American Pit Bull Terrier

The breed’s roots stretch back to the British Isles. In the 19th century, bull and bear baiting were incredibly popular across England, Ireland, and Scotland. Old English Bulldogs – powerful but somewhat slow dogs – were used for these blood sports. When baiting large animals was outlawed in 1835, dog fighting gained popularity as it was easier to hide from the constabulary.

Combat in the “pit” required a smaller, more agile dog that retained the bulldog’s fearlessness. Enthusiasts began crossing bulldogs with terriers. The result was dubbed the “bull-and-terrier”. These dogs became the forefathers of the modern Pit Bull.

Eventually, these dogs travelled to the USA with immigrants. In America, the breed took a different developmental path. American breeders sought to increase the dog’s size while maintaining its unmatchable stamina and fighting spirit. This is how the American Pit Bull Terrier was formed – a dog recognised today by the UKC (United Kennel Club) and ADBA (American Dog Breeders Association), though still not recognised by the FCI.

It is crucial to understand the difference between related breeds. Pit Bulls are often confused with their close cousins. For instance, the American Staffordshire Terrier is a breed that branched off from the Pit Bull in the 1930s when the AKC decided to register the dogs but dropped the word “Pit” to distance the breed from its fighting past. AmStaffs became more of a show dog, while Pit Bulls continued to be bred for working qualities.

Another relative is the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a direct descendant of the English fighting dogs, though significantly smaller in size and possessing a much more “family-oriented” temperament in modern breeding.

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a medium-sized dog that exudes power and athleticism. The main feature of the Pit Bull’s exterior is functionality. There is nothing superfluous here: no legs that are too short, nor a heavy head that would hinder breathing.

• Head: Rectangular, dry, with a flat skull widening between the ears. The cheeks are pronounced (housing powerful jaw muscles).
• Jaws: Strong, with a scissor bite. The myth of the “double jaw” or a “locking mechanism” is pure fiction. Anatomically, a Pit Bull’s jaw is the same as any other dog’s; the muscles are simply more developed.
• Body: Muscular, but not overly bulky like a bodybuilder on a “cut”. The back is short and sturdy.
• Weight and Height: There is significant variation. Males typically weigh between 16 and 27 kg, females between 14 and 23 kg. However, in working lines, weight is not the primary criterion.

There are two main types of Pit Bulls you might encounter today:

Here we arrive at the most critical point. The Pit Bull’s character is what makes it unique. The key concept here is “gameness”. This isn’t merely aggression; it is the will to keep going, to never give up, even when exhausted. In the past, this was exploited in fighting; today, it makes the Pit Bull an outstanding athlete in weight pulling and other disciplines.

Human Aggression vs Animal Aggression

Historically, a Pit Bull that showed aggression towards humans in the ring (a “man-biter”) was immediately culled. Handlers needed to be able to separate dogs with their bare hands in the heat of battle. Therefore, a genetically pure Pit Bull has a high threshold of tolerance towards people. They are affectionate, owner-oriented dogs.

However, zoo-aggression (aggression towards other animals) is a breed trait. One cannot guarantee that an adult male Pit Bull will get along with another male at the park. This must be taken into account during walks.

The Pit Bull is an intellectual with a mind of its own. It cannot be trained as mechanically as a German Shepherd. Harsh pressure can cause either withdrawal or defensive aggression. The best method is positive reinforcement combined with clear boundaries.

A unique recommendation for Pit Bulls: use a “spring pole” – a rope on a heavy-duty spring suspended from a tree or beam. This is the best way to legally and safely satisfy the dog’s need to hold onto prey and burn off energy. A “flirt pole” (a giant cat wand for dogs) is also excellent for training “Take it” and “Leave it” commands.

If you think a 30-minute stroll in the morning is sufficient – do not get a Pit Bull. This dog is an energy reactor. Without work, it will dismantle your flat.

In terms of stamina, the Pit Bull can outperform many hunting breeds. For example, the English Foxhound is built for long pursuits following a scent, possessing phenomenal running endurance. The Pit Bull, however, combines running stamina with raw power. It needs more than just kilometres; it needs muscle engagement: running uphill, swimming, or towing a cyclist.

If we compare them to the giants, the Pit Bull is the complete opposite in working style. The colossal Irish Wolfhound, despite its impressive size and strength, works in short bursts and is quite phlegmatic at home. The Pit Bull remains active and ready for action 24/7, and its strength-to-weight ratio significantly exceeds that of giant breeds.

Feeding a Pit Bull should be based on a high content of animal proteins. Carbohydrates should be complex (rice, oats) and in moderate quantities.

Pay special attention to fats during the winter months, as the Pit Bull lacks an undercoat and burns a lot of calories just to stay warm.

American Pit Bull Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but they do have their weak points. The average lifespan is 12-14 years.

• Cerebellar Ataxia (NCL-A): This is a terrible genetic disease specific to Staffordshire Terriers and Pit Bulls. It leads to a loss of coordination and is incurable. Important: when buying a puppy, demand an ataxia test for the parents. Carriers can be bred (with clear partners), but affected dogs should not exist in a responsible programme.
• Hip Dysplasia: Although often a problem for heavier dogs, working Pit Bulls are also at risk due to extreme physical exertion.
• Allergies: Pit Bull skin is sensitive. Reactions to chicken protein, maize, or dust are common. This manifests as redness between the toes, on the belly, and inside the ears.
• Hypothyroidism: A thyroid malfunction leading to obesity and coat issues.

• War Hero: The most famous Pit Bull is Sergeant Stubby. He served in World War I, warning soldiers of gas attacks and even capturing a German spy.
• Not a Guard Dog: Despite their formidable appearance, a purebred Pit Bull makes a poor territory guard. They simply love people too much. If a burglar enters the house, a Pit Bull is more likely to lick them to death than bite them. Human aggression is a breeding fault.
• The Smile: Pit Bulls are one of the few dogs that can “smile” by lifting their upper lip and showing their teeth in moments of joy. This often startles strangers who mistake it for a snarl.
• Climbers: Pit Bulls can scale vertical walls up to 3-4 metres high thanks to their ability to “parkour” (wall climb).

Is it true that Pit Bulls have a “locking jaw”?

Physiologically, no locking mechanism exists. The “lock” is a behavioural trait based on gameness and the desire to hold onto prey. The dog simply doesn’t want to let go, not that it “can’t”.

Is a Pit Bull suitable for a family with children?

Yes, with proper upbringing. In England, Staffies were historically called “nanny dogs”, and this trait applies to Pit Bulls too. They are incredibly patient with rough play from children. However, leaving any dog alone with a small child unsupervised is irresponsible.

How do I choose a Pit Bull puppy?

The main unique advice for this breed: don’t look for the biggest “chunky” one, but for the puppy that, after a tumble or an awkward situation, doesn’t squeak and run away, but climbs back to explore the world. Confidence and a lack of cowardice are the main markers of a stable Pit Bull psyche.