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American Pit Bull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers |
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Origins: American Pit Bull Terriers descend from the English Bull-Baiting Bulldog, which was used to bait bulls, to assist hunters to catch game, and to bring down unruly cattle. The American Pit Bull Terrier itself was primarily bred to fight with other dogs and to retrieve unruly hogs and cattle. Consequently, some American Pit Bulls tend to be aggressive towards other dogs. However, so long as they have not been mistreated or abused, they are rarely aggressive towards people. Today, some American Pit Bulls are still used, illegally, for underground dog fights. American Staffordshire Terriers spring directly from American Pit Bulls. The American Staffordshire Terrier was specifically bred to serve as a family pet, as eptiomized by the Little Rascals' dog Pete.
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 The World of the American Pit Bull |
 Staffordshire Terriers
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Characteristics: Despite all the bad press they receive, American Pit Bull Terriers generally like people. American Pit Bull Terriers who have been well-treated and socialized from an early age generally make fun loving, faithful, athletic, readily trained companions. While they are often reserved around or suspicious of strangers, they are not aggressive by nature. Unfortunately, irresponsible owners sometimes encourage aggressive behavior in these dogs. American Pit Bull Terriers possess a personality trait referred to as gameness. Gameness is not synonymous with aggressiveness. However a dog who possesses gameness (a stubborn courage) will, if provoked, fight to the death. American Pit Bulls should not be trained as attack dogs, as once they are engaged in a conflict, they may be nearly impossible to stop. American Pit Bull Terriers should never be allowed to run loose as they may lethally attack other dogs, cats, and may even go after larger animals such as goats and cattle.
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The Little Rascals' American Staffordshire Terrier, Pete, won the hearts of viewers across America. |
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| Like American Pit Bulls, American Staffordshire Terriers are intelligent, alert, fun loving, athletic dogs, deeply devoted to their families. They have not been bred to possess the same gameness as the American Pit Bull, making them more tractable by nature. However, if they are provoked their strength and their jaw power can make them lethal fighters. American Staffordshire Terriers are exceptionally obedient dogs, intensely loyal to and affectionate with their families. They are especially gentle with children and the elderly. | 
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The American Pit Bull Terrier's and the American Staffodshire Terrier's short, sleek coats require minimum care. Because of their courage, their high tolerance to pain, and their tenacity, early socialization and obedience training are a must for both breeds. They should never be allowed to run loose and if left alone in a fenced yard, the gate should be locked, for the dog's own protection. Unfortunately, these dogs are often targets for thieves who use them, illegally, for dog fights. |
In chilling contrast to Pete, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier named Bullseye shadows his evil owner, Bill Sikes, in Charles Dickens' novel, Oliver Twist, and in the film Oliver!
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Size: The average American Pit Bull Terrier stands 18 to 22 inches high and weighs between 35 and 55 pounds, but some weigh as much as 110 pounds. American Staffordshire Terriers generally stand 16 to 19 inches high and weigh between 57 and 67 pounds. |
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