American Pit Bull Terrier vs Brittany

Which dog breed is right for you?

American Pit Bull Terrier

Size
30–65 lbs, 17–21 in
Lifespan
12–16 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
No
Affectionate Energetic Confident Loyal

Brittany

Size
30–40 lbs, 18–21 in
Lifespan
12–14 years
Exercise
Very High
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Energetic Happy Sensitive Agile

About the American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier traces its roots to 19th-century England, where Bulldogs and Terriers were crossed to create a dog combining strength with agility. Standing 17–21 inches tall and weighing 30–60 pounds, the APBT is a medium-sized, solidly built dog with a broad chest and well-defined musculature. Their short, glossy coat comes in virtually every color and pattern — including blue, red, brindle, and merle — and is exceptionally easy to maintain.

Temperament & Personality

Despite their often-misunderstood reputation, American Pit Bull Terriers are among the most people-oriented breeds — they are affectionate, eager to please, and frequently described as "nanny dogs" for their gentleness with children. They are intelligent, loyal, and enthusiastic about training when given positive reinforcement. However, some individuals may exhibit dog-selectivity, and responsible ownership includes understanding their terrier-driven tenacity.

Pros

  • Extremely affectionate and loyal — they bond deeply with every family member
  • Highly trainable and eager to please, excelling in obedience and nosework
  • Low grooming needs with their short, easy-care coat
  • Athletic and energetic — outstanding companion for active lifestyles

Cons

  • Subject to breed-specific legislation and housing restrictions in many areas
  • May develop dog-selectivity, requiring careful management around other dogs
  • Strong and powerful — not ideal for physically frail owners
  • Prone to skin allergies, hip dysplasia, and congenital heart disease

These loving, misunderstood dogs deserve wonderful homes — browse adoptable Pit Bull Terriers on Puplister today.

About the Brittany

The Brittany — formerly known as the Brittany Spaniel — originated in the Brittany province of northwestern France, where it has been a prized bird dog since at least the 17th century. Standing 17.5–20.5 inches tall and weighing 30–40 pounds, the Brittany is a leggy, agile sporting dog with a compact build that belies its remarkable stamina. Their flat or wavy coat comes in orange-and-white or liver-and-white patterns, is moderate in length with some feathering, and requires only weekly brushing.

Temperament & Personality

Brittanys are eager, energetic, and sensitive — they are among the most biddable of the sporting breeds, responding enthusiastically to praise and positive training methods. They are excellent family dogs who adore children and get along well with other dogs, though they can be overwhelmed by harsh corrections or chaotic environments. Their hunting instinct remains strong, and they will point and flush birds naturally, making them dual-purpose companions for active families and hunters alike.

Pros

  • Highly trainable and eager to please — one of the easiest sporting breeds to work with
  • Excellent with children and other dogs, making them ideal family companions
  • Versatile hunting dog that points, flushes, and retrieves with natural talent
  • Moderate grooming needs with a relatively low-maintenance coat

Cons

  • Very high energy level — requires extensive daily exercise, ideally in open spaces
  • Sensitive temperament can lead to submissive urination or anxiety with harsh treatment
  • Not suited for sedentary households — without exercise, they become hyperactive and neurotic
  • Prone to hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and canine discoid lupus erythematosus

If you lead an active lifestyle and want a devoted companion, explore adoptable Brittanys on Puplister today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a American Pit Bull Terrier and a Brittany?
The American Pit Bull Terrier is 30–65 lbs, 17–21 in sized while the Brittany is 30–40 lbs, 18–21 in sized. They differ in size (30–65 lbs, 17–21 in vs 30–40 lbs, 18–21 in), lifespan (12–16 years vs 12–14 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, American Pit Bull Terrier or Brittany?
American Pit Bull Terrier is generally good with kids. Brittany is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, American Pit Bull Terrier or Brittany?
The American Pit Bull Terrier has a lifespan of 12–16 years while the Brittany has a lifespan of 12–14 years.

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