American Pit Bull Terrier

Narrated from: Dog Breeds

This is the most misunderstood breed of dog in the United States. They have received bad press for the past few years and they are targeted by Breed Specific Legislation causing them to be banned in many places. Unfortunately they are mixed up with so many other Bully breeds including the American Staffordshire Terrier, the Bull Terrier, the American Bull Molosser, the American Bully, the Bulldog and the Cane Corso among many others. The term Pit Bull is all encompassing. The original purpose for the Pit Bulls was to antagonize bulls to make them angry. Today these are some of the most loving and loyal dogs on the planet. He is a dog that reflects power by his physique but he is passionate and affectionate.  They have a very intimidating look to them but the only time these dogs are harmful is when humans get them and train them to be that way. If they are properly socialized as puppies, they make perfect family dogs.

American Pit Bulls are very muscular and stocky and they are used in dog fighting to make money for their owners. The people who own these dogs must be responsible and knowledgeable about all of the Bully breeds to raise one properly. These dogs are not killing machines and they do not have locking jaws. They do require a strong willed trainer that can be in charge and that can communicate to them what is expected of them. If they are not well socialized as puppies with both animals and humans they will grow up to fight. American Pit Bull Terriers are very willing to please their owners, but are also pack animals.
Their coat is short and it makes grooming a breeze. The American Pit Bull Terrier is an amusing, good natured, loyal, affectionate family pet. Once properly trained by a confident leader they are rarely disobedient and aim only to please. You will find them to be courageous and intelligent with an instinct to protect their human pack and their property. They have a sixth sense that tells them when they need to protect and when everything is okay. All terriers can be willful, and a confident, consistent trainer is strongly recommended. They love to be with their family of humans and do not take well to being left alone for very long periods of time.

The American Pit Bull, as with other Bully breeds, make wonderful police dogs, service animals, therapy dogs and family companions. They do very well in agility, Fly-ball, and disc dog sporting events. They are powerful but very agile dogs which will make them good at almost anything you may want them to do. The average height of the American Pit Bull is anywhere between 14 and 24 inches and their weight can be anywhere from 22 to 78 pounds.  They are generally very healthy. One of the most common problems with all the Bully breeds is allergies. If they have sufficient exercise they can live very comfortably in an apartment. They prefer warmer climates because of their dense, short shiny fur. You can expect to receive about 12 to 14 years of faithful companionship from the American Pit Bull Terrier.

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