20 Pit Bull Lookalikes That Are Completely Different Breeds
When you spot a broad-chested, muscular dog with a square head and a serious stare, your mind probably jumps straight to “Pit Bull.” It’s an easy mistake to make.
Thanks to popular media and misunderstood breed labels, the term “Pit Bull” has become something of a catch-all for any sturdy, short-haired dog with a powerful build.
But the truth is—many of these so-called Pit Bulls aren’t Pit Bulls at all.
From loyal guardians to clownish companions, dozens of breeds share the Pit Bull’s signature look without being part of the breed family.
Some were bred for work, others for protection, and a few just happened to land in the muscle-bound gene pool. But just because they look the part doesn’t mean they are the part.
Why does this matter? Because breed misidentification isn’t just a casual mix-up—it can affect everything from housing options to insurance policies and even public perception.
Some breeds end up on breed-restricted lists simply because they resemble Pit Bulls, even if they have completely different temperaments and histories.
In this article, we’re spotlighting 20 dog breeds that often get mistaken for Pit Bulls—but definitely aren’t. Some are distant cousins, while others aren’t even remotely related.
You’ll find everything from the well-known American Bulldog to rare breeds like the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog and the Jaguar Bulldog.
Whether you’re trying to identify a pup at the shelter, deciding on your next canine companion, or just tired of hearing “Is that a Pit Bull?” every time you walk your dog—this list is for you.
Let’s set the record straight and give each of these lookalike breeds the spotlight they deserve.
1. American Bulldog
The American Bulldog is often mistaken for a Pit Bull due to its bulky frame, broad chest, and muscular build. With a strong jaw and a confident stance, it’s easy to see how these dogs get confused.
However, American Bulldogs tend to be taller and heavier than most Pit Bulls. They also have a slightly longer snout and a more laid-back demeanor.
Bred originally for farm work and guarding, these dogs are loyal, affectionate, and surprisingly gentle with their families.
2. Bull Terrier
That signature egg-shaped head sets the Bull Terrier apart—if you look closely. But its short coat, muscular body, and powerful jawline often throw people off, especially when the ears are cropped.
Known for their quirky personalities and boundless energy, Bull Terriers are clownish companions. They’re more compact and stockier than Pit Bulls but share a similar tenacity and strong will.
3. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
These pups are basically the Pit Bull’s shorter, stockier cousin. With their broad heads and solid muscle tone, Staffies often turn heads—and trigger assumptions.
Despite their tough look, they’re sweethearts at heart. Staffordshire Bull Terriers are famously fond of people and are especially gentle with children, earning them the nickname “nanny dogs” in the UK.
4. Boxer
Boxers bring that same square-jawed, athletic look to the table. Their muscular chests, cropped ears, and sleek coats often lead to confusion, especially when they come in fawn or brindle.
But Boxers are the life of the party—bouncy, affectionate, and playful to the core. They’re a bit leggier than Pit Bulls and tend to have more expressive, droopy faces.
5. Cane Corso
This Italian Mastiff breed has serious “don’t mess with me” energy. Cane Corsos are large, powerful, and carry themselves with a quiet intensity that mirrors Pit Bulls.
What sets them apart? Size, mostly. Corsos are heavier, taller, and have a distinct wrinkling on the forehead. They’re also bred primarily for protection and guarding rather than companionship or sport.
6. Dogo Argentino
Built like an athlete and dressed all in white, the Dogo Argentino has a striking look that mirrors the Pit Bull’s powerful physique. It’s no wonder the two are often confused.
This breed was developed in Argentina for big game hunting, so their prey drive is strong. They’re brave, loyal, and not for the faint of heart—or first-time owners.
7. Presa Canario
Think Pit Bull—but larger and with a Canary Island twist. The Presa Canario is a massive dog with a commanding presence, strong bone structure, and a boxy head.
These dogs were bred for working livestock and guarding. While their demeanor is calm and collected, their protective instincts are fierce. Socialization and training are crucial from day one.
8. American Bully
Despite the name, the American Bully isn’t a Pit Bull—it’s its own distinct breed. With exaggerated features like broad shoulders, thick necks, and low-set bodies, Bullies look like pumped-up versions of the classic Pit.
American Bullies are bred more for companionship than competition or work. They’re known to be affectionate, sociable, and incredibly loyal.
9. Boston Terrier (Muscular Ones)
Most people think of Boston Terriers as small, tuxedo-wearing charmers. But when especially fit or mixed, some Bostons develop a compact, chiseled body and Pit Bull-like face.
They’re smaller and more bug-eyed, sure—but their square jaws, short snouts, and bold personalities often get them lumped in with the bully breeds.
10. Olde English Bulldogge
Heavier and bulkier than Pit Bulls, the Olde English Bulldogge still shares enough physical traits to cause confusion. Their muscular build and cropped ears don’t help matters.
This breed was developed to bring back the athleticism and stamina of early English Bulldogs. They’re strong, steady, and surprisingly agile given their thick-set frame.
11. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog
Rare and noble-looking, the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog often draws comparisons to Pit Bulls because of its stocky frame, short coat, and square jaw.
But they have a slightly more regal posture and tend to be more reserved with strangers. Originally bred in the American South to guard property, they’re loyal and highly trainable.
12. Ambullneo Mastiff
The Ambullneo Mastiff is a cross between Neapolitan and English Mastiffs, with some bulldog blood added in. The result? A large, muscular dog that can easily be mistaken for a Pit Bull on steroids.
Though imposing in appearance, they’re surprisingly gentle with family. Just don’t expect them to be pushovers when it comes to guarding the house.
13. Rhodesian Ridgeback
From a distance, especially in a low stance, the Rhodesian Ridgeback’s muscular frame and sleek coat can trigger mistaken identity. Their reddish coat doesn’t help either.
But look closer and you’ll spot the signature ridge of hair running along their spine. Originally bred to track lions in Africa, these dogs are independent and extremely athletic.
14. Vizsla (in Pit Bull Colors)
The Vizsla’s lean body and short, reddish coat can sometimes trick people into thinking it’s a more refined Pit Bull. Their long legs and serious gaze definitely add to the illusion.
But they’re actually gentle, affectionate hunting dogs with a huge need for exercise. They’re more elegant than bulky—but still surprisingly strong.
15. Labrador Retriever Mixes
Pit Bull–Lab mixes are common, and when Labs inherit a wide chest, short coat, and boxy face, the confusion sets in. Some Labs even resemble Pits on their own when stocky enough.
They’re more laid-back and eager-to-please than your average Pit Bull, but don’t be surprised if people ask what kind of “bully mix” you’re walking.
16. Catahoula Leopard Dog
The Catahoula’s spotted coat is usually what grabs attention first—but their muscular build, confident stance, and square-shaped face make them Pit Bull doppelgängers in certain lights.
They’re working dogs through and through, originally bred in Louisiana for herding and hunting wild hogs. That explains the power and drive behind those piercing eyes.
17. Shar-Pei (Short-Coat or Mixed)
Wrinkly and aloof, the Shar-Pei might not scream Pit Bull at first glance. But when bred with bully breeds or sporting a shorter coat, they can look eerily similar.
They’ve got the same broad face and intense gaze, but with a bit more independence. Shar-Peis are famously stubborn and reserved around strangers.
18. English Bull Terrier Mixes
While purebred English Bull Terriers have that unmistakable egghead, their mixed counterparts often resemble Pit Bulls more closely. Take away the sloped snout, and you’ve got a muscular dog with plenty of overlap.
These dogs tend to be strong-willed and high-energy. They love their people but need early training to channel their enthusiasm in the right direction.
19. Bandog (Mastiff x Bulldog Mix)
This catch-all name refers to dogs bred specifically for protection, usually by crossing Mastiffs with Bulldogs. The result? A hulking figure that shares many Pit Bull features—just on a larger scale.
Bandogs are deeply loyal, fearless, and not ideal for novice owners. But when raised right, they make excellent companions and serious guardians.
20. Jaguar Bulldog
A relatively unknown breed, the Jaguar Bulldog is like a walking tank. With Pit Bull ancestry and American Bulldog muscle, they combine strength and agility in a seriously intimidating package.
Despite their name, they’re bred more for structure and companionship than aggression. Still, you’ll want to keep this powerhouse socialized and well-trained from an early age.
