10 of the Most Popular Types of Pitbull Bloodlines

By John Martin - March 23, 2023

Pitbull in grass with tongue out

Pitbulls have been a popular breed of dog for many years, known for their loyalty, strength, and agility. However, not all Pitbulls are the same, and there are many different bloodlines within the breed. Each bloodline has its own unique traits and characteristics, which can make it difficult for potential owners to decide which one is right for them.

In this article, we will explore the 10 most popular Pitbull bloodlines, including their physical appearance and temperament. We will provide an overview of each bloodline, its history, and notable characteristics. You will have a better understanding of the different Pitbull bloodlines and which one might be the best fit for you and your family.

American Pit Bull Terrier Bloodlines

Colby Pitbulls

One of the oldest and most popular Pitbull bloodlines is the Colby Pitbull. John Colby, an American breeder, created this bloodline in 1889. He used the finest dogs from Ireland and England to breed these animals. Colby Pitbulls are known for their strong and muscular build, as well as their loyalty and intelligence. They are typically friendly with humans and make great family pets.

Old Family Red Nose

The Old Family Red Nose Pitbull is another popular bloodline. It originated from Ireland in the 19th century and is the result of inbreeding from a Pitbull breed known as the “Old Family.” These dogs are known for their red coat and loving nature. They make great household companions and are particularly fond of children. Old Family Red Nose Pitbulls are also known for their athleticism and strength.

Gator Pitbulls (Gator Mouth Pitbulls)

The Gator bloodline, sometimes referred to as Gator Pitbulls or Gator Mouth Pitbulls, is a lineage within the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) breed that traces its roots back to a dog named “Plumbers Alligator” or “Plumber’s Gator.” This bloodline gained popularity in the 20th century and was initially bred for dog competitions, particularly in the Southern United States. Over time, breeders have focused on creating dogs with specific physical and temperamental traits associated with the Gator bloodline.

Dogs from the Gator bloodline typically have a muscular and stocky build, with a medium size, a broad head, and a well-defined muzzle. Their coat is short and glossy, and it can come in various colors. Gator Pitbulls are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and determination. However, proper socialization and training are essential to ensure they become well-adjusted family pets, as they can be assertive and have a strong prey drive.

Carver Pitbulls

The Carver bloodline originates from the breeding efforts of Maurice Carver, a legendary dog man from the mid-20th century. Carver’s work with APBTs spanned several decades, and he is credited with producing some of the most exceptional and influential dogs in the breed’s history. Some of the most notable dogs from the Carver bloodline include “Ironhead,” “Bullyson,” “Nigerino,” and “Art.”

Dogs from the Carver bloodline are known for their intelligence, athleticism, and tenacity, as well as their muscular and lean build. They typically have a medium size, a broad head with a well-defined muzzle, and a short, glossy coat in various colors. These dogs are recognized for their loyalty and determination, but it is crucial to provide them with proper socialization and training to ensure they become well-adjusted family pets, as they can be assertive and have a strong prey drive.

Redboy Pitbulls

The Redboy bloodline is a respected lineage within the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) breed, originating from a dog named “Red Boy.” This bloodline traces its roots back to the 1970s and is highly regarded for producing dogs with impressive athleticism, tenacity, and endurance. The Redboy bloodline was developed through the breeding efforts of dog men such as Peter Rajecki, Bob Hemphill, and Bob Wallace, who aimed to create a line of dogs with exceptional performance abilities.

Dogs from the Redboy bloodline typically have a muscular and athletic build, with a medium size, a broad head, and a well-defined muzzle. Their coat is short and glossy, with red, red-nose, and red-brindle colors being prevalent in this lineage. These dogs are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and determination. However, proper socialization and training are essential to ensure they become well-adjusted family pets, as they can be assertive and have a strong prey drive.

Also Read: 5 Main Types of Pitbull Dog Breeds

Bullyson Pitbulls

The Bullyson bloodline is a renowned lineage within the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) breed. This bloodline can be traced back to a legendary dog named “Bullyson,” who was bred by Maurice Carver in the 1960s. Bullyson was sired by another famous dog, “Benny the Bull,” and his dam was “Carver’s Black Widow.” Bullyson’s impressive performance in dog competitions and his powerful physique made him the foundation of this distinct bloodline, which is still valued by enthusiasts today.

Dogs from the Bullyson bloodline are known for their muscular build, athleticism, and tenacity. They typically have a medium size, a broad head with a well-defined muzzle, and a short, glossy coat in various colors. While they are intelligent and loyal, their strong prey drive and assertiveness require proper socialization and training to ensure they become well-adjusted family pets.

American Bully Bloodlines

Razor’s Edge Pitbulls

The Razor’s Edge bloodline, developed in the late 1980s and early 1990s by breeders Dave Wilson and Carlos Barksdale, is a prominent lineage in the American Bully breed.

Razor’s Edge dogs are characterized by their medium to large size, stocky and muscular build, broad head with a short muzzle, and short, glossy coat in various colors. These dogs are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and friendly nature, making them good family pets when provided with early socialization and training.

When considering a dog from the Razor’s Edge bloodline, it’s essential to research reputable American Bully breeders and meet the puppy’s parents to ensure you’re getting a healthy, well-socialized dog.

Gotti Pitbulls (Gottiline)

The Gottiline bloodline was founded in the late 1990s by Richard Barajas of West Side Kennels, who bred a dog named “The Notorious Juan Gotty.” This dog became the foundation sire for the Gottiline bloodline, and his name is the source of the bloodline’s moniker.

Gottiline Pitbulls are known for their stocky, muscular build, and large, broad head with a short muzzle. They typically have a short, glossy coat that comes in various colors, including blue, fawn, red, brindle, and black. These dogs are characterized by their loyalty, intelligence, and friendly nature, which makes them suitable family pets when provided with proper socialization and training.

Watchdog Pitbulls

The Watchdog Pitbull bloodline is known for its distinct physical characteristics and temperament. This bloodline was developed in the United States and has become popular among Pit Bull enthusiasts and breeders.

The Watchdog bloodline originated from a breeder named Haralson, who created this line in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The bloodline traces its roots back to a dog named “Watchdog,” who was known for his size, strength, and impressive muscular build.

Over the years, the Watchdog bloodline has been selectively bred to emphasize these traits, resulting in a line of American Staffordshire Terriers that are often larger and more muscular than those from other bloodlines.

American Staffordshire Terrier Bloodlines

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a breed that has been around for over a century. They are known for their muscular build, loyalty, and intelligence. This breed has been used in dogfighting in the past, but today they are popular as family pets and companions.

Ruffian

The Ruffian bloodline is a distinguished lineage within the American Staffordshire Terrier breed, tracing its origins back to the remarkable dog, “Howard’s Ruffian.” Born in the 1940s, Ruffian’s exceptional qualities and striking appearance laid the foundation for a bloodline that would become synonymous with the breed’s finest specimens.

The Ruffian bloodline has produced numerous champions in dog shows, leaving an indelible mark on the breed’s history and the hearts of dog enthusiasts worldwide.

Dogs from the Ruffian bloodline are known for their muscular build, sturdy frame, and well-proportioned features. With their keen intelligence and unwavering loyalty, Ruffian descendants have made a name for themselves as loving family companions.

X-Pert

The X-Pert pitbull bloodline is one of the oldest American Staffordshire bloodlines and was started in 1930 by breeders Clifford and Alberta Ormsby. The X-Pert bloodline is known for its power, strength, and agility, and is a popular choice among American Staffordshire Terrier enthusiasts.

The breeders started the bloodline to improve the breed, as at the time, poorly bred Pitbulls with no standards of breeding or care were rampant. The X-Pert dogs are muscular and bulky with strong jaws and a springy gait that provides balance for jumping.

List of Different Pitbull Bloodlines

We covered the 10 most popular bloodlines above, but did you know there are many, many more specific bloodlines? Here’s a list of many others that we haven’t touched on in this article.

American Pit Bull Terrier Bloodline List

  • Adam’s Kingfish
  • Apache
  • Assassin
  • Avant
  • Banjo
  • Bolio
  • Booger
  • Boogieman
  • Boomerang
  • Bordeaux
  • Boyle
  • Brown Bow
  • Buck
  • Budweiser Crusher
  • Bully Gang
  • Bullyson
  • Carver
  • Castillo
  • Ceaser
  • Chaos
  • Chevy
  • Chinaman
  • Cherokee
  • Clemmon
  • Clouse
  • Colby
  • Collett
  • Corvino
  • Cotton’s Bullet
  • Cowboy
  • Crenshaw
  • Cruz
  • Dibo
  • Dozier
  • Dream Team
  • Eli
  • Excalibur
  • Falin
  • Farmers’ Boy
  • Frisco
  • Gambler
  • Gator
  • Giroux
  • Gladiator
  • Golden Boy
  • Goliath
  • Greenwood
  • Hammond
  • Hank
  • Hawaiian Jul’z
  • Hemphill
  • Hollingsworth
  • Homer
  • Honeybunch
  • Inferno
  • Ironline
  • Iron Cross
  • Iron Kid
  • Iron Man
  • J Cumbee
  • Jeep
  • Jocko
  • Jumbo
  • Kobe
  • Krush
  • Lightner
  • Linasky
  • Lonzo
  • Loposay
  • Mayday
  • Mayfield
  • Maverick
  • Maximilian
  • McCoy
  • Mississippi Blue Tick
  • Mountain Man
  • Neilson
  • Nigerino
  • Old Family Red Nose
  • Palladin
  • Patrick
  • Peterson
  • Pollaro
  • Powerline
  • Rapid Roy
  • Rascal
  • Razors Edge
  • Red Devil
  • Red Gator
  • Red Man
  • Red Boy
  • Red Fox
  • Reid
  • Roc & Ruby
  • Rocky
  • Royal Red
  • Sarona
  • Six Bits
  • Snooty
  • Sorrell
  • Shorty Cowboy
  • Spike
  • Sundance
  • Sweetie
  • Tab
  • Tant
  • Turpin
  • Tom Garner
  • Tombstone
  • Two Eye
  • Tyson
  • Vindicator
  • Virgil
  • Weird Jack
  • Whitsell
  • Whopper
  • Wildside
  • Witfield
  • Yellow
  • Yella John
  • York
  • Zebo

American Bully Bloodline List

  • Ablepaws
  • Bel-air
  • Blueking
  • Bullseye
  • Bullyson
  • Butthead
  • Camelot
  • Dagger
  • Dax
  • De La Cruz
  • Dougline
  • Eddington
  • G-Line
  • Gangis Kon
  • Gotti
  • Gottiline
  • Greyline
  • Hurricane
  • Ironline
  • Iron Man
  • King Bully
  • King Kong
  • Kingpin
  • Kurupt
  • Louis V Line Venom
  • Miagi
  • Mikeland
  • Monster G
  • Phenom
  • Razors Edge
  • Remyline
  • RoughNeck
  • Royal Blue Generations
  • T-N-T
  • Venomline
  • Watchdog
  • Whopper
  • Zullou

American Staffordshire Terrier Bloodline List

  • Armstead
  • Benmar
  • Cirkle C
  • Diablo
  • Edelhaus
  • Ferrells
  • Gaff
  • Knollwood
  • Mombo
  • Ridall’s
  • Rogers
  • Royal Blue Generation
  • Ruffian
  • Tara’s
  • T-N-T
  • Wood Forest
  • Whopper

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Bloodline List

  • Bottle
  • Brindle Mick
  • Corinthian Rogue
  • Fearless Joe
  • Game Lad
  • Jim the Dandy
  • Ribchester
  • Rum Bottle
  • Togo
  • Vindictive Monty

FAQ About Pitbull Bloodlines

How can I trace my Pitbull’s bloodline or pedigree?

To trace your Pitbull’s bloodline or pedigree, start by obtaining its registration papers from the breeder or the previous owner. These documents should contain information about your dog’s ancestry. You can also consult online pedigree databases, such as the American Pit Bull Registry or the United Kennel Club, to research your dog’s lineage. If your dog is not registered or lacks documentation, a DNA test from a reputable company can offer insights into its ancestry, although it may not provide specific bloodline information.

What is the difference between a bloodline and a breed?

A breed is a group of dogs that share common physical characteristics, temperament traits, and a consistent gene pool, often resulting from controlled breeding practices. A bloodline, on the other hand, refers to a specific lineage within a breed, typically originating from a foundation sire or dam. Bloodlines are created by selectively breeding dogs with desired traits, resulting in offspring that inherit these qualities and maintain the bloodline’s unique characteristics.

What bloodline is a Red Nose Pitbull?

The term “Red Nose Pitbull” generally refers to American Pit Bull Terriers with a red or reddish-brown nose. This coloration is often associated with the Old Family Red Nose (OFRN) bloodline, which has its origins in Ireland. The OFRN bloodline is known for producing dogs with a red or copper-colored nose, red coat, and amber eyes. However, not all red-nosed Pitbulls belong to the OFRN bloodline, as red nose coloration can appear in other bloodlines as well.

What is the original Pitbull bloodline?

It’s challenging to pinpoint a single “original” Pitbull bloodline, as the American Pit Bull Terrier has a diverse genetic background, originating from various Old English Bulldogs and terrier breeds. These dogs were initially bred for bull-baiting and dog fighting in the United Kingdom before being brought to the United States, where they were further developed into the modern American Pit Bull Terrier. Many historical bloodlines have contributed to the foundation of the breed, such as the Colby, Tudor, and Corvino lines, to name a few.

Are some Pitbull bloodlines more aggressive than others?

While certain bloodlines may have been developed with specific traits in mind, including tenacity and strength, it is essential to understand that aggression is not solely determined by a dog’s bloodline. Factors such as genetics, environment, socialization, and training all play a role in shaping a dog’s temperament. While some bloodlines may have a reputation for being more assertive or energetic, it is ultimately up to the individual dog, its upbringing, and responsible ownership that determine its behavior.

Can I predict my Pitbull’s size, appearance, or temperament based on its bloodline?

Bloodlines can offer some insight into a Pitbull’s potential size, appearance, and temperament, as dogs within a specific lineage often share similar traits. However, it’s important to remember that individual dogs can still vary within a bloodline. While understanding your dog’s bloodline can help set expectations, factors such as genetics, environment, and upbringing also significantly influence a dog’s physical and behavioral traits. It is crucial to meet your Pitbull’s parents and evaluate the breeder’s practices to better predict your dog’s characteristics.

Final Thoughts

After researching and analyzing the most popular Pitbull bloodlines, it’s clear that each bloodline has its own unique characteristics and traits. From the Colby Pitbulls, one of the oldest and most popular bloodlines, to the X-Pert bloodline, known for being one of the oldest American Staffordshire bloodlines, each bloodline has a rich history and loyal following.

While some bloodlines are known for their strength and athleticism, others are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature. It’s important for potential owners to research and understand the specific traits and characteristics of each bloodline before making a decision on which one to adopt.

It’s also important to note that while certain bloodlines may have a reputation for aggression, it’s ultimately the responsibility of the owner to properly train and socialize their Pitbull to ensure they are well-behaved and safe around others.

Overall, the popularity of Pitbulls and their various bloodlines is a testament to their strength, loyalty, and loving nature. With proper care and attention, Pitbulls can make wonderful pets and companions for individuals and families alike.