Pitbull is a breed of dog

History of the breed

The history of the Pit Bull Terrier breed dates back to the 19th century in England. Her ancestors were an Old English Bulldog and a Terrier. Bulldogs were traditionally used for bull baiting. After the audience got bored with the entertainment, it was decided to diversify the program and bring dogs into the ring. Despite their ferocity and strong jaws, bulldogs were not particularly agile and often lost fights. To give the breed agility, breeders crossed it with a terrier. The hybrid turned out to be extremely successful: it combined quick response with a powerful grip.

In 1835, a decree was issued banning dog fighting. Emigrants brought bull and terriers to America, where they continued to fight in the ring. The breed is called the American Pit Bull Terrier. In 1898, a club for pit lovers was opened. The fighting breed of dogs could not participate in exhibitions, so enthusiasts began to work on breeding its variety. So, the American Staffordshire Terrier turned out. Amstaff and pit bull are the same breed, differing only in temperament and level of aggressiveness.

After dog fighting was banned in America, the government launched a cleanup campaign. Newspapers vied with each other to report that another pit attacked a man and brutally mutilated him. The material was supported by shocking photos. In reality, things weren't so bad. People who dealt with pit bulls noted their good trainability and affectionate disposition. Nowadays, pit bulls have regained their good name and are one of the most popular pets.

Breeding this breed is prohibited in the European Union. In Russia and the USA they are actively used as service dogs.

Despite the fact that the Amstaff breed was developed on the basis of pit bulls, they are still not recognized by the FCI.

Description of the breed

You often hear stories about pit bulls that can be terrifying to the uninformed. But these dogs withstood all the unfounded accusations and turned into the most loyal friends of any family. For example, in England, the ancestors of these dogs were called nannies because of their affectionate and caring attitude towards the children of their owners. Some people unfairly believe that pit bulls are famous for their death grip. But scientists who studied the structure of the skull, lower jaw and teeth of these animals did not find any differences from other dogs. It has also not been established that they have a special closing mechanism of teeth that provides a death grip.

Pit bull terrier dogs are now widely used as therapy dogs when working with people who have been injured under various circumstances. They are also taken with them when visiting nursing homes and on search and rescue missions. These dogs are indispensable when searching for drugs. They are also used in the detection of various explosives.

Pit bull terrier in nature

The main breed characteristic of the American Pit Bull Terrier is the absence of aggression towards humans, so they can rightfully be considered gentle and loving dogs. Only some individuals have behavioral problems. The popularity of pit bulls made them America's mascot during two world wars, so their images could be seen on all recruiting posters.

How did the pit bull breed appear?

The Pit Bull Terrier breed is distinguished by its strong body, very powerful muscles and huge jaw. These qualities ensured its popularity in the famous dog fights of 19th century England.

Participation in them required aggression, which was constantly cultivated and subsequently preserved in this breed. Dog fighting was soon banned due to the violation of the principle of humanity towards animals. At a later time, breeders began to improve the behavior of these dogs. It had to be significantly different during battle and in family conditions. Pit bulls gradually began to gain more and more popularity among many owners.

These dogs also appeared in the USA in the 19th century. They were bred on farms to participate in hunting, as well as to ensure the safety of property. In addition, all pit bulls were excellent companions to their owners. American breeders gradually increased the size of dogs of this breed compared to English ones. They became known as American Pit Bull Terriers.

The difference between pit bulls and other breeds

The pit bull breed is distinguished by its medium size, large head, massive neck and muscular chest, wide jaws, strong paws, and wide tail. The Pit Bull Terrier breed can come in a variety of colors, but brown shades usually predominate. The color can be solid or with markings. The color of the nose lobe is always in full accordance with the main color of the animal. The dog's coat is smooth and short.

Among this breed, one can distinguish a class of terriers and a class of dogs that belong to the bulldog type. Pit bulls can weigh up to 36 kg.

Features of the Pit Bull Terrier breed

The positive traits of the pit bull breed are as follows:

• fast learner;
• natural mind;
• simple daily diet;
• the pit bull mastiff and all other individuals do not require special care, lengthy combing and washing;
• pleasure from communicating with a dog;
• absence of serious illnesses.

Disadvantages of the breed:

• danger to others that appears due to improper upbringing. This is due to the natural aggressiveness of the breed and the developed instinct of the hunter;
• it takes a lot of time and effort to raise and train a pit bull;
• The animal requires a lot of attention from the owner. If this is not the case, then the dog’s behavior will become uncontrollable. Sometimes such changes are caused by an increased reaction of the animal to the food it receives or to other substances that surround it;
• The breed was bred to win. This means that fatal fights with other dogs are quite possible.

Health problems

All pit bulls are considered to be dogs that are in excellent health, but they can also develop some diseases. These include:

• hip dysplasia, which manifests itself in weakening of the hind legs. This requires timely consultation with a doctor;
• allergies to food or environmental allergens;
• A pitbull dog can develop hypothyroidism, causing hair loss and obesity. This problem usually occurs in dogs in middle age;
• congenital heart defects are also characteristic of this breed.

In order for a pit bull puppy to live a long time, you need to get vaccinations on time and treat the dog for worms. At the first suspicion of illness, you should contact a veterinarian.

Types - brief description

There are three varieties of the breed:

• American pit bull;
• Albanian pit bull;
• dwarf or mini pit bull.

These subtypes differ in external data. The character and working qualities are almost identical.

American pit bull

This is a large, pumped-up dog with an impressive jaw and short legs. There is no standard for pits, but there is an average portrait.

Description of the breed:

1. Dimensions: height - up to 49 cm, weight - up to 30 kg.
2. The head is high cheekbones, large, with powerful jaws.
3. The neck is strong, muscular, and gently blends into the chest.
4. The muzzle is slightly elongated at the end. The eyes are small and deep set. The color of the nose depends on the coat. The ears are set deep. The owner does as he pleases with the ears: they can be left hanging or cropped by one third.
5. The torso is muscular and strong. The dog looks squat and stocky.
6. The coat is coarse and short. There is no undercoat.

The color can be any color except merle (merle). Some cynological organizations do not accept blue color. The most common colors include:

• black;
• white;
• brindle;
• blue;
• ginger;
• grey;
• yellow-brown.

A very impressive combination: black color with blue eyes.

Steel muscles and tenacious jaws make the pit bull an excellent warrior. He will protect the owner from a large dog and oppose the wolf. These dogs are smart and well trained. Their purpose is to protect people, territory and property. In Russia and the USA, pitas are in public service.

Albanian pit bull

The Albanian variety has a marbled coat color called merle. Otherwise it is identical to American pita. The Albanian Pit Bull is one of the most expensive dogs in the world. Its spotted color is outside the standard and is artificially created. The necessary gene is introduced into the genome of the pit bull, which is fraught with disorders in the nervous system. Marbled puppies often suffer from deafness, blindness, and decreased immunity. It is not uncommon for dogs to be stillborn. The cynological community refuses to recognize Albanians as a separate breed.

Dwarf pitbull

This species is distinguished by its stocky build and low stance. Mini pit, oddly enough, is not small at all. Its height is about 40-50 cm, weight - up to 27 kg. The dog owes its name to its unique skeletal structure.

Color:

• black;
• brown;
• grey;
• cream;
• white.

Life expectancy: 11-13 years. Otherwise, the characteristics of the breed are similar to the American pit bull.

Character

The Pitbull is a strong and confident dog. She needs constant activity and does not like to sit idle. Pete cannot be kept on a chain: if freedom of movement is limited, he will turn into an aggressor. Pit bulls need to be socialized on time. If raised correctly, they will be loyal to animals and strangers. A mentally healthy puppy is willing to make contact and will happily accept affection.

Petes should absolutely not be hit. Physical violence provokes a response. An angry dog ​​doesn't happen without a reason.

The Pit Bull Terrier is no longer a killer dog. Years of selection smoothed out the explosive temperament, but could not suppress it completely. This means that the breed is suitable for a strong-willed, consistent owner. Pete needs to be given enough time and taught to be obedient from childhood.

Pit bulls have an amazing sense of smell and a high level of intelligence. This gives them the opportunity to work in government agencies. The dogs search for explosives, drugs and missing people. These fierce-looking animals love their family. They are always ready to rush at the offender and will die defending their owner.

Petes have developed facial expressions and can express human emotions. If the dog is full and satisfied, he smiles from ear to ear. Pitbull and children are a safe combination. The dog has limitless patience and will not harm the child.

This does not mean that children should be left alone with a large dog. She may accidentally injure the child during play or respond to careless handling.

Pit bulls are introduced to other dogs gradually and carefully. It is impossible for a new acquaintance to begin to demonstrate dominant behavior. The pit bull will perceive him as a rival and want to protect the territory. It is also recommended to remove all objects that the dogs want to share during the introduction process. Despite its friendly nature, it is better not to keep pita in the same area as a cat.

How to behave as an owner

The owner should remember that he is the best friend and a stronghold of safety for his pet, but at the same time he is a leader, an unconditional authority for the animal. To emphasize his leadership position, the owner is recommended to:

1. Do not shout or hit the animal under any circumstances - the dog feels anger and will respond in kind.
2. During the first days, do not leave the dog with other animals or children who may inadvertently offend the dog.
3. Always enter the room first.
4. Follow the rules of consistency and consistency.
5. When walking, keep your puppy on a leash and only next to you, not in front of you. An adult dog should be allowed to walk without a leash only in deserted, uninhabited spaces.
6. Pay as much attention to your pet as possible.

Similar article: Everything about the character and maintenance of a pit bull dog

Pit bull terriers are extroverted animals for whom a lot of communication with the owner is important; they need affection from the first to the last days of life. This is the only way to get a well-mannered and kind pet.

Care and maintenance

Pitbull is an unpretentious breed of dog. It can be kept in a private house or apartment. Petes are extremely sensitive to drafts and cannot live in an enclosure or outside. This dog is a former fighter, so it needs sufficient physical exercise. The ideal maintenance option is a private house with a large plot. If the dog lives within the city, he needs two walks lasting 2-3 hours. A bored dog loves to ruin clothes and furniture.

Lack of activity can lead to obesity.

Pitbulls have short hair without undercoat, so they can get by without regular brushing. Wash the dog as needed. The ideal option is once every six months. Claws need to be trimmed promptly. Pitbulls usually wear them down during walks, but sometimes this is not enough. Excessively long nails can cause pain and interfere with walking.

Ears are examined regularly and cleaned at least once a month. The outer part of the ear is wiped with a cotton swab dipped in warm water. The eyes are also examined regularly and cleaned as needed. Brush your teeth with dog toothpaste at least once a week.

The pit bull is a strong, physically developed dog. She needs to be taught the procedures from early childhood. Otherwise, you will have to fight with a big, disgruntled dog.

Nutrition

Pitas have sensitive skin and are prone to allergic reactions. Their diet must be properly balanced and free of harmful substances. A feature of the breed is the formation of subcutaneous wen. They appear due to unhealthy, high-calorie foods. These dogs can be fed both high-quality dry food and homemade meals.

The natural diet includes:

• beef, rabbit, lamb;
• offal (liver and heart);
• fish;
• eggs (2 times a week);
• low-fat fermented milk products;
• vegetables: pumpkin, carrots, bell peppers, zucchini and cabbage.

An adult pit bull should eat 400 grams of meat per day. Due to the fact that animals are prone to excess weight, porridge should not be added to their menu. On cereals they quickly gain weight. If, despite everything, the dog continues to gain weight, it is recommended to replace meat with fish. Vegetables can be stewed or served fresh. Fermented milk products cannot be mixed with anything. It is recommended to give them for an afternoon snack. Be sure to add 1 tbsp to each serving. l. olive oil.

During the summer months, pita is fed once a day.

List of prohibited products:

• broccoli;
• mushrooms;
• grape;
• bones;
• bakery;
• milk;
• potato;
• confectionery;
• sugar substitute;
• fat;
• salty;
• smoked.

Feeding homemade meals must be accompanied by taking vitamin supplements.

Many owners prefer dry food. It is convenient, hygienic and does not require taking additional vitamins. The main condition is that the product should not be lower than premium class. The ideal option is super premium.

The following foods for large breeds are suitable for pets:

• Acana;
• Almo Nature Holistic;
• Belcando;
• Hill's.

The food composition should not contain more than 25% protein.

Particular attention should be paid to the calcium and phosphorus content. Excess can accumulate in a dog's body and cause physical and neurological problems. You should not feed your pets food that contains fish as its main ingredient.

We provide care

To ensure your pet always looks good and stays healthy, it should be provided with regular care, including bathing and other hygiene measures. Let's find out how to properly care for different parts of a pit bull's body.

Eyes, ears, teeth, claws

Starting from a very early age, the puppy should be taught to be clean by regularly cleaning his eyes, ears, teeth and trimming his nails.

You can clean the ears and wipe your eyes with a regular cotton swab; to clean your teeth, you should purchase a special dog brush and paste in advance; and to trim your nails, if they do not grind down naturally, use a special nail clipper.

With the exception of the last procedure, all such hygiene measures should be carried out daily, or at least make sure that they are not necessary at the moment.

Did you know? The described breed successfully copes with the tasks of the American Temperament Test (83.4% of cases), which is even better than the results of the border collie (79.6% of cases), and it is considered almost the smartest dog breed.

Grooming

Even though pit bulls are smooth-haired dogs, this does not mean that they do not need to be brushed. They require coat care, like other breeds, only in this case weekly brushing with a natural hard comb, a rubber product with pimples or a dog mitten will be enough.

All manipulations must be performed extremely carefully, in different directions. This way you can remove all fallen hairs and stimulate the normal functioning of the sebaceous glands on the skin, so that the coat will radiate health. Start brushing from the back area, slowly moving to the sternum, belly, paws and lastly to the tail.

At the end of the procedure, the wool must be wiped with a cloth mitten or cloth in the direction of hair growth, which will give it additional shine. For extra shine, it is useful to wipe the pit bull's coat with a rag with burdock oil applied to it (just a few drops are enough).

Bathing and cleanliness

The American Pit Bull Terrier, like many other breeds, loves to swim, but bathing using special hygiene products is recommended no more than once every two months, of course, except in cases where your pet has fallen into a puddle or gotten dirty in some other way.

Important! Short hair is much oilier than long hair, but if you persistently wash your pet, trying to give it freshness, especially using alkaline products for this, the skin will begin to actively produce oil, and the dog will quickly lose its pleasant smell.

It is appropriate to use flea shampoos only if there is a problem for which they are intended to eliminate, but there is no need to treat the animal with them for preventive purposes. In addition, in any case, try to avoid contact of water with the dog’s ears, since often even a few drops can cause inflammation.

Always rinse the shampoo completely, and when finished, dry your Pitbull with a towel and, if necessary, dry the coat with a hairdryer set to a gentle setting. For the next few hours after bathing, do not let your pet go outside and keep him away from drafts.

Walking with a pit bull

Usually pit bulls are taken outside twice a day, not only to go to the toilet, but also to get a good workout. For this reason, you should walk with your pet for at least an hour, and if you decide to seriously train it, then even longer.

Considering that we are talking about a fighting breed, in crowded places the dog should be muzzled and kept on a short leash, only allowed to run in special areas or where people are sure not to appear.

If your pet has a habit of running far away, you need to periodically call him to you so that when passers-by appear you can quickly put the pit bull on a leash.

If muscle building is insufficient, it is useful to combine regular walks with training loads, promoting running and jumping over obstacles. Jumping in height is no less beneficial for a dog, which is especially important up to 8 months.

“Persuading” a pit bull to jump will not be difficult; all you need to do is simply hold a stick, a treat, or throw a ball up over your head.

In the first 12 months of life, be sure to monitor the correct formation of the puppy’s skeleton and the development of its muscles, and in order to contribute to the success of this process, you can spend a little time during a walk “pulling the owner” down the hill on skis or rollerblades.

This way the dog will use the muscles of the neck and chest, making them wider. To develop chest muscles, you can throw a ball down a hill to your pit bull, making sure that he brings it up to you every time.

Almost any member of your family can walk such a dog, capable of holding it in an unforeseen situation (for example, when a cat runs out or another dog rushes towards you). Of course, this does not apply to children and elderly people.

Choosing a puppy

The most important criterion when choosing a pita is a good pedigree. A purebred baby is less susceptible to aggression and mental disorders. Selection work gradually reduces the dog's excitability. A hand-bought pita or mixed breed can turn into the same killer that the media is constantly talking about. In addition, breeders guarantee the proper level of training for the pet. The puppy will be taught the basic principles of living with people. It is not customary to buy two-month-old babies abroad. The optimal age for moving to new owners is 8 months. However, it is worth noting that it is almost impossible to retrain an adult dog. He will stay with what the breeders gave him.

It is best to take a four-month-old puppy who has received all vaccinations and explained the rules of behavior. The baby should be moderately active (not hyperactive), and friendly towards guests. A withdrawn, half-asleep animal is most likely in pain. The puppy is examined for damage, gait and conformation. The pita should have a head that is not too large and proportionate. You need to take a closer look at the puppy’s gait: if he crouches or drags his paws behind him, this indicates problems with the joints. It is required to carefully study the documents of the parents, obtain information about vaccinations and genetic abnormalities.

Pit bull character

A faithful companion and devoted friend - all this fits the description of the breed. Despite his love for people, he will be an excellent guard in the house. It feels great both in apartments and in private houses, but it is important to take into account that the pit bull is a dog that will not tolerate being on a chain. A very energetic and active breed, it always tries to be useful and necessary for its owner, and loves children.

Pitbull is a friendly breed not only to people, but also to other animals.

Of course, if you instill social traits in him from childhood. He will make great family friends with a kitten or other pet, but you should remember that it is not recommended to have two same-sex pit bull terriers in the same house.

Training

Training begins from the first months of life. After the puppy has moved to its new owners, it is necessary to establish contact with it. The success of education will depend on this. The owner must explain to Pete that man is the head of the pack and absolute authority. If the puppy shows a ferocious grin and dominates in every possible way, he needs to be turned over on his back and told that this cannot be done. This pose will emphasize a vulnerable position.

It is equally important to be consistent in prohibitions. If something is forbidden to a dog, you cannot make even the slightest concessions. This applies to all family members. Under no circumstances should you hit or yell at the puppy. Training should take the form of a game, but with the observance of mandatory rules. To consolidate the results and get a balanced dog, it is recommended to attend a general training course. This will help you understand the animal’s motives and avoid possible problems. The next stage is protective guard service. This course will teach your pit bull to control his impulses and make him an excellent watchdog.

Upbringing

Training a pit bull requires patience. It is good if a person already has experience in raising dogs. The breed is intelligent and inquisitive, so the pets are happy to learn new commands - you just need to find an approach.

A pit bull should not be kept at bay and should be treated in the same way as family members.

The following rules should be followed:

I recommend: How to stop a puppy from digging, gnawing, and jumping on you

First, the pet is trained in obedience. The dog must understand what is forbidden and what is allowed, and in what tone the owner does it. Only then can you move on to basic commands, and then to complex ones. It is better to start training from 3 months.

How much does it cost and where to buy

A specialized nursery is the best place to buy a puppy. Pitbull is very popular in Russia, so there are many registered kennels. To buy a baby, you don’t have to go to St. Petersburg or Moscow.

List of nurseries:

• Strong Spirit (St. Petersburg);
• Pit Real (St. Petersburg);
• D&M's Pit Kennel (Perm);
• BRIDEL (Ryazan);
• RAMBO (Tyumen);
• BEST STAR (Moscow);
• BRAVE FIGHTER (Moscow).

The average price for puppies is 20,000-60,000 rubles.

Pitbull and Stafford: differences

Externally, these dogs are very similar. They look like variations of the same breed. The Stafford is 6 cm taller than the pit bull. It is distinguished by a wide chest, square jaws and longer legs. Pitbull is stocky and squat. The color of his nose depends on his coat. Amstaffs have it exclusively black. Pit bulls are more prone to aggression. Amstaffs are show dogs. Hostility is unacceptable to them.

Both breeds are pain-resistant and aggressive towards their peers. The Pit Bull is primarily a service and guard dog, while the Stafford is a protector and companion.

How to choose a puppy

Pit bulls are quite common in Russia, and purchasing a puppy will not be a problem. In nurseries in Moscow and St. Petersburg you can buy a pet for 15,000-25,000 rubles, depending on the exterior class.

Pet class puppies are not allowed for breeding or participation in exhibitions. However, this baby may well become an excellent companion and home guard for you. These puppies are the cheapest.

Breeding class babies were born to star parents. The puppies are suitable for breeding and can take part in various competitions. They cost more than pet-class babies.

The most expensive are show class puppies. They have an ideal pedigree, and by participating in exhibitions, they can qualify for the highest awards.

Pros and cons of the pit bull terrier

Raising a pit bull is a big responsibility. This breed is not suitable for insecure people. Pitas require firmness and consistency. If the owner does everything right and treats the dog with love and respect, he will see that the dog is a kind and sympathetic dog.

Features of character and behavior

Aggression can also be trained in a dog. This requires appropriate training, which is provided at the test sites. A certain method can be used to instill anger in any breed.

Pit bulls are highly responsive to training and can withstand physical stress. They need to be trained from childhood. The dog needs to be exercised and walked with it. They like to swim in bodies of water.

Advantages

The advantages of the breed include:

Flaws

The disadvantages include: