The American Pit Bull Terrier is one of the most popular dogs today. Although it is hard to imagine today because of the stigma it suffers, the history of the pit bull begins on farms, as a protective dog for livestock. Later, he became popular in dog fighting, an undesirable practice that seemed to draw him away from his past as a babysitter dog.
The pit bull dog does not have a certain behavior, the education and training it receives will totally influence its adult stage, whether it is with a friendly, reserved or reactive temperament. Therefore, in this file we will explain everything you need to know about the education and training of this beautiful dog.
In addition to the character of the pit bull, we will also review its physical characteristics, history and the care that must be essential for it and that must be taken into account if we consider adopting one. Read on and discover everything about the American Pit Bull Terrier:
Origin of the American Pit Bull Terrier
Today’s pit bulls have their origins in 19th-century Britain, but their history dates back to the time of the Roman Empire. This breed is descended from Louisianian fighting dogs, which were originally used for fighting bulls and bears. With the prohibition of these fights in England, fans of these “sports” began to breed lighter dogs to make them fight each other. It seems that terrier-type dogs were used, thus achieving greater agility without losing comparatively.
The pit bull was recognized at one time by the American Kennel Club (AKC), but was later removed from its registries because that institution did not want the bad press that a fighting breed brought with it. Thus, North American Philippines developed a new breed from the pit bull of that time, the American Stafford shire terrier.
There is a common misconception in modern society that the pit bull is a type of dog and not a canine breed, the truth is that the pit bull is a breed with all the necessary credentials. Not only is it a set of dogs with similar hereditary characteristics, but there is a defined standard for the breed.
The fact that the American Kennel Club and many other canine organizations do not agree to register the Pit Bull does not mean that it is not a breed. It is simply a breed not recognized by those institutions, but recognized by other institutions such as the United Kennel Club. It is important to note that the United Kennel Club offers a DNA paternity test service, which helps maintain reliable records on American Pit Bull Terriers registered with this institution.
Currently, the pit bull is recognized by some dog-loving organizations, such as the aforementioned United Kennel Club and the American Dog Breeders Association, but it is not recognized by the Federation Gynecologic Internationale (FCI) or the AKC. However, some entities affiliated to the FCI recognize the breed, as is the case of the Federación Cinológica Argentina.
Physical characteristics of the American pit bull terrier
Many people often confuse it with the American Stafford shire terrier because of its great resemblance. However, we are going to detail some of the physical characteristics of the American Pit Bull Terrier:
The head of the pitbull is long, broad and powerful, but it should not be disproportionate to the body. Seen from the front, it has the shape of an inverted trapezoid, that is, it is like an inverted triangle whose lower end has been cut off. The cheeks are puffy and protrude from this imaginary trapezoid. The stop is moderately defined, and the eyes are low on the skull. Pitbull eyes can be any color except light blue. The ears are rose-shaped or semi-erect, and their set is high.
The pit bull bite is powerful and is one of the characteristics that has fostered some myths about the pit bull breed. One of those myths says that the pit bull dog is unable to release its prey because its jaws lock in some way. Another myth attributes a pressure of 1600 pounds per square inch to the bite. Those absurd myths have helped to distort the image of this breed of dog.
Like the head, the body of the pit bull dog is very striking. Although it may seem strange to those who do not know this breed, the body of the Pitbull is not excessively bulky or wide. According to the United Kennel Club (UKC) accepted breed standard, the Pit Bull dog should have a body slightly longer than tall, with a deep chest, and should never appear thick or overly muscular. In fact, the same standard states that the chest should not be wider than it is deep. All those “canine bodybuilders” don’t fit the pit bull dog standard.
One of the most pleasant physical characteristics of the Pitbull is its short, glossy coat, which invites caresses even to those who are not very fond of dogs. It certainly is very nice to pet a pit bull’s lustrous coat … as long as the dog is clean, of course. All colors are accepted for this breed except the blackbird (mottled background with solid color patches).
The breed standard does not specify a certain height, but rather prioritizes the harmonic construction of the body. That is why there are pit bull dogs of very heterogeneous sizes. However, the pitbull is a medium-sized dog. Weight must be in proportion to height, so it is also highly variable in this breed. However, the weight of males is usually between 15.9 and 27.2 kilograms; while the weight of the females is usually between 13.6 and 22.7 kilograms.
American pit bull terrier character
The media and society in general have spread many myths and legends about the character of Pit Bulls. Today most people think of Pit Bulls as dangerous, unstable and very aggressive dogs. And although that idea may be true for some particular cases, it is not true for the breed in general. That idea is wrong, but its supporters try to support it based on the history of the pitbull dog and data from occasional attacks by pitbulls or similar dogs.
The truth is that the pit bull is a dog with a highly developed prey drive, but it is not a natural killer. In fact, it tends to be a very sociable dog with people. In general, this is a dog that, when well socialized, can get along very well with children and adults, and can be an exceptional pet; however, the good character of any dog (including the Pit Bull) depends on its correct socialization from puppy.
These dogs are generally friendly, playful, and trustworthy with people. Either way, you should never leave a small child alone with a pit bull or any other dog because that is an invitation to accidents.
According to statistics from the American Temperament Assessment Society (ATTS), the pit bull has a more stable temperament than the average dog. Furthermore, in evaluations carried out by that organization in 2006, the pit bull obtained a better “grade” than breeds such as the beagle and golden retriever. Now, even though this breed does not tend to be aggressive with people, there are pit bull dogs that are aggressive. This is due to improper care and irresponsibility of their owners, and can occur with any breed of dog.
We are talking about a very special dog that is appreciated by those who enjoy his company. He is enthusiastic, very vital and fun. The Pit Bull Terrier is a very protective dog that assimilates well the changes and basic commands of behavior. It is an excellent but for those who can dedicate time to it and want to receive the love of a faithful and friendly dog. It is a complacent dog that enjoys doing tasks and although it may not seem like it, it is not a good watchdog as it is usually friendly with strangers.
It has a high level of intelligence and for this reason many owners use it in sports such as crisscross, and carry out activities with it daily.
The pit bull is generally an excellent dog in dealing with children as he is patient and tolerant, contrary to what many people may think of him. He lets himself be groped and plays games quietly. Having a lot of energy is excellent to have a pit bull terrier in a family with children, as both will complement each other and create a very special bond.
As for the treatment of the pit bull terrier with other pets, it will depend directly on the socialization that the dog has received since childhood. As it is a powerful and strong dog, if we educate it incorrectly, we will have real problems in adulthood because it will not know how to relate to smaller dogs and we will observe a real change in behavior outside the home.
Caring for an American Pit Bull Terrier
The pit bull is not a dog that needs excessive care, it will be enough to brush him a couple of times a week, something that he will enjoy a lot. In times of shedding, we will pay special attention and brush it more regularly. On a daily basis we will clean the dirt that may have accumulated. A monthly bath or when it is really dirty will be enough.
It has a high level of activity so the pit bull needs at least two walks a day of at least 3/4 of an hour. Combining walks with exercise is a good practice to strengthen your muscles and relax you at home. Its energy levels are high and we must be aware of this once we adopt it.
Being so active and energetic it will also be useful to take care of his mind with intelligence games for dogs, such as the black Kong, the most appropriate toy for the pit bull. In addition to developing their mental capacity, we will promote play and fun. The Kong is also excellent to treat separation anxiety, a common problem of pit bull dog that is lacking for a walk or mental stimulation.
Education of the American Pit Bull Terrier
It is an intelligent dog that will quickly understand what you ask and propose for a harmonious coexistence. It is important to set fixed rules and try to ensure that all members of the household follow and respect them. We must encourage positive, playful and cheerful behavior with the use of positive reinforcement. Under no circumstances will we let you act aggressively or reward you for it. The pit bull is a strong and powerful dog, but remember that it requires a master who understands and guides it towards mental and physical well-being.
As we have commented on behavior, the pit bull terrier is a dog that needs to be socialized from a puppy, even so, if we have decided to adopt a pit bull we can also work on its education and training, sometimes with the help of an expert. It will depend on each specific case.
In addition to socialization, the pit bull dog needs to understand basic obedience commands, essential for good communication with us and for their safety. Being an intelligent, athletic and active dog, we can take the opportunity to teach him activities that combine obedience commands and exercise such as agility, a complete physical activity and highly recommended for this breed.
The current pitbull is one of the most versatile races in the world, as they are used as police and military dogs, detection dogs narcotics, therapy dogs , search dogs and rescue for all dog sports and, of course , as excellent pets.
American pit bull terrier health
It is a generally healthy dog, although at times its skin becomes sensitive. Avoid problems by offering a comfortable and soft bed as well as pipettes or collars for total protection against parasites.
This is one of the most disease-resistant dog breeds, but that’s not why you shouldn’t neglect their health. In addition to keeping your dog’s vaccinations up to date, you have to pay attention to possible heart problems, contagious skin diseases (scabies, eczema, and fungi), internal and external parasites, etc. Of course, the most important thing to maintain the health of your Pitbull is that you get a regular veterinary checkup and that you follow the advice of the professional.
Curiosities
The constant discrimination of the pit bull terrier has reached limits that associations and protectors jointly reject:
- Australia prohibits the importation of the pit bull and forces all existing individuals in the country to be neutered in an attempt to slowly eliminate the population.
- In Malta it is illegal to keep a pit bull and in case of possession the responsible person will be tried and the pet will be euthanized.
- In Venezuela they need to be registered and must remain in captivity, an inhumane practice.
- Spain, Colombia and Chile consider the pit bull terrier a Potentially Dangerous Dog (PPP) and its possession is at odds with obtaining a license, civil liability insurance for said pet as well as the use of a muzzle and leash in public spaces.
There are associations in defense and equality of the pit bull terrier around the world, it is important to know that it is not a dangerous breed, but that the bite of this dog can be dangerous if the owner or master educates him for it
