Any dog with a Bulldog and Terrier background, sporting short hair and a stocky build, can be classified as a Pit Bull or Pit Bull Terrier. While the American Kennel Club and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale do not officially recognize the American Pit Bull Terrier as a separate breed, the United Kennel Club does. For responsible pet owners, a well-bred American Pit Bull Terrier can be a loyal and loving companion. To ensure these dogs have the capacity to give love and devotion, reputable breeders focus on breeding for a more gentle temperament. Obedience training and socialization are essential for raising a well-behaved Pit Bull Terrier due to their strong physique and troubled past.
If you are interested in learning more about the history, care, and maintenance requirements of the American Pit Bull Terrier to determine if it is the right breed for you, keep reading.
Below, we look at American Pit Bull Terrier dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an American Pit Bull Terrier, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and much more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of American Pit Bull Terriers!
| Dog Breed | American Pit Bull Terrier |
| Size | |
| Weight | 30-60 lbs (average) |
| Height | 17-22″ (average) |
| Location | United States of America |
| Ancestry | Bull and Terrier Mix Dogs |
| Date of Origin | 1898 |
| Group | Fighting, Farming |
| Life Expectancy | |
| Price | |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The American Pit Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier have a long history that dates back to the 1700s in England. Farmers wanted a more agile and quick-thinking dog than the Bulldog, so they bred it with various terrier breeds that were known to be more aggressive and independent. This resulted in muscular and strong dogs that excelled in activities like bear baiting, bull baiting, and dog fighting, which were popular at the time. The breed gets its name from these dog fighting rings, also known as pits. In the early 1800s, these dogs were imported to the United States where dog fighting gained popularity. American breeders focused on developing larger and heavier canines, eventually leading to the American Pit Bull Terrier name in the United Kingdom and recognition by the United Kennel Club in 1898.
However, the American Kennel Club (AKC) wanted to distance itself from dog fighting and initially refused to recognize the breed. In 1936, they established stricter standards, particularly regarding the dogs’ size and color, and recognized them under the name American Staffordshire Terrier, which was considered less threatening. Since then, these two breeds have developed separately for many years.
For more information on pit bulls and the laws surrounding them in different states, you can refer to the article “What States Allow Pit Bulls?”
🐕 American Pit Bull Terrier Appearance
Compact, medium-sized American Pit Bull Terriers have incredibly muscular bodies, especially in the shoulder and neck regions. While their muzzles are wide, deep, and very muscular, they are considerably longer than the pushed-in snout that is frequently seen on the current English Bulldog. Their massive, blocky heads are a clear indication of their Bulldog pedigree. In contrast to the American Staffordshire Terrier, they can have any color eye, including blue and parti-colored eyes. Their eyes are typically almond-shaped. Their natural ears are often rather short and held in a rose or half-prick shape, while ears that have been trimmed will typically be held erect. Since cropping is now prohibited in many nations, it is also becoming less popular among dog breeders and enthusiasts in the US, where it is also prohibited in several states. The Pitty can be any color, although most breeders steer clear of mating merle-colored dogs since blindness and deafness have occasionally been linked to this hue.
| 👀 Eye Color | Hazel |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Blue, Black, Brown, Isabella |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Brindle, Sable, Pied, White, Silver, Blue, Brown, Cream, Isabella, Fawn, Black, Gray, Red |
⚡ Fun Fact:
🐶 Traits & Temperament of American Pit Bull Terrier
Responsible breeders of these dogs started concentrating on a more docile and calm temperament when the blood sports of the 1800s were outlawed here in the United States. This focus was maintained even after the American Pit Bull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier were divided into two groups. Because of this, the majority of these dogs develop into devoted, friendly, and kind friends that are renowned for their tolerance of youngsters. While these dogs are typically very gentle with even the youngest of children, always supervise interactions with these powerful canines closely — even a momentary lapse in judgement can be disastrous for both the child and the dog. Unfortunately, this breed may be violent against other dogs when their tolerance for them does not always extend to them. Early socialization is also essential to ensure that your Pit Bull accepts other dogs, and you must carefully monitor interactions between dogs. It’s also important to note that there are some misconceptions about Pit Bulls and their temperament. To learn more about what the Pit Bull breed has to offer, read our guide to the facts about this breed.
🤝 Are American Pit Bull Terriers Friendly or Aggressive?
🐩 American Pit Bull Terrier Care & Maintenance
Pitties require little care when it comes to grooming. Your Pitty should only need a few baths a year, unless they are really adept at getting dirty. Weekly quick brushing sessions using a slicker brush or grooming glove can keep your pup’s coat healthy and glossy. Pitties are prone to skin conditions that may call for the use of medicinal baths or ointments, despite the fact that you won’t need to bathe or brush them very frequently. Treatment for skin conditions can be costly; pet insurance can help shield your Pitty from exorbitant veterinary bills. You can easily compare policies from top providers using our comparison tool for pet insurance. Get your quotation right away! Related: Five reasons why we like pit bulls
🍖 Food: We recommend 2.5 cups daily, costing you about $1.20 – $1.40 daily, or approximately $25.00 – $30.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise:
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 12 miles per week, which equates to about 60 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know:
❤️🩹 American Pit Bull Terrier Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for American Pit Bull Terrier Dog Breed can be:
- Canine Hip Dysplasia (Chd)
- Hypothyroidism
- Cerebellar Abiotrophy (Ataxia)
While minor concerns include:
- Patellar Luxation
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Demodicosis
- Cleft Lip or Palate
- Zinc Responsive Dermatosis
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- Atopy
🤧 Important: Is American Pit Bull Terrier hypoallergenic? .
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for American Pit Bull Terrier.
⚡ American Pit Bull Terrier Dog Breed Facts
What makes the American Pit Bull Terrier a great choice for families with young children?
The American Pit Bull Terrier is a great choice for families with young children because they are known for their patience and gentleness with kids. They are typically very gentle, loyal, and affectionate companions, making them a suitable breed for families with young children.
Is the American Pit Bull Terrier breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
The American Pit Bull Terrier breed is not considered a suitable breed for apartment living. These dogs are active and energetic, requiring a good amount of exercise and space to roam. They are best suited for homes with a yard or access to regular outdoor activities.
How much exercise does a American Pit Bull Terrier require compared to other breeds?
The American Pit Bull Terrier requires a moderate to high amount of exercise compared to other breeds. They are active dogs that need daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation. Regular exercise is important to keep them physically and mentally healthy.
Is the American Pit Bull Terrier breed known for being good with other pets?
The American Pit Bull Terrier breed can be aggressive toward other pets, especially other dogs. Early socialization is crucial to ensure that they accept other dogs, and close supervision is necessary during interactions with other canines. They may not be the best choice for households with other pets, particularly dogs.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the American Pit Bull Terrier?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the American Pit Bull Terrier include the Boxer, Bulldog, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier. These breeds have similar characteristics and may require less grooming and maintenance compared to other breeds.
What are the common health issues that American Pit Bull Terriers are prone to?
American Pit Bull Terriers are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, heart disease, allergies, and skin infections. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper care are essential to monitor and address any potential health concerns.
Are American Pit Bull Terriers known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
American Pit Bull Terriers can be both easy and challenging to train, depending on the individual dog. They are intelligent and eager to please, but their strong will and independent nature may require a firm and consistent approach to training. Early socialization and obedience training are important to raise a well-behaved Pit Bull.
Are American Pit Bull Terriers more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
American Pit Bull Terriers can be prone to separation anxiety, especially if not properly trained and socialized. They are loyal and affectionate dogs that thrive on human companionship, so leaving them alone for long periods of time can lead to anxiety and destructive behavior. Providing them with mental stimulation and gradually increasing alone time can help alleviate separation anxiety.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the American Pit Bull Terrier that are suitable for people with allergies?
There are no specific dog breeds similar to the American Pit Bull Terrier that are known to be suitable for people with allergies. However, some hypoallergenic dog breeds, such as the Poodle or Bichon Frise, may be better options for individuals with allergies as they produce fewer allergenic substances.
What sizes of dogs similar to the American Pit Bull Terrier are best for individuals or families with limited space?
Smaller-sized dog breeds similar to the American Pit Bull Terrier that are best for individuals or families with limited space include the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the Boston Terrier. These breeds are compact and can adapt well to smaller living spaces.
Is the American Pit Bull Terrier breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The American Pit Bull Terrier breed can be good with children with special needs, but caution and supervision are always necessary. Their patient and gentle nature can be beneficial for children with special needs, but it is important to assess the specific needs and temperament of both the dog and the child before making any decisions.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the American Pit Bull Terrier?
The grooming and shedding needs of the American Pit Bull Terrier are relatively low compared to other breeds. They have short, smooth coats that require minimal grooming. They are average shedders and regular brushing can help keep their coat in good condition. However, they do require regular dental care and nail trimming like any other dog breed.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that American Pit Bull Terrier dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
