Have you Followed the 9 steps for your Pit Bull Terrier?

The American pit bull terrier is friendly and eager to please by nature.
Though it is known for its aggression with other dogs due to a fighting
background, the pit bull is generally very gentle with humans. Be
prepared to spend a lot of time socializing your dog to be with people
and other animals. Any signs of aggression toward people should be dealt
with immediately by a professional trainer.



   Steps:1.  Vaccinate your American pit bull terrier when you
first get him, and see that he gets yearly booster vaccinations to
maintain his immunity to disease. Consult your veterinarian about flea
control products and worming your dog.  


2.  Feed your American pit bull terrier high-grade dog food. The first
ingredient should be meat if you want a quality product. Crude protein
should be no less than 30 percent and crude fat no less than 20 percent.
The fiber content needs to be 4 percent or less.  


3.  Socialize your pit bull when he's young to be with people and
other animals. Establish your authority over your dog and be sure to
take him to public areas, giving strangers the opportunity to pet and
play with him. This will help the dog develop an even temper.  


4.  Start obedience training early. Because this is a dominant breed,
it's important to be able to control your pit bull by voice alone.
Positive reinforcement will go further than physical, as this breed is
eager to please.  


5.  Give your pit bull vigorous exercise for a minimum of 30 to 45
minutes a day. This is an active breed, and the dog will require much
activity. Keep him on leash when out in public to avoid fighting with
other dogs.



 6.  Brush your dog's coat daily with a firm-bristle brush. Shampoo
as needed. American pit bull terriers are medium shedders.


 7.  Understand that American pit bull terriers are prone to certain
health conditions such as cataracts (cloudy eye lens) and hip dysplasia
(a malformed ball and socket in the hip joint).


 8.  Expect male and female American pit bull terriers to grow to 18
to 22 inches and weigh between 30 and 80 lbs.


 9.  Know that the American pit bull terrier will live about 12
years.  

Tips: Early socialization with other animals will help minimize a pit
bull's aggressive tendencies but is no guarantee.

 This breed does better in warmer climates.

 Contact the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for more information
about hip dysplasia.