Many different breeds look similar to American Pit Bull Terriers and are often confused with them. Watch the slideshow to see the commonly mistaken breeds. 

Images courtesy of the American Kennel Club/Mary Bloom and Sara Nugent Photography

American Pit Bull Terrier

Rottweiler

Doberman Pinscher

  1. • Origin: Ancient times in Germany

  2. • Weight: 80-135 lbs

  3. • Lifespan: 8-11 years


    In ancient times, the dogs drove and herded cattle around a town called Rottweil, which is how they got their name.

    Rottweilers have strength, agility and endurance, and are calm and confident animals.

    “(The Rottweiler) has an inherent desire to protect home and family, and is an intelligent dog of extreme hardness and adaptability with a strong willingness to work, making him especially suited as a companion, guardian and general all-purpose dog,” according to the American Kennel Club’s Web site.

  1. • Origin: 1800s in Germany

  2. • Weight: 65-90 lbs

  3. • Lifespan: 10-12 years



    Louis Doberman, a tax collector, bred the dog to accompany him. They were made to be alert, intelligent, guardians for their owners. Dobermans have a great deal of energy and are adventurous.                     

    “Dobermans are energetic dogs, particularly when young, and benefit from regular training and exercise from the start. With high intelligence and confidence comes determination, so a Doberman owner must be prepared to be patient, firm and consistent in training,” according to to the United Kennel Club's Web site.

  1. • Origin: Late 1800s in US

  2. • Weight: 57-67 lbs

  3. • Lifespan: 12-14 years

Information compiled from the American Kennel Club, the United Kennel Club and “Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds” by D. Caroline Coile, Ph.D

By Erica Magda


    Also known as the American Staffordshire Terrier, the American Pit Bull Terrier originated from crossing Bulldogs and Terriers in the 19th century.

    After traveling to the United States, the breed grew larger and became known as "pits" because of their history of fighting in the pits.

    They are strong, confident, energetic and friendly toward strangers and children. “The APBT is not the best choice for a guard dog since they are extremely friendly, even with strangers. Aggressive behavior toward humans is uncharacteristic of the breed," according to the United Kennel Club's Web site.