The TRUE meaning of a Pittie

What is a Pit Bull?

Posted by: O Jefferson

  Since most people automatically think Pitties are a breed of their own, here's some factual info for ya on their "actual" breed. :)



  What is a “pit bull”?

The term “pit bull” does NOT describe a specific dog breed. A pit bull is a type of dog, just as retrievers, shepherds, and spaniels describe types of dogs. The term “pit bull” has no single, solid, scientific definition. Your idea of a “pit bull” is a personal and individual idea; no one else’s idea of a pit bull will be exactly the same.

In the shelter system, “pit bull” and “pit bull mix” are used as generic categories into which dogs are placed if they 1) have reasonably short fur and a somewhat wide head; and 2) do not possess any traits that might assign them to a more distinct breed. The “pit bull mix” category is a default category into which many generic-looking dogs are placed, regardless of their actual DNA make-up or history.

From a historical perspective, the American Pit Bull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier are the breeds at the core of the “original” pit bull. The terms pit bull and pit bull terrier were used in the early 1900s to describe the developing American bull terrier, which later became recognized as the American Pit Bull Terrier via the United Kennel Club and the American Staffordshire Terrier via the American Kennel Club.

Since 1936, these two breeds have been bred to conform to slightly different breed standards. 

For instance, Lennox WAS NOT a "Pit Bull Terrier" but rather an American Bulldog. Most think that because a dog has a wide set jaw/mouth and the wrinkles on the top of it's head, it's a Pittie. Think again!
A Pit is more of a "slang" term used to define a number of larger terrier dogs. AND, just to put it out there since I have 2 Pitties myself, they are not generally known as aggressive dogs but more of a dog that "can be" aggressive just like ANY OTHER breed of dog or animal for that matter.

So with all that being said, I say "Don't Be A Bully, Go Kiss A Bully Instead!" You won't be sorry!

Please share to educate! Thank you! :)