American Pit Bull Terrier - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

1) APBT vs Pit Bull
A lot of people think, that when someone is talking about Pit Bulls, they are automaticly talking about the American Pit Bull Terrier, or shortly APBT, which might be true in some countries, but in the USA the APBT is a purebred dog breed recognized by the UKC, and the term Pit Bull can refer to a dog type, that was developed from Old English Bulldog and various Terriers. The term Pit Bull can refers to APBT, but also to Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier or American Bully.

2) Bull and Terrier
The main ancestor of all Pit Bulls is already extinct breed called Bull and Terrier which was developed in the United Kingdom by crossing Old English Bulldog with various Terriers. These dogs were developed in the beginning of the 19th century for a bloody show called bull baiting. Later, these dogs were also used for dog fights, but also for hunting.

3) In the USA
When Brittish immigrants brought their Bull and Terriers with them to the USA, local farmers and ranchers quickly recognized the skills and talents of these dogs and they started using them as catch dogs for semi-wild cattle and hogs, to hunt, to drive livestock, and as family companions. Sadly, even in the USA, these dogs were used for dog fighting and even today. The first Bull and Terriers arrived to the America around 1850s and already in the 1898 the breed was recognized by the United Kennel Club as American Pit Bull Terrier.

4) Bad reputation
The American Pit Bull Terrier is one of the misunderstood dogs with bad reputation, which is mostly because of their history as fight dogs. It is true, that they are capable of being tenacious and dangerous, but they must be trained to be like that. But naturally, these dogs are very friendly, social, affectionate and they are known for being absolutely great around children, but of course, you should never leave any dog breed with a very young child unsupervised.

5) Dog sports
So as you can see, this is very versatile and eager to please dog. They are very adaptable and they can be train to be great farm dogs, therapy dogs, police dogs or simply superb companions. And thanks to their amazing versatility, intelligence and willingness to work, they are great adepts for various dog sports and you can see American Pit Bull Terriers competing in Dock Jumping, Weight Pulling, but also in agility or obedience trials.

6) Other dogs
American Pit Bull Terriers are extremely people oriented and people friendly, but some of them might exhibit agression towards other dogs. This, combined with their enormous strength is a reason why they need experience dog owner who will properly socialize them from the puppyhood.

7) Escape Artists
American Pit Bull Terriers are very athletic dogs and they are one of the best jumpers and climbers in the dog world. That is why you will need a high fence around your area, if you will leave your dog alone for some time, because they are known as an escape artists.

8) Size

According to the official breed standard, the American Pit Bull Terriers height should be between 43-53 cm, which is 17-21 inches and weight is typically between 14-28 kg, which is 30-60 pounds. Females tend to be slightly smaller than males.

9) Easy maintenance
The maintenance and grooming of American Pit Bull Terrier is very very simple. They dont need almost any grooming and brushing and they will keep their coat in great condition. Bathing should also be done only when it is really necessary. Just like with all dogs, you should regularly check the dogs ears, eyes and nails and clip them or clean them if needed.

10) Health
The American Pit Bull Terrier has an average lifespan between 12-14 years and they tend to be quite healthy and hardy. But they do suffer from hip dysplasia and skin allergies, ocassionaly from patellar luxation, thyroid disease or congenital heart defects.