| Breed group: Mastiff | | | | are known friendly and loving nature. The American |
| Weight: 22 -110 lbs | | | | Pit Bull terrier does have a tendency to be stubborn |
| Height: 18-22 inches | | | | and aggressive, but on the other end they can also |
| Overview | | | | be overly friendly to people. Some previous dog |
| During the 1800s pit bulls and terriers were crossbred | | | | ownership is recommended before getting an |
| and the imported to America from England for dog | | | | American Pit Bull terrier as a family pet. |
| fighting purposes. This was the beginning of the | | | | Care |
| American Pit Bull terrier. Farmers then used these | | | | These dogs should be groomed on a regular basis, as |
| dogs as working dogs. These dogs were then trained | | | | this will minimise their hair loss. A firm hair brush can |
| to not attack their owners, but to be fine dog | | | | be used to brush their coats. The American Pit Bull |
| fighters. The American Pit Bull terrier used to be a | | | | should only be bathed when it is really necessary, and |
| family dog in the USA, but its status started to | | | | they can also be dry shampooed. You will find that |
| decline after the Second World War. These dogs are | | | | this breed prefers a warmer climate. |
| still kept as family dogs in its motherland, but have | | | | Training |
| been in a negative light for the past thirty years due | | | | You will find the American Pit Bull Terrier to be a |
| to its connection with drugs and inner city crime. This | | | | very submissive dog that is also very keen on |
| dog is also bred to act aggressively toward humans, | | | | pleasing its owners. It is advised that these dogs are |
| and the willingness to please their masters is taken | | | | socialised from a very early age onwards. Obedience |
| advantage of here. Unfortunately these dogs are | | | | training is also an absolute must for these dogs. This |
| kept for purposes of unlawful betting and dog | | | | is a dog that will not react positively toward rough |
| fighting. American Pit Bulls are also one of the most | | | | training methods. The training environment should be |
| abandoned, ill-treated or neglected breeds there are. | | | | one that is fair and consistent. American Pitt Bulls are |
| Temperament | | | | very talented when it comes to agility, tracking, |
| This is a very intelligent breed, but at the same time | | | | conformation and obedience. |
| also very inquisitive, clownish and sweet. These dogs | | | | |