American Pit Bull Terrier

This breed excels in guarding, hunting, ratting, herding and police work. With the right owner, the American Pitt Bull Terrier is affectionate and loyal. However, they are not recommended for most people.

This dog tolerates children but should never be left alone with unfamiliar children. Oddly enough, most are considered quite funny. They also get along well with other pets, as long as they have been raised together. Early socialization is very important as it helps combat their tendency to be aggressive. This breed should be considered willful, requiring a firm hand.

Overall, they are courageous, intelligent, eager to please and protective, making them excellent companions and guard dogs. They are especially skilled at protecting property.

The American Kennel Club refers to the breed as the American Staffordshire Terrier, although there is some confusion regarding their relation. American president Teddy Roosevelt and boxer Jack Dempsey both owned this type of dog as a pet, and the most decorated dog during WWI was a Pit Bull.

The Pit Bull stands between 18 and 22 inches, but can weigh as little as 22 pounds and as much as 110 pounds. Larger specimens of this dog have most likely been mated with another breed. The average weight is between 35 and 55 pounds. This dog is an average shedder, and owners can get by with only light brushing and wiping for coat maintenance. Their coats can appear in any color, either solid or splashed.

While overall this is a healthy breed, they are prone to hip dysplasia and cataracts. Some also develop grass allergies. This dog does okay living in an apartment as they are very active indoors. They do tend to prefer warmer climates. Most live to reach the age of 12 and females generally produce 5 to 10 pups per litter.