American Pit Bull Terrier Dog Breed Information

Group

Unrecognized

Weight

15.8-27 kg

Height

45-53 cm

Lifespan

8-15 years

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About the American Pit Bull Terrier

Reviewed by:

Dr. Shamsul Alam Roky

Veterinarian

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a medium-sized dog that was bred in the United States. They have a short, sleek coat and are built strong.

Because of the historic use of Pit Bull-type dogs to bait bulls, people fear these dogs and think of them as an aggressive breed. The American Pit Bull loves humans. Although it can struggle to get on with other dogs, it is trainable and can be socialised.

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What is the history & origin of the American Pit Bull Terrier?

The American Pit Bull Terrier has its roots in England in the 19th century. Bulldogs and Terriers were crossbred to create an athletic dog that enjoyed family time.

The Pit Bulls soon proved their worth. They became farm dogs, drove livestock, hunted, and protected their families. Unfortunately, they were also used in bull-baiting and dog fighting, which has led to the current stigma around them. Some Pit Bull types are even banned in several countries because of this stigma.

The United Kennel Club registered the American Pit Bull Terrier as purebred dogs in 1898. By the mid-19th century, pit bull-type dogs arrived in America.

The American Kennel Club still does not acknowledge the American Pit Bull Terrier as a breed, however, they have registered the American Staffordshire Terrier. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is similar to the American Pit Bull, just slightly smaller.

Through the years, Pit Bull Terriers have played many parts. They have been nannies to children, companions to humans, therapy and service animals, military dogs, as well as used in search-and-rescue groups.

What is an American Pit Bull Terrier Breed?

The American Pit Bull is a strong, medium-sized dog. They have broad heads with strong jaws, as well as a thick chest. They are often muscular but are agile enough to compete in dog sports.

Their whip-like tail ends at a sharp point. Their eyes are large and round. Although blue eyes are sometimes seen in this breed, the United Kennel Club does not accept these striking eyes or the merle coat colour.

The coat of the Pit Bull Terrier dog is short and soft and comes in a variety of colours.

Who is an American Pit Bull Terrier Best For?

Owners of American Pit Bull Terriers must have thick skins, as they will often be met with hostility, disapproval, or even complete avoidance from people.

Pit Bulls will do well with owners who have time available to spend on training and socialisation. The Bull Terrier dog breed can do well in apartments if taken for regular walks.

A surprising fact about the American Pit Bull is that it is amazing with children. A well-socialised dog will be your children’s best friend. Their caring nature makes them horrible watchdogs, as they will be excited to greet everyone who walks through the door.

However, if this dog perceives its family to be threatened, it is willing to protect them to the end.

American Pit Bull Terrier Grooming & Shedding

American Pit Bull Terriers have very low-maintenance coats. The short coat only requires a weekly brush to get rid of loose hair and to distribute natural oils. These dogs do not shed much, although twice a year (in fall and spring) they might shed a bit more. This can be managed easily with some additional brushing.

You should wash your dog once a month. Bathing too frequently can strip the oil from the skin, so simply wipe down your dog with a damp cloth in between baths.

Nails should be monitored and trimmed when needed. Your dog’s ears should also be checked and cleaned regularly to avoid ear infections. If you can, you should brush your dog’s teeth daily.

Do American Pit Bull Terriers bark a lot?

American Pit Bull Terriers are considered occasional barkers. They will only bark when they think it is necessary.

Reasons for barking include: protecting their family, loneliness or boredom, looking for attention, playing, and alerting their family to a threat.

What is the average weight & height of an American Pit Bull Terrier dog?

American Pit Bull Terrier Weight:

Male: 15.8 – 27 kgs
Female: 13.6 – 22.6 kgs

American Pit Bull Terrier Height:

Male: 45 – 53 cm
Female: 43 – 50 cm

Are American Pit Bull Terriers easy to train?

Just like many breeds, the American Pit Bull requires proper training and good socialisation from a young age. Because of the stigma surrounding these dogs, pit bull owners may have to work extra hard to train their dogs to be very well behaved in public.

Pit Bulls respond well to positive reinforcement training. These intelligent dogs are fairly easy to train. They are also largely food motivated. They can be a bit head-strong, so consistent training and a firm tone are necessary during training.

Many people think the American pit bull was originally bred for dog-fighting. This inherent fear of the breed means that pit bull owners must socialise their dogs as often as possible in as many situations as possible so that people will be comfortable around them.

The instinctive prey drive in Pit Bulls means it will require extra training around other pets. Although it is unlikely that your American pit bull will start a fight, it is also unlikely to back down from a fight.

How do American Pit Bull Terriers behave? A look at their temperament and personality

The Pit is a loving companion that is affectionate and loyal. Its love of people makes it a terrible guard dog because it tries to befriend every human that comes its way – especially if socialised from a young age.

This dog is not disproportionately aggressive compared to other dogs, but this has not stopped some countries from introducing breed-specific legislation that bans pit bulls or enforces muzzle-wearing in public.

Just like other dog breeds, the Pit Bull is as good as the training it was exposed to. They are caring and gentle, and exceptionally good with children.

Some individuals can be stubborn and headstrong, and with a strong prey drive, these dogs may be tugging you all over the street chasing rats, small dogs and squirrels.

In general, the temperament of the American Pit Bull Terrier can be described as brave, affectionate and loyal.

Does the American Pit Bull Terrier have any common health issues?

American Pit Bulls are hardy dogs, but they do have some genetic health problems. Reputable breeders will screen for many of these diseases in their breeding dogs.

Hereditary health conditions include:

Hip Dysplasia: A genetic condition where the thigh bone doesn’t fit properly in the hip socket, which can lead to arthritis and pain.
Canine Atopic Dermatitis: This is a common skin condition that causes allergies and discomfort, often resulting in itching and skin irritations.
Hypothyroidism: This occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, which can lead to weight gain, lethargy, and skin issues.

What is the lifespan of an American Pit Bull Terrier?

The lifespan of American Pit Bull Terriers is between 8 and 15 years.

How much does an American Pit Bull Terrier need to be fed?

Pitbull Terriers do well with high-quality dog food that is fed over two mealtimes each day. Like other terrier breeds, this breed is very food motivated and will do anything for a treat. This can quickly result in begging behaviours and obesity.

If you are concerned about your dog’s feeding habits, consult your vet to formulate a proper diet plan.

How much can you expect to pay for an American Pit Bull Terrier in Australia?

American Pit Bull Terriers can cost anything from $1,100 to $1,800. The price will depend on the bloodline, breeder and age of the pup.

How much can you expect to pay for an American Pit Bull Terrier in Australia?

Can American Pit Bull Terrier dogs live in hot weather?

Pit Bulls prefer mild weather. Like most other dogs, they find hot weather taxing. They will do well if you keep them indoors on hot days.

Is an American Pit Bull Terrier ideal for a first-time dog owner?

This breed is a good choice for first-time dog owners because of its loving nature and trainability.

Do American Pit Bull Terriers get along with cats?

Pit Bulls are not naturally cat-friendly dogs. They will have to be introduced to cats from a young age, and the introduction will have to be controlled and happen over a long period. Pit Bulls have a herding instinct, which could put your cat at risk, but over time and with proper training the pit bull and the cat will be able to cohabitate.

How do you raise an American Pit Bull Terrier to be friendly?

Dog aggression is normal in any dog when provoked, but a pit bull is not considered naturally aggressive. There are some easy steps you can take to make sure your American Pit Bull is the best dog it could possibly be:

Do basic obedience training at home. Teach basic commands, and award good behaviours.
Socialise from a young age. Expose your puppy to different environments, dogs and people.
Enrol in puppy school. This will help your puppy to socialise, and you and your dog will learn how to communicate with each other.
Keep your dog comfortable. Socialising an adult pit bull can be stressful, so it must happen on the dog’s terms. Encourage friendly, playful behaviour.
Avoid large dog parks with plenty of dogs. Tempers can flare, and although it did not initiate the dog fight, your Pit Bull is unlikely to back down.