American Pit Bull Terriers

American Pit Bull Terriers

INTRODUCTION: American Pit Bull Terriers are my favorite breed of dog. I have owned them for the past seven years, and have always been very interested in them. I have done very extensive research on the breed, and have spoken with some very knowledgeable breeders and owners. Today, I would like to tell you about the breed that I love. I'm going to talk about the breed history, the breed standard, and a few famous American Pit Bull Terriers. Hopefully, when I am finished with my presentation, you will be very informed about the breed.

I. Breed History

A. How they became a breed.

1. Early 19th century. Trace roots to England.

2. Crosses between terriers and "bully" type dogs.

3. 1898, Chauncy Bennet formed UKC.

a. AKC wanted nothing to do with pitbulls.

b. Wanted to represent the breed as performance dogs.

c. Added "American" dropped "Pit" from name.

d. Public outcry forced "Pit" in name.

e. Had to have won three fights. Later dropped requirement.

4. ADBA formed in 1909 by Guy McCord.

a. Close friend of John P. Colby.

b. Test performance/quality without fighting.

c. Main focus weight pull competitions.

B.What they were used for.

1. Bull baiting

2. Hunting

3.