Today we will talk about the most misunderstood dog breed in the world. Yes, today we will talk about the infamous Pit Bull.
Pit Bull Type Breeds
There are four American Kennel Club AKC/UKC recognized breeds that are considered pit bull type breeds.
These are:
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- American Bully (American Bulldog)
- American Pit Bull Terrier
Each of these pitbull-type breeds has unique characteristics that differentiate them from the other three types. For example, Staffordshire Bull Terrier is the smallest of the four, American Bull Terrier is the tallest and most athletic, American Staffordshire Terrier is stockier and shorter, while American Bully resembles the classic Bulldog.
Pit Bull Breed Standards
History
The dogs of the pit bull type first originated in Great Britain. Breeders combine the strength and power of the Bulldogwith the agility and feistiness of the Terrier to create a perfect fighting dog. Unfortunately, Great Britain at that time was also a cradle and birthplace of bloody and cruel fights such as bear-baiting, bull-baiting, and fights between the dogs.
Every dog that took part in these fights was called a pit bull. However, due to the vicious reputation bull-terrier earned during these fights, the name stuck with the breed.
Today, the pit bull is a wide term that people associate with dogs that aren’t even bull-terriers.
Physical Characteristics
Size and weight differ among the four pit bull types.
American Pitbull Terrier
The average height of an American Pitbull Terrier is between 17 and 21 inches. The weight is between 30 and 65 pounds.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The average height of a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is between 14 and 16 inches. The weight is between 24 and 40 pounds.
American Staffordshire
The average height of an American Staffordshire is between 17 and 19 inches. The weight is between 40 and 70 pounds.
American Bully
The average height of an American Bully is between 13 and 23 inches. The weight is between 25 and 60 pounds.
Coat
Pit bulls have a single, short coat. The coat can be almost any color, with the exception of merle. So, you can find Black Pit Bull, Gray Pit Bull, Tri Color Pit Bull, White Pit Bull, Blue Fawn Pit Bull, etc.
Personality & Temperament
There are no differences in temperament among the four types. When properly socialized and trained, pit bulls will be great family pets. They are playful, loyal, sweet, eager to please, sensitive, and particularly good with children.
However, due to mistreatment and lack of socialization, pit bulls can develop aggression and fear of other dogs and people. An aggressive pit bull is probably the most dangerous dog in the world. As a result, American Pit Bull Terrier has been banned by multiple countries across the globe.
Of course, that gives them the title of one of most popular guard dogs since they can impose severe injuries to attackers. They are often used in dogfighting because this breed of dog can be quite brutal in the hands of bad people.
Health & Lifespan
Pit Bulls are generally healthy dogs. The average lifespan of Pit Bulls is between 13 and 15 years. They only suffer from several health issues.
The most common ones are:
- Thyroid issues
- Bone diseases
- Congenital heart defects
- Skin allergies
- Hip dysplasia
Care
Exercise
Pit Bulls are strong and energetic dogs. Therefore, they need plenty of exercise and physical activity. This breed of dog will need around two hours of physical activity or 30-45 minutes of vigorous exercise to stay healthy and happy.
Grooming
Even though Pit Bulls have short hair, you should brush your dog daily to remove dead hair and flaky skin cells.
On the other hand, since your Pit Bull’s coat is short, you won’t need to bathe him often. However, when you bathe your dog, make sure to use dog shampoo and conditioner.
Nutrition
Feed your Pit Bull only high-quality food that satisfies all of his needs for nutrients, vitamins, minerals, fiber, etc. A good and balanced diet is one of the pillars of a healthy and happy dog.
Commonly Asked Question
Are Pit Bull Terriers Dangerous?
When properly trained and socialized Pit Bulls are great dogs that are good with kids. However, mistreatment, abuse, and lack of socialization can cause them to become extremely dangerous and aggressive.
Do Pit Bulls attacks their owners?
Any dog can turn on its owner, no matter the breed.
Are Pit Bulls good family dogs?
Yes, this type of dog is an affectionate, loyal people-oriented dog. They are also great with children.