American Pit Bull Terrier

American Pit Bull Terrier Temperament

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a member of the Terrier Group and goes by several different names, such as Pitbull or Pittie. However, its name of American Pit Bull Terrier is certainly the most well-known.

Confusingly, there are four different types of dogs referred to as Pitbulls: the American Pit Bull Terrier, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, and the American Bully.

There are also two different subtypes of the American Pit Bull Terrier: the Blue Nose Pitbull and the Red Nose Pitbull. The Red Nose Pitbull has a red nose that matches their coat color, which is usually red, brown, chestnut, or fawn. The Blue Nose Pitbull has a blue nose, lips, toenails, and eyes. Although many of their features are blue, Blue Nose Pitbulls typically have gray coats.

In spite of some of the widespread stereotypes attached to Pitbulls, the American Pit Bull Terrier is, in reality, a lovingly affectionate dog. These canines adore human company, often willing to do anything to please its family members and receive affection in return.

The American Pit Bull Terrier temperament is very playful, good-natured, and may even be friendly to a fault. Surprisingly, these dogs tend to be especially gentle and patient with children.

Unfortunately, a Pitbull’s innate confidence, strength, and protective tendencies are often misused and misconstrued. It is important to keep in mind that any dog is the product of their training and living environment.

Therefore, with proper training and loving care, Pitbulls are very sweet, calm dogs. Any aggression toward humans is unheard of in an appropriately trained American Pit Bull Terrier.

Physical Appearance

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a medium to large-sized dog that is sturdy and full of densely packed muscle. Its muscle is especially apparent around its neck area. The body shape is often longer rather than tall.

The American Pit Bull Terrier’s bulky, flat head features wide-set ears and eyes. Its eyes are almond-shaped yet quite small in proportion to the size of its head. As for its ears, both are often cropped and pointy. However, if left uncropped, the ears are bent forward and triangular in shape. Initially designed to be a fighter in centuries-old wars, this canine has a powerfully large jaw. Its tail is usually skinny and tapered at the end.

Coat Type

Th American Pit Bull Terrier’s coat is sleek, smooth, and very short. Although any color or pattern is officially accepted, commonly seen colors include:

• Black
• Red
• White
• Brown or fawn
• Blue
• Tan
• Gray

The coat may be one solid color or have a tuxedo pattern, where the entire neck and chest of the dog features a white color. A Brindle American Pit Bull Terrier refers to a dog that has a brindle coat (e.g., brownish or tawny fur with streaks of another color).

Specifications

Given its muscle density, Pitbulls often weighs far more than expected for its size. Both males and females may possess a weight ranging between 30 and 90 pounds.

When it comes to height, both sexes may get to be between 17 and 20 inches tall during adulthood.

Breed History and Background

The American Pit Bull Terrier has its roots deep within the countries that make up the United Kingdom. In the early 1800s, breeders began efforts to produce a canine with strong fighting genetics.

In order to do this, breeds such as the English Bulldog and the English Terrier were crossbred to produce the popular hybrid breed that exists to this day, the Pitbull.

The Pit Bull was primarily used in fighting matches with wild animals, such as bears or bulls. This was a fight to the death. This horrific blood sport was brought to a decisive end with the passage of laws protecting animals like the American Pit Bull Terrier in 1835.

However, this was not an end of the mistreatment and misuse of this breed. The breed was then widely used for the cruel activity of dogfighting. Gamblers often made bets on dogs and let them fight each other ruthlessly.

Unfortunately, with the Pitbull’s introduction into the United States in the latter half of the 19^th century, many dog associations wanted nothing to do with the infamous breed. Even to this day, the American Kennel Association has not formally accepted this breed. However, both the United Kennel Club and the American Dog Breeders Association do officially recognize the breed.

There is a hope for a greater acceptance of Pitbulls. This is thanks to the efforts of knowledgeable breeders that are working hard to produce Pitties that truly represent the breed as friendly, affectionate, and kind.

Some popular mixes involving Pitbulls include the Pitbull Husky Mix, the German Shepherd Pitbull Mix, the Pitbull Lab Mix, the Pitbull Boxer Mix, and the Rottweiler Pitbull Mix.

American Pit Bull Terrier Facts

• Many Pitbulls work successfully as therapy, police, and service dogs.
• Pitbulls tend to do well in sports of any kind—from obedience and agility competitions to even pulling heavyweights.
• Pitbulls are frequently used as search and rescue dogs.
• Due to their violent past, Pitbulls have been prohibited in numerous countries and states. However, breeders and educators are working tirelessly to reverse this deep-set stereotype.
• Currently, the popularity of Pitbulls is skyrocketing as more and more people are learning how family-friendly these dogs can be when trained appropriately.
• A reality TV series called “Pit Bulls & Parolees” began airing on Animal Planet in 2009. “Pit Bulls & Parolees” focuses on the day-to-day operations of the Villalobos Rescue Center (VRC), which was founded by Tia Maria Torres. The mission of ”Pit Bulls & Parolees” is to combat misconceptions about Pitbulls and other bully breeds and to provide employment to recently paroled individuals attempting to reintegrate into society. Each episode of “Pit Bulls & Parolees” typically focuses on Pitbull rescues, adoptions, and day-to-day life at the VRC.

How to Care for an American Pit Bull Terrier

Grooming Requirements

In terms of coat health, regular brushing and bathing are essential for a shiny coat. Its nails should be kept clean and trim as well.

The level of shedding in Pitbulls can vary. Some Pitbulls shed heavily, while others are only moderate shedders. Daily brushing will inevitably keep the hair loss down.

Exercise Needs

This bright, outgoing dog needs daily, intensive exercise—both mentally and physically. These dogs were bred to excel in sports and outdoor activities, so allowing them to frequently engage in them will be extremely beneficial not only to the dog’s health but to its behavior.

A bored Pit Bull often turns into a destructive one. Whether it be tearing up furniture or developing maladaptive habits, Pitties may adopt these activities if not given proper time to exercise. Appropriate exercise will provide the outlet this breed needs to spend its energy in a beneficial way. Caution should be taken never to allow this breed off its leash in public. Otherwise, it may bolt to chase after or confront another animal.

Training American Pit Bull Terriers

Pitbulls require extensive training in socialization and obedience throughout its life. Training can be a fantastic way not only to bond with a pet but also to provide it with structure and confidence in itself. If properly trained, American Pit Bull Terriers can be fantastic, loyal companions to people of all sizes and ages.

Common Health Problems

In terms of how long do Pitbulls live, the approximate lifespan of the American Pit Bull Terrier is between 8 and 15 years old. Some of the most common health issues found in the American Pit Bull Terrier include:

• Demodex mange
• Hypothyroidism
• Hip dysplasia
• Canine atopic dermatitis
• Spinal cord disorders
• Luxating patella
• Heart defects

Early screenings along with frequently scheduled check-ups at the vet are both integral aspects of keeping any breed in optimal health. Many Pitbull puppies can come down with Parvo, too. Make sure and get your new puppy checked out and vaccinated right away.  Many dog owners are not sure if they can give Gabapentin to dogs for pain, so be sure and read the important article. BarkWiki continues to add dog health issues and new dog breeds all the time, so check back every week.