American Pit Bull Terrier

Breed Type: Guard
Common nicknames: Pittie, APBT, Pibble
Coat: Short-haired
Hypoallergenic: No, they will likely trigger allergies.
Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, intelligent, eager-to-please
Life expectancy: 8-15 years
Color & patterns:
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American Pit Bull Terrier - black
American Pit Bull Terrier - gray and white
American Pit Bull Terrier - gray and white
American Pit Bull Terrier - gray and white
American Pit Bull Terrier - brown
American Pit Bull Terrier - chocolate
American Pit Bull Terrier - chocolate blue
American Pit Bull Terrier - fawn
The American Pit Bull Terrier’s unbreakable loyalty and playful personality will steal your heart. Despite their muscular bodies and tough exteriors, these dogs are incredibly affectionate, and once you get to know them, you’ll quickly realize how loving and devoted they truly are. With their boundless energy and athletic ability, this breed thrives on outdoor activities and loves nothing more than playing and exploring with their human companions. They’re also intelligent, eager to please, and known for their love of people, which makes them easy to train — and willing to make friends with anyone who’ll give them a belly rub. So, if you’re looking for a pal who will love you unconditionally and keep you on your toes, the Pit Bull might be the breed for you. Just remember, don’t judge a book by its cover — or a dog by harmful media-perpetuated stereotypes.

American Pit Bull Terrier characteristics

Learn about about American Pit Bull Terrier basics like their fur colors, shedding levels, how much grooming they need, and other American Pit Bull Terrier facts.

Average height

17-22 inches (43.2-55.9cm)

Average weight

30-66 pounds (13.6-29.9 kg)

Average lifespan

8-15 years

Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
Grooming needs
OccasionallyFrequently
Full-grown size
Teeny tinySupersize
Good with cats
Likely to chaseHey, new pal!
Good with kids
Needs lots of supervisionReady to play
Training aptitude
HeadstrongEager to please
How big will an American Pit Bull Terrier mix get?

American Pit Bull Terriers are a medium-sized breed, most weighing between 31 to 80 pounds and standing around 18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder. The size of an American Pit Bull Terrier mix can vary depending on the specific breeds involved in the mix and the individual dog’s genetics.

How much do American Pit Bull Terriers shed?

American Pit Bull Terriers are moderate shedders. They have short, sleek coats that don't require extensive grooming, but shedding is a natural process for them. The amount of shedding can vary depending on the dog, and factors like season, health, and genetics can play a role. Regular brushing (a few times a week) can help minimize shedding by removing loose fur and distributing natural oils through the coat.

What colors do American Pit Bull Terriers come in?

American Pit Bull Terriers come in a variety of coat colors and patterns, including solid colors such as brindle and black, two-tone colors such as blue, fawn, chocolate, and lilac with white markings, and multi-colored patterns such as black and tan, red and white, blue and white, and brindle and white. Some Pit Bulls may also exhibit the merle pattern, characterized by marbled or dappled coloring.

Is an American Staffordshire Terrier a Pit Bull?

Yes, the American Staffordshire Terrier is considered a type of Pit Bull. While there are variations in appearance and temperament among Pit Bull breeds, the American Staffordshire Terrier is one of the breeds closely related to the American Pit Bull Terrier. The American Staffordshire Terrier, the American Pit Bull Terrier, and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier share common ancestry and were originally bred for similar purposes.

How many types of American Pit Bull Terriers are there?

American Pit Bull Terriers are considered a single breed, but there are several distinct bloodlines or types within the breed. Five notable types include the American Pit Bull Terrier, Red Nose and Blue Nose Pit Bull, Colby Pit Bull, and the Gotti Pit Bull. These strains are not separate breeds, but rather variations within the American Pit Bull Terrier breed, and their traits can vary based on breeding practices and individual genetics.

American Pit Bull Terrier history

Learn about where this American Pit Bull Terrier came from!

Where are American Pit Bull Terriers from?

American Pitbull Terriers originate from the British Isles in the 19th century, where bull breeds were bred with terrier breeds to create both the American Pit Bull and the American Staffordshire Terrier. Originally bred for bull-baiting and dogfighting, their purpose evolved over time, and they became versatile working dogs on farms and beloved family pets.

American Pit Bull Terrier temperament

Learn about about the American Pit Bull Terrier temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Are American Pit Bull Terriers good with kids?

Yes, American Pit Bull Terriers are known to be good with kids given their affectionate and gentle nature. Their loyalty and protective instincts make them great companions, and many Pit Bulls are known for forming strong bonds with kids.

As with any breed, it is recommended that parents always supervise their children around dogs, and it’s crucial to teach both the dog and child how to respect boundaries.

Are American Pit Bull Terriers easy to train?

American Pit Bull Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, which can make them quite trainable, but they can also be strong-willed and stubborn at times. With consistent, positive reinforcement training methods, patience, and early socialization, they can be well-behaved and obedient companions.

At the same time, training any dog takes substantial time and effort, regardless of breed. It’s essential to understand that individual temperament can vary, and some Pit Bulls may require more time and effort in training. The key is to establish a firm yet loving bond with your American Pit Bull Terrier and make training sessions fun and engaging, which will likely lead to a well-trained and happy pup.

How much do American Pit Bull Terriers bark?

American Pit Bull Terriers are not known as excessive barkers. Though they have a moderate tendency to bark, they tend to be alert and protective dogs, so they may bark to alert family members to potential intruders or unusual sounds. However, their barking behavior can vary from one individual Pit Bull to another, and it’s influenced by factors like their environment, socialization, and training.

Are American Pit Bull Terriers good family dogs?

Yes, American Pit Bull Terriers can be excellent family dogs. They’re known for their affection, loyalty, and protective nature, making them fantastic family companions. They’re extremely people-oriented and love to please their family members. Just keep in mind that each Pit Bull has a unique personality, so early training, socialization, and responsible pet parenting are key to ensuring they grow up to be the best furry family members possible.

Are American Pit Bull Terriers good with cats?

Yes, American Pit Bull Terriers and cats can get along, but it really depends on each individual animal’s personality. With some love, patience, and proper introductions, they can be pals in no time. Just keep in mind that Pit Bulls have a natural hunting instinct, so it’s vital to supervise their initial interactions and give them time to adjust to each other’s presence.

American Pit Bull Terrier health

Learn about about the American Pit Bull Terrier health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Do you need to groom an American Pit Bull Terrier?

Yes, American Pit Bull Terriers require grooming, but because they have short, sleek coats, they are relatively low-maintenance. They require regular brushing to reduce shedding, occasional baths with dog-specific shampoo, nail trimming every two to four weeks, ear cleaning, and dental care. Grooming frequency can vary based on your American Pit Bull Terrier’s specific needs and sensitivities, so it’s best to consult with a veterinarian or professional groomer. 

What diseases are American Pit Bull Terriers prone to?

Common health issues that American Pit Bull Terriers can be prone to include:

  • Hip dysplasia: This is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to pain and mobility issues.

  • Allergies: Pit Bulls can be prone to skin allergies and food sensitivities, resulting in itching, rashes, and ear infections.

  • Skin problems: They may develop skin conditions like demodectic mange, hot spots, or dermatitis due to their short coat and sensitivity.

  • Heart disease: Certain cardiac conditions, such as dilated cardiomyopathy, can affect Pit Bulls. Regular vet check-ups are crucial for early detection and management.

It's important to note that not all Pit Bulls will experience these issues, and responsible breeding practices can help minimize the risk. Regular veterinary care, a balanced diet, exercise, and grooming can contribute to their overall health and well-being.

Popular American Pit Bull Terrier mixes

A few common American Pit Bull Terrier mixes include:

  • Pitsky (Pit Bull + Husky)

  • Pitsky (Pit Bull + Husky)

  • German Pit (German Shepherd + Pit Bull)

  • Pitador (APBT + Labrador Retriever)

  • Golden Bull (Golden Retriever + APBT)

  • Shar Pull (Shar Pei + APBT)

American Pit Bull Terrier Mixes picture

Find American Pit Bull Terrier puppies near you

Adopting an American Pit Bull Terrier

Learn about acquiring an American Pit Bull Terrier - the pros and cons of adopting versus going through a breeder, and associated costs.