Dog Breed

American Pit Bull Terrier

Confidence KingGuard Dog
Primary image of American Pit Bull Terrier dog breed
Full Name
American Pit Bull Terrier
Alternate Names
Pit Bull, APBT, Pitty
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Life Span
10 - 15 years years
Weight
40 - 100 pounds
Description

More commonly referred to simply as the "pit bull" - this is a very strong willed dog, that has high energy, and is quite intense. They need an alpha-type owner, ideally with previous dog ownership experience.

The pit bull is a very intelligent breed, and likes to feel they have a job to do. By default, they will take on guarding their home and family as their "job". They are very loyal, brave, and protective of their family. If they are trained well, and have a disciplined upbringing, they can be a great dog. However, they are the dog breed which accounts for more bites and attacks that lead to hospital visits, than any other, so owning a pit bull comes with great responsibility.

The American Pit Bull Terrier, is not recognized by the AKC as a purebred, but is recognized by the UKC. One of the reasons it is not recognized by the AKC is because there is a huge range in both weights, colors, and body types for APBTs. Overall the pit bull is a healthy dog, but irresponsible breeding in the last decade or so has led to many health problems. They are oftentimes bred purely for mass, and rare color variations, rather than health and temperament.

Origin
United States of America
Bred For
Fighting
    Family Considerations
    Child Friendly

    Is the American Pit Bull Terrier good with children?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier is about average in how friendly they are with children. They can be friendly and loving with children, but we recommend that they get early socialization, and are not left alone with children for extended periods.
    Stranger Friendly

    Is the American Pit Bull Terrier friendly with strangers?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier is not automatically friendly with strangers and we would not recommend for a living situation with frequent guests.
    Dog Friendly

    Is the American Pit Bull Terrier friendly with other dogs?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier is not naturally friendly with other dogs, but with a good amount of early socialization as a puppy they can learn to get along with most breeds of dog. Proper training is required before letting the American Pit Bull Terrier go off-leash or to dog parks.
    Likes to Cuddle

    Does the American Pit Bull Terrier like to cuddle?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier appreciates affection and that includes kisses and snuggles!
    Playfulness

    Does the American Pit Bull Terrier like to play?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier will almost always be ready for play! The American Pit Bull Terrier is great for a family with children, or otherwise, an environment that is always ready for play.
    Service Dog Ability

    Does the American Pit Bull Terrier make a good service dog?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier would not be a great fit as a service dog for several reasons.
    Overall Ease of Breed
    Ease for Novice

    Is the American Pit Bull Terrier good for first-time owners?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier would not be a good fit for first-time owners. A breed is only good for first-time owners if it is raised for home companionship, and is open to training and pleasing its owner.
    Training Potential

    How well can the American Pit Bull Terrier be trained?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier does not have high levels of training potential. There are exceptions, but the American Pit Bull Terrier is not typically seen in competitions or as a service dog or police dog.
    Amount of Shedding

    Does the American Pit Bull Terrier shed a lot?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier does shed, but less than average.
    Ease of Grooming

    Is the American Pit Bull Terrier easy to groom?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier requires very little grooming relative to other dog breeds, their coat is very low maintenance.
    Exercise Need

    Does the American Pit Bull Terrier need a lot of exercise?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier requires an average amount of exercise. You should be ready to dedicate a couple of short walks or a larger dog park session each day for your American Pit Bull Terrier to be happy and fulfilled.
    Personality
    Intelligence

    How smart is the American Pit Bull Terrier?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier is very smart. Above-average intelligence means they can pick up on cues and signals quickly when it comes to training. But it also means that they need to be challenged mentally, in addition to their standard exercise needs.
    Amount of Barking

    How much does the American Pit Bull Terrier bark? Does the American Pit Bull Terrier bark too much?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier barks an average amount. It can vary widely between American Pit Bull Terriers - some may be much more expressive than others.
    Guard Dog Ability

    Is the American Pit Bull Terrier a good guard dog?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier is not a dog breed necessarily known as a guard dog, but they are alert. The American Pit Bull Terrier is protective of its family, and has above average tendencies when it comes to guarding property.
    Tolerates Being Alone

    Is the American Pit Bull Terrier good at staying alone? Is the American Pit Bull Terrier independent?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier prefers having family around at all times, but can also do well when left alone. The American Pit Bull Terrier still needs plenty of attention, but is independent, and can typically be left alone for several hours without issues.
    Home and Environment Considerations
    Good for Apartment Living

    Is the American Pit Bull Terrier a good apartment dog?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier is not a good dog for apartment living for several reasons. It is still possible to make it work if the owner is dedicated to plenty of training and daily exercise, but it may be challenging.
    Size

    How big is the American Pit Bull Terrier?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier is a medium sized dog breed. They can range in size depending on genetics, and males are larger on average than females.
    Tolerates Heat

    How much does the American Pit Bull Terrier tolerate hot weather? When is it too hot for a American Pit Bull Terrier?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier can tolerate hot weather well. They still prefer having some variation and a cool space to sleep, but overall they can do well in warm climates.
    Tolerates Cold

    How much does the American Pit Bull Terrier tolerate cold weather? When is it too cold for a American Pit Bull Terrier?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier can tolerate some cold, but should not be over-exposed to cold weather. In general, they can live in cold weather climates, but may need clothing on particularly cold evenings or in snow.
    Potential to Run Away

    Does the American Pit Bull Terrier try to run away?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier does sometimes run away. This is especially true if they are distracted, or see other cats or dogs. They probably won't go out of their way to "escape", but a fenced yard is still recommended.
    Physical Characteristics
    General Health

    Is the American Pit Bull Terrier a healthy dog? The health of a American Pit Bull Terrier should be measured not just by how many years they live, but also by how many health issues they've had. It is important to know which health conditions your breed is prone to- hip problems, eye problems, bloating, and arthritis are all common dog health problems.

    The American Pit Bull Terrier is healthy, but has an average number of health risks that should be taken into consideration.
    Energy Level

    How energetic is the American Pit Bull Terrier?

    It seems like the American Pit Bull Terrier never runs out of energy. If you are looking for a 5 AM run partner, the American Pit Bull Terrier is your dog! A dog's energy level is one of the most important considerations when getting a new dog, and we would only recommend the American Pit Bull Terrier for a family where it will get plenty of exercise.
    Amount of Drooling

    How much does the American Pit Bull Terrier drool?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier drools an average amount- typically only after heavy exercise or if you are eating their favorite human food in front of them.
    Prey Drive

    Does the American Pit Bull Terrier have a large prey drive? Does the American Pit Bull Terrier like to chase birds, cats, and other small animals?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier has average prey drive. They will probably enjoy chasing after birds and other small animals at the park, and it may be an issue at the home if you have small animals, but with some training and introduction can usually learn to live with them.
    Athleticism

    Is the American Pit Bull Terrier atheltic?

    The American Pit Bull Terrier is athletic and has average levels of endurance. They need a lot of exercise, and can be an exercise partner as long as it's nothing too extreme.

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  1. Terrier
  2. Bull Terrier
  3. American Pit Bull Terrier
The American Pit Bull Terrier is a purebred dog that belongs to the Bull Terrier sub group, which falls under the larger Terrier dog breed group.
Terrier group: Anyone who has had a terrier knows that they come with a big personality. Across the Terrier dog group there is much variation, but they are all feisty, proud, and extremely loyal to their family. With this strong personality comes stubbornness, so they are not the easiest dog, especially for a first time dog owner. However, with training and a strong owner, they can be some of the most rewarding dogs- their strong personality is fun, active, and will always bring something new. Terriers were originally bred for hunting, exterminating small vermin, and home protection. Terriers are a healthy and athletic breed. Because of this they require a good amount of exercise.
Bull Terrier sub-group: Bull Terriers are a funny dog breed. Bull Terriers have so much energy to the point that they can be described as intense, but they are friendly and always looking to have a good time. They are built like bowling balls, so sometimes with the combo of playfullness, intensity, and physicality can be too much for small children, despite their good intentions. On the other hand, they do love children and will be willing to play 24/7. Bull Terriers are extremely loyal and brave as well. They can be used as personal protection dogs, or guard dogs, but need to be well trained. Despite their goofiness, and deep bond and love they develop with their owners, they are not an ideal dog for a first time dog owner because of their huge personality. Certain breeds have been bred for fighting, so they have a certain level of aggression in their DNA. So just like any dog, early socialization with other people and dogs is crucial.

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