Pit Bulls make for a fantastic family pet. They are loyal, affectionate, and courageous — and if you are after an exercise partner, look no further. "Pit Bull" is a term for a type of dog descending from Bulldogs and Terriers, with a heritage tracing back to ancient Greek dogs over two thousand years ago.
How long do Pit Bulls live?
Pit Bulls typically live between 8 and 16 years, depending on the breed. Staffordshire Bull Terriers average 12-14 years, American Staffordshire Terriers 12-16 years, Bull Terriers 10-14 years, American Bullies 8-13 years, and American Pit Bull Terriers 8-15 years. Genetics, diet, exercise and a healthy weight all play a role — here is a closer look at each breed.
The 5 types of Pit Bull breeds
Staffordshire Bull Terrier (Staffy)
Staffies are muscular, athletic dogs that weigh on average between 13-20kg depending on whether they are male or female — males are usually at least 3-5kg heavier. Staffies originate from the United Kingdom, where they were bred in the mid-1800s for bull-baiting and dog fighting 1, and can trace their heritage back to an ancient Greek dog called the Molossian that originated over 2,500 years ago. Thankfully we have long since shed animal blood sports, and Staffies are now indoor-loving companion pets that shower their lucky owners in affection. They are incredibly affectionate and loyal, and are known as the "nanny dog" for their love of children.
Staffies have an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years, with some living as long as 19. They are generally very healthy dogs with a few breed predispositions: hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and allergies.
American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff)
The AmStaff is one of the more popular dog breeds in America and Europe, and is quickly gaining popularity in Australia. AmStaffs are a larger and heavier breed than Staffies, generally weighing between 18-35kg. They originate from 1800s England, where they were originally bred for bull-baiting, and the American Kennel Club officially recognised the breed in 1936. A famous example of an AmStaff is Pete the Pup — the dog from The Little Rascals with the ring around his eye.
AmStaffs are known to be smart, confident, and good-natured. They are quiet dogs that do not bark often, and they are very gentle. They are known to be excellent with children, but do not necessarily like other dogs. AmStaffs have a lifespan of 12 to 16 years, and are susceptible to congenital heart disease, heart murmurs, and skin diseases.
Bull Terrier
Bull Terriers are short, compact and very strongly built — extremely powerful and stocky. Their instantly recognisable trademark is the long egg-shaped head, pointed ears, and small eyes. They too were bred for bull-baiting and dog fighting until blood sports were outlawed in 1835. In 1897 the Bull Terrier Club of America was formed. Bull Terriers are affectionate, playful and devoted to their family, and they require plenty of exercise.
Bull Terriers weigh between 22-38kg and have a lifespan of 10-14 years. A study found that Bull Terriers have a higher than average chance of suffering from compulsive behaviour, which manifests itself in tail chasing 2 — male Bull Terriers are more prone to this than females. Patellar luxation is a very common health concern in the breed, and heart defects, polycystic kidney disease, and deafness are all known issues.
Bull Terriers are also no strangers to the limelight — they often appear in Target and Bud Light advertising! Did you know you can also get miniature Bull Terriers?
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American Bully
American Bullies are a modern dog breed that first appeared in the 1980s and became recognised as a breed in 2004. They are known for their square heads and muscular bodies — the breed standard describes the dog as "giving an impression of great strength for its size". They weigh between 20-60kg and have a lifespan of 8-13 years. American Bullies are known for their sweet, affectionate nature; they are happy, fun-loving companions. The breed can be affected by hip dysplasia.
American Pit Bull Terrier
American Pit Bull Terriers are medium-sized, short-haired dogs originating in the British Isles. They were originally bred to bait bulls, but have since become family companion dogs. They weigh between 16-27kg and have a lifespan of 8-15 years. They are known to be loyal and energetic, and are a relatively healthy breed, though hip dysplasia and skin conditions can occasionally occur.
Common health issues across Pit Bull breeds
Hip dysplasia
This is a hereditary issue where the ball and socket of the hip joint do not fit perfectly together. Excessive growth rates, certain types of exercise, being overweight, and poor nutrition can all exacerbate the condition. Reputable breeders reduce it by carrying out hip x-rays and breeding only dogs that score well. Exercise, proper nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce its severity 3.
Heart disease
Aortic stenosis is the most common heart issue in Pit Bulls. This hereditary disease is a narrowing of the aortic valve of the heart, which forces the heart to beat harder to pump blood out. Mild cases do not require treatment; more severe cases require medication and, in some cases, surgery 4.
Skin conditions
Skin conditions are a common occurrence. They can be managed with medication, improved gut health, wearing dog clothing, and avoiding allergens.
Considerations
Pit Bulls are fun-loving, energetic, and affectionate dogs that are extremely loyal to their families. Determination is one of their most notable traits. They are hardy dogs, generally unaffected by major health issues, with lifespans of up to sixteen years. Pit Bulls do have very high energy levels and require active owners — they need a minimum of 60 minutes of active exercise a day. They also have a high prey drive and may chase rabbits and other small animals. Early training and socialisation are very important and recommended with this breed.
References
1) The history of Staffies
http://thestaffordshirebullterrier.co.uk/history
2) Tiira K, Hakosalo O, Kareinen L, Thomas A, Hielm-Björkman A, Escriou C, Arnold P, Lohi H. Environmental effects on compulsive tail chasing in dogs. PLoS One. 2012;7(7):e41684. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0041684. Epub 2012 Jul 26. PMID: 22844513; PMCID: PMC3406045.
3) Hip dysplasia in dogs
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/hip-dysplasia-in-dogs/
4) Aortic stenosis in dogs
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/aortic-stenosis-in-dogs