American Pit Bull Terrier

Characteristics

Health & Longevity

Average Life Span: 12-16 years
The American Pit Bull Terrier, more commonly referred to as the Pit Bull, is a generally healthy dog, although there are a few potential health concerns which this breed may face.

Hip dysplasia is likely to affect some American Pit Bulls. This is a degenerative joint condition that results from a malformed hip joint not allowing the thighbone to fit properly into place, leading to problems such as discomfort, pain, and limping. In more severe cases, arthritis or even lameness may occur, potentially requiring correctional surgery. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not breed, so ensure that your prospective pup’s parents have no history of the condition. Although it is hereditary, hip dysplasia can be triggered by rapid weight gain or injury, such as falling on a slippery floor or landing improperly after jumping.

Another possibility is hypothyroidism, a thyroid condition caused by the thyroid gland not producing adequate amounts of hormone. This condition can cause health issues including lethargy, hair loss, obesity, and infertility. There is treatment for hypothyroidism, but it will require daily medication for the duration of the affected dog’s lifetime.

Allergies, demodectic mange, and heart disease may also impact the American Pit Bull Terrier. Aortic stenosis, a congenital disease, is the most common. It occurs when the connection between the left ventricle and the aorta narrows abnormally. Some dogs show no symptoms or very few symptoms. In other cases, dogs may be lethargic or even die suddenly. If your veterinarian hears a heart murmur, she will be able to confirm the diagnosis with a chest X-ray. Beta-blockers may be used to treat the condition.

The average lifespan of the American Pit Bull Terrier is-12-16 years.

Temperament & Train-ability

The American Pit Bull Terrier is intelligent and confident, sometimes to the point of being stubborn and a bit bossy. He can also be good-natured, easygoing, and loyal, and he is loving and gentle with his family. Although the Pit Bull may have a bad reputation, he can be trained to be a sweet and friendly dog.

Generally, the American Pit Bull Terrier should not live in an apartment. He needs at least an hour of walking, running, or playing on a daily basis. He loves people, especially his family, and wants to be at the center of all family activities. For this reason, it is recommended that the Pit Bull live indoors with his family. He needs an owner who can commit to plenty of attention, training, and socialization. The Pit Bull likes to chew, so provide him with durable chew toys as an alternative to chewing on household objects. He may also drool rather extensively.

The American Pit Bull Terrier is excellent with children when properly trained and socialized. He is typically sweet and tolerant towards children and loves spending time with them. Unless he senses danger, a properly trained American Pit Bull Terrier is polite or friendly with strangers. He can be dog aggressive if he is not properly socialized. Even with proper socialization, the Pit Bull will not back down from a fight, if challenged. For this reason, it is important to keep him on a leash in public places. He is also likely to chase cats and smaller animals, although proper socialization can make him cat-friendly. The Pit Bull is an excellent guard dog who will protect his family at all costs, and he is even willing to defend his people to the death if necessary.

The American Pit Bull Terrier is very sharp and can learn tricks and commands easily. However, he must be taught from a young age that you are in charge, or he may try to assert his dominance, as he can be a confident and stubborn dog. He needs consistent, firm, and fair training and discipline, but you should not be overly harsh. Use positive reinforcement such as favorite treats, extra playtime, and verbal praise, and remember never to be lenient or too passive.

Grooming

The American Pit Bull Terrier has a very low maintenance short, shiny coat. The coat should be brushed twice weekly to prevent excess shedding and help the coat maintain its shine. Wiping the coat with a cloth helps it stay shiny and glisten as well.

Bathe the American Pit Bull Terrier as needed; he should only need occasional baths. Trim his nails when they grow long enough that the make a clicking sound on the floor to prevent overgrowth and cracking. Check his ears regularly for signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, and odor, and brush his teeth at least 2-3 times weekly to prevent bad breath and maintain good overall health.

Diet

The average American Pit Bull Terrier should consume 1.5-2.5 cups of high-quality dry dog food daily. However, the ideal type and amount of food for your individual dog will depend on factors such as weight, metabolism, activity level, and age. Be sure to avoid foods with chemical by-products and preservatives.

Clean, fresh drinking water should be available for your American Pit Bull Terrier at all times.
 

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Cost

The cost of an American Pit Bull Terrier varies widely, with prices ranging from $200-$2,500. Pricing will vary according to factors such as breeder location and reputation, gender, and pedigree.

You also have to consider additional expenses, including things like supplies, food, toys, grooming, and vet visits.

Paws ‘N’ Pups Ranking

Paws ‘N’ Pups ranks every breed out of 4 with 1 being easiest to integrate into your life and 4 being the toughest – The lower the ranking the better.

Ranking takes into account a few basic factors including cost, skill level needed, high vs low maintenance and how critical regular training is to success. The American Pit Bull Terrier ranks a 3. He needs plenty of attention, socialization, and training to ensure that he is a well-behaved and well-adjusted dog. He will also need at least an hour of exercise each day, and he can be stubborn and bossy. However, he is a sweet and loyal family companion if properly trained, he is an excellent guard dog, and he has an incredibly low-maintenance coat.

 

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