Pit Bull

"Pit Bull" is a collective term for several breeds of dogs, including the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier and Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Different kennel organizations recognize these breeds in different ways, some even identify them as the same breed which creates controversy when breeding and papers are discussed.

Originally from England and Ireland, they became popular in America in the 1800s. In spite of the negative reputations built up around pit bulls, they are quite friendly dogs when raised under loving conditions. This aggressive reputation is a product of pit bull usage in illegal dog fighting. Sadly, many pit bulls are unlucky enough to be forced into this violent life style, but that’s an inaccurate representation of the temperament of the breed as a whole.

Pit Bulls are a genetically diverse group of dogs. They come in different sizes and virtually every color combination imaginable. Most weigh between 35 and 75 pounds, and can be up to 30 inches tall. They have a very shiny and smooth, short coat, with a very muscular body build making them quite strong. As far as temperament goes, Pit Bulls can be described as being very strong willed, and without proper training they can be disobedient and stubborn. Start training as a puppy to encourage a gentle, relaxed attitude. Neutering a male Pit Bull can also be beneficial to having a dog with a more mellow personality. Pit bulls are excellent for use in obedience competitions because they’re intelligent, quick learners. If raised around a cat as a puppy, Pit Bulls will do fine, but introducing an adult dog to a cat is not a good idea and the cat may end up as dog food.

Pit bulls have a voracious appetite and when presented with food, they will eat regardless of if they’re hungry or not. This makes it very important for owners to monitor how much food your Pit Bull consumes. If you choose a commercial dog food, pay attention to the ingredients and understand what they are. Anything labeled as a by product or preservative in the ingredients is unnecessary and non-nutritious. Tocopherols are the only preservatives that can actually be beneficial because they’re made of vitamin E. Other ingredients to avoid include beef tallow, BHA, BHT, cane mallases, and Ethoxyquin. Wheat and dairy products are unnecessary fillers in dry dog food, and some dogs have allergies to those things.

All natural dog food is best. Lamb and chicken are typically good, low-fat sources of protein in dry dog food. Protein is very important for building muscle in a dog such as a Pit Bull. A diet high in fiber and low in carbohydrates is important as well. Make sure your dry dog food also contains lots of veggies for nutrients and vitamins. In fact, fresh vegetables like carrots and peas are good for dogs. Puppies should be fed a puppy chow, which may be labeled as “growth formula.” Read the ingredients carefully. Some brands of puppy chow are much too high in fat and lack vitamins needed by puppies. The same dos and don’ts apply to wet/moist dog food. You can also make your own dog food easily. Pit Bulls should consume 3, 1 cup servings of protein (chicken, turkey, etc.) and 3, 1 cup servings of veggies (carrots, broccoli, peas, celery, spinach, ) and 1 servings of starch (potatoes, oatmeal). Supplementing your dog’s diet with vitamins is also a good idea, and talking to your vet can give you an idea of which kind would be best for your specific dog.

A pit bull can be kept as either an indoor or an outdoor dog, however leaving a dog outside often leads to isolation. For a Pit Bull, this is compromising to its mental health and can lead to aggression. A lot of social interaction is needed to maintain a happy, healthy dog. Confining a pit bull to a cage or crate for lengthy amounts of time is never a good thing and will lead to aggression. Pit Bulls need regular exercise, and a daily walk around the neighborhood is a great way to exercise and bond with your dog. Leash training a pit bull may take awhile, and it’s best to start when they’re younger. They’re so strong that often it seems they’re walking you instead of the other way around, but practice will help them get the hang of using a leash.

As far as health problems go, Pit Bulls seem to be prone to hip dysplasia. This disorder usually occurs as Pit Bulls age, and can cause joint crippling and pain. Some of the causes are genetic, others include stress placed on joints. If you notice your Pit Bull acting stiff, or taking a long time to stand up after laying down, these symptoms indicate a trip to the vet is needed. There is no cure, however several therapies and surgeries can help symptoms.

Pit Bulls with blue colored coats seem to have quite a few health problems. Some genetic variation in this particular color makes them prone to skin disorders, bacterial infections, dermatitis, and allergies. While the blue color morph may be very pretty, it’s not always as healthy as other colorations. Some breeders will actually charge more for this particular color, when you’re getting a dog prone to all kinds of health conditions. They try and trick you into thinking they’re rare, when they truly aren’t. Research the lineage of your Pit Bull before purchasing one.

Where you get your Pit Bull from is possibly the most important decision you will make. Never purchase Pit Bulls from pet shops, because you can be assured they have not received enough social interaction. Make sure you purchase your Pit Bull from a reputable, responsible breeder. Pit Bulls bred by amateurs who don’t understand the breed are more prone to be aggressive and have unpleasant disposition.