WHAT IS A
PIT BULL?
The term “Pit Bull” refers not to a single breed but a group of
breeds, including the American Pit Bull Terrier, American
Staffordshire Terrier, the Stafford-shire Bull Terrier, among
others. Most originated from pairings of the ancestors we now
call the Olde English Bulldogge and Terriers. Their breeders
wanted to merge the muscular body and tenacity of the bulldog
with the agility and “gameness” of terriers.
Originally bred for blood sports like bull- and bear-baiting
in Europe and North America, these dogs were trained to attack
and immobilize the agitated animal and so were favored for
their large, strong jaws and muscular necks and shoulders.
When these sports were outlawed in the early 1800s, people began fighting the dogs, a sport more
easily concealed from the authorities. Since then, Pit Bulls have undeservedly inherited a bad
reputation, much inflated by the media, making them the target of unfair discrimination and breed
specific legislation (breed banning).
The truth is that this highly intelligent, energetic, affectionate group
loves people, even strangers, and thrives on attention and affection. Pit
Bulls were prized as wonderful family dogs in years past. In fact, they
once had the moniker of “nanny dog” because of their wonderful
demeanor with children.
In general, Terriers were bred with a high prey drive for the use of
eradicating small rodents. Therefore they have a tendancy for animal-
intolerance, making their early socialization with other animals,
including dogs, especially important.
Pit Bulls are strong and athletic. With their impressive stamina and staunch work ethic, they
enjoy a variety of sports – agility, disc dog competitions, flyball, freestyle, competitive obedience
and weight-pulling contests. Especially when adolescent, these dogs have a tendency to get
easily excited, so adequate exercise, training, and mental stimulation are a must for these dogs.
While most experts agree that today’s Pit Bull is a short-coated dog characterized by a wide
skull, powerful jaws and a muscular, stocky body, there is great variation in this group’s
appearance. Typically 35 to 65 pounds, some weigh as little as 25 pounds, others tip the scales at
80 pounds or more. While some have bulkier frames and colossal skulls, others have leaner,
more muscular bodies.
2014 © Laura Garber, WoofGang, LLC
Because of their unfortunate reputation, owning a Pit Bull can be a greater responsibility than
owning other breeds. It is important that they are well-trained and socialized so they can be good
ambassadors for their group. Yet, those dog guardians ready for the effort of Pit Bull ownership
will find them to be one of the most loyal, loving, and wonderful companions on four legs.
Did you know… that Helen Keller, the famous blind and deaf author,
activist, and lecturer of the early 1900s, owned a Pit Bull?
Or that Petey from The Little Rascals. the popular series of the 1920s
and ‘30s, was also a Pit Bull? Moreover, during World War I and
World War II, Pit Bulls were frequently used to carry messages on the
battlefield. Neat, huh?
2014 © Laura Garber, WoofGang, LLC
