American Pit Bull Terrier Dog Breed Caring and Family, Social Life, Physical Traits, Diet Information

American Pit Bull Terrier Dog Breed Caring and Family, Social Life, Physical Traits, Diet Information

Pit Bull Terriers have an undeserved reputation for being dangerous, aggressive dogs. The vast majority are sweet, wonderful, and make great family pets. Like every dog, they need the education to learn how to fit into our lives, but they are not the fearsome monsters that many people believe. 

The American Pit Bull Terrier originated in England in the 19th century. A cross between the Old English Terriers and Old English Bulldogs of the time created a dog that possessed the best attributes of each breed. These dogs are originally from the United Kingdom and arrived in the U.S. at the end of the 19th century under the name Bull-and-Terrier. The American Pit Bull Terriers are the descendants of their ancestors from the British Isles.

The American Pit Bull Terriers are also referred to as APBT, Pit Bull, Pitty, Pit, and Pitbull. This purebred hunting dog breed was commonly used for general farm work, hunting, and companionship. The American Pit Bull Terrier is a gentle, loving dog that is happiest with his human family. Contrary to the perception that he is a “killer,” this dog is actually an affectionate family pet. The female American Pit Bull Terrier comes into season once per year, and they usually have five to eight puppies per litter. 

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What are the Breed Traits and Characteristics of American Pit Bull Terriers?

The traits and characteristics of the American Pit Bull Terriers include loyalty, dutifulness, and bravery, and they seek lots of attention. Pitties can be headstrong but they are easy to train. American Pit Bull Terrier characteristics are listed below:

  • They are attentive, intelligent, and tenacious.
  • American Pit Bull Terriers are reasonably good watchdogs.
  • Family members, as well as children who live with them, find them very loyal and loving.
  • They are protective, powerful, and aggressive when they or their families are threatened.
  • When properly controlled, they are a joy to own.
  • Pitbulls do not enjoy interacting with other dogs.
  • Pitties don’t require much grooming.
  • American Pit Bull Terrier is not hypoallergenic.
  • A fenced-in yard should be provided for American Pit Bull Terriers.

How does an American Pit Bull Terrier Interact with Family?

American Pit Bull Terriers love the interaction with their human families. They are very affectionate dogs, typically close to the family and other people they know. Pitties are friendly with family and other people with whom they interact frequently. The APBT as pets do best with active families. They enjoy spending quality time with their owners and respond strongly to the emotions of their human family members because they bond closely.

How does the American Pit Bull Terrier Interact with Other Dogs?

American Pit Bull Terriers are not friendly with other dogs because they were bred to fight with other dogs. Families who have several dogs or spend a lot of time where other dogs are present would not be advised to own a Pitbull. However, such problems might be avoided by socializing Pit puppies from the moment they join the family.

How does the American Pit Bull Terrier Interact with Older People?

American Pit Bull Terriers are often recommended for older people. However, their boisterous ways might knock old, frail people down when excited and want to show their love. American Pit Bull Terriers have nothing but their owners’ safety on their minds. They are very obedient, and they will protect their owners if anything threatens their safety. 

How does the American Pit Bull Terrier Interact with Children?

American Pit Bull Terrier is a good choice for families with children. They are kid-friendly and show exceptional patience with rowdy children. Dogs of the APBT breed are best with all ages of family members if they join a household as small puppies. Socializing and training them early is crucial because putting the training off until the Pits are adults will give the dogs the idea that they are the pack leaders.

How Does the American Pit Bull Terrier Interact with Neighbors or Guests?

American Pit Bull Terriers are stranger-friendly dogs. If they interact with friendly neighbors frequently, the American Pit Bull Terrier might see them as members of their family.

Why are Pitbulls banned in some places? 

Pit bulls killed 232 Americans between 2005 and 2015, approximately one every 17 days. Several countries, including the U.K., have banned pit bulls. Breed identifications are often inaccurate when it comes to fatalities caused by pit bulls. In recent years, the term “pit bull” has evolved so dramatically that now most people lump together any dog with a big head and a short coat as one pit bull breed rather than separating out the different breeds.

Why Do People Hate the American Pit Bull Terrier?

Immigrants from the British Isles began coming to the U.S. around the time of the Civil War, and they brought their Pit Bulls with them. It was at that time that the Pit Bull Terriers were named the “American” Pit Bull Terrier breed. The dogs bred for fighting were soon seen as an indispensable asset in a developing nation despite their origins as fighting dogs. Early American dogs were used for a variety of tasks. Sheep, cattle, and livestock under the care of Pitties were guarded against thieves and wild animals, and hunting and hog catching were also their responsibilities. The APBT breed has earned a prominent place among dogs both as working companions and as companions to children due to its loyal and loving nature. Unfortunately, it is human nature to remember the fact that pit bulls were bred for fighting, and overlook the skills and versatility of the APBT breed and the valuable roles they play as working and companion dogs.

What are the American Pit Bull Terrier’s Physical Traits?

The American Pit Bull Terriers are stocky, muscular bull-type terriers. Their breed traits are listed below.

Type, size, and group

Purebred, medium-sized Terrier Type

Weight Range

Males – 35 to 60 pounds

Females – 30 to 50 pounds

Height at the Withers

Males – 18 to 21 inches

Females – 17 to 20 inches

Features

Large, broad head in proportion to body size

Muscular jaws

Short, rounded muzzle

Medium, triangular ears, often cropped and erect

Round eyes of any color except blue

Exercise

Need daily walks and also mental stimulation

Life expectancy

10 to 14 years

Coat

Short, single layer coat with a shiny sheen

Colors

Red, brown, blue, black and white, brindle, and grey.

How to Feed an American Pit Bull Terrier?

How to feed an adult Pit Bull Terrier depends on his size, build, age, activity level, and metabolism. Factors to consider are listed below.

  • Pitties should be given a diet formulated for a mid-to-large size dog with high energy levels.
  • Active Pitties need more food than those who spend most of their time on the couch.
  • Overweight Pits on a weight loss program need only 80% of the recommended daily caloric intake.
  • 3 to 5 cups of high-quality dry kibble a day, divided into two meals, will provide adequate nutrition.

How Much Should an American Pit Bull Terrier Puppy Eat?

The nutritional needs of an American Pit Bull Terrier puppy are listed below:

  • American Pit Bull Terrier puppies’ protein needs are about 21% to 23% more than adult dogs to grow and support strong bones. Yet, overfeeding protein can cause too rapid development of joints and bones, weakening the skeleton.
  • Watch the calcium content of the APBT  puppy’s food. It should be limited to 3 grams for every 1,000 calories.
  • Your American Pit Bull Terrier puppy’s system would also require Vitamins A and D and minerals like zinc, manganese, and copper.

What are the Health Tests an American Pit Bull Terrier Should Take? 

Although American Pit Bull Terriers are reasonably healthy, tests could save the dog a lot of suffering. Like many other dog breeds, certain medical conditions might develop as they grow. Timely health tests for potential diseases might prevent or allow early treatment to limit the consequences. Some diseases are genetic, and others are not. The list below shows conditions known to trouble Pit Bull Terriers.

Hereditary diseases 

  • Hip dysplasia: APBT dogs are prone to femur bone abnormalities that cause lameness and pain because the bones do not fit into the hip socket.
  • Patellar luxation or dislocation: This disease involves the displacement and dislocation of the Pits kneecap, causing it to seize up.

Skin Diseases

  • Atopy: American Pit Bull Terriers suffer from this disease due to an allergic reaction to allergens such as dust, feathers, pollen, human dandruff, etc.
  • Demodicosis: Also called mange, Pitties suffer this painful skin condition that is caused by the Demodex Canis mite.

Degenerative diseases

  • Hypothyroidism. This disease is a result of failures in the thyroid gland.
  • Ichthyosis. A serious degenerative disease that causes the skin on the Pit’s paw pads to thicken, causing pain and making them look oily and flaky.

What are the Exercise Needs of an American Pit Bull Terrier?

American Pit Bull Terrier dogs need about one hour of vigorous exercise each day. A daily walk along with a physical play session in a fenced-in backyard will also help the Pit to spend the built-up energy. Outdoor play like playing chase, Frisbee, fetch or catch is great and Pitties will not hesitate to join in the fun.

However, because the Pit Bull Terrier was originally bred as fighter dogs, dog owners are advised to teach their children not to play games like tug-of-war or other challenging games which might reawaken the APBT’s inbred instincts to fight.

What are the Nutritional Needs of an American Pit Bull Terrier?

The nutritional needs of an American Pit Bull Terrier include high levels of specific nutrients. The essential nutrients for Pitties are listed below:

  • Protein: American Pit Bull Terrier dogs need natural animal protein, valuable for the amino acids they contain that are essential for their health. Equally important is the fact that protein builds lean muscles and provides energy.
  • Fat: Animal protein also provides adequate fat, an additional energy source that boosts the American Pit Bull Terrier’s metabolism. However, there is a fine line between enough and too much. Excessive fat levels in the dog’s daily diet could result in weight gain and, ultimately, obesity. Most importantly, adult dogs and senior dogs need lower fat levels than puppies.
  • Carbohydrates: Although carbs are not essential nutrients, they are crucial energy sources. Giving the American Pit Bull Terrier sufficient carbs will provide energy, encouraging the body’s absorption of protein to build lean muscle. Beware, though, too much carbohydrate can lead to obesity.
  • DHA: DHA is one of the components of omega-3 fatty acids. It promotes proper eye and brain development in American Pit Bull Terrier puppies, and develops cognitive development in puppies, and slows cognitive decline in older dogs. Furthermore, omega fatty acids benefit aging dogs by treating chronic kidney disease and canine arthritis. Omega-3 oils improve the coat health of Pitties.
  • Micronutrient: Taurine is one micronutrient that aids heart health, and other valuable micronutrients for the promotion of strong joints in American Pit Bull Terriers are chondroitin and glucosamine.
  • Minerals: Beneficial minerals for a Pitty’s growth include a healthy balance of phosphorus and calcium. Pre- and probiotics and chelated minerals provide additional health to the diets of American Pit Bull Terriers.

What is the Shedding Level of an American Pit Bull Terrier?

Shedding is a natural process in the hair growth cycles of all dogs. However, American Pit Bull Terriers’ shedding level is moderate. They have short, straight coats, but if Pitties are brushed frequently, they will not leave hair all over the furniture.

What is the Coat Grooming Frequency of an American Pit Bull Terrier?

The coat grooming of an American Pit Bull Terrier is effortless. Their glossy, short, stiff coats require very little grooming. Weekly brushing is enough to remove loose hairs. They do not need to be bathed more than two or three times per year; else risk interfering with the natural oils supply to the skin and hair. Furthermore, seasonal tick and flea treatment are necessary. Both owners and Pitties can benefit from a daily brushing session, which is an ideal way to strengthen the bond between the owner and the American Pit Bull Terrier.

What is the Drooling Level of an American Pit Bull Terrier?

The drooling level of the American Pit Bull Terrier is surprisingly low. However, drooling in the American Pit Bull Terrier and all other dogs is natural. It is an entirely normal and necessary process for a dog’s good health. The saliva of dogs is an oral mucus secretion that is closely linked with their digestive systems and stomachs. It facilitates swallowing and anticipates and prepares for digestion, with various circumstances triggering the mucus secretion.

Frequent cases of natural drooling in American Pit Bull Terriers are listed below:

  • Feeding-related drooling: When an American Pit Bull Terrier knows it’s time to eat, smelling the aromas of food, or seeing their owner handling the bag or storage container with kibble typically causes drooling. It is called the “Pavlov reflex.”
  • Excitement: American Pit Bull Terriers are clever, and they will know when a walk or game session is imminent.
  • Stress and anxiety: Any unusual situations like unfamiliar thunderous noises or being approached by a large, aggressive-looking dog could trigger excessive drooling in any.
  • Sexual: A male Pitty’s excitement when seeing a female could also cause drooling. Likewise, a female experiencing her first heat might drool if she picks up the scent of an American Pit boy.

What is the Coat Type of an American Pit Bull Terrier?

The American Pit Bull Terrier coat is glossy, close, short, and stiff to the touch.

What is the Coat Length of an American Pit Bull Terrier?

The coat length of the American Pit Bull Terrier breed is short.

Do American Pit Bull Terrier Dogs Smell?

The American Pit Bull Terrier’s level of stinkiness is average. Top reasons for dogs emitting bad smells in Pitties include gas attacks and ear infections. This breed has an average chance of giving off a bad smell.

What are the Social Traits of the American Pit Bull Terrier Breed?

The social traits of dogs in the American Pit Bull Terrier breed are affectionate and lovable. They crave constant attention, and it is not uncommon for them to forget their size and climb into their owner’s lap. Their social traits are listed below:

  • Child Friendly: Pitties are kid-friendly and patient, making them ideal for families with children.
  • Family Friendly: American Pit Bull Terriers are affectionate with their human families and submissive to their masters.
  • Stranger Friendly: Pitties are friendly with strangers, and their muscular bodies and reputation might make trespassers careful.
  • Dog Wary: American Pit Bull Terriers are not friendly to other dogs due to their innate instincts to be aggressive toward other canines. Dog-loving families might be wise to choose a different breed. However, if Pitties are socialized with other dogs from very early, they might grow up to be less defensive with other dogs.
  • Seniors Friendly: American Pit Bull Terriers are often recommended for older people. However, Pitties are very excitable and could knock frail seniors over in their effort to show love.

How Does an American Pit Bull Terrier Interact with Strangers?

American Pit Bull Terriers are friendly with strangers. However, their innate instincts to fight make it essential to socialize Pitties from the puppy stage. However, with strangers, typical Pitties may be less aggressive than they would be with strange dogs. If they sense no threats from strangers, they will be calm in their presence. Pitties typically take a cue from their owners in the presence of strangers. Any indication that their owners are ill at ease might trigger aggression in any American Pit Bull Terrier.

Are American Pit Bull Terriers Playful?

Yes, American Pit Bull Terriers are playful dogs. Despite their large size, they are affectionate and playful with children of all ages. They love being outdoors, and taking on some rambunctious play with older children outside makes them happy. Their playtime with their owners includes going on hunting trips, or just hiking in the mountains, and enjoying playtime with the kids on trips to the beach or in the backyard. American Pit Bull Terriers are enthusiastic athletes requiring marathon fetch games and other fun exercises.

However, Pitties have inbred aggression that has log been overcome with love, loyalty, and affection for their human families. Therefore, playing challenging games like tug-of-war might be best avoided to prevent triggering the fighter in your Pit.

Are American Pit Bull Terriers Protective?

American Pit Bull Terriers are protective of their territories and families, mainly because they are so loyal. They are powerful but not aggressive, except when they encounter strangers who appear to pose a threat to their human families. Even then they would not just attack. They typically rely on their muscular bodies and reputation to deter threatening individuals.

What is the Adaptability Level of American Pit Bull Terriers?

American Pit Bull Terriers have a high level of adaptability. They love everyone and can adapt to any changing circumstances, just as long as the changes go along with the love and affection of their families. Relocating, like moving from place to place, causes little problems, and they bounce back quickly, even if they have to adapt to an apartment after living in a large home.

What are the Personality Traits of American Pit Bull Terrier?

American Pit Bull Terriers are people-oriented dogs who thrive when they are part of a family. They are feisty, intelligent, courageous, loyal, and very strong. The Pitty is an extremely active breed of dog that loves to play outside. They are always ready for fun. This breed needs regular exercise because it has high energy levels. Pitties enjoy tracking, dog agility, obedience exercise, and of course lots of interesting long walks. The owner of Pit Bull Terriers needs to spend time with them, interact with them, and establish leadership through positive reinforcement.

Are Pitbulls Hard to Potty Train?

When potty training a Pitty, time and patience are required, depending on how the procedure is done. Pit bulls are intelligent, affectionate dogs who are very eager to please their owners. As a group, they are very easy to train, because they are eager to please. Praise is an essential part of all phases of pitbull training. Positive methods are most effective in potty training American Pit Bull Terriers.

At What Age Do Pitties Calm Down?

Overactive Pitties can be overwhelming. Fortunately, most of them calm down by the time they have their second birthdays. On average Pitties begin to calm down around the age of 2 years old. During their early puppy years and through adolescence, Pit Bull Terriers are extremely active. At about two years old, Pits mature and begins to calm down. However, as with humans, each dog is unique, so some Pit owners might have to wait a bit longer for their canine companions to be more restful.

Are Pitbulls Easy to Train?

Yes, American Pit Bull Terriers are easy to train. As intelligent dogs, they are quick to learn the associations between commands and actions.

Are American Pit Bull Terrier Dogs Cuddly?

The APBT breed loves human interaction and pitties are champion snugglers. Pits are extremely affectionate, and the strength of the emotional bond between an owner and his pitbull is unparalleled. Those who love pitbull terriers are attracted to their fun-loving, spunky and affectionate nature. Pitties will do anything for a cuddle. Pit Bull Bull Terriers may look imposing, be athletic, and packed full of energy, but above all, they crave cuddles with their human loved ones.

Can American Pit Bull Terriers be Aggressive?

The temperament of Pit Bull Terriers is really determined by their owners’ way of raising them. Because of the dog-fighting heritage that all Pit Bull Terrier breeds have, some APBT dogs retain a tendency to be aggressive with other dogs. However, those are typically the pit bulls that were not socialized by their owners. Early socialization has been known to successfully steer the aggressive instincts out of pitties, and change them into lovable family companions that are still a bit wary when they encounter strange dogs, but not ready to attack.

Can an American Pit Bull Terrier be Dangerous?

For centuries, American Pit Bull Terriers have been bred as fighting dogs. Pitties will always retain those inborn aggressive instincts toward other dogs, but not against people. In fact, there are those that claim APBT dogs don’t want to bite humans. However, as a Pit Bull Terrier owner, it is best to start socializing your pitbull puppy from an early age. Such training helps Pit puppies to settle into their lives with human families that are as eager as they are to form strong bonds and share many cuddles.

Do American Pit Bull Terriers Ever Attack?

If the Pitty in question is properly raised, aggression toward humans is rarely part of the breed’s temperament. If you are attacked by another person, your Pitty will protect you and your family. Although they may appear friendly, they will also be on guard around strangers. There should, however, be no unprovoked aggression from the Pit Bull Terrier. Owners are responsible for ensuring that dogs receive proper exercise, socialization with humans, and training. It is your responsibility to look into any unprovoked aggression your Pit displays toward humans and ensure your dog doesn’t pose a danger to others.

Can American Pit Bull Terriers Kill Humans?

Yes, sadly, there have been cases of American Pit Bull Terriers attacking and killing humans. Pit Bull Terriers are known for their inbred fascination with fighting other dogs. It is equally well known that Pitties have evolved into wonderful family dogs. However, to avoid circumstances in which those ancient instincts are triggered, Pit Bull Terrier owners must be prepared to provide training to socialize their pups from their puppyhood.

Do American Pit Bull Terriers Cope with Being Left Alone?

A Pitbull can usually be left alone for varying periods of time according to its age. Even though Pitties prefer to be with their people, they can be left alone for hours at a time if they are well adjusted. However, unbalanced Pitties can experience problems.

Can I leave my American Pit Bull Terrier at home?

Leaving a Pit puppy at home might initially upset the dog. However, if there are other family members at home, the puppy will soon accept that its favorite human had to go out for a while. Pitties are very clingy to their favorite people, and it might require a period of training. Training can start by going out, closing the door, and re-entering after a few minutes. Work on that, extending the period to gradually teach the Pit that you will come back. Without such training, the pup might cry and whine the entire time, even though it is not alone. Pit Bull Terriers are prone to develop separation anxiety.

Can American Pit Bull Terriers be left alone for 8 hours?

Pitbull puppies should not be left alone for longer than 1 hour per month of their age. Thus, two-month-old puppies could be left alone for up to two hours. When they are this young, their bladders are tiny, and they need to go to the bathroom every 2 hours.

It is recommended that you follow this rule of thumb up until your puppy reaches eight months of age when he or she is completely potty-trained and can survive the day. This is the general cutoff point for the rule of 1 hour per age in months. Pitties shouldn’t be left alone for more than eight hours as mentioned above.

Being home all day is not fun for Pitties, as they need a lot of exercise. It’s worth considering hiring a dog walker for an older puppy or even an adult Pit. Consider asking a family member or friend to take the Pit for a walk and let them pee outside. You can greatly benefit their well-being by giving them a break during a long day at home alone.

How to Train an American Pit Bull Terrier?

Training American Pit Bull Terriers is an ongoing process and not something scheduled for an hour every day or once a week. Puppy training can begin early, preparing for proper training when their attention span is longer. Aspects of training that should not be overlooked are listed below.

  • Deal with the Pit’s pack mentality: The first goal is to teach the Pitbull puppy who is the pack leader. Like all other breeds, the American Pit Bull Terriers are born with a pack mentality, and if their owners are not calm and assertive, Pitties may want to take over the role of pack leader.
  • Be persistent and consistent: To ensure your Pitty puppy knows that you will not overlook a command not obeyed. The lack of persistence and consistency will quickly cause Pitties with the idea that obedience is optional.
  • Timing is key: If the Pitties behave badly or fail to comply with obedience commands, they must be corrected immediately. Pitties don’t understand what they’re supposed to be corrected for if they’re corrected after the fact.
  • Show love and happiness: Let your training always be an expression of love and happiness. Your Pit is sure to reciprocate, boosting the strength of the bond between you and your canine companion.
  • Praise with passion: Be zealous with your praise when your Pit Bull Terrier obeys a command. The Pit Bull Terrier is savvy enough to sniff out half-hearted praise.
  • Think like a Pit: Don’t expect your Pit to think like a human. You might want to think like a Pitty to clarify what is expected of your dog.
  • Invitation or permission: We all enjoy cuddles with our canine kids on the couch, but maybe it should be by invitation and not unrestricted permission. It’s just one more way to teach the Pit who is the pack leader.
  • Defy begging eyes: Never feed your Pitty off the table if you do not want her to beg. Be consistent. Embrace begging eyes, but don’t succumb to them.
  • Mealtime manners: Teach your Pit to sit and wait for permission before eating at mealtimes. Establishing their position within the family becomes easier with this practice.
  • Bottom line: For ultimate results for Pitty and the owner, base all the training on firmness, respect, and love.

Is an American Pit Bull Terrier Dog a Good Guard Dog?

No, American Pit Bull Terriers are not good guard dogs because they do not naturally mistrust strangers. They may, however, be reasonably effective as watchdogs. Pitties will alert their owners if they sense a threat of some kind. But don’t expect them to do much about it. Fortunately, their strong bodies and reputation as vicious dogs usually serve as deterrent enough to send them on their way.

How Frequently does an American Pit Bull Terrier Bark?

The frequency of the American Pit Bull Terrier’s barking is average. American Pit Bull Terriers can change their barks to reflect their emotional level. Different barks could have different meanings. Pitties might bark for reasons like greeting, alarm, protection, fear, seeking attention, boredom, separation anxiety, and rarely, compulsive barking. They typically only bark when they have a good reason.

What is the need for Mental Stimulation of an American Pit Bull Terrier?

American Pit Bull Terriers are intelligent dogs that need mental and neurological stimulation. It is anything that activates, enriches, and stimulates the Pitty’s mind. Mental stimulation could be external, using the environment, or internal using thought. This can include using toys, puzzles, and other interactive toys, and games like scenting games involving hiding treats to be sniffed out. Hide and seek is another perfect way to stimulate American Pit Bull Terriers.

Exercise and movement are vital to ensure an American Pit Bull Terrier remains flexible and mobile, maintains a healthy weight, and has a low risk of developing medical problems throughout his life. However, mental stimulation is essential for an American Pit Bull Terrier to function optimally.

What are the Breed Standards of American Pit Bull Terriers?

The American Pit Bull Terrier is recognized as a pure breed by the American Kennel Club and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). Both organizations recognize Pitties as  Terrier-type dogs. American Pit Bull Terriers mostly serve as companion dogs. Some of the breed standards are listed below:

  • Color: The American Pit Bull Terrier breed’s coats can be any of several colors or combinations of them. The colors include brown, red, grey, blue, brindle, black and white.
  • Size: American Pit Bull Terriers are classified in the medium-sized dog category. They are exaggerated, muscular dogs with powerful heads. Males weigh between 35 and 60 pounds and females between 30 and 50 pounds.
  • Eye color: The American Pit Bull Terrier’s eyes are round and any color, except blue.
  • Height at the withers: Male American Pit Bull Terriers stand between 18 and 21 inches high and 17 to 20 inches for the female Pitties.

What is the General Information about the American Pit Bull Terrier?

The American Pit Bull Terriers are perhaps the most misunderstood dog breed. Legislation that ranges from conditions of ownership, certain restrictions, or complete banning exist in over 20 countries worldwide, including Canada, Australia, most of Europe, and New Zealand. This is despite the thousands of APBTs that are companions and share cuddles with families across the world without threatening their safety. Studies have revealed an indispensable part of the American Pit Bull Terrier’s genetic makeup that makes the dogs unwilling to bite people. It was developed centuries ago during the days when pit bulls were still used exclusively for fighting, to protect dog handlers when they had to enter or reach into the fighting rings.

Another study reported in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association on dog attack fatalities between 2000-2009 determined that in more than 80% of those fatalities, there existed 4 or more factors involving dog care and control. The Pitbulls in those cases were large and sexually intact, had not been socialized, and had no relationship to the people they attacked. Factors upon factors that could apply to any other dog breed.

Where to Buy or Adopt an American Pit Bull Terrier?

Choosing a reputable American Pit Bull Terrier breeder is essential. Potential American Pit Bull Terrier owners must know that they will get a healthy dog that will not develop problems years later. A few breeders of American Pit Bull Terriers are listed below:

  • ManMade Kennels – Delaware, California, Mississippi, Texas, and the Netherlands
  • XXL Designer Pitbulls – Coventry, Rhode islands
  • Bossy Kennels – Murrieta, California
  • Dark Dynasty Kennels – Twin Mountain, New Hampshire
  • Big Gemini Kennels – Hollywood, California

The recommended steps would be to use the guidance of the American Dog Breeders Association. (ABDA) when choosing a breeder. That way, the buyer can be sure they choose a reputable breeder who has agreed to abide by the prescribed code of ethics. Note that there are puppy mills that care for nothing but profits.

What are the Rescue Clubs for American Pit Bull Terriers?

Rescue Clubs for American Pit Bull Terriers are organizations that help Pitties in need of new homes. A few examples are listed below.

  • Animal Farm Foundation (AFF), 
  • Friends to the Forlorn Pitbull Rescue, Inc. Dallas GA
  • Pit Bull Rescue Central (PBRC) – Missouri.
  • The Love Pit – Rehoming Assistance – Dallas, Texas

What is the American Pit Bull Terrier’s History?

In the early 20th century, during the massive immigration of Europeans to the United States, immigrants brought their bull-and-terrier dogs with them. However, the history of these breeds is disputed. These dogs were said to have been used by their ancestors for companionship, farm chores, hunting, and other purposes, in spite of their dogfighting history. They developed a larger physique and grew taller than their English counterparts. Those two breeds are very different today.

Where are pit bulls originally from?

In the 19th century, the American Pit Bull Terrier is thought to have originated in England. At that time, bulldogs and terriers were crossed to create a breed with desirable characteristics from both breeds. The terrier was agile and energetic, with bulldog-like perseverance and confidence. Original names for the breed include bull-and-terrier dog, pit dog, and half-and-half. The dogs were known as Pit Bull Terriers in England. Dogfighting continued to prosper in the United Kingdom despite its ban in 1835, which proved very difficult to enforce.

What is the Average Maintenance for American Pit Bull Terrier?

The cost of owning an American Pit Bull Terrier is not straightforward math, but there are averages to work on. Owning a Pitty dog will cost between $1,060 to $10,000 annually or $88 to $833 a month. The first year of a Pit’s life is more costly because of more veterinary care. However, throughout an American Pit Bull Terrier’s life, vet care costs could be higher than any other expenses.

Below is a list of averages:

  • Typical veterinarian expenses when owning a Pit Bull: $45 to $85 per month, including a once-off neutering or spaying bill, which is $50 to $400.
  • The APBT’s vet bills will also include vaccines, $15 to $30.
  • An American Pit Bull Terrier’s food requirements are between $27 and $62.50 per month.
  • The Pit’s training costs will be from $240 to $600 for private training or $50 to $125 for group training, both refer to a 4 to 6-week course.

How to Name an American Pit Bull Terrier?

Naming an American Pit Bull Terrier might require different criteria than new Pit parents might expect. It is never the actual name that the Pitty responds to; instead, it is the sound and how it is said.

The Building Blocks necessary include tone and syllables as listed below::

  • American Pit Bull Terriers respond best to two-syllable names because they are not short enough to be confused with single-syllable command words like sit, come, and down. However, the names are not long enough to become puzzling. Simple examples include Sadie, Cupcake, and Buster.
  • Pit owners set on a specific single-syllable name can go with it, but find a way to stretch the sounds to sound like two syllables, such as “Coach” stretched into “Coh-oach” and using two different tones when calling him.
  • American Pit Bull Terriers respond most positively to high-pitched, excited, and happy sounds when calling them, and soothing, quiet sounds when they get nervous or overzealous.
  • Some Pitty parents find their canine companions respond and recognize their names better if they say them in a sing-song voice.

What are the Different Types of American Pit Bull Terriers?

There are two types of American Terriers, as listed below:

The American Pit Bull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier are nearly identical breeds. 

What are the Similar Dog Breeds to American Pit Bull Terrier?

Similar dog breeds to the American Pit Bull Terrier are listed below:

  • American Bully: In comparison to the American Pit Bull Terrier, bullies are more compact but much broader, they have a wider head. Bullies from Responsible breeders have specifically developed Bullies for their affectionate and gentle temperament. more about American Bully.
  • American Staffordshire Terrier: Despite its heritage as a dogfighting breed, the American Staffordshire Terrier is today known for its unfailing loyalty and affection towards its family. In addition to loving snuggling with their owners, these dogs are usually gentle and patient with children. This breed is very friendly towards children and is best suited to homes where they are accompanied most of the day since separation anxiety can be a problem. Furthermore, they are often people-focused and have difficulty getting along with other dogs.
  • American Bulldog: A descendant of the English bulldog, the American bulldog originated in the 17th century for bull baiting, a blood sport involving fighting bulls with dogs. Aside from being farm dogs, bulldogs became friendly companions and all-around working dogs in North America. Despite their large size, they are extremely affectionate toward their families and often want to sit on their laps. Children are also extremely fond of them. It is important to train and socialize them to ensure they will be friendly to people outside your household, because they may be very protective of their families. more about American bulldog

Sarah Brady

Sarah Brady is an animal lover and the proud dog-mom of a Golden Retriever named Brody and an Italian Greyhound named Jessup. Unfortunately, Jessup developed serious allergies to many different types of dog foods and ingredients when she was just a puppy. Meanwhile, Brody could eat seemingly anything and carry on as healthy as could be. Sarah spent hours of time researching and testing different foods and brands before finding something that worked for little Jessup. She wants Dog Food Care to simplify this experience for future dog-parents who face food allergy or tolerance issues of their own.