When it comes to pets, there will always be the eternal debate between having a cat or a dog. Each one has its particularities, and good reasons to be loved equally, but there are always preferences for each person. However, those who love dogs, given the great diversity of breeds, shapes, sizes, colors and characteristics, there are also preferences according to a series of criteria that varies from person to person. Many are satisfied with the aesthetics of the dog, but many others want it to be able to serve as a guardian for a house, or for other types of purposes, that is where the American Pit Bull Terrier comes in.
Next, you will discover about the characteristics and everything you need to know about the American Pit-bull Terrier, which is, by the way, one of the best guard dog options.
Origin of the American Pit-bull Terrier
It arose from the Bull and terrier breed. An extinct breed of a cross between the Old English Bulldog and Terriers, which were imported into the United States sometime in the 19th century. The terrible reputation they have for being extremely aggressive and violent. In addition to being very dangerous, it is probably because they were originally used as fighting dogs. This activity was prohibited in 1976 and they are currently kept as pets, and used as athletes in legal sports, although they are still used clandestinely as fighting dogs.
The American Pit Bull Terrier, contrary to what people think, is not an aggressive breed by nature. It is actually characterized by being faithful, funny, protective, although a little stubborn. If you have a little time to dedicate to it daily, you can make it your best companion. If you have children at home, they are very tolerant with them, they can play in a completely harmless way and let themselves be handled without any problem, as long as they are raised with love and attention, their behavior will adjust to those values.
Characteristic
- Height at the withers: From 34 to 48cm in male dogs and from 34 to 47cm in females.
- Weight: Between 14 and 27kg for male dogs and 13 and 25 for females.
- Coat: It can be of different colors.
- Skills: Watchdog.
- Medium size.
- Life expectancy: From 9 to 11 years.
How to recognize an American Pit-bull Terrier
One of the hallmarks of this breed is its much defined musculature, very athletic and strong features with a short coat. The head is very wide; the ears are medium-sized and droopy, although in many places they are still trimmed to a point (a practice that we hope they will ban worldwide). The tail is very wide at the base, but it narrows as it reaches the tip, the coat, in addition to being short, is characterized by being shiny and can be of any color.
How to take care of an American Pit-bull Terrier
This is a breed that adapts very well to small spaces, but it is necessary to take it out frequently, and keep it socialized since it is a puppy. The basic proper care for a Pit-bull is as follows:
- Brush it weekly.
- Bathe it every so often, approximately two months.
- Occasionally clean their ears, eyes and teeth.
- Visit the vet regularly to keep their vaccinations up to date.
The Health of the American Pit-bull Terrier
The breed is characterized by a very solid general state of health, but they need constant daily exercise to stay that way. The most frequent serious problem that occurs to them is hip dysplasia, which can occur when they remain in a state of excessive sedentary lifestyle. Although also for genetic reasons. Outside of delicate things, sometimes your skin becomes sensitive. To avoid problems, it is good to offer him a comfortable and soft bed, as well as collars that guarantee total protection against parasites.
This is one of the most disease-resistant breeds, but its health should not be neglected. In addition to being up to date on vaccinations, you should be on the lookout for possible heart problems, contagious skin diseases like scabies, eczema and fungus, and parasites. A regular visit to the vet will guarantee the dog’s good condition as long as you follow the professional’s advice.
Living with an American Pit-bull Terrier
Most Pit Bulls are noble and patient companions towards all members of the family, but as with all breeds, there are exceptions. The Pit Bull was bred to be fearless and continue with whatever they are doing in the face of adversity. This quality makes them stubborn and tenacious, and due to their characteristics, it is necessary to keep them under surveillance when they are around children. Life with a pit bull is always an adventure, they are dogs that are always ready to play and entertain themselves with their owners.
In fact, they must have vigorous periods of exercise each day for their physical and psychological well-being. Well, if they have enough attention and good treatment, it is unlikely that they will be prone to attacking anyone. Despite being very tough, they are not dogs suitable for cold climates, and must be protected from those conditions. The pit bull must be trained in obedience, as they do not usually get along with other dogs of other breeds. So it is advisable to always take them on a leash, to avoid unnecessary risks, although once again, well socialized since they are puppies with other breeds, it can make them calmer as adults.
Tips for buying an American Pit-bull Terrier puppy
If you are looking for your new friend online, you have to be careful, so we give you the following advice:
- Make sure that the breeder solves all the doubts you may have about their training, and that they know the different aspects and details of the breed.
- Ask him if he will want to follow up on the puppy after the sale.
- Ask for guarantees about the puppy’s health and papers about the vaccinations that have already been given.
- Remember that a puppy must spend at least two months with the mother before being delivered. This process should not be rushed, and if you see that the puppy looks somewhat strange in terms of his physical integrity, it may be because they are giving it to you ahead of time.
We must insist on a recurring theme in this writing, and that is that pit bulls do not have a genetically pre-determined character. They are dogs that can be reserved or aggressive, calm or reactive, depending on the upbringing and socialization they have had since they were very young. It is a dog that, although it may not seem so, is more stable than many other breeds, some of which would not seem so at first glance (such as the Golden Retriever). So the myths and legends spread by the media and popular culture are just that: myths and legends. Well, many times we are not even talking about the same race. Well, the pit bull is confused with others like the Staffordshire, the American Staffordshire, and even the Dog Argentina, which are three different breeds.
Conclusion.
No child should be left alone with a pit bull, or any breed of dog. All unwarranted aggressive behavior is due to irresponsible parenting. With all this, it should be quite clear that this breed is a very good alternative if you are looking to entertain yourself daily with a dog. We hope that all this information has been useful to you, and that you are clear about everything about the American Pit-bull Terrier, and with it, you have knocked down some myths regarding this sometimes misunderstood breed.
