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American Pit Bull Terrier

Breed origin: USA
Original purpose: First used as farm dogs and to bait bulls and bears, and later used in dogfighting.

AKC recognized: No

Size: Weight: males 35 to 60 lbs; females 30 to 50 lbs
Size: Height: 18 to 22 inches

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Color: Any color.

Life span: Average 12 years.

General characteristics/temperament: American Pit Bull Terriers have received a lot of bad press and are banned in some countries and municipalities. However, those who have been well-treated and socialized from an early age generally make fun loving, faithful, athletic, readily trained companions. While they are often reserved around or suspicious of strangers, they are not aggressive by nature. The problem is that unfortunately, there are some irresponsible owners who encourage aggressive behavior in these dogs and may even use them illegally for dog fights. American Pit Bull Terriers possess a personality trait referred to as gameness. Gameness is not the same as aggressiveness. It means that the dog has a stubborn courage and, if provoked, will fight to the death. They should never be trained as attack dogs, as once they are engaged in a conflict, they may be nearly impossible to stop. Given their tremendous strength and jaw power, their attacks can often be lethal. For these reasons, early socialization and obedience training are a must for this breed. They should never be allowed to run loose, and if left alone in a fenced yard, the gate should be locked. This is for the dog's own protection as well, because, unfortunately, they are often targets for thieves who use them for dog fights. American Pit Bull Terriers generally have a lot of energy and need plenty of exercise and stimulation in order not to become frustrated, bored, and destructive.

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Protective? Yes

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Intelligent? Yes

Energy/Activity Level: High

Suitable canine sports/activities: agility, weight pulling, flyball, lure coursing, obedience, Schutzhund

Grooming requirement: The American Pit Bull Terrier's short, sleek coat requires minimum care.


Additional photos of American Pit Bull Terrier

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Recommended books for further reading:

American Pit Bull Terrier (A Comprehensive Guide) By F. Favorito Published in 2003 158 pages

The American Pit Bull Terrier Handbook By Joe Stahlkuppe Published in 2000 184 pages

The American Pit Bull Terrier By Cynthia P. Gallagher Published in 2006 208 pages

Colby's Book of the American Pit Bull Terrier By Louis B. Colby and Diane Jessup Published in 1997 192 pages

The American Pit Bull Terrier By Jacqueline O'Neil Published in 1995 160 pages

The World of the American Pit Bull Terrier By Richard Stratton Published in 1983 288 pages

The Ultimate American Pit Bull Terrier By Jacqueline O'Neil Published in 1995 256 pages

The American Pit Bull Terrier By Joseph L. Colby Published in 2006 92 pages

American Pit Bull Terriers - Fact or Fiction: The Truth Behind One of America's Most Popular Breeds By Dawn M. Capp Published in 2004 128 pages

Pit Bulls for Dummies By D. Caroline Coile Published in 2001 400 pages

A New Owner's Guide to the American Pit Bull Terriers By Todd Fenstermacher Published in 1996 160 pages

American Pit Bull Terrier (Your Happy Healthy Pet) By Liz Palika and Jacqueline O'Neil Published in 2006 144 pages

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Other websites for additional information:

Wikipedia breed information page

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Page Last Updated: February 1, 2018

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