American Pit Bull Terrier dog
These dogs are medium sized dogs that were originally developed in the United States. These dogs were developed by the cross breeding of bulldogs and terriers.
Earlier the American Pit Bull Terrier dogs were used for the purpose of bull baiting, ratting, dog fighting and similar tasks. Farmers and ranchers used to keep for driving and protecting the livestock. However, nowadays, these highly affectionate and people oriented working dogs are being used as wonderful family pets.
They also make for good police and service dogs. Appearance wise, this breed of dogs is quite similar to American Staffordshire Terrier and Staffordshire Bull Terrier dog breeds.
Other Names
They are also known as Pit Terriers, Pit Bulls, Bull Baiter Dogs, Staffordshire Fighting Dogs etc.
Physical Appearance
These brave and energetic Pit Bull Terrier dogs are powerful, muscular and athletic in build and hence posses a great deal of stamina. The brick-like head is carried on a well defined neck which in turn runs into a deep and thick chest. The eyes are generally round in shape. The ears can be cropped and the tail can be docked. Though, these activities are considered illegal in certain countries.
Color: These dogs come in a variety of colors e.g Brindle and Fawn.
Height: The average height of this dog breed is generally 18 to 22 inches.
Weight: The average weight of these dogs is usually around 35 to 65 pounds. Similarly, female breeds are also about 30 to 60 pounds in weight. Some dogs may also weigh up to 110 pounds.
Health Problems
Though mostly healthy still, these dogs are susceptible to Hip Dysplasia, Congenital Heart Disease, Hereditary Cataract, Mange, Allergies and other similar dog diseases.
This dog breed is considered more suitable for warmer climates.
Life Expectancy: The lifespan is generally 12 to 15 years, on an average.
Litter Size: The average litter is usually about 5 to 10 puppies.
American Pit Bull Terrier Grooming Requirements
The short and smooth hair coat of this dog requires minimal grooming. It can be brushed and combed regularly with a firm bristle brush on a regular basis to maintain it in glossy condition. Grooming requirements tend to increase a little bit during the shedding seasons when these dogs shed moderately.
Bathe or dry shampoo your beloved dog only when necessary. Merely rubbing down the hair coat with a wet piece of towel or chamosis cloth can also help in maintain the hair coat in perfect condition. In addition, regularly carry out other grooming activities like trimming the toenails, brushing the teeth, checking and cleaning the eyes and ears etc.
American Pit Bull Terrier Temperament
This breed can understood as adaptive, courageous, energetic, intelligent, trustworthy, friendly, affectionate and stubborn at times. They are usually friendly and compatible with other pets but can be aggressive towards other unfamiliar dogs.
Therefore, proper training and early socialization are necessary to keep them disciplined and avoid aggressive dog behavior. These obedient and eager to please, loving companions are easily trainable. They are excellent with children and tend to accompany them joyfully in all their mischievous activities.
Personality wise, these playful dogs are slow to mature and generally mature in about 2 to 4 years. Though athletic in build, still American Pit Bull Terrier dogs are generally not used as guard dogs because of their natural friendly temperament.
American Pit Bull pros and cons
As these dogs were used for dog fighting and other similar aggressive dog sports, these are generally misunderstood to be highly aggressive and hence banned in certain countries. The fact that these dogs are mostly not aggressive with humans is obviously ignored in such cases.
These strong and stubborn breed dogs are usually not recommended for inexperienced first time dog owners with sedentary lifestyle. These active dogs require plenty of exercise on a regular basis to remain physically fit.
Hence, they thoroughly enjoy the ritual of long daily walks and love to accompany their owners in activities like hiking. When given proper opportunity to fulfill their physical exercise needs, American Pit Bull Terriers do fairly well in apartment situation even without a yard.
