The Red Nose Pitbull is sometimes referred to as a breed in its own right. But it’s actually just a red-coated, red-nose variety of the American Pitbull Terrier (APBT). American Pitbull Terriers come in a range of different colors. Those with a blue or red nose are often specifically referred to as such.
The Red Nose Pitbull is often one of the more sought-after colorings of the breed. This is due to their beautiful coloring. Their prices can typically be a little higher as a result. This is especially true for dogs from champion lines that have been bred for many years. Pitbulls are a very popular pick for a family pup, despite their sometimes aggressive reputation.
In this quick overview, we get to know the Red Nose Pitbull. First, we look at some facts and the history of the APBT. Next, we will examine specifics around the Red Nose, including the most commonly asked questions about the breed color variant.
APBT History
The American Pitbull Terrier has its roots in 19th-century England. Here the powerful, muscular bully breeds were often developed to keep unruly bulls and livestock under control. In those days, bull baiting was a cruel blood sport that these dogs were often bred to participate in.
Bullbaiting was banned in the middle of the 19th century. Unfortunately, dog fighting then became a popular, albeit illegal, betting sport, and because the law was more difficult to enforce, it flourished. The bully breeds continued to be developed to harness their fighting strength and aggressive nature towards other dogs.
It is believed that during this time, the American Pitbull Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier were considered the same breed.
In the 1930s, it is said that the American Kennel Club (AKC) wanted to distance the dogs from their fighting reputation. They wanted to develop their strengths as companion animals. At this point, the Staffordshire Terrier was given official AKC status, but the American Pitbull Terrier was not. The ‘Staffie’ became known as the American Staffordshire Terrier by the AKC in 1972. At that time, the breed standard became much more specific.
The American Pitbull Terrier has never been recognized as an official breed by the AKC. It is, however, recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) and the Continental Kennel Club (CKC).
Red Nose History
The Red Nose Pitbull is sometimes referred to as the ‘Old Family Red Nose’ variety of the APBT. This relates to a particular line from Ireland in the late 19th century. They are known for their unique color and also their game and eager spirit.
Because of this line’s popularity and their breeding with other lines, it does mean that not all Red Nose Pitbulls are part of this strain now. But there are still breeding enthusiasts that work to preserve this specific line.
APBT Reputation
Many people think that a Pitbull is a specific breed all of its own. It’s actually a term that is often used for several different types of bully breeds. The American Pitbull Terrier (APBT) and sometimes even the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier are often lumped into the same category. In reality, they are all entirely separate breeds of dogs. They are sometimes referred to as ‘Bully’ breeds and include Bulldogs and English Bull Terriers.
The term ‘Pitbull’ is one that, in recent decades, has begun to conjure up images of vicious, aggressive dogs. Because of this fear, many believe they do not deserve a loving family home. This is a tragedy, given that much of the reputation they have garnered is unfair.
Because the American Pitbull Terrier, due to its powerful physique, historical breeding, and jaws, has been favored by those that encourage dogfighting and those that want to own a powerful status symbol dog, they often end up in the wrong hands with irresponsible owners that have helped to give the breed a bad name.
Red Nose Reputation
The Red Nose Pitbull is the second-rarest color combination available. The only rarer colors are white and merle Pitbulls. They were originally bred specifically due to their feisty attitudes. This means that they were commonly bred as fighting dogs when they were originally created. Typically, blue Pitbulls are extremely well sought after, as are red noses.
Because this recessive gene persists, they are also more expensive than other color variants. This is especially true if they are from a reputable breeder. There are many other different types of Pitbulls, with many different color variations, and those are usually viewed in the Pitbull community as being more docile.
Identifying A Red Nose
A true Red-Nose Pitbull will have a full-on red coat with a matching coppery-colored nose. They also have red or amber eyes, making a striking color combination. This makes them easily identifiable from other color variants.
Some white is permissible in the red coat, but usually speaking, the less white, the better. They are distinctly different from the Blue Nose Pitbull in appearance. Comparisons are often made between the two. APBTs can get mistaken for other breeds, but usually not so much with the Red Nose.
Red Nose Size, Weight & Color
The Red Nose Pitbull, like other APBTs, can vary a fair bit in size. This depends on their breeding lines and sex. It is typically classified as a medium-sized dog, usually weighing anything from around 30 to 60 pounds. But these pups are also densely muscular. They don’t tend to grow much over 20 inches to the withers.
They always have a red nose, red (rather than black) nails, and a red coat (although they may sometimes have flashes of white). While the white color is permissible, more often than not, people buying Red-Nosed Pitbull puppies usually want pups that have fewer traces of white.
Personality
It is always important to recognize that every dog is an individual. Of course, the early and ongoing socialization and training that the dog receives are also vitally important in helping to shape their temperament. That being said, there can be certain traits that are commonly seen across a particular breed.
The traits detailed below relate to all APBTs. The Red Nose variety does not have any specific characteristics of its own. The breed is often associated with being extremely devoted to their family. They are known for being very loving and sociable with their people, and they enjoy being showered with affection and attention.
They are also a very energetic breed that loves to play and be active. Their natural curiosity can mean they are very adaptable and enjoy going on adventures with their family. Because of their breeding history, they can have a high prey drive. This means that they can tend to chase small furries.
Depending on their upbringing and their genetic lines, some Red Nose Pitbulls may be reactive toward other dogs. Sometimes they may be better suited to being an only dog. Or, they will need very careful introductions living with well-suited other doggy family members.
If you are expecting a guard dog, given their reputation, you may be in for a surprise. They are a very alert and courageous breed. They will likely defend their family ferociously if they feel threatened. That being said, their general love for humans means they are likelier to greet approaching visitors to your home with a waggy tail and a lick of the face. It is often asked if Red Nose Pitbull likes to cuddle, and the answer is yes, they sure do. Pitties are known as big cuddlers, and the red-nosed variety is no exception.
As Family Pets
The Red Nose Pitbull, and any other APBT for that matter, can make a wonderful family pet. They usually adore their families, including children. They are not always the right dog for a novice dog owner, though. Their sheer strength is something that you need to consider. If you are managing problems or unwanted behaviors, then having the skills to implement training plans with confidence will be important.
It is also important to consider the potential that any pup can be dog aggressive. This can be more common with Pitbulls because they were bred for this trait over time. As mentioned before, many APBTs are very placid and sociable with other dogs.
But they do have more of a likelihood of having dog reactivity than many other breeds. Care must be taken to introduce them to other dogs in the family. When you are out, they may need to stay leashed and possibly muzzled. You would need to consider your lifestyle and your levels of responsibility too.
Most APBTs are often extraordinarily affectionate and tolerant toward children. It’s important to note that if you have kids, you ensure they are respectful and know how to interact appropriately. This goes for their interactions with any breed. But, because of the sheer strength of these dogs, they could do more harm than a little toy breed dog would if they decide they have had enough.
Exercise Requirements
Red Nose Pitbulls tend to be high-energy dogs. They have more significant exercise requirements than some breeds. If they do not get sufficient exercise and stimulation, they can be prone to making their own entertainment. This usually equates to them becoming destructive in the home.
Given the strength of their jaws, this could result in some serious damage to your home furnishings. These dogs are working dogs. You’ll want to keep them busy and also well-fueled to take on the challenges of walks or jogs at least once (if not twice) per day.
Like with any breed, if they are understimulated, other problem behaviors are more likely to manifest. Pitbulls, in general, can become hyperactive, stressed, and mischievous.
A Red Nose Pitbull should live in an active home where they benefit from at least two decent daily walks. They have a lot of stamina. They love to hike or take part in other high-energy activities.
It’s also important to ensure they have plenty of things to keep them mentally enriched around the home. They are dogs that have a natural desire to chew. Providing a selection of extremely tough toys can be beneficial.
Health & Nutrition
The Red Nose Pitbull, generally speaking, has few health issues for a purebred pup. The APBT, in general, is a healthy dog. You’ll want to watch for basic health issues as they age, but this is the same for most breeds. Consider pet insurance for your Pitbull to help offset medical expenses.
Red Nose Pitbulls are not more or less apt to encounter any health problems compared to any other breed coloring. They are sometimes recognized as having sensitive skin, but getting a shampoo specifically formulated for their coat will help.
Nutritionally, the Red Nose Pitbull does not need to have additional nutritional requirements compared to any other purebred Pitbull. You’ll want to make sure you have the right food for a Pitbull, especially as your pup advances in age. As dog’s age, they have different nutritional requirements. It’s important to make sure you are meeting their needs at different stages in life. This will help ensure your Red Nose Pitbull stays healthy and maximizes its lifespan.
Training
Socialization and training are crucial for any dog. The same goes for The Red Nose Pitbull and other APBTs, and perhaps more so than some other breeds, given their stronger genetic propensity towards dog aggression and their sheer strength. Crate training is recommended for this breed. Make sure you look at crates that are Pitbull-sized if you intend to incorporate crate training into your routine.
Early and ongoing appropriate socialization is of great importance. While you should not overwhelm your dog, careful and positive exposure to new people, dogs and environments can have a considerable influence on shaping your dog’s personality going forward. They are a very intelligent breed that is generally eager to please, and this means that with patience, consistency, and the use of positive, reward-based training, you can see great results.
Be careful of using aversives with this breed. Force-free methods are scientifically proven to be more effective (and they are gentler too). Forcing your dog to do something through pain or fear can mess with the bond of trust you have developed, and if the dog becomes fearful or grows short on patience, they could react negatively towards this type of training and the handler. A bite from a breed with such a powerful jaw can be devastating.
Because of Breed Specific Legislation, in some states, your dog may be required to be kept on a leash and wear a muzzle at all times in public spaces. Teaching your dog to be comfortable wearing a well-fitting muzzle could save a lot of stress for you and your dog.
It would also be sensible to ensure you have mastered good loose-leash walking skills. If they always have to be kept on a tight leash or harness, your walks will not be as enjoyable if they constantly pull, and, given their strength, they could even tug you over.
Red Nose Pitbull Puppy Prices
With any breed, it is crucial that you do your research and make sure that, if you are buying a puppy, you go to a responsible breeder. You want to look for someone that does all the appropriate health screening of parents, allows you to visit mum and her pups in a nurturing home environment, does not separate mum and pups until after they are eight weeks old and fully weaned, and has had all the puppies vet checked.
A typical Red Nose from a reputable breeder will not cost any less than $1,000. If your pup is advertised at a price that’s less than this, make sure you do your research. Some can cost as much as $3,000 or more if they are bred from top bloodlines.
The breeder should be one that focuses on temperament. Given that the breed is often promoted as a fighting dog, good breeders will look for dogs that have a less dog-reactive personality to breed from. Don’t forget that early socialization and training is also important by the breeders, and when you get your puppy home too.
Rescues & Shelters
Given their reputation, these dogs are, unfortunately, often taken on by the wrong types of owners. If they are not cutting the mustard as a fighting dog, or they are taken on as a status symbol without thought for their care, they often end up being abandoned or cruelly treated. This means that there can be an abundance of this breed in rescue shelters across the country.
Because of the restrictions with Breed Specific Legislation and the unfair reputation the breed has developed, this can mean that they can languish in shelters longer than many other breeds do. It is all the more tragic given that they often make wonderful family pets.
Adopting a dog can be such a rewarding and worthwhile experience. There are many APBTs (including the Red Nose variety) in shelters across the country and foster homes through rescues that do not keep dogs in a kennel environment. This can be a good route to consider if you want to find a dog that has already been assessed in a home environment.
Breed-Specific Legislation
Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) relates to the laws around dogs that have been ‘labeled’ as being dangerous and more of a risk to the general public. These legislations vary across countries and also across the different states in the US. In some states, the American Pitbull Terrier is a banned breed. In others, the dogs are not allowed to be out in public spaces unless they are on a leash and wearing a muzzle.
Many animal welfare advocates and campaigners see the legislation as being woefully inappropriate. It is recognized by many dog behavior experts that targeting irresponsible owners, rather than punishing particular breeds overall, would be a much more effective way to tackle the problem of dog attacks.
This statement from the ASPCA about Pitbulls and BSL sums up the argument very well and in great detail. We would urge you to read it to gain a more balanced understanding of the issue.
People often ask if Red Nose Pitbulls are more aggressive, and the answer is no. Like all other dogs, they can be aggressive when startled or feel threatened. Aggression will depend on the specific dog, but overall these dogs are not any more aggressive than others or other Pitbulls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a red nose Pitbull?
A red nose pitbull is simply a color variation of the breed. There are many different color variants of the APBT, but this is the second rarest color.
Are they a separate breed?
They are not a separate breed, but e a color variant of the breed. Red nosed Pitbulls are often viewed as a separate breed by those that don't understand the recessive traits of the red nose.
Where do red nose Pitbulls originate from?
Originally they are thought to have been bred in Ireland, and are known as "old family reds."
How big do they get, and when do they stop growing?
These pups can get as big as 70 pounds if they are male (some larger dogs do exist, but this isn't the norm) and females generally get no bigger than 60 pounds.
APBTs and Red Nose Pitbulls will typically stop growing between 18 and 24 months. They can continue to add weight through 36 months as they develop and mature.
What color is the red nose pitbull?
A true red nose pitbull is completely red. It's acceptable to have some small patches of white, but that is considered a flaw by many breeders.
Is the red nose Pitbull a good pet?
Any dog can make an excellent pet. It wholly depends on the training and nature of the dog, and this responsibility falls directly on the owner of the dog.
Is the red nose Pitbull more aggressive than other APBTs?
They are not more aggressive than other APBTs. In fact, many of the APBTs that are documented as aggressive, are some type of "mixed breed" with pitbull included in that genetic makeup. This falls down to the nature vs nurture debate that unfairly haunts this breed.
Is the red nose Pitbull aggressive or dangerous?
While these dogs carry a reputation, Reds are no more or less aggressive than any other APBT. At one point they would have been considered more aggressive when they were originally bred. This is due to the fighting lines they were part of. Today, they are no more dangerous than any other untrained dog. This responsibility falls upon the owner.
Are red nose Pitbulls illegal?
There are breed restrictions in certain states and countries. Certain breeds are viewed as more aggressive or dangerous. Because of this, insurance companies are less likely to insure homes that have restricted breeds. This is true of all pitbull breeds, and not restricted to the red nose pitbull.
Final Thoughts
If you have been someone that has always thought of the Red Nose Pitbull, and American Pitbull Terriers in general, as being dogs that are known for being aggressive and dangerous, we hope this article has helped to dispel some of the unfair myths. The Red-Nose Pitbull can be an amazing and loving family companion if they are raised with a firm yet loving hand.
Red Nose Pitbulls are not recommended for first-time dog owners. They should be only adopted into homes where they will get enough exercise and stimulation. They should also receive consistent positive reinforcement training. If these are all implemented, they can thrive and make both loving and loyal family pets. It’s worth remembering that the Red Nose Pitbull is a powerful breed. You’ll need to be ready to put in the time required to train your pup properly.
Hi, we rescued a Red-Nose Pitbull in Pennsylvania and she is the most amazing puppy ever. She’s very loving and affectionate with the whole family but especially with me. I love her so much!
Thank you . I just adopted a red nose pitbull. And he is great around my other dog which is a black lab, but i slowly let them get use to each other. As well as my 2 cats. I just wanted you to know how much i appreciate the article. He is protective and full of energy and love for me and our family already. I’ve already noticed people turning away from him because they are scared of the breed alone. It’s sad, because they are the sweetest 🤩
My 45 lb. red nose (black nose) is gorgeous. Her ears are heartrending. She is perfectly formed, white dotted chest, a Venus of Petite Brown Pitbulls. She is a rich brown that ochers to red brown on her sides and ears. When she is pissed, a little line of upended coat sticks up down her back. She loves me without restraint; listens to me most all of the time. We will move soon and our dog park will be out of reach. I worry for her desire to be with other dogs up close and personal; (her favorite activity so far.) We’ll see what the cosmos has in store for us. She needs some “work” of some kind. Outside, running. I hobble around with hip arthritis but we walk almost every day as far as I can manage on that day. Today we went to the park for the first time in ages cuz her heat is done with. But no dogs joined us. (Sigh). She does not fetch. Just runs with other dogs. Or wanders around.
The new place does have a park not too far away but we have yet to check it out. Dog laws helped us out because I would never have been able to get her in at my new apartment complex, otherwise. Breed and weight restrictions, both of which she is breaking. But once they get to know her…. (She is a ‘Staffordshire Terrier’, of course. Gif of twirling mustache…Looks like one too.) She is a sweetie and I will love her until one of us doesn’t wake up anymore. I am 72, this will be her 4th summer. Looking at 80 and 12. (My last rescue, a Catahoula, lived to be 16. He was amazing) I think Rosie will outlive me but we never know. My son loves her too. Walks her everyday as well.
Red and blue nose is all the way incorrect. I can’t stand it when people use these nose colors as a dog color type. It has absolutely nothing to do with it and it needs to be totally forgotten about and never used again.
I have a female red nose name deja.she is now 4years old.i have to say she by far is the best friend I ever had in my life.that dog is so attached to me.when I shower she always waits by the bathroom door for me .my wife says when I turn in my driveway after work she knows I’m here deja just goes nuts pawing at the door jumping up and down.she loves me so much she jumps up and down as high as my head straight up and down till I pet her and love her back.i have my daughter Kristin that is handicap and deja watches her she is very careful around Kristin it like she really know s she has to be .she has never knocked Kristin down or ever been rough with her .deja is big for a female red nose.now the only problem I have with her is she is very aggressive with anyone else that comes to my house.i have to pick her up in a room she has tried to bite 2 of my friends.i can’t break her of this.i got her when she was about 3 or 4 months old.i think she was abused before I got her because she always acted like she was scared.other than that I could not ask for a better dog.she listen to every command .she is such a loving dog to me and my family I don’t understand why she acts like that to others.maybe some one can help with this.
I once had a red nose pit bull yrs. ago. I must say that D O G has stolen my heart. i continue to think about him. i PRAY GOD BLESSES ME TO HAVE ANOTHER FLAME IN MY LIFE AGAIN.
God blessed man/woman by allowing dogs to be with us! Our Cyrus was 11 when he had to go to heaven. He was a tri colored red nose who saved my life!!! I was in a dark place years ago and he kept grabbing my hand, kissing me and snuggling up to me. I thank God everyday for Cyrus. Now we have a blue nose who wakes me for a cookie. Wish you the best
I have a 1 year old red nose named zayda she is so smart and loving the best friend I’ve ever known she is loved and petted everywhere we go it was the best money I ever spent getting my baby girl.my wife and kids all love her just like me.
I have a 14 year old Rednose pit named Tiger. He is our all in all. Very family oriented playful all around dog. Everywhere we go people just love to pet him and he is just one beautiful dog you can’t go wrong with the rednose pit.
Did i made mistakes with a nother puppy around her
I have a red pitbull and he is the love of my life. I fell in getting him social with other dogs and for that I’m very sorry. I take him every where I can when I go on vacation. It is hard for me to found a good place for me to place him because of separation anxiety. Do you have any idea what I should do? Diesel is 12 yrs old and still full of life and my best friend but I need to know what to do when I go to take care of my mother who is scared of him now and never use to be.
I owned a Red Nose Pitbull for 12 years before he passed on. I imagine I’ll get another dog someday, however it is honestly really hard to think about any other dog coming remotely close to my former Red Nose. Loving, goofy, athletic, energetic, empathetic and a so very loyal, these dogs are simply THE BEST. Raise them right, socialize them well, and such great dogs. He would be by my side no matter what, jogging, watching a movie, whatever, he was always there. You can’t go wrong with a Red Nose Pitbull!
I HAVE had my red nose pit bull. For 12years now. She is the most loveing dog i ever had. She is my every thing. Wot a dog to have. She is old now. I am thinking of getting 1 more red nose pit bull be for she go’s
Ive had 2 rednose pittbulls now and THEY ARE BRILLIANT BREED I learnt the hard way at 1st lease none NOW ALWAYS there affectionate loving I can’t speak HIGHLY ENOUGH OF THIS BREED I did a LOT off searching, inquiring about rednose pittbulls and I will NEVER LOOK BACK
I have owned purebred & cross bred pitties & all of my dogs have been awesome family pets . They make great family & guard dogs that have no problem distinguishing between the 2 roles . I’ve personally found that they luv a good roughhouse & they will even get in the bathtub with u even if u don’t want them in it with u at the time . A lot of red nose pitties have an awesome quirky personality willing 2 brighten the darkest of day’s
Hi, I need list of breeders in Australia. I need a bitch or perhaps two.
After doing research, ownership of a Pitbull in Australia varies by area and laws. If you are considering owning this particular breed, you should contact your local authorities for guidance on purchasing or adopting the breed and to understand the requirements in your area.
I’ve got an American red nose. She is 11-months-old. She is a great dog and puppy to take any where. I love her.
I’m a first time mixed Red nose pitbull owner. Ghosts is half Red nose pitbull and Jack Russell. He is so smart and extremely loving. Super cute and high energy. And loves people, but very protective over me and our home. And I love him very much. He was abused as a puppy
I love bullies! When I was younger I had one I raised from when he was born until he had to be put down due to cancer. It was so devastating I haven’t owned a dog since. This week though our new girl a 9 yr old from angel city pit bull rescue is coming home. We were approved for the adoption and met her and she is a goofy bundle of energy.
She’s a red nose with white toes and some on her chest. Her previous owners didn’t spend time with her and tried to give her up on Craig’s list where angel city found her. she is comfortable with a crate, ok around some dogs, and indifferent to cats. I’ll be crate training her the first few weeks so she has some structure but other than that she’s wonderful, healthy, and sassy.
Hi Melodie! Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with the breed! Good luck with your pup, and I’m glad you were able to find her!
I grew up loving the pitbull breed but I never owned one myself until now, at 48 years old. My daughter adopted a red nose from our local shelter and then moved and couldn’t take her dog so granny now has my “grand-dawger” as I like to call her. Her name is Mamba and she’s almost 4 years old. She is the absolute sweetest dog that you could ask for. I have seizures so she is now my service dog and goes everywhere with me.
Some people act scared of her but for the most part, everyone enjoys the encounter. I actually took her to a local restaurant that allows dogs and she sat beside me in a chair and ate off of a fork. She is the greatest ever and loves to cuddle and get under the blanket when we sleep. She is my best friend and makes me smile every single day. She gets along with humans and likes most big dogs but she has a strong “curiosity” towards smaller dogs, squirrels, turtles, and cats.
I think it’s a playful curiosity but I’m not sure enough to test that theory. She went over an 8-foot fence after a squirrel but thankfully didn’t catch it. She’s very, very strong but acts like a big goofball most of the time. Not a danger to humans at all unless she’s protecting her family.
Sounds like a wonderful dog, Tammy! Thanks for stopping by to comment!
If everyone treated their dog right. No dog is violent. 18 years ago, I came home from work and there was an 8-month-old red nose honey-colored pit bull. I put posters up at shelters and around town. After 4 months I decided to keep her.
I had to put her down at 16 yrs old as she was walking in the morning and when we got home from her road trip her rear legs stop working. For 2 days I let her have all the foods she couldn’t and they took the longest route to the vet. I laid there with her when she was sedated. The doctor had to give her a second. 10 min later he checks in and leaves.
Comes back and says in the 20 yrs of being a vet I’ve never given a third sedative, she knows we need each other. Best Friend that I hope to see again.
Sounds like a wonderful dog Peter. Thanks for stopping by to share your story!
I have a soon to be 2-year-old red fawn named Lady Bella. She is definitely a chewer, as she has destroyed from shoes to sofas and beds, but, she is so very smart, and curious. Training is a breeze with her.
Her counterpart, my brindle Staffy, Clyde Barker, impeccable animal instincts, overly protective, but man, I think he’s a tad remedial. Very hard to train. But both are spoiled rotten babies. All they wanna do is hug, kiss, cuddle, and play. No home can be complete with out a Pittie!
Thanks for commenting Danielle! Sounds like you have a pair of awesome pups!
Diesel is a one-year-old red nose Pit. Just got all shots and weighed in at 77lbs the other day. I was very leery about taking this dog after my son had to make adjustments after he moved. But I will say I have always been a black lab guy. I absolutely love this always licking, snoring, farting, always right at your side ready to go 24/7.
Clothes are not safe on the clothesline, toilet paper and we had major issues with my boots. But we’re all good now, absolutely love this dog and he’s the ability to alert us when someone is at the door before they even knock. Love ya Diesel!
Sounds like an awesome dog Shawn! Thanks for writing in and sharing your experience with the breed!