American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT)

A number of myths surround Pit Bulls and contribute to the negative stereotype associated with these dogs. However, many of the myths are unfair and do not accurately represent Pit Bulls.

Pit Bulls are not mean, aggressive or scary at all. While any dog can become aggressive and mean if it is mistreated, with the proper training, Pit Bulls can be as loving and loyal as many other dog breeds.

Origin: United States
Male Height: 18 to 22 inches
Male Weight: 30 to 60 pounds
Coat: Short, smooth and glossy


History:
The American Pit Bull Terrier was developed from the bull and terrier type dogs who were popular for fighting bears, bulls and other dogs. These dogs succeeded at their jobs by being tenacious, athletic, strong, intelligent and courageous. They also succeeded because they responded to people. When it was time for a dog to be called away from the fight, he was expected to be handled by his owner without turning on him. Unfortunately, the APBT's reputation for being a "go-for-the-jugular" dog has stayed with him. His sleek, shiny coat, intelligent eyes and well-developed musculature make him one of the best looking breeds around, and those who understand and love the APBT know that his true nature is just as handsome.

Personality:

When raised and trained with respect and knowledge, there is no finer companion than the APBT. He is intelligent and easily trained, loving, playful, expressive, faithful and versatile. Properly trained the APBT are actually less likely to be human-aggressive than other breeds.

At Home:
The ideal environment for the American Pit Bull Terrier is a home with a fenced-in yard, where his energy needs can be met and where he can be supervised.

Recommended Activities:
The American Pit Bull Terrier is adept at tracking, obedience and weight pulling. Jogging and camping can also suit his breed.

Exercise:
American Pit Bull Terriers are high energy dogs who require an outlet for their enthusiasm. Vigorous daily exercise is necessary for a well adjusted dog. Several walks a day can keep him physically fit and mentally challenged, as can outdoor games that involve the whole family.

Feeding:
These active and ,muscular dogs need a high-quality diet. Feed two meals a day. They can gain weight easily, which puts extra strain on their joints and musculature.

Training:
Responsive and smart, the American Pit Bull Terrier is a relatively easy breed to train and has excelled in many areas that demand a high level of aptitude. A training issue with this breed can be how people perceive him which make going out with your APBT - who needs the exposure to all sorts of people and places to help him be a confident, trusting adult - sometimes difficult.

Compatibility:
The American Pit Bull Terrier is devoted to serving his family. He is kind and caring toward children and very tolerant of any accidental roughness. He will play for hours with his human children and is a natural and competent guardian. APBTs can be dog- aggressive, but with training and management, can learn to ignore other animals.

Health:
The average life span of an American Pit Bull Terrier is about 12 years. Breed health concerns include allergies; cataracts; heart disease and hip dysplacia.

Grooming:
The American Pit Bull Terriers short, smooth coat is easily managed with regular brushing using a firm-bristled brush, an occasional bath and a vigorous rubbing with a soft towel.

Copyright by T.F.H. Publications, Inc. this has been published to provide accurate and authoritative information. The techniques and suggestions described here are used at the reader's discretion.