American Pit Bull Terrier

Pit Bull, Pit, APBT
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The American Pit Bull Terrier is a muscular and powerful breed known for its loyalty and courage, with a need for extensive exercise and training. Bred originally for bull-baiting and dogfighting, they are now often kept as companions, excelling in various working roles.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in the British Isles for bull-baiting.
  • Later used in dog fighting.
  • Now primarily a companion dog.
  • Also used in weight pulling and as working dogs.

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female17-20 inches30-50 pounds
Male18-21 inches30-60 pounds

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Any color except merle.
Type
  • Short
  • Close
  • Glossy
Length
  • Short

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Low to Moderate
Grooming
  • Weekly brushing
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Medium length
  • Deep
  • Broad skull
  • Slightly rounded
Skull
  • Broad
  • Flat
  • Slightly rounded
Ears
  • Set high
  • Can be cropped or uncropped
  • Naturally rose or half-prick.
Eyes
  • Round to almond-shaped
  • Any color except blue.
Nose
  • Large
  • Wide-set nostrils
  • Any color.
Muzzle
  • Broad
  • Deep
  • Slightly tapered from base to nose
Teeth
  • Scissors bite.
Neck
  • Slightly arched
  • Muscular
Forequarters
  • Shoulders powerful and muscular
Fore Legs
  • Straight
  • Strong
  • Moderately long
Hindquarters
  • Muscular
  • Broad
Hind Legs
  • Muscular
  • Well-angulated
Feet
  • Moderate in size
  • Well-arched toes
  • Thick pads
Tail
  • Set on as continuation of spine
  • Tapered
  • Short
Gait
  • Agile
  • Powerful
  • Smooth

Temperament

  • Courageous
  • Confident
  • Intelligent
  • Devoted
  • Good-natured
  • Can be stubborn.

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Very Affectionate
Good with Children
  • Generally good with supervision
Good with Dogs
  • Can be dog-aggressive if not properly socialized
Good with Cats
  • Potentially prey-driven, needs careful socialization
Openness to Strangers
  • Can be aloof or friendly.
Playfulness Level
  • High
Protective Nature
  • Naturally protective
Adaptability Level
  • Moderately adaptable

Working Roles

  • Weight pulling
  • Companion animal
  • Therapy
  • Service

Exercise Needs

  • High
  • Needs daily exercise

Health

  • Prone to hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Heart disease

Additional Notes

  • Strong willed, needs consistent training.
  • Prone to anxiety if left alone too long.

References