How many Pitbull-type breed do exist?

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Pitbull dog breed

pitbull-type dogs are among the most misunderstood dog breeds. Also, Pitbulls are feared for their big-heartedness but are one of the gentler and most loving dog breeds. Pit bull-type dogs are often subject to unfair discrimination. Pit bull-type dogs are often discriminated against because of their muscular build. Also, they have been mistakenly referred to as aggressive dogs. Pit bull-type dogs can be incredibly loving, loyal, and gentle with their families. They are playful and eager for attention.

Pitbull dog breed’s are one of the most misunderstood of all dog breeds. These big-hearted dogs have a fearsome reputation when really, they are one of the softer and more loving breeds. Pit bull-type dogs often face unfair discrimination. These dogs were bred for their muscular build and, consequently, have been used in inhumane dogfighting sports. This has given them an inaccurate reputation for being overly aggressive dogs. In fact, pit bull-type dogs are usually incredibly loving, loyal, and gentle with their family members. They also tend to be playful and eager to please.

History of Pitbull type dog breeds

Pitbull-type dogs are a crossbreed between a bulldog and a terrier originally bred in England in the early 19th century (then called “Bull and Terriers”) to be working dogs on farms to herd, protect, and manage livestock. While their early history is complex and includes herding cattle and protecting homesteads, it also, unfortunately, includes the cruel sports of bull-baiting and dog fighting.

However, these cruel “sports” were not specific to today’s pitbull-type breeds – many different breeds were subjected to these activities, which are now illegal almost everywhere. During the 20th century, pitbull-type dogs quickly became one of America’s most popular family dogs. They became national mascots and were used on recruitment posters for World Wars 1 & 2 and were proudly called “America’s dog.” More recently, their popularity has continued to grow to an estimated 20% of the total dog population in the U.S. And also are successful as service dogs, therapy dogs, K9 police dogs, and family pets and consistently achieve excellent temperament scores.

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Breed Characteristics

Pit bull-type dogs typically have muscular, stocky build with deep chests and large, square heads. They’re notoriously determined dogs. They won’t give up easily when given a task, whether it be learning a new trick or digging a hole. And they usually love people, including strangers, and crave attention. Training and socialization from a young age are essential for pit bulls. Otherwise, their size and strength can be difficult to handle, as they might pull hard on a leash or jump up on people to greet them. Pitbulls are one of the best dogs with small children. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the American Pitbull Terrier are two of the best dog breeds for families. Pitbulls were originally bred in the United Kingdom and came to America with the British. The American pit bull terrier is not recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club.

What dog breeds make a pit bull?

There is no specific breed called a pit bull; pitbulls are either American bullies, American pit bull terriers, American Staffordshire terriers, Staffordshire bull terriers, American bulldogs, or a mix of these breeds.

Originally, these breeds were created by mixing terriers and bulldogs, but they are now recognized as distinct breeds.

How long do pit bulls live?

Pitbulls have an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years. You can keep your bully-breed pet healthy and happy well into its golden years by feeding them a well-balanced diet. By providing plenty of opportunities for play and exercise, visiting the vet regularly for checkups and healthcare, and spending time interacting and enjoying your pet every day.

Are pit bulls dangerous?

Pit bulls have a bad reputation as dangerous dogs because of their origins in dog fighting. Most are loyal, affectionate dogs that make excellent household pets. It is true, however, that some owners specifically train or encourage their bully-breed dogs to be aggressive, either for use as fighting dogs or as guard dogs.

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How many Pitbull breeds do exist?

While over 20 different breeds (and many mixed breeds) with similar physical characteristics as pitbull-type dogs, the breeds below (and especially their many mixes) are just a few of the unique breeds frequently misidentified as pitbull-type dogs because of their appearance. These breeds are larger and less common than the pitbull-type breeds and are not classified as “pitbull-type” breeds by any canine organizations (most are members of the Working Group of dog breeds).

American Staffordshire Terrier

The American Staffordshire terrier also has roots in the terriers and bulldogs of 19th-century England. Its development in late 19th century North America resulted in a dog larger than its English relatives. The breed wasn’t used as commonly for fighting as some other pit bull types, resulting in more mellow dogs. But Am Staffs still can have a high prey drive and don’t always get along with other dogs. However, they’re known for being loyal, playful, and good-natured with their families. They do well in households with plenty of time for canine interaction, play, and exercise.

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American Pit Bull Terrier

The American pit bull terrier is another breed recognized by the United Kennel Club but not the American Kennel Club. Its ancestors were 19th-century terriers and bulldogs from the United Kingdom, and the breed took shape in North America in the late 19th century. Sadly this breed has been commonly used for dog fighting. Although modern American pit bull terriers can have a high prey drive and don’t always get along with other dogs, they’re known for forming strong bonds with their families. And as with most pit bull types, they tend to be loyal and affectionate. Be sure you have enough time to play, socialize, and exercise if you are considering adopting an American pit bull terrier.

American Bulldog

The American bulldog is a descendant of English bulldogs, developed in the 17th century for bull baiting—a blood sport involving dogs fighting bulls. In North America, bulldogs became working dogs on farms and all-around friendly companions. They tend to be extremely affectionate with their families, often wanting to sit on laps despite their large size. They also often love kids. But they can be very protective of their families, so training and socialization starting in puppyhood are a must to ensure they will be friendly to people outside of your household.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Despite the Staffordshire bull terrier’s development in the 19th century for dog fighting, the breed today is more closely associated with being unfailingly loyal and affectionate with its family. These dogs often love nothing more than snuggling with their owners and tend to be patient and gentle with children. They are a breed best suited to a household where they will have company for most of the day, as they can be prone to separation anxiety. Moreover, they are people-focused and don’t always get along well with other dogs. Still, they make a fine pet for an active household with time to devote to their need for attention and exercise.

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American Bully

The American bully is a relatively new breed first developed in the ’80s and ’90s. Recognized by the United Kennel Club in 2013 but not yet by the American Kennel Club, the breed came from the American pit bull terrier and other bulldog-type breeds. Compared to the American pit bull terrier, bullies are much broader, more compact, and have wider head. Bullies from responsible breeders have been specifically developed for their gentle and affectionate temperament. But bullies are still strong and athletic, so they need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Also, regular socialization time with people and other dogs is useful.

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Reza Esmati

I’m a long-time animal lover and owner of two dogs and three cats. I grew up on a farm where we had all sorts of animals, from cows and horses to pigs and chickens. My love for animals led me to pursue a career in writing about them. I have been a pet care writer for over 5 years and have extensive knowledge of animal care, health, and behavior.