Pitbull Terrier
Alternative names: American Pit Bull Terrier, APBT.
History of the breed
The Pit Bull Terrier originated in the 19th century in England, where it was bred by crossing bulldogs and terriers. Originally used for fighting and capturing livestock, it gradually gained a reputation as a versatile working dog and loyal companion. Today, the Pit Bull Terrier is prized for its strength, intelligence, and loving nature, although the breed is often misunderstood due to misinformation and stereotyping.
Character and temperament
The Pit Bull Terrier is an energetic, confident, and very affectionate dog. It is known for its loyalty and strong bond with its owner. Despite its past, the Pit Bull Terrier has a friendly and gentle nature, especially with people. It is sociable and playful, but can be strong-willed. Early socialization and training are essential to ensure it gets along well with other animals.
Physical characteristics
- Shoulder height: 43-53 cm.
- Weight: 14-30 kg, depending on sex and build.
- Coat: Short, smooth and shiny; easy to maintain.
- Colors: Many variations, including black, white, brown, blue, red, and brindle.
- Sizes for collars and harnesses: Neck circumference 40-55 cm, chest circumference 60-75 cm.
Care
The Pit Bull Terrier's short coat requires little maintenance. Weekly brushing helps keep it shiny and removes loose hair. Check its ears regularly, trim its nails as needed, and ensure it has good dental care.
Movement and activity
The Pit Bull Terrier is an active dog that needs plenty of daily exercise. Long walks, runs, and interactive games like tug and agility are essential for keeping them physically and mentally healthy. Without enough exercise, they can become bored, which can lead to destructive behavior.
Health
The Pit Bull Terrier is generally a healthy breed, but may be prone to:
- Hip dysplasia
- Allergies (especially skin problems)
- Heart disease
- Gastric torsion
The average life expectancy is 12-16 years.
Power supply
A balanced diet is important for the Pit Bull Terrier. An adult dog eats an average of 300-500 grams of food per day, depending on its weight, age, and activity level. Choose a food with high-quality proteins and healthy fats. Divide the food into two meals to prevent digestive problems.
Training and socialization
The Pit Bull Terrier is intelligent and eager to learn, but can also be stubborn. A consistent, positive training approach works best. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they get along well with other animals and people. Training focused on obedience and mental stimulation strengthens the bond with their owner and prevents problem behavior.
Suitability for owners
The Pit Bull Terrier is suitable for active and experienced dog owners who are willing to invest time in exercise, training, and socialization. It's a good fit for families with older children, provided clear boundaries are established. Due to its energetic and powerful nature, it's less suitable for those with little time or experience with powerful dog breeds.
Share your experience with us!
Do you own a Pit Bull Terrier? Send a photo of your dog to customerservice@fidello.nl and receive a 10% discount on your next purchase. Want to contribute to a video for FidelloTV? Schedule an appointment using the same email address and receive €20 in store credit as a thank you for participating!