Thinking of getting a pet to share your apartment? How about considering a pit bull terrier mix? Here is some information and things to consider so you can make the right choice for you both!
The word ‘bull’ symbolizes strength, physique, robustness, toughness. You can expect similar qualities in the pit bull terrier dog breed. A tough-looking dog indeed, but quite calm from within. The term “pit bull terrier” is generalized to describe a variety of dogs, the names of which are American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
What are Pit Bull Terriers Like?
As the name suggests, this is a mixed breed between a bulldog and a terrier. It is considered to be amongst the most tenacious dog breeds. The Pitbull terrier is quite intelligent and emotionally responsive.
Here are the most prominent physical aspects of this breed:
These dogs feature a solid square-shaped head, and broad jaws resting on an extremely athletic build.
Pitbull terriers have a short, thick and very shiny coat, which can be easily groomed. The tail is straight and tapers towards the end. They possess a strong muscular chest, with the body running narrower towards the rear.
The average height is about 18-22 inches (46-56 cm) and weight can be anything between 22-110 pounds, with the most common being between 35 – 55 pounds.
They prefer warm climates and are generally healthy, but some breeds may be prone to hereditary cataracts, congenital heart disease, hip dysplasia, and allergies to grass. It is advisable to visit the vet regularly to prevent health problems.
Proper socialization, reward-based positive training methods, and veterinary care are non-negotiable requirements. The pit bull terrier is quite intelligent and emotionally responsive. The life expectancy of this breed is about 12 years.
Here is a list of the following behavioral traits:
The dog is basically a huge people-pleaser! It will register whatever makes its owner happy and often repeat that act.
It’s a fact that a pit bull terrier can successfully portray a spectrum of human-like emotions and behavior.
Pibulls can be territorial and can be aggressive towards other dogs and animals.
Never leave them (or any dog) alone with children or toddlers. Not just because of the dog, but because of the child as well. As time passes, you’ll find that the dog has a great level of tolerance towards the child.
Never use intimidation or aversive methods to train a Pitbull. They are highly intelligent, sensitive and very obedient and must be trained with positive modern methods and force-free training.
The love of this breed is vast. Many famous personalities have owned/own pit bull terriers such as Theodore Roosevelt, Kevin Federline, Michael J. Fox, Pink, Jamie Foxx, Helen Keller, Jessica Biel, and Jessica Alba. “Pibbles” are the only dog breed to have ever appeared on the cover of the Life magazine, thrice.
Behavior
A Pitbull terrier is a highly sociable, good-natured, affectionate loyal pet. They are obedient, courageous, and intelligent. Not known for displaying unnecessary aggression towards strangers, the pit bull terrier will protect its owners and their property.
These dogs are not recommended for the first time dog owner. One should do their research and have a clear understanding of this breed. Pitbulls need daily exercise and mentally stimulating games to keep fit and happy. It is also a very good idea to have a securely fenced yard because these doggos are so athletic they can easily scale small fences. They are also diggers so make sure that the fence is reinforced from underneath.
Give Rescue a Try!
It is a good idea to adopt, rather than purchase dogs. Your simple gesture of kindness can save a life and inspire others to follow suit. Search the web or Facebook for a Pittbull Rescue near you. Take a peek at this rescue. Also please find your local shelter, ASPCA or Humane Society Shelters and go meet at the Pitbulls waiting to be your forever dog.
