— Breed of the Month —

Pit Bull Terrier

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Breed Traits and Characteristics

According to Dogtime.com, here are some breed characteristic you can find in Pit Bull Terriers. 

 

  • Height

    17-19 inches

  • Weight

    30-85 pounds

  • Life Expectancy

    12-16 years

  • Coat Type/Length

    Smooth/Short

  • 100 Affectionate with Family
  • 100 good with young children
  • 20 good with other dogs
  • 80 trainability level
  • 80 energy level
  • 60 barking level
  • 80 shedding level
  • 20 drooling level

History

The American Pit Bull Terrier originates in Europe, where English, Irish, and Scottish breeders began crossing Bulldogs and Terriers for blood sports, including bull and bear baiting. The Pit Bull needed strength, determination, formidability, fearlessness, agility, and tenacity – all of which became characteristic of the breed.

Immigrants brought the Pit Bull to the United States, where farmers and ranchers harnessed its many talents for use around their properties. The breed’s sweet, loving way around people did not go unnoticed, and farmers began bringing Pit Bull Terriers into their home, where they became “nanny dogs” because of their gentleness around children.

The Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a purebred breed recognized by the United Kennel Club and American Dog Breeders Association, but not the American Kennel Club (who instead recognize the similar American Staffordshire Terrier and Staffordshire Bull Terrier). They are medium-sized, solidly built, and highly intelligent shorthair dogs, full of strength, confidence, and enthusiasm.

American Pit Bull Terriers are highly adaptable but do require proper socialization and education because of their power and varying levels of aggression towards other dogs. This trait rarely extends to humans, however, and their loyalty, stability, and love of children makes them an extremely popular family dog.

Pit Bull Terrier Breed Facts

Physical Characteristics

The Pit Bull we know today combines characteristics of several purebred breeds, including the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the American Pit Bull Terrier, the American Bully, and the American Staffordshire Bull Terrier. There are also several breeds in possession of shared characteristics that shelters will sometimes categorize as “Pit Bull-type” dogs or label as Pit Bulls: Staffordshire Terriers, Boxers, Rottweilers, Bulldogs, and more.

The American Pit Bull Terrier is medium-sized, solidly built, and possesses a smooth, well-defined musculature. The United Kennel Club guidelines specify a broad, flat skull and wide, deep muzzle, along with a relatively short tail and small- to medium-sized ears. On average, the breed is more prone to hip dysplasia, but breeding has helped mitigate the problem.

Personality & Temperament

Pit Bulls are confident, outgoing, and love life. These loyal, trustworthy dogs are perfectly content to laze about, but will have bursts of energy when it’s time for a toy, walk, or other activities with their families. Their zeal and desire to please is contagious, and they are great around children – their love of humans, however, means they are not a great choice as guard dogs!

Because of the breed’s agility and intelligence, Pit Bull owners should have proper fencing at home to avoid any acrobatic escapes. The breed can also be aggressive towards other dogs, so early, consistent training is a must to avoid future behavioral issues at home or out and about.

Breed Traits

Class

  • Terrier Group

Color

  • Blue, Black, Blue & White, Tan & White, White with Blue or Black spots, White, Backskin (soft fawn color)

Size

  • Medium
  • Height: 18-21 inches (male), 17-20 inches (female)
  • Weight: 35-60 pounds (male), 30-50 pounds (female)

Other Traits

  • Large, broad head in proportion to body size
  • High set ears

Life Expectancy

  • The American Pit Bull Terrier has a life expectancy of 12 to 16 years.

Training Your Pit Bull Terrier

Pit Bulls have never been known to walk away from a fight, but the generally won’t start one. It is important to socialize them properly from an early age to avoid behavioral issues. It is best to allow your Pit Bull puppy to mature, then introduce them to dogs of similar age and energy levels. Start first with family members, then calm, non-aggressive neighbor dogs before going to the dog park.

Pit Bulls typically take an upfront, confident approach towards interactions with other dogs that can frighten more timid ones. Teaching your Pit Bull to remain calm around other dogs and not rush the introduction can pay real dividends.

Pit Bulls generally have few breed-specific health issues.

Pit Bulls are very intelligent and love to play, so entertainment is a must to eliminate over-exuberance, chewing, and destructive behavior. Balls or puzzle toys stimulate a dog’s natural desire to chew and can keep them amused.

All dogs need a special place to call their own. By selecting a place for yours to eat and sleep away from high traffic areas of your home, you can set good habits early in its life.

Prevention is far more preferable to a cure – early basic obedience training is vitally important to ensure your Pit Bull understands and follows your rules.

If you are thinking of purchasing a Pit Bull, it is important to source from a responsible breeder who is breeding for not only looks, but health and temperament as well. Rescues are also great options for prospective Pit Bull owners. Contact your local Bark Busters trainer today to learn about great breeders and rescue organizations near you!

We are standing by to help you develop a consistent, compassionate approach to good behavior for your Pit Bull. Learn more about our services and schedule an appointment with one of our trainers today!

Bark Busters Trainer Jeff Drier on the American Pit Bull Terrier

Pit Bull Terriers have an undeserved reputation for being dangerous, aggressive dogs. The vast majority are sweet, wonderful, and make great family pets. Like every dog, they need an education to learn how to fit into our lives, but they are not the fearsome monsters that many people believe. When I think of Pit Bulls, I always remember a big, imposing-looking four-year-old named Tank.

The couple who called me owned an auto repair shop, where they and Tank spent their days. Tank had started growling at everyone (including them) and they were worried that he was going to bite someone. The final straw came when Tank growled at them when they went to give him his dinner.

I agreed to meet them at their shop, and when I arrived, I noticed Tank was chained at the far end of their lot. I needed to gather more information before developing a plan for him; I asked when they got Tank (when he was a puppy) and what he was like when they adopted him (always playful and very affectionate). I asked when he started growling at everyone and they told me that it was after they decided to make him their night watchman, leaving him at the shop at night to protect it. I asked if he had ever been protective before and they told me that, prior to his new duties, he had always been friendly to everyone.

I realized what had happened: Tank, who was a sweet, gentle dog, did not understand why he was being left alone at night at the shop – he was feeling confused, scared, and stressed. To test my theory, I asked if his owners if they had any of Tank’s toys around. They found one of his balls and handed it to me. I asked them to get Tank and walk him around a little bit. Every time they started towards me Tank started growling and would get stiff. The third time they started towards me I started to bounce the ball.

Tank’s demeanor changed immediately: he stopped growling; his mouth, which had been clamped shut, opened; his eyes began to soften. I then asked them to drop the leash. They hesitated, asking if I was sure, and I told them I was positive. They timidly dropped the leash and I bounced the ball toward Tank. He pounced on it like a puppy, then brought it right back to me with a low wagging tail. I tossed it again; he brought it back enthusiastically. I did this a couple of more times, then handed the ball to Tank’s owner and told him to play with him.

While they played, we talked. I found out there had been some break-ins at nearby businesses, which was why they had been leaving Tank at the shop at night. Tank looked intimidating, but his temperament wasn’t suited to being a guard dog – instead, his stress was causing him to act out, just like a person being put in a situation they are not equipped to handle.

Dogs are social creatures, and in the wild they will ostracize sick or injured pack members who are no longer assets to the group. Tank’s canine instinct was telling him he was being ostracized by his pack (his owners) when they left him alone at night, but he was also being fed by them to stay alive, which wouldn’t have happened in the wild. This contradiction left him confused and stressed.

I suggested a couple of actions for the couple. First, I advised they fire Tank as a guard dog and get a security system to protect the property instead. Second, I suggested they instead make Tank the customer greeter, which was a better fit for his personality. I left confident that he would go back to normal with these changes.

I returned a couple of weeks later and was happy to find they had taken my advice. I was greeted by tail-wagging Tank, slobbery ball in his mouth, happy as could be. I also noticed the addition of newly mounted security cameras – Tank had been relieved from his guard duties and was thriving in his new, more friendly role!

Fortunately, Tank’s situation had an easy solution and a happy ending. If your dog is showing signs of stress, call your Bark Busters trainer as soon as possible. Bark Busters trainers are experts at understanding dogs and their behavior. Once we identify the underlying stressor(s), we can develop action plans to mitigate the issues – and lead the way to happier dogs and families.

Pit Bull Terrier Grooming

Pit Bulls have short, low maintenance fur coats that tend not to retain bad odors. Baths are recommended once a month but can be as infrequent as every six months. While daily brushings are not necessary, most Pit Bulls enjoy them, and they are vital for achieving a shiny coat by spreading natural oils and removing dead skin.

Tips for Every Dog Owner

Owner Taking Dog on Walk on Leash

One Step at a Time: A Guide to Successful Dog Walking

Walking our dogs is a great source of exercise for both pets and pet parents. It not only helps keep our canine companions healthy and physically and mentally stimulated, but also strengthens the bond between us. There are several factors for pet parents to consider, however, to keep walks fun and safe for all.

Dogs at Dog Park

Tips for Every Dog - Socialization

Dogs are social animals and like to be part of a structured social group. In the wild, their pack provides this purpose, but in the domesticated world, this consists of the humans they live with and other animals that live in your home.

Large Group of Dogs of Various Breeds

Tips for Every Dog - Four Basic Needs

At Bark Busters, we believe that every dog has four basic needs. When these needs aren’t being met, misbehavior will likely follow.

Bark Busters Dog Trainers Training Two Dogs

Tips for Every Dog - Why Training?

All dogs need some form of training and education. Love is vital to the bond you and your dog share, but on its own and without all the other elements of a strong relationship, your dog won’t feel fully fulfilled.

Hear from Bark Busters Clients Who Have a Pit Bull Terrier

My pit bull Sophie had some bad habits, mainly barking and separation anxiety. A friend recommended Bark Busters. After two lessons, her behavior is literally night and day. Stephanie taught us how to communicate better and show leadership so Sophie wouldn't try and take on the role of pack leader. She is much less stressed out. I can leave the house without her crying, and she doesn't bark at the door anymore. I'm staying on top of the training. Highly recommend!
Back in February, I rescued Maple, my 3 year old pitbull mix from Mexico. She is the sweetest dog and loves humans, but immediately I noticed her anxiety and aggression towards other dogs. She was making accidents in the house daily, growling/pouncing/air- biting at other dogs on our walks and would jump on people when they tried to say hello. After multiple complaints of her behavior from my neighbors, I was at my wits end- frustrated and extremely anxious especially when I would take her out, scared I was going to come into contact with other dogs. I found Bark Busters on Yelp and connected with them immediately. The intake process was extremely thorough and I was set up to work with Justin a few weeks after I reached out.

To be honest, I had no idea what to expect when I booked the appointment. The reviews on Yelp seemed promising so I was hopeful, but still very worried that Maple wasn't going to be receptive of help. I. Cannot. Rave. About. Justin. Enough. I don't think there is anything I can say that will explain how grateful I am for him. JUSTIN IS BEYONNNDD INCREDIBLE. Not only is he one of the most personable people ever, but he took time to explain to me the psychology behind Maple's misbehavior. I was able to understand what was going on and why my other attempts in correcting her behavior weren't working/ why what he was about to teach me was going to be successful. Justin exudes confidence and made me feel empowered when modeling how to redirect her. He was patient with the both of us, encouraging and validating all my anxieties though the whole process, the list goes on... He is clearly so knowledgeable about his craft and I honestly do not know how I got so lucky to be paired with him. In just two days, I have noticed major improvement. She no longer lunges at dogs and she walks right next to me on our strolls. I know it may sound absurd that he was able to create this much change in just a 2- hour session, but he is a MIRACLE WORKER!! I am just blown away!

Thank you, Justin for being so passionate and helpful with us. You changed our lives!
We have a blue nose, pitbull, named Blue Bear. We were training him ourselves off of videos on YouTube. At six months old, I started looking for a trainer. It took me four months before I finally just told myself I had to pull the trigger and called Bark Busters and boy am I glad I got it right the first time. After just a couple of hours of training us, and reinforcing it with Blue Bear we had an entirely different dog that was calm, happy, and responsive to us. I did not believe that it would happen that fast. It was a joy to work with Patrick. He’s very dedicated to dogs and their parents. He explained everything to us, and answered all of our questions, and worked with us in our own home. It was a very seamless transition to a very well behaved loving dog when explaining why we needed to do the things we did. It all came together and made so much sense. I’m a retired nurse, and I do love to work with rationales behind what you do. My husband is very impressed which is hard to do. My daughter came over this morning and was amazed at how well behaved Blue Bear was. Looking forward to. Continued success with our beloved Blue Bear. Thank you Patrick, and Bark Busters.
We were so pleased with our time with Ruth! She gave us some great tips and was so encouraging. Colt is a pit bull living with three golden retrievers who are best of friends. He stays to himself most of the time but when they are in a group he can sometimes get aggressive. Ruth taught us to say “easy” to the goldens which calms Colt down from the activity and let’s him know he is not threatened. We are seeing results from this!
I highly recommend Ruth to train your dog.

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