Pitbull Dog Monsters: Separating Fact from Fiction and Emotion

Pitbulls have a long history dating back to the late 19th century, bred from the Old English Bulldog and the Terrier.

Their original purpose was to be a companion animal, not a fighting dog. In fact, the American Pitbull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1898.

The breed's loyal and affectionate nature made them a favorite among families and children. Despite their tough reputation, pitbulls are often described as "nanny dogs" due to their gentle and patient demeanor around kids.

In reality, pitbulls are no more aggressive than any other breed of dog, with studies showing that they are no more likely to bite than other breeds.

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Pit bulls aren't a distinct dog breed recognized by the American Kennel Club.

They can be a mix of various breeds, including the American pit bull terrier, American Staffordshire terrier, Staffordshire bull terrier, and American bully.

Pit bulls often have physical characteristics like stocky builds, wide mouths, square-ish heads, and short, smooth coats.

They come in a range of sizes, from 30 to 85 pounds.

The term "pit bull" is quite loose and can refer to dogs of different shapes, sizes, and genetic mixtures.

More than a breed, pit bull is an idea that can be powerful and polarizing.

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Pit bulls are often misunderstood, and their identities can be tricky to pin down.

They're not a distinct breed recognized by the American Kennel Club, but rather a loose term that can refer to dogs of various sizes, shapes, and genetic mixtures.

Feeding a pit bull requires some special considerations.

A fundamental best practice is to avoid sharing food from the table with your pup, as it can lead to digestive distress.

Many pit bulls are food fanatics, so keep treats special and useful as training incentives.

For pit bulls with dry and itchy skin, sensitive stomachs, or other signs of food allergies and sensitivities, it's essential to know exactly what you're feeding.

Some pit bulls can be prone to food-related digestive issues, but switching to fresh food can often clear up symptoms.

A high-quality, well-balanced diet made from fresh ingredients is the best choice for pit bulls.

The Farmer's Dog delivers fresh, pre-portioned, and ready-to-serve pet food straight to your door.

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If you're considering getting a pit bull, be prepared for a lot of energy and mental stimulation.

The Bullboxer, a cross between the Pitbull and the Boxer, is a great example of this. They need a lot of physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Here are some key characteristics of the Bullboxer breed:

Overall, owning a pit bull requires a lot of love, patience, and attention to their specific needs.

Pit bulls are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can lead to chronic pain and arthritis if left untreated. Keeping your dog lean and on a high-quality diet can help stave off this condition.

A balanced diet is crucial for pit bulls, and sharing human food with them can be detrimental. Many pit bulls are food fanatics, so it's essential to keep treats special and not overfeed them.

Some common health issues in pit bulls include hip and elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, and hypothyroidism. Patellar luxation is a condition where the kneecap slips out of place, and hypothyroidism is a hormone insufficiency that can cause skin problems and behavioral changes.

To maintain your pit bull's health, it's essential to monitor their diet and lifestyle. A high-quality, well-balanced diet made from fresh ingredients is the best choice for pit bulls.

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Feeding your pit bull requires some careful consideration to ensure they maintain a healthy weight and reduce digestion problems.

Avoid sharing food from the table with your pup, as this can lead to digestive distress and make it hard to ensure correct nutrient ratios and calories per day.

Many pit bulls are food fanatics, so it's essential to keep treats special and not overfeed them. Extras should make up no more than 10% of daily calories.

For pit bulls with dry and itchy skin, sensitive stomachs, or other signs of food allergies and sensitivities, it's crucial to know exactly what you're feeding. This can be challenging with kibble, which often contains ingredients not listed on the bag.

A fresh, high-quality diet made from fresh ingredients is the best choice for pit bulls. This can help alleviate food-related digestive issues that are common in dogs.

Here are some single-ingredient options like veggies and the occasional fruit that can be great for your pit bull:

As a dog owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential health concerns that can affect your furry friend. Pit bulls, like many breeds, can be prone to certain health issues.

Hip and elbow dysplasia are common joint health problems in large breed dogs, including pit bulls. Keeping your dog lean and on a high-quality diet can help stave off arthritis.

Patellar luxation is another issue that can affect pit bulls, where the kneecap slips out of its proper place. This is usually temporary, but severe cases may require surgery.

Pit bulls can also be susceptible to hypothyroidism, a hormone insufficiency that can cause dry skin, fur loss, and behavioral changes. Medication can help manage this condition.

Allergies can cause skin problems and ear infections in pit bulls, so it's crucial to monitor your dog's behavior and skin health.

Some pit bulls may be born with ichthyosis, a severe skin condition that causes itchiness and flaking. While symptoms can be treated, there's no cure for this condition.

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Pit bulls can also be prone to bladder and kidney stones, which require surgery to correct. If your dog tests positive for hyperuricosuria, a diet change can help reduce the risk of stones.

Parvo susceptibility is another concern for pit bulls, as they may require more frequent booster shots to protect against this virus.

Cleft lip or palate can occur in pit bulls, and in severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the issue.

Here's a list of potential health concerns to watch out for in pit bulls:

Meet Hulk, a 17-month-old who weighs 173.4lbs. That's massive, even for a breed known for its size.

Pitbulls are often misunderstood, but they're actually a loyal and loving breed. Hulk's owner is a perfect example of this, as she's dedicated to caring for him despite his enormous size.

Hulk's weight is a result of his muscle mass, which is typical for a pitbull of his age and size. In fact, pitbulls are known for their athletic ability and strong build.

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Despite his size, Hulk is still a puppy at heart and loves to play. His owner has to be careful not to overexert him, as his joints can be prone to injury.

Pitbulls like Hulk require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. A daily walk or playtime is essential for keeping them active and engaged.

Hulk's diet is also crucial to his health, and his owner makes sure to feed him a balanced and nutritious meal. A healthy diet, combined with regular exercise, is key to maintaining his massive size.

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