The Pit Bull immediately strikes one as being a dog of power, passion, and undying willingness. The brick-like head, which is especially broad between the cheeks (to house the powerful jaws), is carried upon a thickly muscled, well-defined neck. The neck runs into a deep, thick, well-sprung chest. The American Pit Bull is a very muscular, stocky, yet agile dog which is extremely strong for his size. The ears are generally cropped, though this is optional. Docked tails are not accepted by the UKC or the ADBA. The eyes are round, and any color is acceptable. The teeth should form a scissors bite. Its coat is made up of thick, short, shiny hair. All colors are admissible. The tail tapers to a point.

The American Pit Bull Terrier is solidly built, medium in size, muscular, and powerful. Frequently referred to as great warriors, this breed exhibits strength, courage, agility, and grace. They have an exceptionally gentle disposition with those they love.

The American Pit Bull Terrier has a glossy, short, smooth coat that is stiff to the touch. The coat comes in a variety of colors, combination of colors, or color patterns. This breed is an average shedder.

Originating during the 19th century, the American Pit Bull Terrier was noted for having the gameness of a Terrier and the athletic abilities and strength of a Bulldog. This breeds versatile talents made them a favorite of farmers and ranchers for such uses as protection, livestock driving, family companions, and as catch dogs for hogs and semi-wild cattle.

This breed is extremely loyal, deeply devoted, affectionate, intelligent, and good-natured. The American Pit Bull Terrier does best in a home with older considerate children. They will get along with other dogs they have been raised with but may exhibit aggression toward strange dogs and other small household pets. They are exceedingly protective of their family, home, and territory. American Pit Bull Terriers are not generally used for guarding due to their friendly nature. Aggressive behavior toward humans is an uncharacteristic trait in this breed. They are not recommended for the novice, apathetic, or sedentary owner.

Regular grooming with a firm bristle brush will minimize loose hair. Bathing or dry shampooing should be done when necessary. The American Pit Bull Terrier is prone to hereditary cataracts, hip dysplasia, congenital heart disease, and allergies to grass. They prefer warmer climates.

The American Pit Bull Terrier is very obedient and eager to please. Intensive and extensive early socialization and obedience training are absolutely crucial for this breed. They will not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. Training should be done with respect, praise, firmness, fairness, patience, and consistency. They display talents in such performance areas as agility, tracking, conformation, weight pull, and obedience.

This breed requires a high degree of exercise to keep them happy. They enjoy securely leashed walks, hiking, and mountain-biking. The American Pit Bull Terrier thrives on human interaction and benefits from family play sessions such as Frisbee and playing ball. They will do okay in an apartment dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise, attention, and stimulation.

If you are looking for American Pit Bull Terrier puppies for sale from reputable American Pit Bull Terrier breeders or to adopt an American Pit Bull Terrier from an American Pit Bull Terrier rescue then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy breed is different. Begin your research by reading the breed information about the American Pit Bull Terrier puppy above. Search our dog breeds section to find American Pit Bull Terrier puppies, dogs and puppies that make great pets.