Your All-in-One Pitbull Breed Guide
Pitbulls are smart, good-natured, and confident dogs.
However, they have a tainted reputation in the society owing to their bloody past. Pitbulls are generally considered aggressive as they were once used in now banned dog fights. The breed is still struggling to change its reputation.
So, would you like to know more about these dogs?
In this blog post, we’ll share everything you need to know about Pitbulls, including the breed history, health issues, dietary needs, and more.
Let’s get started.
Breed History: A Quick Peek Into the French Bulldogs’ Past
Pitbulls find their origins in England. Experts believe that they’re the descendants of the now-extinct Old English Bulldogs and Old English Terriers. The dogs made their way into the United States during the late 19th century and soon gained popularity.
These dogs were used in bloodsports such as bull-baiting, bear-baiting, and dogfighting. However, after these sports were abolished, the dogs gained popularity for being one of the best companion dog breed.
Physical Features: What Does a Pitbull Look Like?
Pitbulls are extremely recognizable. These dogs have a strong build, a powerful jaw, and a wide skull. The eyes are round, and they’re best described as muscular, lean, and stocky.
These dogs are muscular and look bulkier than most dog breeds.
Pitbulls come in various colors such as brown, brindle, white, black, etc. They have many patterns on their fur as well.
Height, Weight, and Life Expectancy
Let’s take a quick peek at some statistics, shall we?
- Height: 17-21 inches
- Weight: 30-60 lbs.
- Life Expectancy: 8-15 years.
As with all dog breeds, slight gender differences do exist in Pitbulls. The females are usually smaller in size and weigh less. Keep in mind that their life expectancy depends on factors like age, lineage, health issues, etc.
Here’s Everything You Need to Know About Your Pitbull’s Personality
If your personality isn’t compatible with that of your dogs breed, the two of you will have a hard time getting along with each other. Of course, things will be frustrating for you and your dog.
So, it’s important to make sure that your personality traits are a match.
Here’s a quick peek at a Pitbull’s personality traits.
Strong-Willed and Stubborn
Pitbulls have a mind of their own and can be strong-willed and stubborn especially as a puppy, but what puppy is not stubborn?
Affectionate Family Dogs
Contrary to popular belief, Pitbulls are actually very loving and affectionate with their family members. They love to be cuddled and adored by their family members and are gentle and sweet in nature.
These dogs can tend to be huge babies and think they are a lot smaller then they actually are.You might find them trying to fit into tight spaces and make their way onto your lap as if they were a lap dog.
Pitbulls are kid-friendly dogs, as they age they are very calm and patient and make the best playmates for your little children.
They would do anything to hang out with you, which is adorable!
Friendly and Loyal
Pitbulls are as friendly and as loyal as they come. They’re protective of their family and can do anything for them–even if it means to come in harm’s way. The dogs are friendly with people when socialized well.
All About a Pitbull’s Nutrition, Exercise, and Health
Let’s quickly take a look at a few important things you need to know about Pitbulls.
Here’s the deal.
Nutritional Needs and Pitbulls
Pitbulls are active dogs. However, if your dog isn’t getting enough exercise, he is prone to getting obese and a host of lifestyle issues like obesity. So, giving your dog the right number of calories is crucial.
Your vet will be able to help you figure out the recommended daily caloric intake. It depends on several factors like age, health issues, exercise, etc.
Exercising Your Pitbull: Here’s the Deal
Pitbulls are active dogs that need lots of exercise to thrive. A lack of exercise can cause them to develop destructive habits and aggression issues. Pitbulls do best when paired with active owners who like to go on long walks, hikes, etc.
They don’t do too well in apartments and need a lot of space to be happy and active.
Your Pitbull’s General Health
Like all dog breeds, Pitbulls are also prone to developing certain health conditions. A good breeder will screen your dog for possible health issues. Common health issues associated with Pitbulls include the following:
- Skin allergies
- Hip dysplasia
- Coat allergies
- Cardiac diseases
- Cerebellar ataxia
Proper exercise and nutrition can help keep your dog fit and healthy in the long run.
Training a Pitbull
Pitbulls have a strong desire to please their owners, making them rather easy to train. They’re also intelligent dogs, so they get the hang of things rather easily. Their outgoing nature also makes them easily trainable. Crate training can come second nature to these dogs all though they can tend to be stubborn at times.
Grooming Your Pitbull: Here’s the Deal
With a Pitbull, you don’t need to be too worried about the grooming side of things. These dogs have a short coat that’s easy to maintain. They don’t shed a lot either, which is awesome.
Here’s all you need to know about the grooming side of things.
- You’ll need to bathe your Pitbull at least once every four to six weeks.
- Try to brush your dog’s fur twice a week for best results.
- Make sure to brush your Pitbull’s teeth at least four times a week.
- Finally, clip your pooch’s nails once every four to six weeks or as needed.
That’s all, folks!
In a Nutshell
Were we able to answer all of your questions about Pitbulls?
Pitbulls have an unfair reputation in the dog world and are considered dangerous and aggressive–which really is not the case. However, the general notion is slowly changing as more and more people start to choose them as companions.
If you have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments section. We’ll be happy to get back to you!