American Pit Bull Terrier vs Pointer

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

Pointer

Size
45–75 lbs, 23–28 in
Lifespan
12–17 years
Exercise
Very High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Loyal Athletic Even-tempered Hardworking

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 Pointer

The Pointer — also called the English Pointer — was developed in England in the 17th century, likely from crosses of Spanish Pointers, Foxhounds, Greyhounds, and Bloodhounds. These elegant, athletic dogs stand 23 to 28 inches tall and weigh 45 to 75 pounds, built with a lean, muscular frame designed for speed and endurance in the field. Their short, smooth coat comes in liver, lemon, black, or orange — either solid or combined with white in striking patterns.

Temperament & Personality

Pointers are energetic, even-tempered, and intensely driven in the field, yet remarkably calm and affectionate at home once adequately exercised. They are friendly with everyone — children, strangers, and other dogs — making them poor guard dogs but excellent family companions. Their strong pointing instinct often appears naturally in puppyhood, and they thrive when given a purposeful outlet for their energy and intelligence.

Pros

  • Outstanding stamina and speed for active owners who run, bike, or hunt
  • Exceptionally friendly and gentle with children and other pets
  • Short coat requires minimal grooming — just occasional brushing
  • Highly trainable for field work, agility, and competitive obedience

Cons

  • Extremely high energy — requires 1 to 2 hours of vigorous exercise daily
  • Can become destructive and anxious without sufficient physical outlets
  • Strong prey drive makes them unreliable around small animals
  • Prone to hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and certain eye conditions

An active lifestyle deserves an equally active companion — find your Pointer on Puplister today.

Available for Adoption

316

American Pit Bull Terriers

Browse

10

Pointers

Browse

Related Articles

All Articles →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a American Pit Bull Terrier and a Pointer?
The American Pit Bull Terrier is 30–65 lbs, 17–21 in sized while the Pointer is 45–75 lbs, 23–28 in sized. They differ in size (30–65 lbs, 17–21 in vs 45–75 lbs, 23–28 in), lifespan (12–16 years vs 12–17 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, American Pit Bull Terrier or Pointer?
American Pit Bull Terrier is generally good with kids. Pointer is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, American Pit Bull Terrier or Pointer?
The American Pit Bull Terrier has a lifespan of 12–16 years while the Pointer has a lifespan of 12–17 years.

Find Your Perfect Pet

Browse thousands of adoptable pets from shelters near you.

Browse Dogs