American Pit Bull Terrier Breed Description

An Owner's American Mastiff Description
Drool has been a part of our family for the past eight years. I've come to just think of him as one of the kids. Counting him, we have three. He's big and strong and makes an excellent playmate, now that the kids are older and stronger. When my kids were little, he would unintentionally knock them down--not knowing his own strength.

Drool is one of the most patient dogs I have ever owned. He won't tolerate mistreatment but he seems to understand when the kids are just being kids. I've often taken a lesson from him on being patient when I felt ready to really lose it over something or other one of the kids had done. He has proved himself to be a very loyal dog and always tries to please.

Drool has a tendency to become quite lazy but since he loves to eat it is crucial that we make him exercise. That's typically is a good walk. Other times though, it's playing a game of fetch at our local dog park, although he won't play games too long. He seems more eager to follow the family around at the park, which means he exercises when we exercise.

Because of his size, it takes a pretty firm hand to handle him on a leash. Obedience training would have proved easiesr and most beneficial when he was a puppy, but we thought we knew better and we ignored that advice from our breeder. Lesson learned.

Drool's droopy face and puppy-dog eyes hide the amount of intelligence that he has. But after you've been around him for any length of time you realize that this is one smart kid.

Introduction

These dogs descend from the Staffordshire Bull Terrier crossed with other fighting dogs including the extinct Fighting Bulldog. Pit Bulls are as much a victim of the media as they are of their historic breeding. Some unscrupulous owners take advantage of these dogs' natural tenaciousness and strength to train them for fighting. In reality, Pit Bulls are great family companions. They require solid training from an early age. These dogs weigh between 30 to 80 lbs. and stand 18-22" at the shoulders.

History

It's commonly accepted that today's American Pit Bull Terrier is the result of breeding carried out by Irish immigrants who came to American during the late 1800s. Once created, the dog enjoyed instant popularity. From Petey in the Our Gang comedies to the posters during the first World War, pit bulls have been one of American's favorite family pets.

In recent years, unscrupulous individuals began using pit bulls in dog fighting, capitalizing on any terrier's natural intolerance for other dogs and using that combined with their desire to please to train them to fight other dogs. Such aggression has NEVER translated into aggressive behaviors towards humans, but sadly, the wrong impression caught the public imagination and the breed has suffered ever since.

However, as proponents of the breed continue to publicize their wonderful traits, the tide is beginning to turn as education takes the place of mythology. Today, pit bulls are family pets, police dogs, Frisbee champions, service dogs and more.

Description

Smooth furred, the muscles of a pit bull present an image of strength and determination. They are exceedingly strong - far more so than mere size suggests. Part of the strength is derived from their powerful rear quarters; part comes from their wide chest and solid stance. They are best known for their square head with a distinctive crease down the middle, atop a wide and strong neck.

Temperament

Owners often refer to their pit bulls as 60-pound lap dogs. That's because this affectionate breed is happiest when it full body contact with the people they love. You'll notice folks driving around town with a pitbull perched on their shoulders, helping them steer from the back seat, or see someone at the park with a pitbull next to them on the bench, with a friendly paw around their shoulder. Those who only know the mis-representation in the media are usually very surprised to learn just how loving these terriers really are.

Like all terriers, they are intelligent and very quick learners. Eager to please, they can be directed to do just about anything and will do it until you tell them to stop. They play constantly, with a nearly tireless energy. When they must stop because they are overheating, they only lie down long enough to cool off; then they are back up and running!

They are natural burglar alarms, with a ready bark for intruders. However, they make poor yard guards: they simply like people too much and are far more likely to lick someone to death than to harm them in any other way.

Pit bulls love children and exhibit both patience and tolerance with little ones even when it comes to playing dress up. They are true family dogs and will not prefer any one individual; rather, they are everyone's dog and will play and love each person differently.

Because of the misconceptions about the nature of these animals, they have been banned in many parts of the country, so do check local legislation before choosing one as your next pet. Also be sure your home insurer will continue to extend liability coverage if you have one in your home.

Health and Care

Thanks to short hair that easily sheds dirt, pit bulls don't require regular grooming. Bathe only when necessary; trim nails from time to time, and check ears for accumulated wax and grime, which can be removed with a cotton ball dampened with witch hazel.

Sources

The American Kennel Club, The American Pit Bull Terrier Network, Wikipedia

Colors

The colors of the American Pit Bull Terrier may vary and can be almost any solid color with the exception of merle.

Living Area

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a dog that can be kept indoors or outdoors, but is best kept indoors with the family. They are very loving and enjoy romping on the floor with kids. They do enjoy running outdoors and should be allowed to run to wear off some of the energy they possess. Due to their high prey drive, it is recommended they be kept on a leash when outdoors so they don't chase other animals. Because of their high intelligence, it is very easy to housebreak them.

Recognized By

CKC, UKC, NKC, APRI, ACR

Pets4You offers listings of American Pit Bull Terrier breeders with puppies for sale.