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UKC
Ch
Asti's Smooth Champagne Lady
"Ginny"
(photo by Faith Uridel)
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Descended from bulldogs and terriers
brought to the United States, the
American Pit Bull Terrier was known for his role in
the now illegal 'sport' of dog fighting. However, these dogs came
to the US in the early 1800s as all-around farm dogs and frontier guardians.
The United Kennel Club recognized
the Bull and Terrier Dog as the American Pit Bull Terrier in 1898.

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| The American Kennel Club
recognized the American Pit Bull Terrier as the Staffordshire Terrier in 1936. The name was
changed in 1972 to the American Staffordshire Terrier to distinguish the breed from the
Staffordshire Bull Terrier of England, the ancestor of the American dogs. The Pit Bull today is
a loyal family pet,
watchdog, and guardian.
The Pit Bull is compact
and extremely strong for his size. He stands up to 19 inches tall at the shoulder.
He is powerful and muscular and may weigh up to 60 pounds. The Pit Bull has a short, smooth,
coat that comes in any color or combination of colors. Grooming is minimal.
The Pit
Bull is a courageous and fearless animal with a very high activity level. He is may be
instinctively hostile to other household pets and other animals. In spite of his bad press,
this dog is very loyal and devoted to his family. He is protective by nature and makes an
excellent guardian. However, he is not the best choice for the first time dog owner. This is a
strong-willed, dominant dog. It is especially important that a prospective owner of a Pit Bull
check out the breeder to ensure the animal is properly handled and socialized.
Intelligent, and strong-willed, the Pit Bull must be
socialized early and placed in obedience training. Firm, consistent training will produce a
calm, obedient, loving, companion. His owner must be committed to providing appropriate
supervision and daily, vigorous exercise - always on a leash. The Pit Bull enjoys running
alongside a bicycle and makes a good jogging partner. A fenced backyard is ideal.
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