How to Know if your Pit Bull Is Purebred – Foolproof Traits
Pit Bulls are a beloved breed known for their loyalty, strength, and protective nature. If you have a Pit Bull or are considering getting one, you may be wondering if your dog is purebred. Determining the purity of a Pit Bull can be tricky, but there are certain traits you can look for to help you figure it out. In this article, we will discuss the foolproof traits that can help you identify whether your Pit Bull is purebred.
Physical Traits
Physical appearance is often the first clue when it comes to identifying a purebred Pit Bull. While appearance alone is not a definitive indicator of purity, there are several physical traits that are commonly associated with the breed.
Muscular Build
One of the most notable physical traits of a purebred Pit Bull is its muscular build. Pit Bulls are known for their strong, athletic bodies, with well-defined muscles and a powerful stance. Their shoulders should be broad, and their chest should be deep and wide. Additionally, their legs should be sturdy and well-proportioned to their bodies.
Head Shape
The head shape of a Pit Bull is another significant trait. Purebred Pit Bulls typically have a broad, slightly rounded skull with a well-defined stop. Their jaws are strong and should be well-muscled, leading to a distinctively square muzzle. The ears of a purebred Pit Bull may be cropped or left natural, but they should be set high on the head and stand erect.
Coat and Color
Pit Bulls come in a variety of coat colors, including blue, red, and brindle. While coat color alone is not an indicator of purity, purebred Pit Bulls often have a coat that is shiny, smooth, and short. Additionally, their coats should be free of any patches or markings that are not typical of the breed.
Size and Weight
Purebred Pit Bulls typically fall within a certain size and weight range. Adult males usually weigh between 35-60 pounds, while adult females typically weigh between 30-50 pounds. Their height at the shoulder should be between 18-21 inches.
Behavioral Traits
In addition to physical traits, certain behavioral characteristics can also help determine if a Pit Bull is purebred.
Aggression
Contrary to popular belief, aggression is not a typical trait of purebred Pit Bulls. In fact, they are known for their loving and loyal nature. Purebred Pit Bulls are often friendly, affectionate, and eager to please. They are also known for their intelligence and trainability.
Playfulness
A purebred Pit Bull is often playful and enjoys being active. They have a natural athleticism and are often eager to engage in physical activities such as running, jumping, and playing fetch.
Socialization
Purebred Pit Bulls are typically social animals that enjoy being around people and other animals. They are often good with children and can be loyal, protective family pets.
Genetic Testing
If you are still unsure whether your Pit Bull is purebred, genetic testing can provide a definitive answer. There are several companies that offer DNA testing for dogs, which can help you determine the breed composition of your pet.
Process
Genetic testing typically involves taking a swab of your dog’s cheek cells and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. The laboratory will then compare your dog’s DNA to a database of purebred Pit Bull DNA to determine its breed composition.
Reliability
While genetic testing is a reliable way to determine if your Pit Bull is purebred, it is important to choose a reputable company for testing. Look for a company that has a large database of dog DNA and a good reputation for accuracy.
Paperwork and Pedigree
If you obtained your Pit Bull from a breeder, it is important to ask for paperwork and pedigree information. A reputable breeder will provide you with documentation that proves the purebred status of your dog.
Registration
Purebred Pit Bulls can be registered with organizations such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) or the United Kennel Club (UKC). If your Pit Bull is registered with one of these organizations, it is a strong indicator of its purity.
Pedigree
Pedigree information can also help establish the purity of your Pit Bull. A pedigree is a family tree of your dog, showing its lineage and ancestry. A reputable breeder will provide you with a pedigree that traces your dog’s lineage back several generations.
Conclusion
Determining whether your Pit Bull is purebred can be challenging, but by looking for physical and behavioral traits, considering genetic testing, and obtaining proper paperwork and pedigree information, you can increase your confidence in your dog’s lineage. Remember that regardless of whether your Pit Bull is purebred, what matters most is the love and care you provide for your furry companion.