“If I don’t have that… what kind of Pit Bull do I have?” That’s a great question—and one that highlights the confusion around the word “Pit Bull.” Here’s the truth: The term “Pit Bull” has been misused and misunderstood for decades. Many dogs labelled as “pit bulls” are actually mixed breeds or entirely different breeds like the American Bully, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, or American Staffordshire Terrier. And sometimes… they’re none of the above. Just strong-looking dogs with blocky heads that look the part. Calling every muscular, short-haired dog a “pit bull” doesn’t make it one. The real American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) has a very specific standard—driven, athletic, lean, and incredibly focused. If your dog doesn’t meet that standard, it doesn’t make them less valuable. It just means they may not be a true APBT—and that’s okay! But understanding what you have helps you become a better, more informed, more responsible owner. Want to know more about your dog’s lineage, breed traits, and how to handle them responsibly? That’s why the Pit Bull Federation of South Africa (PBFSA) exists. Let’s start separating myth from fact—together.
You think you know what a Pit Bull is? Think again
Most people have never actually seen or owned a real American Pit Bull Terrier. And yet—everyone has an opinion. A true APBT is a dog of extremes: Weight ranging from 11kg to 30kg+ High drive, high energy, and unshakable determination Gamely, athletic, and built for performance Born with no concept of “quit” in their DNA The real reason so many believe they’ve owned a “pit bull”? Because if you type “pit bull” into Google, it tells you it’s a blanket term for multiple breeds. But here’s the truth: The American Pit Bull Terrier has been a recognized breed since 1898 — long before the internet, long before the misinformation. Back then, everyone knew what a “pit bull” was: one breed, one name. Don’t believe everything you see on Google. Just because it’s online doesn’t make it true. The truth is: very few people have seen, owned, or understand the real APBT. It’s time to change that through real education—not internet myths.