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The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) is a breed of dog in the terrier group, one of several breeds loosely classified as pit bulls. These dogs are known for their strength, loyalty, and “gameness” (or tenacity). APBTs are often associated with the urban and hip hop culture, and many young (predominantly male) people purchase them on the grounds of wanting a 'tough dog', who usually ends up maltrained and in poor health. Due to bad publicity caused by these irresponsible owners, people unfamilar with the dogs often consider them a scary dog and may even avoid walking near them. However, it is widely acknowledged that the problems associated with the breed - mainly, aggression - are due to its having been originally bred for the purpose of dog fighting. Appearance The APBT is the midsized breed of the three generally referred to as pit bulls (see also American Staffordshire Terrier (AST) and Staffordshire Bull Terrier (SBT) ). Males should weigh 35 to 65 pounds (16 to 29 kg), females 30 to 60 pounds (16 to 27 kg), with height being proportional. The coat is short, single layered, and stiff but glossy. Any color is accepted and dogs may either have patches or be solid. All eye colors are accepted except blue. Ears are rose or semipricked, and may be cropped, although uncropped is preferred. The tail is short and tapering. The body is solidly built and muscular, with a wide chest. The head is wedge shaped with some slight forehead wrinkles. Confusion among Pit Bull breeds The three “pit bull” breeds (American Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier and American Stafforshire Terrier) all have nearly identical standards, with only the acceptable sizes and colors varying. Also, the AST and the APBT have the same heritage. Many people still consider them to be simply different types of the same breed. Dogs registered with the UKC as an APBT are often dual registered with the AKC as an AST. Adding to the muddle is the fact that many people refer to any dog of these breeds, as well as American Bulldogs, as “pit bulls.” Temperament and/or characteristics Pit bulls are medium-sized (males range 45-85lbs, females 30-80lbs), solidly built, short-coated dogs that require little grooming. They have an affectionate disposition, and are noted for their attachment to their masters as well as for their confident and intelligent temperament. Pit bull breeds dogs are typically devoted and sociable, and are happiest when in the company of their human companions.... They are usually very sweet, curious, intelligent, and clownish. But American Pit bulls can also be stubborn and pushy. They are noted for their outgoing, affectionate, and playful disposition and their fondness for people, even children, and can make a wonderful family pet. The American Temperament Test Society, Inc. breed statistics as of December 2004 show an 83.4% passing rate for the APBT as compared to an 81% overall pass rate. However, a firm, even hand and early obedience training are musts for this breed. They are strong dogs for their size and will walk their owners rather than the other way around when on lead and so must be taught to heel. APBTs often display some level of dog aggression, especially towards dogs of the same sex or level of assertiveness. With early socialization and knowing each individual dog's limits, their aggression towards other dogs can be quite easily controlled. (Unbridled aggression towards man is actually a serious and perilous fault.) APBTs are extremely attached to their owners and families and are known for their eagerness to please their masters. Inexperienced owners tend to find them to be too much to handle-they are a lot of dog with a lot of energy to expend; they need exercise and stimulation. 
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