusion, especially in places where breed-specific legislation is enforced. They tend to be alert, confident, and emotionally bonded with their owners, which makes them a misunderstood breed. Their high energy levels mean they require regular exercise and mental stimulation. When trained with consistency and love, American Bulldogs are not just look-alikes, but truly gentle giants at heart.
2. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is frequently mistaken for a Pitbull due to its broad head, muscular frame, and short coat. Despite the tough look, this breed is incredibly affectionate and even carries the nickname “The Nanny Dog” in the UK for its reputation with children. Staffies, as they’re lovingly called, are people-oriented dogs that crave human interaction and thrive on companionship.
They are known for their courage, intelligence, and boundless energy, but also for being gentle, loyal, and good-natured when raised in a loving environment. While their resemblance to American Pit Bull Terriers causes frequent confusion, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a separate breed with its own history and personality traits. They are smaller than Pitbulls but equally muscular and energetic. Early socialization and positive reinforcement training are essential to bring out the best in their personalities. These dogs are charming companions who simply suffer from being misunderstood based on looks.
3. American Bully
The American Bully is perhaps the most often confused breed with Pitbulls because of their close genetic link and shared ancestry. Created by breeding American Pit Bull Terriers with other bulldog-type breeds, the American Bully was developed to be a companion dog with a gentle disposition. Their blocky heads, wide chests, and muscular bodies scream intimidation, but in reality, they are sweet-natured, loving, and incredibly friendly.
American Bullies are loyal to their families and tend to get along well with children and other pets if properly socialized. What sets them apart is their calm demeanor and eagerness to please. Unfortunately, their similar appearance to Pitbulls often lands them in the same category in the public eye and media. However, with proper training and a stable environment, the American Bully shows just how gentle and affectionate a so-called “tough dog” can be. Their kind heart contradicts their rugged exterior.
4. Boxer
Boxers are playful, affectionate, and full of life, but their muscular body and strong jawline often cause them to be mistaken for Pitbulls. Known for their boundless energy and expressive faces, Boxers are natural entertainers who love to be the center of attention. They are medium to large-sized dogs with a square build and short coat, making the resemblance even more confusing. However, Boxers have a very different temperament—they are exuberant, clownish, and extremely loyal to their families.
They form strong bonds with children and are known to be protective yet gentle. With their intelligent eyes and affectionate nature, Boxers often surprise people who expect a more aggressive personality based on their appearance. In reality, Boxers are eager to please and respond well to consistent training. Their loyalty and fun-loving attitude make them excellent companions, proving that looks can be deceiving when it comes to judging a dog’s temperament.
5. Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a large, powerful Italian mastiff breed often confused with a Pitbull due to its commanding presence and muscular build. Despite its intimidating appearance, the Cane Corso is known to be deeply devoted, calm, and protective. Originally bred for guarding property and livestock, they are naturally reserved with strangers but highly affectionate toward their family. With early socialization and firm, positive training, Cane Corsos become loyal and even gentle pets.
Their square jaw, deep chest, and short coat add to the mistaken identity, especially when seen by those unfamiliar with dog breeds. They require a confident owner who can provide structure and regular mental and physical stimulation. Despite their serious expression, Cane Corsos are incredibly sensitive and responsive to their owner’s emotions. They are not aggressive by nature but will act if they perceive a threat. In a stable home, they prove to be loving protectors and gentle giants.
6. Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino, often mistaken for a white Pitbull, is a powerful and noble breed originally developed in Argentina for big-game hunting. Their all-white coat, muscular physique, and strong head shape make them visually similar to Pitbulls, leading to frequent confusion. However, the Dogo Argentino is a distinct breed known for its strength, intelligence, and calm temperament. When raised in a structured, loving environment, they can be incredibly affectionate, especially with their family.
This breed thrives on attention and develops a close bond with their humans. While they may appear intimidating, Dogos are often gentle with children and can coexist peacefully with other pets when properly socialized. Their loyalty and courage are unmatched, but they also possess a soft, loving side that emerges when they feel secure. Due to their appearance, they are often misunderstood, but their true personality reflects a blend of power and tenderness that makes them ideal companions.
7. Presa Canario
The Presa Canario, or Canary Mastiff, is a powerful breed that is frequently mistaken for a Pitbull due to its large, muscular frame, cropped ears, and intense expression. Native to the Canary Islands, this dog was originally bred for guarding and herding livestock. Despite their robust and intimidating appearance, Presa Canarios can be gentle, calm, and affectionate with their families.
They are highly protective and devoted to their loved ones, often forming deep bonds with a single person. While their natural guarding instincts require responsible handling and early socialization, they are not inherently aggressive. When raised in a loving and structured environment, they exhibit a quiet confidence and a soft demeanor toward those they trust. Their resemblance to Pitbulls in both size and build has caused them to be mislabeled in public settings. However, these dogs prove that beneath the tough exterior lies a loyal heart and a gentle spirit.
8. Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs are large, loyal, and powerful dogs that are sometimes confused with Pitbulls due to their solid build and square heads. Although much larger than Pitbulls, the resemblance in facial structure and body mass can lead to mistaken identity. Bullmastiffs were originally bred to guard estates from poachers, but they were also expected to pin intruders without harming them—a testament to their ability to be firm yet gentle. Known for their calm demeanor and deep attachment to their families, Bullmastiffs are affectionate and protective without being overly aggressive.
Their docile nature often surprises people unfamiliar with the breed. These dogs are patient, especially with children, and prefer to be close to their loved ones. While early training and socialization are essential due to their size, they generally respond well to positive reinforcement. Their calm and dependable temperament makes them wonderful family pets, contradicting their fierce appearance and challenging public assumptions.
9. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog
The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is a rare and unique breed that is sometimes mistaken for a Pitbull because of its muscular body and strong jawline. Originating in the Southern United States, this breed was developed to guard property and livestock. Despite its intimidating look, the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is loyal, intelligent, and incredibly affectionate with its family. They are protective and alert, but also highly trainable and eager to please.
These dogs tend to be quiet and reserved with strangers but show immense loyalty and gentleness toward those they trust. Their appearance—a combination of broad shoulders, a blocky head, and a short coat—leads to confusion with Pitbull-type breeds. However, their temperament is more reserved and less intense. With early training and proper socialization, they become well-mannered companions who are both watchful and caring. This breed showcases how misunderstood appearances can mask a dog’s truly gentle nature.
10. Olde English Bulldogge
The Olde English Bulldogge is a strong and compact breed that resembles the Pitbull in its muscular structure and confident stance. Developed to recreate the healthier version of the original English Bulldog, this breed is athletic, agile, and has a balanced temperament. While their appearance is often confused with that of Pitbulls, Olde English Bulldogges are generally more laid-back and affectionate. They enjoy spending time with their families and are known to be particularly good with children.
Their friendly demeanor contrasts with their tough looks, making them gentle giants in the home. These dogs are intelligent, obedient, and eager to please, responding well to positive training methods. Their love for play and closeness to their owners makes them excellent companions. Although often grouped with Pitbulls because of their look, they possess a calm and friendly nature that sets them apart. They’re perfect examples of how looks can be deceiving.
Bottom Line
Judging a dog by its appearance can lead to major misconceptions. The 10 breeds mentioned above are often labeled as Pitbulls due to similar looks, but each has a distinct background, personality, and temperament. Many are incredibly gentle, loving, and family-oriented dogs that thrive in nurturing environments. It’s important to look beyond physical features and understand the true nature of a breed before forming opinions. By educating ourselves and others, we can help reduce the stigma surrounding these dogs and give them the fair treatment they deserve. After all, kindness and loyalty come in many shapes and sizes.
FAQs
Why are so many breeds mistaken for Pitbulls?
Many breeds share physical traits with Pitbulls, like muscular builds and broad heads, which often leads to visual misidentification.
Are all dogs that look like Pitbulls aggressive?
No, aggression is not determined by appearance. Many breeds that resemble Pitbulls are actually gentle, loyal, and family-friendly.
Is breed-specific legislation based on appearance?
Yes, unfortunately, many breed bans and housing restrictions are based on looks, not individual behavior or temperament.
How can I tell if a dog is actually a Pitbull?
Visual identification isn’t reliable. A DNA test is the most accurate way to determine a dog’s true breed or mix.