Pit Bull

Pit Bull: Dog Breed Information Guide

Pit bull-type dogs make for sweet, loving family dogs. If you’re thinking about adopting one of these lovable pups, you’ll need to know how to care for your new furry best friend properly.

At Spot Pet Insurance, we know that pets deserve the best. That includes working to understand them. We want to provide you with the information you need on your journey to being a good pet parent.

Today, we’ll be looking at the American pit bull terrier specifically. There are quite a few different types of pit bull, like the American Staffordshire terrier. The American pit bull terrier is one of the most recognizable breeds of pit bull.

If you want to adopt an American pit bull terrier, you’ll want to know about their needs and habits to provide them with the best life possible.

Pit bulls: An introduction to the breed

The American pit bull terrier is roughly 17 to 19 inches tall and can weigh up to 85 pounds.

In terms of physical characteristics, they are big dogs and they tend to be well muscled. Purebred pit bulls also have sturdy, square heads and very strong jaws. Contrary to popular belief, however, they don’t have locking jaws.

These pups may look intimidating, but they’re as sweet when properly trained and shown love and affection.

What are the origins of the pit bull?

Pit bulls are a mix of English bulldogs and tan terriers. Crossbreeding was intended to make them more agile and easier for breeders to handle. This type of dog first appeared in the United Kingdom in the 19th century.

They were occasionally brought into farms for herding purposes, but their instincts are not as strong as those of other herding breeds.

Though they can get a bad rap, when these mixed breed dogs are properly trained and cared for, pit bulls make wonderful and sweet pets. In fact, an American pit bull terrier played the original Pete the Pup in the movie Little Rascals.

What are the types of pit bull?

Although we will be focusing on the American pit bull terrier, there are several varieties of this family pet. The bully breeds include:

What is the personality of a pit bull like?

Pit bulls are very affectionate with their dog owners. They can be friendly toward strangers when they are properly socialized.

Pit bulls love their owners and are known to be protective of their humans, although they might try to make friends with a stranger that comes to your door. They do make good guard dogs and will warn the household of any strange behavior happening around your home.

An American pit bull terrier is fairly easy to train through reward-based behavioral lessons. They can be stubborn when they want to be, so they respond best to positive encouragement, praise, and treats. They want to make you proud and happy.

Do pit bulls get along with children?

Pit bulls are incredibly loyal to their families, gentle with children, and friendly toward strangers if they are well-socialized.

They are gentle and love to play, and just like any pet in the house, pitties should be supervised while engaging with visitors.

Pit bulls are known to have a high pain tolerance, so they are patient when being poked and prodded by small hands but it’s always best to teach children how to be gentle.

Do pit bulls get along with other dogs?

Pit bulls vary in their comfort levels with other dogs, primarily depending on how much socialization they get. It’s good to introduce your pup to new places, people, and other animals. Like all doggy introductions, pits should be on a leash during new experiences to ensure their safety and others.

Consult with a behaviorist expert to understand your pit bull’s personality.

How to care for pit bulls

Training isn’t all you’ll need to do to care for a pit bull. There are many other aspects of doggy care, some of which are more time-consuming than others.

What is the pit bull’s coat like?

Pitties have short, single layer coats. They tend to look very sleek and shiny.

What colors are pit bulls?

Pit bull coats come in many different colors:

Are pit bulls hypoallergenic?

Pit bulls aren’t considered hypoallergenic dogs. Hypoallergenic dog groups are those that tend to lose less hair or shed less dander, which is dead skin attached to hair similar to dandruff. Many people with allergies are sensitive to dander and often choose a dog that does not shed to avoid the symptoms of a reaction.

Grooming a pit bull

Like most dogs, a pit bull needs to have their nails clipped occasionally. You’ll also need to brush their teeth regularly and check for ear infections.

They don’t require as much brushing as breeds like golden retrievers or huskies. Once a week or so should be enough to help remove dead hair and dust or dirt that they have a tendency to collect when they’re outside.

How to be the best parent for a pit bull

Wondering how to keep your pit bull happy and healthy? Read below for tips about exercise, diet, and everyday care to keep your furry family member happy and healthy.

Basic training and behavior etiquette for your pit bull

Although they aren’t as energetic as some breeds, pit bulls require exercise to ensure they don’t get too antsy from being cooped up inside all day.

What foods should a pit bull never eat?

It’s always best to avoid giving this American dog any of the following foods:

Pit Bull life stages

Pit bulls typically live for about 12 years.

Below are the stages in a pit bull’s life.

Puppyhood: 0-12 months

Adulthood: 1-7 years

Senior: 7-12 years