American Pit Bull Terrier
Temperament:
Participation in cruel dog fights has brought the American Pit Bull Terrier into disrepute. When properly trained, the breed is generally submissive. Even though it is classified as a gentle and intelligent breed by the American Kennel Club, the dog owner should have a strong sense of responsibility. It is essential that Pit Bull Terriers are trained by professionals.
Characteristics
The American Pitbull Terrier is rather undemanding to keep, but a few walks are not enough. He needs to be exercised physically and mentally, and he needs to be shown his limits when he is being trained as a puppy.
The American Pitbull Terrier is a bright and playful four-legged friend who loves to spend time in the great outdoors. It is a strong, medium-sized, imposing and at the same time elegant dog.
Its coat is short, dense and shiny and lies close to the body. It emphasizes the athletic and muscular build.
It is around 45 to 55 centimetres tall and weighs between 17 and 27 kilograms, although there is no official standard set by a breeding organization. It is suitable for various types of dog sports.
However, this breed is on the breed list in almost all German states and also in other countries and is therefore one of the dangerous dog breeds for which there are restrictions. The American Pitbull Terrier is therefore not a trendy dog for everyone and needs a home with a loving but also consistent owner. So think carefully about whether you are up to the challenge.
Coat care:
Shedding:
Energy level:
Trainability:
Children suitable:
The right food
A dog's health depends largely on its diet. That's why the food should have a high meat content and be species-appropriate and balanced.
The correct amount of food depends on age and activity. The manufacturer's recommendations should be followed.
A puppy should receive 3-5 meals per day. For the adult American Pitbull Terrier, two portions per day are sufficient.
Treats and chewing bones can be given occasionally, especially as a small reward between meals.
Health & Care
The care of the Pit Bull Terrier is not costly.
The coat must be brushed regularly. It's best to start as a puppy so that he gets used to it. Most dogs enjoy being brushed and also see it as a petting session that strengthens the bond between dog and owner.
Bathing the dog should be avoided and is not necessary in most cases. However, if it is necessary, a mild dog shampoo can be used.
The claws should be trimmed regularly. Eyes and ears should also be checked and cleaned if necessary.
To prevent plaque and tartar, regular dental care with a dog toothbrush and toothpaste is recommended.
Please note that this breed is very active and has a lot of energy. It should therefore have plenty of exercise and be kept busy.
The training of this breed should begin at puppy age and is particularly important. Even experienced dog owners are recommended to attend a dog school when they are puppies. Above all, this promotes contact and socialization.
Suitable accessories
The basic equipment for every dog includes a water and food bowl, a dog basket or dog mat, a lead, a harness or collar, a transport box and a first aid kit for dogs.
Please also note the regulations that apply in your region, e.g. mandatory muzzling. The dog should be trained to wear a muzzle from puppyhood. The muzzle should always be the right size. It is best to seek advice from a specialist before buying.
Toys that promote the dog's intelligence are suitable for playing. Taking part in sporting activities such as agility or dog pulling keeps him physically fit.
Even if the Pit Bull Terrier certainly enjoys chasing after a Frisbee or a ball, it should be noted that muzzling is largely compulsory for this breed.
Origin & History
Today's American Pitbull Terrier goes back to a dog breed that has been bred in England and the USA for around 200 years. In addition to the terrier, its ancestors also include the bulldog.
In the 13th century, dog fights were a tradition in England, and bulldogs were used in particular. However, as the bulldogs were not fast enough, they were crossed with terriers. This breeding was to result in a new breed that combined the strength and fighting spirit of the bulldog with the agility and fiery temperament of the terrier.
The resulting breed also became known in America at the beginning of the 19th century, particularly in North America, where it became the progenitor of the American Pit Bull Terrier.
Although animal fighting was officially banned in Britain in the 1830s, the new law did not stop some fighters from continuing to fight the dogs illegally and breed them for this purpose. They went underground and continued to fight in secluded places, cellars and taverns.
Fortunately, this breed became more and more fashionable among the "young gentlemen" of the upper class after the fall of the Berlin Wall, so that attempts were now made to "refine" the breed and "soften" its temperament. The aim was to breed a companion dog for the upper classes from this breed.
The breed was first recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1898, although it should be noted that the UKC was founded in the same year, as the breed was not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) at the time.
The American Pitbull Terrier is now also used as a sniffer dog and participates in sports such as pulling, especially in America.
Nevertheless, the breed has not succeeded in improving its reputation. A certain degree of aggression has remained characteristic to this day and must be kept under control through consistent training by experts.
