| | | | | | | | American Pit Bull Terrier GiftsIts unfortunate origins remain a problem for the dog today, as the American Pit Bull Terrier was originally bred for the sport of bull baiting, and later dog fighting, which of necessity required an aggressive, tenacious nature that it got from both its bulldog and terrier ancestors. When these sports were both outlawed, breeders turned their attention to producing dogs with acceptable temperaments to serve as companions. What many people are not aware of is that... (continued below)
|
 | (continued) even as fighting dogs they were culled immediately by responsible breeders if they showed aggression to people, and were never a threat to humans. The recent problems with unstable temperaments in the APBT is entirely due to poor breeding and bad handling of an intelligent and very strong dog.
The American Pit Bull Terrier is accepted only in the UKC, and can be found on the books of the American Dog Breeders Association who actively pursue a better image for the dog, while producing sound, healthy animals. The American Staffordshire Terrier accepted by the AKC, is not the same dog as the APBT, although their physical similarities make it plain that they have mutual ancestors. However, the Staffordshire is grouped in with what are referred to as “pit bulls”.
An APBT ranges from 30-60 lbs. in weight, and 18-22 inches at the shoulder. The short, single layered coat has an attractive glossy shine, and is accepted in any color except merle, which was brought into the bred with an unrecognized outcross. Eyes may be of any color except blue.
The APBT has an engaging nature and is a loyal, loving companion, even to children. Their strong prey drive is not engaged by small humans, but can be stimulated by the presence of other animals or strange dogs. Because they are strong and an active dog, It takes a firm handed owner and thorough training to redirect their instincts to more acceptable behavior. © DogDecor.com | | | | |