Introduction
The American Pit Bull Terrier, also known as a Pit Bull, is a breed of dog that is currently in the Mastiff Group. Out of any other dog breed, the Pit Bull’s personality has been misrepresented and maligned due to their use in illegal dog fights and their ownership by pet owners who abused or kept their Pit Bull in an uncontrollable state.
The American Pit Bull Terrier has not yet received recognition or approval by the American Kennel Club, and there is still some debate as to its distinction from the American Staffordshire Terrier, but this breed is currently recognized by variety of clubs including: the United Kennel Club, the National Kennel Club, and the Continental Kennel Club.
The average American Pit Bull Terrier stands 18 to 22 inches high at the shoulders and weighs between 35 and 55 pounds. Their short coat is easy to care for and a quick daily brush will help to control any shedding.
Temperament
The American Pit Bull Terrier has a natural personality that is alert, happy, willing to please, affectionate, and companionable towards people. This breed is an excellent watch and guard dog, but they can be good family dogs as well. They like to roughhouse and play well with children, but due to their size and guarding instinct they should never be left unsupervised with children. The Pit Bull bonds very closely with its family members, and this breed should not be left alone for long periods of time.
Pet owners of the Pit Bull must socialize and train their dog consistently using positive reinforcement techniques. If the Pit Bull is not socialized properly it can naturally be aggressive towards other animals, including dogs, but these tendencies can be eliminated as long as the Pit Bull is socialized throughout its lifetime.
Pit Bulls have a lot of energy, and they love to explore and run, and if they are not given an outlet for their energy they can become depressed, agitated, anxious, destructive, and aggressive.
Health
The average life expectancy of this breed is 12 years, and the breed is at increased risks for health conditions which include hip dysplasia, hereditary heart conditions, cataracts, and allergies.
History
The American Pit Bull Terrier was developed in the late 1800’s from crosses using a variety of bulldog and terriers, but the exact origin of the American Pit Bull Terrier is still debatable. The American Pit Bull Terrier was frequently used as an all around working dog, guard dog, hunting dog, and ratting dog. Unfortunately this breed was also used in dog fights and rat fights until the practice was banned, but today the breed is still frequently abused and exploited for illegal dog fighting rings.
American Pit Bull Terrier
Quick Facts
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Weight: 35-55 lbs
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Height: 18-22 in
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Coat: Short, easy to care for
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Temperament: Alert, happy, willing to please
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Lifespan: ~12 years