PIT BULL

Temperament: Inquisitive, intelligent and Friendly
Height: 17 to 19 inches tall at the shoulder
Weight: 30 to 85 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 16 years
Dog Breed Group: Terrier Dogs

MORE ABOUT THIS BREED

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a companion and family dog breed. Originally bred to “bait” bulls, the breed evolved into all-around farm dogs, and later moved into the house to become “nanny dogs” because they were so gentle around children.

Their tenacity, gameness, and courage make them popular competitors in the sports of weight pulling, agility, and obedience. Of course, you can also find them living as companions, showering their humans with love and affection.

As the owner of an American Pit Bull Terrier you must be aware that you may be met with anger and hostility by people who are misinformed about your wonderful dog. This is not a breed for everyone, especially those who aren’t willing to invest time in training and socialization and can’t or won’t provide consistent firm guidance.

When raised with the proper training and socialization, the American Pit Bull Terrier makes an excellent companion for children. He is loving and gentle with people and often makes a lousy guard dog because of his tail-wagging eagerness to greet the person at the door. American Pit Bull Terriers are devoted and loyal to their family and will, if necessary, defend them to the death.

These dogs are extremely intelligent and learn commands and tricks with ease. They have a zest for life and love to be involved in everything going on around them. They maintain a puppyish demeanor well into adulthood, and that vitality makes them a joy to live with. Once you have met and gotten to know this breed you will wonder how you ever lived without one.

PERSONALITY

Pit Bulls are naturally friendly, active dogs that need a lot of exercise. Well-bred and well-raised dogs are eager to please, inquisitive and very intelligent. Contrary to popular belief, most Pits are patient and adore children, which makes them wonderful family dogs, although young children should be supervised around any dog. Due to their breeding, Pits tend to be aggressive toward other dogs, but some co-exist well with other pets if they have been raised around them since puppyhood. While a dog of any breed may become aggressive when raised in an abusive environment, Pit Bulls are not naturally aggressive toward people. They actually crave love, attention and approval.

FEEDING

Recommended daily amount: 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. 

HEALTH

Nearly all breeds face particular health issues, and Pits are no exception. Still, these dogs are quite hardy overall. Here are conditions that have been noted in the breed.

• Congenital heart disease- Defects in the heart muscle lead to deterioration and eventual failure of the organ.

• Cataracts- Opaque or cloudy areas form on a dog’s eye when there is a breakdown of the fibers in the lens.

• Dysplasia- This is a degenerative disease of the hip joint that can also affect the elbows.

• Allergies- Pits are primarily affected by grass allergy and a food allergy to corn.

CARE

Expect to spend about an hour a day walking, playing with or otherwise exercising this dog. While they love people, American Pit Bull Terriers are strong for their size and can be stubborn if left to their own devices. Begin obedience training early and continue it throughout the dog’s life. Training is the foundation for a strong relationship with your American Pit Bull Terrier.

American Pit Bull Terriers should not be left outside for long because they can’t tolerate the cold well. Even regardless the climate, these dogs do best as housedogs. They form strong attachments to their families and will suffer if left alone for long periods.

GROOMING

The Pit’s coat is smooth and quite glossy, but it is also rather stiff to the touch as befits this dog’s terrier heritage. Due to these characteristics, there is very little grooming required.

• A bath once every month or two should suffice unless your dog likes to play in the mud.

• Brush him at least once a week to remove loose fur and check for parasites.

• Train your dog to accept having his teeth brushed when he’s a puppy so you can brush his teeth a minimum of twice weekly.

• Clean his ears once a week with a veterinary-approved ear wash and cotton swabs.

• Clip his nails once every one to two weeks or as needed.

SOME PICTURS ABOUT THIS BREED

Source: dogtime, dogs.lovetoknow.