American Pitbull Terrier

Pit Bulls have been around since about the early 19th century and were originally used in England for bull and bear baiting, which were popular spectator sports at that time. In 1835, when bull and bear baiting were outlawed, rat baiting and dog fighting quickly took over. However, although these dogs could be aggressive when in the dog fighting ring, they were also quite gentle and protective of their human families. When these Pit Bull-type dogs were brought to the U.S. during the late 19th century, they began various new careers including farm dogs, hunting dogs, guard dogs, and all-around companion and family dogs. In fact, even though these breeds were extremely strong, they were very gentle and could often be found "babysitting" small children. In 1898, Britain's United Kennel Club recognized the breed and named it the American Pit Bull Terrier. However, the American Kennel Club did not recognize these bully dogs until 1930, at which time they renamed many of them American Staffordshire Terriers. Over some time, American Staffordshire Terriers were bred to meet a different standard than original American Pit Bull Terriers resulting in two distinct breeds.

American Pit Bulls are medium-sized muscular dogs that can weigh anywhere from 30 to 65 pounds. They have short, bristle-like hair that can come in a variety of colors including brindle, blue, red, white and various colors with white markings. Their heads are broad with either drop, semi-drop, prick or cropped ears.

Personality

While these are extremely strong dogs, they are very gentle with their human families. In fact, despite the Pit Bull's negative image today, this breed is actually a great family dog and can be terrific with children when trained properly. However, they are also highly energetic and need lots of room to run and play. Despite what many people may think about the American Pit Bull Terrier, these dogs make terrific companions and loyal family dogs. Because of their strength and energy, they excel in various types of competitions including weight pulling, obedience and agility. They are known by many names including those: American Pit Bull Terrier and American Pitbull Terrier, American Pit Bull and American Pitbull, Pit Bull and Pitbull, Pit, Pitty and Pibble, Pit Terrier, Yankee Terrier and Rebel Terrier, and Bull Baiter Dog and Staffordshire Fighting Dog.

Breed Characteristics

American Pitbull Terrier Build Information

American Pit Bulls are medium-sized muscular dogs that can weigh anywhere from 30 to 65 pounds. They have short, bristle-like hair that can come in a variety of colors including brindle, blue, red, white and various colors with white markings. Their heads are broad with either drop, semi-drop, prick or cropped ears.

Behaviour and Personality

While these are extremely strong dogs, they are very gentle with their human families. In fact, despite the Pit Bull's negative image today, this breed is actually a great family dog and can be terrific with children when trained properly. However, they are also highly energetic and need lots of room to run and play. Despite what many people may think about the American Pit Bull Terrier, these dogs make terrific companions and loyal family dogs. Because of their strength and energy, they excel in various types of competitions including weight pulling, obedience and agility. They are known by many names including those: American Pit Bull Terrier and American Pitbull Terrier, American Pit Bull and American Pitbull, Pit Bull and Pitbull, Pit, Pitty and Pibble, Pit Terrier, Yankee Terrier and Rebel Terrier, and Bull Baiter Dog and Staffordshire Fighting Dog.

Appearance

American Pit Bull Terriers require little grooming, other than an occasional bathing and nail clipping. However, it is also recommended to brush their teeth two or three times per week to help remove bacteria and discourage tarter buildup. Additionally, ears should be checked at least once a week for wax buildup, foul odors or inflammation.

American Pitbull Terrier Common Health Conditions

Typically, American Pit Bulls are extremely hardy dogs. Nevertheless, just as with many other dog breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues including hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, aortic stenosis, skin allergies and food allergies. Common skin allergens include dust, pollen, fleas and grass while common food allergens include beef, corn, rice and wheat.

American Pitbull Terrier Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

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Breed Talents and Facts

Teddy Roosevelt once owned a Pit Bull. Petey in the original Little Rascals show was an American Pit Bull Terrier. Pit Bulls have been used for many purposes including search and rescue, border patrol dogs, service dogs, narcotics and explosives detection, and police dogs. Dog whisperer Cesar Millan´s dog to train other dogs is a pit bull.