The pit bull is a breed that needs an owner that understands the breed.
The pit bull is a gentle, loving breed that has gained a bad reputation. He has become one of the most popular American dogs, in part because of his reputation but also because he is a loyal, family dog. The pit bull is not for everyone. He needs a committed owner that understands the breed and is willing to devote time and patience to his care and training.
History
The pit bull was originally used in bull baiting, as a fighting dog in England. When bull baiting was banned in 1835, the dog was no longer bred for fighting. The breed is not registered with the American Kennel Club, which only recognizes the American Staffordshire terrier. Controversially, some consider the two breeds to be the same, according to Bull Dog Breeds. But the AKC disagrees with this. The American pit bull is registered with the United Kennel Club. The pit bull has long been popular in America. Well-known people such as Teddy Roosevelt, Laura Ingalls Wilder and Helen Keller owned pit bulls. The dog starred in the "Our Gang" children's television series and served as a mascot for RCA and the Buster Brown Shoe Co. Unfortunately, due primarily to unscrupulous breeding and irresponsible and inhumane owners, the breed has come to be thought of as vicious and dangerous.
Appearance
The pit bull has a stocky, muscular frame with a blocked head. His ears are usually cropped and erect. The tail should not be cropped. The breed stands 18 to 22 inches high and weighs 30 to 60 lbs. The coat is short and shiny and comes in all colors but the UKC does not accept the merle color.
Characteristics
Loyal, protective and gentle, this breed is devoted to his family. He is loving with his family but should be raised with the children and not introduced later. The breed has a tendency to want to show dominance. He needs an owner that will exhibit firm, gentle and consistent guidance from the beginning. This dog definitely needs an owner that is responsible and willing to be the leader of the pack.
Health Concerns
Generally considered a healthy breed, the pit bull is prone to hip dysplasia, allergies, congenital heart disease and cataracts. He has a lifespan of approximately 12 years.
Needs
Pit bulls need a lot of exercise to work off energy. Regular walks and play times are necessary. This dog will enjoy runs with you or running along beside your bike. He does OK with apartment life as long as his exercise needs are met. Grooming is minimal for the pit bull. Brushing with a bristle brush or wiping down with a cloth will suffice to remove loose hair and polish the coat.
Related posts
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is an energetic and strong breed of dog that is not meant for every family. The family that owns a Staffordshire needs to be strong and authoritative in order to kee...
Pit bulls are known as Staffordshire Terriers by the AKC.Known as the American pit bull terrier by the United Kennel Club, the pit bull is recognized by another name with the American Kennel Club...
The Manchester terrier is an alert, friendly dog.The Manchester terrier breed is an active, friendly dog that loves to spend time with his owner. He is happy to run beside you while you jog or rid...
The pug-zu is a mixture between a pug and a Shih Tzu.The mixed breed pug-zu is a cross between a purebred pug and a purebred Shih Tzu. When mixing purebred dogs, it is impossible to determine how...
The miniature dachshund is a courageous, active breed.American Kennel Club registration statistics for 2009 notes that the dachshund is one of the most popular dogs in the United States Clever, co...
