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Brock Swinson | | Page 122
One of the major misconceptions is that the Pit Bull is a breed. Unfortuneately this is not the case. The AKC does not recognize them as a breed and they are not competitive in the shows. The general consensus is there are as many as 30 breeds considered Pit Bulls but five are on the short list. The heights, weights and health vary in this bully breed, but families love them and are loyal to them in dog shows.
American Pit Bull Terrier
The American Pit Bull Terrier is a medium sized dog. The height varies for males from 18 to 21 inches and 17 to 20 inches for females. The weight has a wide range. According to Dog Breed Info.com the dog can go from 22 to 78 lbs. With its soft, smooth coat grooming is simply a routine brush with hard bristles. The breed, despite the small stature, does have an issue with hip dysplasia. Additional concerns are heart disease, along with leg and skin problems. The breed does make an excellent family pet as long as it is properly socialized especially with other dogs.
American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier is about the same height as the American Pit Bull Terrier at 18 to 19 inches for males and 17 to 18 inches for females. The breed is more muscular and heavier with the average weight for both males and females between 68 and 82 lbs. Grooming is once again extremely simple with a good brushing and a wipe down with a chamois cloth. Heart, skin, and thyroid problems are some of the health issues they face. The key to successful integration is to properly socialize the dog with all animals in the house.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a small bully breed with a height of 14 to 16 inches for males and 13 to 15 inches for females. The weight is in line with the height with males 24 to 37 lbs and females 22 to 35 lbs. Again, grooming is very easy with a brush and a chamois towel dry being sufficient to keep them clean. Health concerns include hip dysplasia, heart and gas problems. As with all “bully breeds”, the dog must be properly socialized.
American Bulldog
The American Bull dog is also a medium sized breed. With a height of 22-28 inches for males and 22 to 26 inches for females, it is slightly taller than the other breeds discussed. The weight reflects the extra height with males weighting 66 to 130 lbs and females 60 to 90 lbs. Grooming is almost nonexistent with brushing and an occasional bath the only requirements. Hip dysplasia and brain issues are the major health concerns. The breed becomes rowdy when bored. Mental stimulation and exercise are necessary to keep the dog happy.
Bull Terrier
The Bull Terrier comes in two sizes, standard and miniature. The standard stands 20 to 24 inches while the miniature is 10 to 14 inches. The standard is a muscular, heavy dog weighing between 66 and 120 lbs and females 60 to 90 lbs. Brushing and a rub down with special rubber gloves is all it takes for a good grooming. Allergies, heart, kidney all impact the dog’s health. Just like the American Bulldog, it is advised not to leave the breed alone any longer than 8 hours a day.
Despite the poor reputation of the bully breed as vicious, the general consensus appears to be this is far from the truth. Families and world famous animal trainers actively seek out the breed. When properly socialized they are loyal, face kissing pets.
