Overview: The American Pit Bull Terrier is a playful and energetic breed that is loyal to its master. It doesn't do well around small animals and should avoid being near them. Often trusting of strangers, some may be aggressive and may even greatly harm people. Proper breeding and early serious socialization and training can minimize this type of behavior. The Pit Bull makes a great watchdog and can be trained to be an excellent guard dog.

Temperament: The American Pit Bull Terrier is loyal to its master and friends and is frequently friendly toward strangers. It may show habits of chasing fleeing animals and killing them. This could be anywhere from a cat to a deer. It is best to start training as soon as possible with this dog. While it is uncommon, this dog may be aggressive toward people.

History: During the 19th century, three countries were trying to make a competitive and powerful dog breed for games such as bull baiting. England, Ireland, and Scotland started to combine Bulldogs and Terriers to achieve this goal. It wasn't until around the 20th century that the selective breeding process produced what they were looking for. Some of this breed was brought to America and from there it was bred to be larger in size. It wasn't long before this dog was used for dog fighting. Eventually, such fights for monetary gain were outlawed. This order didn't stop the sport, though, and it was still widely played until the 1990s. Some American Pit Bull Terriers were brought back to England and because of their aggressive behavior caused problems. The aggressive nature of this breed became a great concern to the English Government. Laws were put into place forbidding their importation into the country. Those that were already living there would forever have to be muzzled in public. Those owners that didn't obey the laws would have their dogs destroyed. This wasn't brought about just because of attacks on people, but also because the government didn't want organized dog fighting to take root in Britain. All was not bad for the American Pit Bull Terrier however as it was used as messenger dogs during both World War I and World War II, and held in high regard for its service.

Names: The American Pit Bull Terrier is also known as the Pitbull, Pit, Pit Bull, Pit Terrier, Half and Half, Staffordshire Fighting Dog, Bull Baiter Dog, Old Family Dog, Yankee Terrier, or Rebel Terrier.

Physical Characteristics: Unlike the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, this breed doesn't have such predominate Bulldog features on the face and body. The American Pit Bull Terrier is considered to be of medium size with a well defined muscle structure. It is common for this dog to be between 14 and 24 inches and weighing around 30 to 90 lb.

Care: This breed needs to have long walks and daily exercise to use up its pent up energy. It can live outside, but it does need interaction with people and should live inside with access to the outdoors. A large open area to play is a must as it loves to run and chase. Brushing this dogs hair with a firm bristled brush should keep its coat clean and smooth.

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