Read About American Pit Bull Terriers

American Pit Bull Terriers - Dog Breed Facts

1.     AKC Group: Terrier

(The American Pit Bull Terrier is classified by the AKC as the American Staffordshire Terrier).

2.     Size & Weight: 18-22 inches tall; 22-110 pounds

3.     Coat: Thick, short and shiny hair.

4.     Head & Muzzle: Large and deep head with an equally broad and deep muzzle that tapers very slightly. The nose is large and with open nostrils.

5.     Body: The chest is deep with well sprung ribs and the top line is in slight incline at the withers.

6.     Colors: All colors

7.     Life Expectancy: 12 years.

8.     Popularity: Gaining in popularity as a household pet. Has an unfortunate and much exaggerated name for aggravation and violence.

9.     Habitat: Prefers outdoors, yards. But will do fine in apartments if healthy exercise is provided.

American Pit Bull Terriers - Dog Breed Origins

1.     Country of Origin: United States

2.     Lineage: Developed from bulls and terriers types of mid 19th century.

3.     Date Admitted to AKC: 1936 (American Staffordshire terrier)

4.     Historical Information: This breed gained its infamy from the pit fights of US and UK. Their ancestors were imported into US from England. And then they were bred specifically for pit fights, promoting the animal instinct in the breed.

American Pit Bull Terriers - Dog Breed Defining Characteristics

1.     Training Ease: Obedience training is a must for these breeds.

2.     Temperament: Though they have a strong personality, they are usually good-natured, extremely loyal and affectionate. But the dog has to be socialized and trained from young to keep any traces of social aggression out. They are extremely intelligent and are willing to fight to death in the protection of loved ones.

3.     Child Friendly: They are extremely patient with children; but do not let unfamiliar rough kids alone with them.

4.     Behavior: They are full of vitality. A leash can be useful outdoors.

5.     Habits: Habitual aggression towards other animals is inborn. Needs to be trained and socialized.

American Pit Bull Terriers - Dog Breed Concerns

1.     Health Issues: Very hardy as they are made but might be prone to hip dysphasia, congenital heart disease.

2.     Feeding: Healthy well balanced diet is a must.

3.     Exercise Needs: Rigorous exercise is very vital. They like to run about in the open.

4.     Grooming Needs: Regular brushing with a bristle brush and chamois. Average shedder. Chamois keeps their coat shiny and soft.

5.     Special Household Needs: Leash and collar, Chamois, Bristle Brush, and Water pan.

6.     Travel Needs: Leash is a must.

7.     Getting Along With Other Pets: They tend to be aggressive towards other pets unless trained and socialized from young.

American Pit Bull Terriers - How to Choose your Dog Breed

1.     What to look for in a Healthy Puppy: Look for shining eyes and firm gait however, aggression is bad.

2.     What you will need for a New Puppy: Crate and leash.

3.     Puppy-Proofing your House: Keep away small objects from them and also keep away from other and smaller pets.

4.     How to make your New Puppy Feel at Home: Gentle introduction to the members without undue excitement is better; also follow the dietary regulation of that of the previous breeder.