Experts agree they came to be around the late 18^th and early 19^th centuries and are most likely a mixture of a Bulldog and Mastiffs, although this is not confirmed. It is absolutely certain that the breed comes from both bull baiting and fighting dogs and this has a great deal to do with the tendency to label them as aggressive dogs. They were simply bred this way from the beginning.

During the 19^th and 20^th centuries, in particular, the dogs became extremely popular in Ireland and England as fighting and bull baiting dogs. They began making their way to the United States in the mid-1900s where they were used as herding and cattle catching dogs instead. Their appearance changed slightly as well, where they became larger and longer in the legs than their Irish and English ancestors. Most of the English ancestors never weighed more than 25-30 pounds, while the American version weighed an average of 50-55 pounds. The American Pit Bull Terrier became recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1936, although they eventually diverged into the American Staffordshire Terrier. They are only still deemed the American Pit Bull Terrier by the UKC, although many breeders debate over the true nature of both dogs. Until the 1980s, this breed was barely recognizable by most of the public and only grew in popularity over the last 20-30 years.

Description: An extremely muscular breed, low to the ground, with a compact body. Pittbulls have very strong, wide heads, an incredibly powerful looking jaw and perky ears that sit atop the head. The dog has an air of strength, with a powerful stance, a broad chest and muscular legs. Although it used to be common to dock the tail of a Pit Bull puppy, they are now often left with long, straight tails.

The weight range for a pitbull varies widely from 35-75 pounds, although some are known for being smaller or even larger than this weight range. They are usually fairly low to the ground, standing between 18-22 inches tall. While many dogs will be a good portion of white in color, they will never be completely white, but will have a mixture of brown or black or even completely brindle as well.

Life Span: 12-14 years

Common Ailments: A relatively hardy breed, but they may be susceptible to hip dysplasia, skin allergies and cataracts.

Suitability with Children: Yes, although will need firm training from a puppy

Suitability with Other Pets: No

Living Conditions: Should always be in a home with a large yard in order to ensure proper exercise

Training: Will do best with firm training because they have a tendency towards a strong, dominant personality and also have aggressive instincts.

Exercise Required: High

Cost of Maintenance: Low

Breed Temperament: Unfortunately this breed has received a bad reputation because of their ancestry as well as a small amount of the public who have used these dogs in the fight circles. With this in mind, though, you can find a Pit Bull puppy for sale nearly anywhere, due to overbreeding. For those who are willing to overlook the media hype on the danger of Pitbulls, these animals can make excellent pets, as they are extremely loyal, loving and obedient once properly trained. Because of their strong, powerful appearance, they will also make an excellent watchdog and guard dog for any family.

Keep in mind that this breed is not meant for a first time dog owner. Because of their aggressive tendencies, their need for exercise and their strong personality, they will do best with an owner who has experience handling dogs. They should not be feared, though, as they do excellent with obedience training and many are actually just teddy bears who loving lounging around with the family. Remember when it comes to this breed, it is all in how they are raised and handled.

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