If you want to make a four-legged friend, the choice of breed must be approached with all responsibility. In Russia, Pit Bull Terriers and Staffordshire Terriers are often confused, but despite the external similarity and common pedigree, these dogs are completely different.
Pit bull terrier
The American Pit Bull Terrier, popularly called simply the Pit Bull, is a fighting dog breed with a rather controversial reputation. On the one hand, these are strong, loyal and loyal guards, on the other - formidable "killer dogs", the content of which is not within the power of everyone. Pit Bulls are the leaders in the ratings of the most dangerous breeds; about 67 percent of all dog-related accidents occur in dogs. It is no coincidence that pit bull terriers are still in great demand in dog fights.
Of course, you can't blame dogs for aggression. The problem is that pit bulls were not bred to communicate with people, but for fighting and hunting. It is prohibited to import them into Australia and some countries of the European Union. In Germany, in order to have such a dog, you must obtain a special permit. Local authorities closely monitor and tightly control the owners of the pit bulls.
It is also worth noting that despite its long history, this breed is not recognized by any major international canine organization, except for the United Kennel Club (UKC). He established the following breed standard: medium-sized body, well-developed muscles, short hair, medium-long head with a wide and flat skull and small, high-set ears, wedge-shaped muzzle. The tail is short, thick at the base and tapering towards the end. The length of the forelegs is approximately equal to half the height at the withers. A characteristic feature of pit bulls is a scissor bite, a well-developed lower jaw, a large nose and small almond-shaped eyes. The color can be any: brown, beige, black, white, spotted.
If we talk about character, it must be emphasized that pit bull terriers are not suitable for the role of an agreeable pet, and it is not recommended for ordinary people to start them. But these brave dogs are often found in the police service. With an impeccable sense of smell, they can easily find drugs and explosives.
Stafford
The American Staffordshire Terrier, aka Amstaff, is a breed of dog whose ancestor is the Pit Bull Terrier. Unlike fighting pit bulls, staffords are cute, friendly and accommodating, they can be easily kept even in a city apartment. Another key difference is recognition by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).
But outwardly, pit bulls and staffords are quite easy to confuse. You can distinguish a purebred Amstaff by such features as a rectangular muzzle, higher limbs in comparison with a pit bull, a more voluminous chest. In addition, only solid colors are allowed by the breed standard. White wool is considered a blemish.
Staffords lend themselves well to training. They are well suited for participating in competitions, and for breeding, and for the role of a home protector. But, of course, there are certain difficulties. So, a novice dog breeder may not cope with an adult dog - raising a puppy is much easier. It is also worth taking into account the fact that females are more agreeable, and males are too independent and sometimes aggressive.
You should only buy representatives of such extraordinary breeds as the Pit Bull Terrier or Amstaff in special kennels that breed purebred dogs in accordance with world standards.
