by Victoria Tiegert

Created on: December 03, 2009

The American Pitbull Terrier, known also as simply the Pitbull or even just the Pit, is a breed that has its heritage roots in England where the originating breed was created in the nineteenth century. The originating breed, the Staffordshire Bullterrier, was developed by the mating of Bulldogs with a variety of other Terriers. When these dogs were brought to the United States, American breeders began to re-invent the breed, adding to their head size and weight.

They were originally used primarily as fighting dogs, but when this pastime was outlawed, the dogs were seperated into two classes, the American Staffordshire Terrier and the Pitbull Terrier. The American Staffordshire Terriers were bred to be show dogs, while the Pitbulls were still bred to fight, albeit illegally. Today, both of these breeds are commonly bred and kept as family pets, although the Pitbull still carries a rather bad reputation, whether deserved or not. The American Pitbull Terrier is also used extensively in guarding work, due largely in part to their enormous strength and agility.

The American Pitbull Terrier can be registered with the CKC, APRI, NKC, ADBA, NAPDR, UKC, APBR, PDFSA, ACR, and DRA kennel clubs. They are classified under the "Mastiff" category in the kennel clubs. While registry is not important for everyone, there is added value to the dog if it is to be bred, shown, or used in competition.

The American Pitbull Terrier has a broad skull with a moderate stop at the wide muzzle, which is average length and very slightly upturned at the end. The ears are set high on the head and may be cropped or left natural. The wideset eyes are dark in color and round, holding an expression that is intelligent and keenly alert. There is also a brave fearlessness to be seen there. The nose is black. The teeth should meet in a scissor bite and the jaw is extremely powerful.

According to breed standards, the American Pitbull Terrier should be between 18 and 22 inches tall when measured from the ground to the withers. Males are often taller than females. Both the male and female can be up to 110 pounds in weight, when fully matured. The dog has a rather square and compact appearance, but should not be overly fatty. They should be very well-muscled. The chest is deep. The tail is relatively short and tapered.

The American Pitbull Terrier has a thick coat of short, shiny hair, which is slightly coarse to the touch. The coat can be any color or color combination. Their grooming needs are not

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