American Pitbull – Full Info & Needs

American Pit Bull Terrier History

The term pit bull is actually used to describe several dog breeds, which means that the term is often used incorrectly when referring to the bull terrier, bull mastiff, and American bulldog. This is because these breeds can have similar characteristics, making it easy for people to use the proper terms. The American Staffordshire terrier is related to the American pit bull terrier, so many enthusiasts call the American pit bull terrier the working class of this breed and the American Staffordshire terrier the show type of the breed.

American Pit Bull TerrierThe American pit bull terrier is descendent of working dogs that were imported to the United States by immigrants from England, Scotland, and Ireland. These immigrants brought these working dogs to ports such as Boston and New York. The working dogs were then bred with each other in order to create a breed that was stronger and taller. This made an incredibly fit working dog that could be used for hunting, dog fighting, and protecting humans. Farmers also used this breed for protection and for catching wild hogs and semi-wild cattle.

The breed that resulted from this crossbreeding became known as the American pit bull terrier. These dogs become very popular as pets, even for people who had children. These dogs also made appearances in major movies such as The Little Rascals.

The United Kennel Club was developed by people who enjoyed the American pit bull and wanted to establish bloodlines and records of the dogs born in the United States. The founder’s dog was given U.K.C. number 11 in 1898. When this records system was established, cross-breeding was no longer acceptable. After registering American pit bulls exclusively for several years, the UKC began admitting other breeds and the American Dog Breeders Association was developed as a result.

The American Kennel Club allowed pit bull terriers into their registry under the name of the Staffordshire terrier in the 1930s. Along with the new breed name came the need for specific standards for the breeds. A committee visited several kennels and ended up choosing a dog named Colby’s Primo as the dog used to create the standards.

The Pit Bull immediately strikes one as being a dog of power, passion and undying willingness. The brick-like head, which is especially broad between the cheeks (to house the powerful jaws), is carried upon a thickly muscled, well-defined neck.

The neck runs into a deep, thick, well-sprung chest. The American Pit Bull is a very muscular, stocky, yet agile dog that is extremely strong for his size. The ears are generally cropped, though this is optional. Docked tails are not accepted by the UKC or the ADBA. The eyes are round.

Both the ADBA and the UKC do not accept blue eyes or the coat color merle. The American Pitbull Registry does accept a merle coat. The teeth should form a scissors bite. Its coat is made up of thick, short, shiny hair. All colors are admissible. The tail tapers to a point.

American Pit Bull Terrier Characteristics and Behavior

The American pit bull terrier breed is a well-muscled canine that has a thick neck and a large head. This particular breed is known for its persistence, strength, and loyalty to masters. The American pit bull terrier is often referred to as a pit bull but can be incorrectly classified with other terriers by major kennel clubs. In fact, the American pit bull terrier and the American Staffordshire terrier should be classified as bull and terrier breeds. They are also closely related to bulldogs in terms of their behavior and working abilities.

In the past, the pit bull was one of the most trusted companions and was loved by most people. In England, where the breed is no longer allowed, the pit bull was also considered one of the safest dogs to have around children. Unfortunately, negative attention has been given to this breed in the past several years. There are two groups to blame for these negative events. One group is the media, who report attacks in the most sensational way possible. The other group that needs to shoulder some of the blame is dog breeders who overbreed their dogs, resulting in high levels of aggression. Owners who train their dogs harshly or who encourage aggressive behavior can also be blamed for negative attention on the pit bull breed.

Many owners believe that a dog’s behavior is only influenced by how they are raised and not by any of the breed’s genetic characteristics. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Working breeds such as the pit bull need to have some activity such as obedience training or sports. If they are not given opportunities for activity, they may become bored and aggressive. For this reason, pit bulls are best suited to people with active lifestyles.

American Pit Bull TerrierAdult pit bulls may become aggressive with other dogs without showing aggression towards humans. This does not mean that pit bulls should not be allowed near other dogs or that they are too aggressive to have as pets. It just means that it takes a lot less for a pit bull to become aggressive toward another dog than it does for another breed to become aggressive. In the past, this breed was bred specifically for dogfighting. However, the breeders worked hard to produce dogs that were aggressive in fighting but not mean or unfriendly with humans. This was necessary because human trainers had to pull pit bulls apart when fighting had concluded and they needed to be sure that the dogs would not turn on them. If one of the pit bulls turned on one of the humans, the dog was put down. These pit bulls were allowed to live with their owners and were friendly towards adults and children alike.

American Pitbull TerrierAggression is common when other breeds are taken into consideration. Other aggressive dogs such as Rottweilers, Dobermans, and Malamutes can get into fights with pit bulls. This does not mean that pit bull owners need to stop enjoying activities with their dogs. It just means that the owners need to be responsible for their dogs and spend the time and money necessary for training their dogs properly. Many pit bulls are just as docile as beagles and golden retrievers, but it would be unfair of an owner to expect this from every working dog.

The American pit bull terrier is now known as an agile and versatile dog and is known for winning competitions in obedience, agility, tracking, weight pulls, and conformation. Famous pit Bull terrier bloodlines include Caver, Old Family Red Nose, Corvino, Colby, and Hammonds.

Temperament

The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) has a strong pleasure to please. The APBT has evoked more human emotional, rational and irrational response than any other breed that exists today. By no means are these dogs people-haters or people-eaters. Their natural aggressive tendencies are toward other dogs and animals, not people. However, if they are properly socialized with a firm, but calm, confident, consistent pack leader, they will not even be aggressive with them.

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a good-natured, amusing, extremely loyal and affectionate family pet that is good with children and adults. Almost always obedient, it is always eager to please its master. It is an extremely courageous and intelligent guard dog that is very full of vitality. Highly protective of his owners and the owner’s property, it will fight an enemy to the death. It is usually very friendly but has an uncanny ability to know when it needs to protect and when everything is okay. The American Pit Bull Terrier can be willful with meek owners and needs a firm hand. They are generally okay with other pets if they are raised with them from puppyhood.

They are very friendly, but not recommended for most people, because most people do not understand how to properly raise and treat a dog. Problems arise when one does not understand natural dog behavior, seeing the dog as having human emotions, and ends up with a dog who thinks he is the boss of the house. For a smaller, not as powerful dog, people can sometimes get away with this, however, for a powerful breed, one really needs to understand and follow this concept of keeping a dog. An excellent guide to learning how to properly treat a dog is the Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan (recommended to all dog owners regardless of the breed they own).

Excellent with children in the family, they have a high pain tolerance and will happily put up with rough child play. As with any breed, they should not be left alone with unfamiliar children. Used as all-around working farm dogs, they were referred to as “the poor man’s horse.” Later they were used as fighting dogs; the powerful American Pit Bull may go for the throat of strange dogs. A minimum of training, along with the proper amount of exercise and a firm pack leader, will produce a tranquil, obedient dog. Socialize very thoroughly when young to combat aggressive tendencies and be sure to keep the dog under control when other dogs are present.

Teach this dog respect for humans by not allowing it to jump up and not allowing it to enter doorways first. The humans must make the dog heel beside or behind them when walking. It has given outstanding results as a guardian of the property but is at the same time esteemed as a companion dog. The objective of training this dog is to achieve pack leader status. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in its pack. When we humans live with dogs, we become their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader; lines are clearly defined and rules are set. You and all other humans MUST be higher up in the order than the dog.

That is the only way your relationship can be a success. When properly trained and socialized, this is a very good dog and a great family companion. Unfortunately, some choose to promote the fighting instinct in the breed, giving it a bad name.

Height & weight

  • Height: 14 – 24 inches (35 – 60 cm)
  • Weight: 22 – 78 pounds (10 – 35 kg)

 

The American Pit Bull Terrier is both powerful and agile. Actual weight and height are less important than the correct proportion of weight to height.

A very common misconception is that APBTs are muscle-bound hulks that weigh in around 85 pounds (39 kg) or more and this is generally not the majority. Most of the APBT’s that are that large have been crossed with other breeds and are being called American Bullies. The general public often gets American Bullies mixed up with the American Pitbull Terriers. American Pitbull Terrier vs. American Bully

Health Problems

A generally healthy breed, although some are prone to hip dysplasia, hereditary cataracts, allergies to grass and congenital heart disease.

Living

Pits will do okay in an apartment if they are sufficiently exercised.

Conditions

They are very active indoors and will do alright without a yard provided they get enough exercise. Prefers warm climates.

Exercise

American Pit Bull Terriers must have plenty of regular exercises and need to be taken on long daily walks.

Life Expectancy

About 12 years.

Litter Size

Average of 5 – 10 puppies

Grooming

The smooth, shorthaired coat is easy to groom. Brush regularly with a firm bristle brush, and bathe or dry shampoo as necessary. A rub with a piece of toweling or chamois will make the coat gleam. This breed is an average shedder.

Origin

Developed from the Bull and Terrier types of yesteryear, the American Pit Bull Terrier was bred as an all-around farm dog, working the farms as a cattle/hog dog. Some chose to turn their talents into the sport of pit-fighting. The breed’s tenacity and accompanying strength are unmatched in the canine world. As rich and captivating as the breed’s history is, the Pit Bull’s future is more worthy of commentary. Some proponents of the breed argue that this breed is the original bulldog of the past. Old prints and woodcarvings show reason to believe this. They show dogs that look exactly like the breed today, doing things the dog is still capable of doing.  For more information on this theory, you can read books by Richard F. Stratton.

The APBT, as registered by the UKC, is an individual breed of dog and does not refer to just any ill-bred, mindless warrior-type mongrel. At one time, the Pit Bull was a much loved, trustworthy companion. People who chose to train these dogs to fight are chiefly responsible for the banning and witch-hunting that has been sweeping the U.S. The media, however, should not go unmentioned, for it is also responsible for escalating isolated incidences in a relentless and attention-getting way. In a lot of cases when the media is reporting about a Pit Bull attacking, it is indeed not even a Pit Bull at all, but a mixed breed of some sort, or another bull breed all together. For example, there was a report on KYW news in Philadelphia about two Pit Bulls attacking a person.

 

The news station was called and asked if they knew the dogs were, in fact, purebred American Pit Bull Terriers, or another bull breed of some sort, or mutts, for that matter. They stated they did not know, and to call the police station to verify that information. They were asked how they could report something that they were not sure of. They had no answer and they were not sure of the dogs’ breeds. Even after admitting on the phone that they did not, in fact, know the breeds of the dogs in question, they kept calling the dogs Pit Bulls in their reports. Why? Because the name Pit Bull will draw out the most attention from the public. The Pit Bull’s future has been perhaps irreparably undone and everyone is to blame except the dog itself. This very loyal dog is too set on pleasing his owner, and ironically this is the root of his own undoing. Accompanying this need to please are remarkable abilities of all kinds. Jack Dempsy, Teddy Roosevelt, and Jack Johnson are just a few people who have owned Pit Bulls. Pit Bulls excel in practically every canine task including herding, guarding, hunting, policing, cart pulling and ratting.

A Pit Bull named Banddog Dread holds more canine working titles than ANY other breed. The owner’s name is Diane Jessup and you can reference her book “The Working Pit Bull.” It tells all of Dread’s accomplishments.

These dogs are truly capable of many tasks. The difference between Pits and American Staffordshire Terriers is a difficult one. Even breeders can’t agree. The main difference is the bloodline. Amstaffs are show dogs and dogfighters won’t use dogs with Amstaff blood. As time progresses there will be more of a difference. Many are dual registered as Amstaffs with the AKC and Pits with the UKC.

Recognition

NAPDR, UKC, NKC, ADBA, CKC, APBR, APRI, ACR, PBFSA, DRA, BBC, NAPR

 

47 Responses to “American Pit Bull Terrier”

  1. OldGrayWolf Says:
    Our family (1 dad, 1 10 y/o girl, 1 8 y/o boy, and 1 gramma) has an American Pit Bull Terrier/Australian shepherd cross, male, who just turned 5 months old. He and his littermates were an unplanned event, but with both parents being known entities and family dogs, we were pleased to get this puppy after studying the litter and selecting the individual with the quietest demeanor and calm, studious attitude toward his world. He is an incredibly smart dog and we’re being very careful and consistent with his training and his home life: no bullying, no physical aggression, no yelling…and above all, keeping him busy with ‘okay’ activities to avoid having him get into trouble because of either boredom or neglect. It’s a full-time job. Crate training was his most important lesson so far and the one that made having a bright young dog with a mouthful of very sharp teeth as simple as possible. He is a chewer and we make sure he has acceptable things upon which to chew…not to say that he hasn’t destroyed a few sneakers, flip-flops, pencils, and wire harnesses for sewing machine, headset, video games (finally, the two-legged members of the family have learned that it’s their fault, not his, so no whining when they leave things lying around out of place). I get really irritated with the remarks about cross-bred (mutt?) dogs…they happen. The most motivated and careful owner can have a bitch unintentionally rendezvous with a neighbor if everyone isn’t perfect…and in a rural area, perhaps that’s a little more common. Both of this boy’s parents are good dogs with stable personalities but they are also true-to-type in their instincts and nobody should have one of them unless they are prepared to deal with the dog’s natural bent toward herding, his need to have ‘a job’ to do, and the patience to teach him manners. His crate saves everyone’s nerves and he has begun retreating into it just for a snooze in his ‘cave.’ Happy day! If he really wanted to, I suspect that he could destroy the crate, even though it’s of good quality, but he’s content with it. While I allow him to run in the yards, with someone outside with him, he is not allowed or taken on leash down the road in this area of fairly densely populated lake territory because of the leash laws and because there are other dogs that do on occasion walk/run the road without a human along to control them. Since our boy is half pit bull, he will, of course, be blamed for anything untoward that should occur with an unattended dog. It’s just a fact of life now; the irresponsible breeders and negligent/abusive owners of “pit bulls” have pretty much ruined everyday life for these wonderful dogs.
  2. Robert Says:
    I agree that American Pit Bull Terriers are good dogs, but thier explosive nature is a concern to me when the owners do not take care of these dogs properly. I know that constant abuse & neglect over a period of time takes a toll on these dogs behavior. My fear is you don’t know what will set them off to attack. I have a really great friend that his wife had come home from work in the country and the next-door neighbours 3 pit bulls had dug under his fence and got out roaming around when she arrived home and got out of her car all 3 pit bulls attacked her and draged her over the hill and severly malled her. Her husband got home to find her car door open and heard her screaming over the hill where they had dragged her and left her in terrible condition for many months. I know this doesn’t happen often but you really need some type of self defense protection just in case.
  3. brandon Says:
    This is to Robert, well most people are ignorant of this breed, which is not always there fault due to misguided information and all around rumor, I know from experience and alot of educating. If you take a look way back the breed was not only bread for bull running but this breed was used as a babysitter and took that role and responsibility very well. I would trust my children around this breed anyday but it is as a result in who’s the owner and how well experienced they were when choosing to raise one.. Thank You! Love and all around respect for this dog..
  4. Grace Says:
    I agree that many of the issues we read about with american pitbulls are due to either poor training, lack of care, bad breeding, etc; however, on the flip side I think some advocates for the breed have so much faith in both the breed and their abilities that they ignore the inbred tendencies of dogs in general and this breed in particular.I also know of cases similar to the one Robert mentioned. The common element between them was that there was a pack, not just one. In one of the cases, the dogs burrowed under the fence as well . . . so maybe not having enough exercise was a factor as well.
  5. SitterCity Promotion Code Says:
    Ensure you provide enough socialization for your Pit Bull. Most American Pit Bull Terriers are friendly, but some have protective instincts toward strangers, so they need extensive socialization at an early age so they learn to recognize the normal behaviors of “good guys.” Then they can recognize the difference when someone really does act abnormally.
  6. Deonte Says:
    Okay I want to say I have 5 american pitbulls who have fromed a pack! Some guys broke into my house and they got it handed to them. But ive never once trained them to be mean or not like humans or other animals but if someone comes near me or family they will all stand ground w/o aggression. I do feel bad for Roberts friends. However I do know that neighbors and other people who walk by that do things to dogs of any breed will not forget. And maybe she yelled at them or their owner one day and took their shot to protect their owner.
  7. MasonicGorilla Says:
    I have one full blooded american red nose and she is by far the best dog i have ever owned she saved my life not once but twice the first time she was in the back seat of my car and i was stopped at a red light and two guys tried to car jack me. now mind you that in the seven years she has been alive she has never shown any aggression i mean my kids lay on her the’ve dressed her up in clothes and painted her nails and she just loves it but as the two guys came to the car window she sprang up shot half way out the window from the back seat and clicked her teeth and growled a growled i’ve never heard scared the heck out of the carjackers then got right back in the seat and looked at me like did i do good let me tell you somebody got her own whopper that night
    the second time we decided to take a walk through the park and some punk tried to rob me he pulled a gun aimed it at me and before i could blink my dog tootsie run up the front of this kid and clicked her teeth and grased his nose he dropped the gun and ran scared. so i guess the point is that it is really sad that people don’t think for them self’s and just belive what the news said i mean if you look it up cocker spaniels and small dogs like that bite more often than pits, rots,and other big dogs.
  8. Luis Says:
    I just take an american pitbull puppy (2 months age), I read different points of view bad and good, I like this breed, but I´m new owner I want educate this puppy to will have a very good behavior, but I didn´t know this issue, his parents are the mother and her older brother from other littermate, this pont could be bad to the dog behavior, could be turned agressive later ??? So what kind of first basic training could I give the dog,
  9. garland Says:
    The post that Robert made is the problem with people and american pit bulls. There are many dog attacks over the country. But Robert mentioned, and only wrote about the one attack involving pit bulls. He knows there are other attacks by other breeds, but he only has a concern with pit bull attacks. SO SAD. If you want to talk about a vivious breed, and dog bites, and dog attacks, then let us talk about the chihuahua. That breed will bite because it can.
  10. Amanda Says:
    I just got an American Pit Bull girl about 12 weeks old…. I also have two Red Nose Pits boy and girl 14 weeks and the girls fight all the time what should I do?
  11. Becky Says:
    We had a American Rednose Pit and he was a wonderful dog. Very intelligent and obeyed wonderfully. It says a lot in how you train and raise this breed. They have a bad name in being attackers. Any dog will attack and with pits being a bit stronger it has given them a terrible rap. They are Wonderful Animals if treated good. Mine was hit with a car and now I have another one. Would not have any other breed.
  12. JL Says:
    I think what is terrifying about APBTs attacks is not the dog itself but rather the severity of the injuries inflicted. Literally speaking their shark-type bites. That’s why people tend to comment more on APBTs attacks rather than other dogs aggressive behavior. Same principle like the white shark. Many sharks attack people but the great white shark attacks are the ones to reach the news and mostly reported…
  13. Guy Says:
    I just lost my Ameican Pitbull. His name was Elliot. He was just about to turn 14.He was a great dog. Loyal , Trusting And full of Pride. I had himm with me since he wad 6 wks old and spent the next 14yrs by my side. He loved everything and everybody.There are so many stories about how bad they can be.None of it is true about the dog being bad. Its all the irresponsible dog owners to blame. I am in the process of looking for another i will never have any other breed. They are wonderful dogs. Just wanted to talk about him. He is greatly missed by everyone who knew him. Guy Parodi NJ
  14. Erin Molly Says:
    Since many of you have a fondness for this breed maybe you can help me out. My husband and I recently took in two APBT pups who were set loose by their owner. We live in Houston and the dogs had been living on the owner’s apartment patio in the blazing sun with no water or food and covered in feces. I had reported this the apartment complex and to animal control and they told me they would come get them and put them down. Yesterday when we came home from work the two were out and about and we brought them in, its just too hot. Unfortunatly we cannot keep them. We live in a one-bedroom apartment and we already have two dogs. Is there any organization I can call to come get them and to find them homes? I have no problem keeping them for a little while but they sadly cant stay, too bad because they are two of the sweetest pups Ive met.
  15. Jeff Says:
    The author says “Many owners believe that a dog’s behavior is only influenced by how they are raised and not by any of the breed’s genetic characteristics. Unfortunately, this is not the case.” That fact that it was followed up by listing Malamutes as an aggressive breed makes this article an even bigger joke.
  16. AB Says:
    When american pitbulls attack people, it’s not their fault, it’s the owners fault fot training them that way. They need to be taught right from wrong just like a child. When a child does wrong there are punished, when a child does good they are rewarded. The same thing should happen with a pibull. They need a firm but understanding hand. You can’t let them boss you around, but you can’t abuse them. Treat them as you would your own son or daughter.
  17. bballfolife Says:
    Well i happen to own an American pitbull and he is a very good dog, the best ive seen! i have grown up with this dog since i was 7 yrs old and have had no problem. And before that i had one (r.i.p-Red) and he would let me ride his back, and lay on him, and he was extremely gentle with me when i was a child. From my experience, this is the dog to go for if you have little children. And also pit bulls are NOT the only dogs that attack poeple or other animals ,every time a german shepard attacks someone no one really talks about it. But when a pit attacks someone everyone thinks that they are a dangerous animal and really they are the sweetest dogs in the world. But its all about how you treat them. If your nice and loving, theyll love you back twice as much. If your cruel and hateful toward them, they’re likely to have aggression toward you or someone else.
  18. James Says:
    I Love My Pitt Bull. Golden Retriever’s on record have bitten more people than pitt bulls have. Look it up. I Love My Pitt Bull.
  19. Carol Says:
    Last week, I said goodbye to my pit of 13 years. She was a kind and gentle soul that loved the family, was best friends with several cats, and in the last few years, a loyal companion to my 87-year-old mother who came to live with us. The only aggression in her was to other dogs (some, not all). And as her “parent” it was my responsibility to control the situation and to make sure that everyone remained safe!Have I ever met an aggressive Pit? Yes. I went between one and a small girl many years ago. I found out the dog had broken out of a yard where it was kept isolated and where the person supposedly caring for it was so afraid that she fed it by throwing food out the window to it! Would it have attacked the child? Maybe, if she ran. But it backed down from me, so no harm is done.

    Both my girl and her predecessor, a male pit that I raised from a small puppy, were great with children. And he was not dog aggressive in the least. Nevertheless, it did not stop people from crossing the street when they saw him coming. Such a shame. At worst, he might have licked them to death.

    ANY dog can be aggressive. It is up to the owner to make sure that it is socialized and trained!

  20. Jason K Says:
    I adopted an American Pit bull Terrier and I have to say that this breed is very smart and trainable. I have a wife and 2 children in the house along with a 154 lbs Rott. Both animals get a bad rap. Nylah the (pit) has settled right in and Nikko the (Rott) has accepted her as his sister without any aggression or issues what so ever. The behavior of your animals comes down to the owner. it is, for most the responsibility of a dog owner to spend time with their animals, love their animals and train their animals. When that is done any breed can be the best breed. There was a Pit that had to have a crappy life because she was picked up on a 4 lane highway and when the owners were called they didn’t want to pay the $80 to get her back. She was malnourished, had fled and a nasty cold to boot. We fostered her and finally decided we had to keep her. She is turning out to be one of the best dogs I have ever had the joy of sharing our home with. So for all of you who say watch out for Pitbull’s I say love them, spend time to train them and you will have the best dog ever. Just like humans, you can rehabilitate aggression and almost any type of behavior. It all depends on if it is worth it to you and if you are going to put in the time. Just my opinion.
  21. Dawn Says:
    i saw two responses about losing their pup from 13 yrs and 14 yrs. i know how that is. it has been a couple of yrs since i lost my pup of 14 years. i just adopted my first pitty puppy. in four days i have learned a lot about him. he is energetic but not like the little dogs that seem to run around clueless to whats around them. he has a calmness and a focus. i read about that. i would define an energetic calmness, as of intensity. i can see that my 8week old pup carries a lot of power. i thought to him, id better train you well. people have a right and reason to fear a strange pitbull. not because pitbulls are bad of aggressive, but because bad and aggressive people like to own Pitbulls. a chihuahua may be more prone to bite, but what if a pit was like that. that would be a deadly combination. so would it with many types of large dogs. i am very impressed with pittys and responsible pitty owners. my baby is awesome. he is very smart. now to finish up the housebreaking thing.
  22. Therockdog. Says:
    I had to put my 14-year-old Rott down last year which I raised him from 8 weeks old and have been wanting another one so bad. He was the best dog I have ever had and super smart and VERY lovable. Then one day I was last week I was looking through Craigslist and found some pit puppies that were so cute and my wife use to have Pits when she was younger so I sent the pics to her and said can we please? Later that same day we went and picked up his last one and she was only 6 weeks old. She must have been the runt or just not taken care of very well because her ribs and rear hip bones were sticking out pretty bad so we picked up some supplement power for her and now it is Tuesday and she does not show her ribs and is starting to become very playful. I have never had a pit but have always believed that it is all in how you raise any dog. I have four children and I am not worried that they will be attacked by her because we are very loving parents with the kids and our pets. Shoot our Persian cat lets the puppy lay on him to stay warm. So I know that our Luci will be a great addition to our family and I am glad to have a big dog again in my house. Maybe someday I will be able to get me another Rott because I love that breed they are so smart and loving but you never know I may be turned into a Pit lover now too! Just love them and treat them like family by playing with them loving on them and teaching them right from wrong and all will be well. Our Luci puppy will be joining a training class very soon they said she could start at 10 week old. The first couple of night I had to get up every couple of hours to feed her like a baby but the past couple of night she has slept through the night. We love her already!!!!!!!down with the haters!!!!!
  23. John Says:
    First, to Robert, you are absolutely wrong. They are not “explosive” or ticking time bombs, there is NO scientific proof that this breed has any imbalances that make them snap at a certain age or are more aggressive than your average breed. Second, I MUST disagree with these websites claim that they become aggressive from boredom, that is absurd. Do ALL dogs go to bad behaviors such as barking, chewing, digging, etc from boredom? Absolutely! Just like a child, they are going to get into something if they don’t have an outlet for their energy. However to say they become aggressive from it no one can say honestly, they were bred to for herding bulls among other things as someone stated in the previous psot, not for dogfighting (yes they were used for it, with many other breeds that never get mentioned). I work with animals every day I don’t speak from something I’ve read on the internet, some bias site one way OR the other, I see at LEAST 7 Pitbulls a day (pitbull types *typically what is called a pitbull is a mix of pitbull-type dogs, apbt/amstaff/Staffordshire bull terriers/) and they are almost always friendly to humans and dogs. In fact, the only animal attacks we’ve had at my location were german shepherds and a springer spaniel. Also, so often I come across this sweet dog (pit) that loves humans and LOVES dogs and often in my area their background was either a bait dog, abused, beat, or forced in dog fighting. So I guess that throws a wrench in peoples belief they can’t go from a bad environment to become great pets, an animal starved of love won’t be mean, but when shown love will crave more love. People often don’t even 100% know if they have an APBT or an AmStaff, or an American Bulldog or a Staffordshire bull terrier and this is because of many different back yard breeders, and even UKC and AKC incorrectly registering one, then it breeds and they have papers even though it could be incorrect. I also just read on a website that Pitbulls are responsible for 50% of all fatal dog attacks http://thetruthaboutpitbulls.blogspot.com/2010/08/there-are-three-kinds-of-lies-lies.html, what a crock. How could you blame a breed, when you can’t even be 100% it’s that breed? Also how often to people just assume a pitbull was responsible when it could have been a lab, rott, shep, spaniel, etc. but because of the media, they are peoples first thought, that another “loaded” gun has gone off. It is ignorance, you can’t assume anyone race of dog will have a better temperament then another because there are so many variables. If you take this blogs stance that “oh, well statistically they are responsible for 50% of all fatalities” (which is crap, they don’t provide a source for this information) this stance would be the same as saying “X race of people are likely to commit crimes because statistically, X race is in prison more often than C race”. I’ll leave it with this, typically people don’t even know what they are talking about when they open their mouth, even professionals can’t tell the difference between certain races, let along a crackpot with a blog, its blind discrimination plain and simple.
  24. Kristy Says:
    All I have to say is that I lost my beloved pit bull last Oct. He was only 8yrs old. When he was three nobody could hug my daughter who was pregnant with my first grandson. If my husband and I wrestled Diesel would protect me, but if I touched our daughter he would bark at me. He knew there was a baby. I have pictures of him licking my grandson’s face when he could barely sit up. My brother in law was attacked by a pit bull and ended up with 400 stitches in his face. When my daughter first brought Diesel home at three months I about had a heart attack. I am 54yrs old and have to say I have had my share of dogs, including a very nice police dog from Germany. Diesel by far was the smartest and most family-oriented I have ever had. In Feb. this year my husband decided it was time. We rescued up a 10wk old American Pit Bull pup who was 24hrs from death and he is awesome. He is now almost 9mos and 75lbs and loving all of us!
  25. dan Says:
    to all skeptics, lovers, and haters I want to say that I have an American pit bull terrier who’s now 14 months old and is the smartest, most well mannered, and sweetest dog I have ever owned. to the skeptics; i will say yes I took the time to carefully choose a pup of good bloodlines whose parents I could interact and study, to the haters; rather than judge the breed judge the owner and take the time to get to know one of these dogs as a dog and a friend rather than just the pit bull that you seem to fear so much. and to the lovers; my boy has proved to be so smart and driven to do whatever I instruct him to do whether it be to climb an 8 ft retaining wall or stay in one place untethered for a half an hour, he has even learned the command gentle when were wrestling and he starts to get rough upon which he licks my upturned fist and sits.i beg those of you considering adopting a dog but unsure of whether to adopt an apbt to go to your local rescue or humane society and just spend a little time with these dogs I promise one of them will grow on you with their eager tongues and excitable demeanor, I worked at a pet store that hosted pet adoptions and there wasn’t a single one where I didn’t tape up a tail from wagging it against the cage.
  26. Shine Says:
    I have kids and I want to make sure that when we get a dog for a pet, it has to be a breed that I would be at ease with. I don’t think I am going to get a pit bull. I might get a retriever, they are very gentle dogs.
  27. Ginger Says:
    My daughter became a foster to “adoptable” dogs who were untrained, and she began to love pits through this experience. The last one she had was found wandering the streets. She claimed that he was very well behaved. She has a retriever mix and they got along well. Then a family took him in, but returned him three days later, saying that he lunged at one of them while eating dinner. She eagerly took him back, ate fries and a hamburger in front of him, and he sat down at her feet. But then she had to move and though she rented a pet-friendly place, the landlord only allowed one dog. So mom and dad to the rescue. She called crying that he was the best dog ever, and if he was returned to the shelter he would be put down. Could we please take him in? We did, and for the first week, we had the pit version of Marley. He was horrible! But, not to us. He played rough, and we acquired numerous black and blue marks, mostly from his jumping on our laps! He constantly licked and chewed, but with patience and training, we decided to keep him. He is awesome. So smart. He listens, pays attention, occasionally jumps on a lap, sometimes grabs cushions off the sofa, rips stuffed animals and dog toys to pieces, but is amazing. He loves to meet new people and other dogs. And has no aggressive behavior at all, and he is nearly two years old. By the way, we only gave him six months. That’s how easy he was to train without a professional dog trainer. Love your dog, teach him well, and you’ll have a wonderful pet. (by the way, this dog has no, and I mean no food aggression at all!)
  28. I have just one thing to say…there is NO SUCH THING AS BAD dogs ONLY BAD owners. I had a rotty that my dad rescued from an old friend he’s no longer friends with that would beat him up just because he didn’t have papers. Ozzy was the best Rotty I ever owned and he saved me from getting hit by a drunk. As for Pit Bulls, my best friend used to own one named Max and he was the sweetest dog ever. She also had a black lab and they loved each other. There is no one bad breed.
  29. Aaron Says:
    Pit bulls are not a breed that needs constant stimulation, such as a border collie. To say they may become aggressive if bored is complete garbage. No pit bull I have owned, or any pit bull I know that has been raised properly (the same way any dog should) has shown any type of aggression, and I am not able to entertain my dog 24/7.
  30. Cheena Says:
    I recently adopted an APBT. She is 3.5 months old and she has been SOOOO great with people, especially children, and other animals – cats, dogs, and birds. she is ALL about the love and the only time she has bitten me or anyone else was because we were playing with her. However, right after she “play bit” us we immediately disciplined her and since then she has not done it again. she is a quick learner, calm, and SUPER cute. I look forward to having her by my side for the rest of our days.
  31. Alice Says:
    To Jeff, I think that the author was trying to say that pit bulls have been selectively bred for fighting, so therefore they have it in their genetics. It also depends on how they were raised. And Malamutes have been known to be an aggressive dog.
  32. smitty Says:
    Me and my wife had about a 6-8 mth pit pup walk up to us in our driveway. It was very malnourished and no collar dragging a chain that was wrapped around his neck. My wife and I instantly fell in love with Rock. We had recently been talking about getting a pit. Thanks to Tia Torres. The problem we are having is our 3-year-old Jack Russell Bandit who loves all people and dogs is all of the sudden being aggressive with his food treats and even toys. He had snapped two times at rock. The first time they both went at it the second time rock did nothing. I am worried that I am putting bandit in a dangerous and potentially fatal situation.am I being ignorant? I don’t want to give up on rock because me and my wife felt we were in our driveway at that particular time for a reason. ………….because the man upstairs knew we would do the right thing. Please give us some advice on what to do.
  33. Chelsea Says:
    I have an American pitbull her name, Ellie. And she is my world, my life, and my best friend. I used to have a King Charles and
    That dog didn’t compare to Ellie in any way. I never want any other breed other than a pitbull! I work at a dog hotel and I have been bitten by only small dogs. Never pit bulls. Ever. People don’t understand that if they are trained
    Right they love people! They love to please people. Ellie gets along with all dogs. She is amazing. In my opinion, until you own one don’t judge one. Because people don’t have the room to talk if they have never owned or
    Socialized with them. I don’t think we should even title certain breeds as being
    Aggressive. Because any dog can be, as was stated. Own one it will change your outlook on them. Also, they are
    Extremely smart!!! I love it!
  34. Nina Says:
    I just recently got 2 months old girl Pit…and I have 2 other dogs (Rottie, and Border Collie). Both show dogs and paid a lot of money for these dogs. I have to say my pit Diamond, she is the smartest dog I ever owned…She is only 2 months old but learns really quickly. She loves people, dogs, cats and she has a best friend cat name Lil Mama that she sleeps with every night…they love each other and Lil mama 8 months old…I have Border Collie who is smart but very aggressive with dogs…and Rottie loves kids, dogs, and everything..but I have to say, Pits are not the only one who will bite human, other dogs will to..I know German Shepherd that bit me twice just because he wanted to…but I love pits and i will always get that breed again…People just hear nothing but lies…smh -___-
  35. Kelsey Coleman Says:
    I raised golden retrievers from the time I was 8 I’m 18 now and both of my retrievers have passed away but when I still had them I also had adopted a shelter dog( he is a red nose American put bull and he is a sweet Heart) one day while I was trying to introduce the dogs to one another, my male and female retrievers to my male pitbull, my two golden retrievers attacked Thor( pit) and my female retriever bit me numerous times all the way up my arm as i was trying to protect thor who was laying on the ground pretty much letting them chew on him. My American pit bull had Been a shelter dog and was actually found after breaking a chain and escaping from the previous “owners” after they had been abusing him and using him in fighting rings for who knows how long. Now he is a very loving dog and I have another pit, that is a female named Leigha, who is a beautiful well behaved and loving dog. American pit bull terriers are totally the way to go and I’m never settling for any other breed. Because frankly other breeds just aren’t as good in my opinion.
  36. maurizio Says:
    True, some pits might need some more training than other pits/breeds to be DOG sociable, but most good pits are just born with people skills. I know because my pit pup Chino acted alpha since he was 3 months, and he was living with a 130 lb Rott. After some disciplining, he was good though, but boy was that a battle. Poor Rott would get attacked since the pit was 6 months old and only responded to those attacks on two occasions, and just enough to settle him down, never made him cry or bleed. After maturing, and the Rott passing due to old age I can see that Chino picked up that chill attitude that the Rott exhibited. He is now a show dog, fully socialized to the extent that he can wander through a thick crowd of people w/their pets and not even tremble. In fact, it looks as if he enjoys it, totally relaxed. Pit owners know that when their dog trembles, God forbid he raises his scruff and tail, its not a great sign, its that genetic awareness to be Alpha dog, no matter the means-He’s Game. I, unfortunately, had to show my “alphaness” to Chino to subdue them urges, but by 1 yr old he learned alright he did. LONG LIVE THE APT!!!! VIVA EL PIT BULL AMERICANO!!!! … Peace from Tecate, B.C., Mexico
  37. Lara Says:
    I just lost my sweetheart, Tallulah, a papered APBT on December 13, 2011. We rescued her when she was 1.5 from a potential puppy mill situation; she would have been 16 years old on January 16th. Last night, a vet friend brought us our new rescue, a blue-nosed 8-month-old female APBT who we have named Cara (Gaelic for “Friend”). While my husband and I would have never considered a Pitbull before Tallulah, I can’t imagine life without one now. I’ve never known a dog to be so loyal, so tolerant and patient… I could go on and on. Welcome to all new to this beautiful breed and thanks for the insights and shares from fellow fans =)
  38. SteveH Says:
    I own two Female American Pit Bulls Cheyenne is 3 and Diamond is 1. I have had chey since she was 4 weeks old adopted her from the local city animal control. Diamond we adopted as an abused and neglected from a foster home. Chey was raised around as many people as I could possibly introduce her too, I literally took her to work with me so she could have interaction with other humans outside of us. She has never met a stranger, regardless of age, color, sex she loves everyone. She was also raised around other dogs as many as we could expose her to and she does ok with other dogs but she is surly an alpha. We are still getting diamond settled in, we have only had her about 3 weeks. Diamond is a pink nose blue, very pretty. With her history, we are very careful when we have to correct bad behavior. We introduced our two females slowly because chey is a little protective and has some animal aggression. She seems to dislike horses and other dogs that bark at her. The two girls have bonded and are now friends and spend all day playing. We spend time with our pits outside throwing the ball and chasing them around the yard playing chase. They are def a high energy breed so I would not recommend if you don’t have plenty of yard. I would not have a dog if I could not have a pit. Best dog ever. My Cheyenne plays with the grandkids all the time and has never even offered any aggression toward them or any other human. I am a firm believer in the breed, love the pit. It makes me sick when people ask me how can you owe a pit bull? It’s not my fault they are missing out on the best friend ever. I am very proud to own two pits and if I could I would have more but we are a two-dog family. If you want a great friend, loyal companion, trustworthy pet get a Pit. Raise it right and you will see they are the monsters people has mislabeled them as.
  39. BRAD Says:
    I have a 5 yr old male American pit bull .i use to train german shepherds and agree that shepherds are smart dogs but the pit I have by far would make any Shepard look stupid. He loves me and is protective of me but he is the most loving dog I’ve ever had by far. he loves my kids as much as they love him
  40. Todd Says:
    My dog was attacked by a [staffy] American pitbull, 1 min they were wagging tails, touching noises, the next the pitbull was on top of my dog [border collie ] no warning (part of their breeding…) the owner felt confident not to leash their pit ?!? bad call anywhere I’d think. These dogs are very dangerous, unpredictable, you should probably be licensed just to own one, there’s a reason some cities are banning them. Like any good parent, you are all protective, dodding over your pets, but you can’t deny over 2000 years of bad breading i.e. these dogs are [cross] breed for one thing and one thing only, fighting/killing. No one is selectively breeding the aggressive/ fighting nature out of these dogs, NO ONE. “socializing” “plenty of exercise” is not going to cut it…. These dogs are rightfully set as a “dangerous breed” and need to be handled with extreme caution; they answer/loyal only to their taskmaster (maybe….) so parents good luck ! and keep your checkbooks open! the owner of that pitbull is going to pay for the vet bills….
  41. Alfonso Fread Says:
    Terriers should always be on a lead……………………………………..
  42. Christie Says:
    All I have to say to all you ignorant people are before passing judgment on one of the most amazing breeds is own one before you judge. I have a 2 yr old red nose name rocky. It makes me sick that because they are strong it’s their fault. People think it’s funny to try and provoke a dog that they know will not back down. They are probably the most affectionate dogs out there.
    Just because some people are murderers doesn’t mean we all think about that.If it ain’t pit it ain’t shit!
  43. Christie Says:
    And to Todd u really are an idiot. You should be banned as being a human being.
  44. tom Says:
    I have a half pit half staff 15 months old and she’s docile as anything but 2 full pitbulls and a full staffy all adults attacked her a few days ago it was horrible but I do agree with the fact it being how they’re raised nd the owners weren’t even tryna stop it its dogs like that who give pitbulls a bad name
  45. Austin Says:
    I have a Rednose and he is the kindest dog I have ever owned. It is sad that Pitbulls have such a bad reputation. I would trust a pitbull before any other cuddly dog. He is loyal, sensitive, and a great friend. Its funny because my wife’s Yorkie is even able to chase and scare off my dog. Imagine a 15 lb Yorkie running off a 120 lb dog. he is such a baby and that is why i love him.
  46. Nicole Says:
    To Todd, and any other ignorant human: This is true that staffy’s were bred to fight, originally for bullbaiting, but when your dog got attacked I can 100% guarantee that there were signs the other dogs were showing that you, and their owner, were unaware of. No dog attacks without warning. Any dog, large or small, has the capability to inflict damage on another, so please do not try to blame one over the other breeds. With the proper owner, strict training and socialization WILL subside their strong instincts.
  47. Jake Says:
    Nicole is right here. There are signs that hindsight are obvious to the owner. It is YOUR responsibility to watch over your dog. That being the case, sometimes you don’t know where to start when you need to train your dog. I have a bullmastiff (Tebow) and struggled to train him. After doing some research and talking to some dog training professionals I came up with a sort of task list to follow.