Pit bulls can be an addition to your family, if properly socialized and exercised.
Both English and American dog owners have celebrated the pit bull as a favored breed. In England, pit bulls are the nation's fifth most popular breed. However, because of the breed's strong physique and protective temperament, the dog requires proper training and socialization. Many states in the United States have established strict restrictions for pit bull owners to prevent dog attacks. The dog, bred for fighting and bull rodeos, must have proper exercise and a firm pack leader to teach the dog.
Pit bull family
Within the Pit Bull family, several breeds predominate. When you think of a pit bull, the most common breed that comes to mind is the American Pit Bull Terrier. The American Bulldog, Boston Terrier, Boxer, English Bulldog, Olde English Bulldogge, French Bulldog, Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog, Valley Bulldog, American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Bull Terrier, Bull Mastiff and the Banter Bulldogge all have similar origins.
History of Pit Bulls
Pit bulls' earliest origins go back to Europe, specifically England. The origins of the bulldog trace back to the Mastiff family, which farmers used as a guard dog and to round up cattle. Historians suggest that the pit bull resulted from selected breeding of Mastiffs. They sought to breed a smaller, agile dog that was still powerful.
American Pit Bull Terrier
Pit bulls were bred to fight bulls.
The American Pit Bull Terrier originated in the United States, bred in the 1800s from a variety of bulldogs and terriers. Through breeding, the dog's weight was increased. American breeders bred the breed to fight, however the dog eventually became a domesticated breed. By WWI, the American Pit bull was depicted in popular art work and in famous literature.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The pit bull terrier may have originated in Staffordshire, England. The breed, Staffordshire Bull, was bred for bull baiting, a practice outlawed in Britain in the 1800s. The breed was registered by the Kennel Club in 1935, according to Bulldogbreeds.com.
Breed recognition
The American Kennel Club recognizes both the American Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier. The United Kennel Club will register both breeds as American Pit Bull Terriers.
Characteristics
American pit bull terriers have incredible strength and a powerful physique. The dog has been bred to have strong shoulders, neck and jaw. Known as loyal yet protective, the dog must be properly trained and socialized to ensure that the dog can interact safely with humans and other dogs. If not socialized or exercised, the dog can become aggressive and attack. All registry clubs recommend that pit bulls get plenty of exercise while on the leash.
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