Pitbull

Breed Description

The modern American Pit Bull Terrier, or Pit Bull for short, is a descendant of a dog breed that was developed in the USA and England for about 200 years. In addition to terriers, its ancestors included old bulldogs. Dog fighting has a long tradition in England and North America, dating back to ancient times. Old bulldogs were sent to fight bulls in arenas for animal fights. Although these bulldogs are predecessors of the modern English bulldog, they were much closer in build to the modern Pit Bull. After animal fights were officially banned, they continued illegally; in the USA, they still occur today. In illegal conditions, old bulldogs were crossbred with terriers, which was formally prohibited due to the dangers posed by the resulting hybrids.

Thus, in the 19th century, breeds like “bullterrier and terrier” were created in the industrial areas of England and quickly made their way to the USA, where they became known as “Pit Bulls.” The term “Pit” refers to the ring of dog fights. In 1898, the United Kennel Club (UKC) was established, which exists to this day and took on the breeding of these dogs. UKC was and remains primarily a professional organizer of dog fights, causing a divide in society regarding these dogs.

True Pit Bull enthusiasts condemned dog fighting and sought to have friendly family dogs. Meanwhile, Pit Bulls gained a strong reputation in American society. During World War I, the courage of Pit Bulls inspired the bolstering of the combat strength of American troops. Even celebrities like President Theodore Roosevelt were seen with Pit Bulls. The “Little Rascals” became extremely popular in theaters-a gang of children with their dogs. Between 1922 and 1944, 220 films were made.

The Pit Bull served as a guardian and protector for children, a playmate, and a comforter. The ideal image of a child and family-friendly dog is the Pit Bull! To stand out from the dubious dog breeding community, enthusiasts of family-friendly Pit Bulls began calling their dogs “Staffordshire Terriers,” and later “American Staffordshire Terriers.” In 1936, they were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club and subsequently by the FCI. The American Staffordshire Terrier Club, which has always unambiguously condemned dog fighting and advocated for breeding them as family dogs, continues to care for this esteemed breed today.

Today, “Pit Bull” is a general term for dogs resembling the American Pit Bull Terrier and-hopefully-possessing the same temperament, which are not officially recognized and often sadly not seriously bred. Frequently, dogs from this environment make negative headlines in the hands of unscrupulous owners.

The price for a puppy ranges from 30,000 to 50,000 rubles.

Appearance

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a medium-sized dog, impressive, very strong, and at the same time elegant. It has a short, dense, smooth, and shiny coat that closely adheres to its body, emphasizing its muscular, athletic build.

The height of a pit bull ranges from 45 to 55 centimeters, and the weight from 17 to 27 kilograms. However, there is no official standard from an authoritative breeding organization.

Experience shows that the American Pit Bull Terrier has a good build and a relatively long lifespan (around 12 years) because breeding focuses more on physical condition and temperament rather than appearance.

These dogs are beautiful and striking, but their appearance is secondary to their intelligence and gentle nature. Pit bulls are loving and devoted family pets, ready to show affection and loyalty to their owners. While their looks may impress, their tender character and outstanding qualities highlight their magnificent inner nature.

Отличительные черты

Голова

The head is of medium size, proportionate to the body, with prominent cheekbones and a strong skull. The forehead is flat, with a barely noticeable transition to the muzzle, which emphasizes the dog's confidence and focus.

Морда

The head is powerful, of medium length, with well-developed muscles. The nose is wide, with large nostrils, which provides the pit bull with excellent sense of smell. The color of the nose can vary depending on the coat color.

Уши

The ears are small or medium-sized, set high, often cropped, although natural ears with soft tips are also seen and emphasize the dog's natural appearance.

Глаза

The eyes are oval or round in shape, medium-sized, and widely spaced. They have a lively and intelligent expression that reflects the dog's attentiveness and confidence. The color of the eyes varies, most often matching the color of the coat.

Зубы

The teeth are large, with a powerful scissor-like bite. The jaws are strong, with well-developed muscles, which makes the pit bull's grip reliable and strong.

Корпус

The body is sturdy, with a wide chest that provides lung capacity for endurance. The back is straight and strong, with a smooth transition to a strong lumbar region. The lines of the body highlight the dog's athleticism and strength.

Конечности

The limbs are straight, well-muscled, and with strong bones. The front legs are straight and strong, while the hind legs have pronounced angles in the joints, providing a powerful push during movement. The paws are compact and oval-shaped, with sturdy pads, allowing the dog to move confidently and nimbly.

Хвост

The tail is short, set low, thick at the base and tapering towards the end. When at rest, it hangs down, but when moving, it is held high, emphasizing the dog's confidence and energy.

Шерсть

The fur is short, smooth, tightly fitting to the body, shiny, and pleasant to the touch. It highlights the muscular build of the pit bull and does not require complicated care. The color is varied: it can be solid, spotted, or brindle, with any color variations.

Окрас

The color of a pit bull varies, but it is always vibrant and accentuates its expressive appearance. Combined with its powerful build, every part of the pit bull's body showcases its strength, confidence, and loyalty.

Character

Pit bulls, despite their long history of misunderstanding and bias, are a breed with a unique and loving character. They have become loyal companions to many families due to their incredible devotion and intelligent behavior.

One of the key aspects of pit bulls’ character is their friendliness. They possess an extraordinary love for their owners and children, often becoming gentle and affectionate companions. Their attentiveness to family members makes them excellent babysitters and reliable watchdogs.

The American pit bull terrier, when properly raised and socialized, is a calm dog. They are very alert and intelligent. They are extremely strong, brave, and possess a high potential for fighting qualities. At the same time, they are incredibly loving, loyal, and affectionate, even devoted to their people. They tend to be neutral towards strangers.

Pit bulls are good-natured and have an exceptionally high tolerance for irritants. Particularly in the 1990s, some dogs became aggressive due to questionable breeders and owners, as they were wildly crossbred and used as living weapons. Selective breeding can make even Chihuahuas or miniature poodles aggressive over several generations, and in the hands of unsuitable owners and without proper socialization, they can become dangerous dogs. Pit bulls are victims, not criminals. When raised correctly, they can be excellent family dogs and wonderful companions.

In addition to love and loyalty, pit bulls are also known for their intellectual expressiveness. They learn new commands and tasks easily, making them great candidates for various types of training. With their intelligence and desire to please their owners, pit bulls excel in training and can become outstanding participants in obedience, agility, and other competitions.

However, like all breeds, socialization plays a vital role in shaping the character of pit bulls. With proper exposure to different situations and interactions with other dogs and people, pit bulls can show their friendliness and become balanced and friendly partners in any environment.It is important to note that despite their loving nature, pit bulls can be protective of their family. Their strong pack instinct and exceptional physical strength make them excellent watchdogs, ready to defend their loved ones when necessary.Overall, pit bulls are not only beautiful and muscular dogs but also sensitive, intelligent, and loyal companions. Proper upbringing, love, and care transform them into wonderful pets, capable of bringing endless happiness and joy to their owners.

Care and Maintenance

Caring for and maintaining a pit bull is not just a responsibility but also a wonderful opportunity to build a harmonious relationship with this unique breed of dog. The health and happiness of a pit bull depend on a combination of proper nutrition, physical activity, socialization, and attention to its physical and emotional well-being.

Proper nutrition plays a key role in ensuring the health of a pit bull. Choosing high-quality food that matches its age and activity level is the first step. It’s important to monitor their activity levels and control their diet by providing balanced portions to maintain optimal weight and health.

Physical activity is another crucial component of care. Pit bulls have remarkable energy and love to play. Regular walks, running, playing with a ball, and other physical activities not only satisfy their natural needs but also strengthen the bond with the owner.

Socialization is also an essential part of caring for a pit bull. This breed is known for its love of people, but like all dogs, they need regular interactions with other dogs and humans. This helps develop a stable and balanced character.

Grooming a pit bull is incredibly simple: their short, smooth coat requires minimal care. Regular brushing, especially during shedding seasons, will help maintain the health of their skin and coat.

The American Pit Bull Terrier does not have specific dietary requirements. Naturally, high-quality food is beneficial for their health and is enjoyable for them. Like most dogs, they also love beef bones and fresh meat. Commercial dog food is also suitable for an American Pit Bull Terrier.A pit bull is not just a dog; it is a family member, and therefore, its emotional well-being is also important. Cuddles, playtime, and positive attention contribute to a happy and balanced pit bull.Caring for a pit bull’s health also includes regular vet visits for preventive check-ups and vaccinations. Early detection of potential problems allows for timely measures to maintain health and ensure a long and happy life for this amazing companion.

Training and Education

Training and education of a pit bull are important elements that shape its behavior, strengthen the bond with the owner, and create a stable, balanced character. Despite stereotypes, pit bulls are intelligent and trainable dogs, ready to show loyalty and serve as reliable companions.

The first step to successful training is establishing clear rules and boundaries, as well as implementing positive reinforcement. Pit bulls are sensitive to rewards and praise, so using treats, play, or attention as incentives is a powerful motivational tool. Negative methods, such as physical punishment or scolding, are generally ineffective and can lead to negative consequences.

Socialization is also a key component of pit bull training. It is important to provide opportunities for the dog to meet different people, children, other dogs, and various environments. This helps build the pit bull’s resilience to different situations and contributes to a balanced character.

American pit bull terriers are not demanding regarding external conditions. However, they are not dogs that are satisfied with just a few walks around the block. They need mental and physical stimulation. Even at a puppy stage, it is essential to establish who is the leader in the household-this should never be in doubt. It is your special duty to train this type of dog well so that they never appear as a threat to others.

The pit bull is a vibrant, playful four-legged friend that loves to explore the surroundings. They are suited for all types of dog sports and make good guard dogs. American pit bull terriers are commonly included in lists of potentially dangerous breeds. In some countries, there are very strict regulations. You can expect that people may react negatively to you because of your dog on the street. American pit bull terriers require very consistent training from a young age.

Command training is based on a gradual, step-by-step process. Pit bulls often excel at basic commands such as “sit,” “lie down,” “stay,” and “no.” Once the basics are mastered, you can move on to more complex tasks and tricks. It is important to maintain the dog’s interest and remember to use rewards.Active physical activity also serves as an effective means of training and managing the energy of a pit bull. Regular walks, running, playing ball, and other exercises not only contribute to physical health but also help manage possible hyperactivity.It is important to understand the individual characteristics of a pit bull and its training needs. Some may exhibit a certain degree of independence, and effective training requires patience, consistency, and love. A positive approach, combining patience and rewards, will help create a strong bond between the owner and the pit bull, which will, in turn, lead to the development of a friendly and balanced character in this amazing breed. Find your puppy through trusted sources.

How to Choose a Puppy

Choosing a Pit Bull puppy is a responsible and important step that requires attention to many aspects, from selecting a breeder to inspecting the puppy and its parents. Here are several key steps to help you make an informed and correct choice.

Research the Breed. Before you start choosing a puppy, thoroughly study the breed characteristics of Pit Bulls. Understand their temperament, needs, size, care requirements, and training. This will help you assess how well the breed matches your expectations and capabilities.

Choosing a Breeder. The federal portal Zooinika provides a list of verified breeders from across Russia. Pay attention to the breeder’s reputation. Read reviews, inquire about their experience, and check if they monitor the health and behavior of their dogs. A good breeder cares for their animals, providing them with proper nutrition and living conditions.

Health of the Parents. Inspect the parents of the future puppy. Ensure both parents are in good physical and mental health. Check their veterinary records and confirm they have undergone all necessary tests for hereditary diseases.

Socialization. It’s important for puppies to be socialized. A good breeder focuses on training and interaction of the puppies with other dogs and people. A well-socialized puppy will be more confident and calm in various situations.

Inspecting the Puppy. When visiting the breeder, pay attention to the puppy itself. It should be active, curious, with clean fur, ears, and eyes. Observe its behavior-a healthy puppy should be playful, lively, and show interest in the surrounding world.Questions for the Breeder. Don’t hesitate to ask the breeder questions. Inquire about the care of the puppies, vaccinations, and care recommendations. A caring breeder will always be ready to share information and provide necessary documentation.Contract. Before purchasing a puppy, enter into a contract with the breeder. It should outline the sale conditions, health guarantees, and information about vaccinations and microchipping.If you want to buy an American Pit Bull Terrier, you should consider that this is a so-called “dangerous breed.” You must be prepared for related restrictions imposed by the government and society throughout your life. Concerns about owning this breed are quite justified. Since serious breeding of Pit Bulls does not exist, it is better to seek an “American Staffordshire Terrier” or “Staffordshire Bull Terrier.” Find breeders associated with one of the three clubs under VDH for

Health and Diseases

The health of pit bulls is an essential part of their care, and proper attention to health aspects plays a crucial role in ensuring they live a happy and long life. Like many other breeds, pit bulls can be prone to certain diseases, but with the right care and attention, most of them can be prevented or successfully treated.

One of the most common issues in pit bulls is allergies. This may manifest as skin irritations, itching, or respiratory symptoms. It is important to monitor the dog’s diet, avoiding potential allergens, and to have regular veterinary visits to assess the condition of the skin and coat.

A very important aspect of caring for a pit bull is weight management. Pit bulls have a predisposition to being overweight, which can lead to various health problems, such as arthritis, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Regular exercise and a proper diet will help keep them in optimal shape.

Another condition common in pit bulls is hip dysplasia. This hereditary issue can cause pain and limping. Regular veterinary check-ups and weight management can aid in the early detection and management of this condition.

Heart disease is also a concern for pit bulls, so it’s vital to pay attention to heart health and have regular medical check-ups. As with any dog, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care are also important aspects of ensuring a pit bull’s overall health.

Watch for behavioral changes in your dog, such as loss of appetite, decline in activity, or unusual behavior, as these can signal potential health issues. Regular veterinary visits and responsible ownership will help identify and prevent many diseases, providing your pit bull with a full and healthy life.The American Pit Bull Terrier is not an officially recognized dog breed. It appears on almost all lists of “dangerous dogs.” Since serious breeding of pit bulls is virtually non-existent, it is better to look for an “American Staffordshire Terrier” or “Staffordshire Bull Terrier” to minimize the risk of getting a dog with a bad temperament. Thinking about it? There’s a huge selection of ads across cities on Zoonica’s map.