A pet, a loyal companion, a member of the family is what every dog
lover would say about their animal friend. Domesticated by per historic man
from the family of wolves, dogs were used to hunt animals, guard human habitats
etc. Dogs were also worshiped as Gods in Ancient Egyptian civilizations. In
recent times (cartoons), in the evil fighting crime hero, “Phantom” we hear
about his dog “Devil” In course of time, humans found that certain breeds of
dogs can be used for specific purposes. You cannot take a domestic weak dog for
hunting but a wild hunting dog can serve the beneficial purpose of trailing an
animal and guarding a human habitat. Thus, the dogs became distinguished from
different breeds. Some were assigned hunting jobs, others disciplining livestock
(sheepdogs), few as status symbols (German Shepherds) and the remaining to
serve as pets (poodles). The best were selected to produce the next generation
breed. In this article, information will be given on how long do pit bulls live
and methods to increase their lifespan.
How Long Do Pitbulls Live?
Pit bull dogs are created by breeding of terriers and bulldogs. The
dogs belonging to the pitbull type usually include the American Stafford shire
Terrier, Stafford shire Bull Terrier. The breed gets its name from the work used
to be done by its old ancestors (these dogs used to hold the heads and faces of
bulls). They were also used in 16th century for fighting purposes. Dog fighting
was banned in many countries, their work advanced to working as hunt and guard
dogs and as a status symbol. There are reports that dog fighting involving
these dogs is still prevalent today.
How long does a pitbull live?These
dogs were created to combine the agility and gameness (terrier) with strength
(bulldog). Simultaneously, many dog breeds were created in the course of time
that experts found difficult to distinguish the pit bull dogs from other dogs.
A look at the dog will indicate power and the strength. The large head, and
mouth that has jaws to snap a human skull and muscled neck speak for
themselves.
Tips For Enhancing The Life Of
Your Pet – Pitbull
Speaking about the pitbull terrier, it is often misunderstood as one
of aggressiveness, but seldom does it show a negative response towards humans.
The anger will be directed against other animals and dogs.
They have to be properly taught from the infancy stage on how to
behave socially – their aggressiveness will be controlled to a large extent.
The breed is a loyal, affectionate and family pet always seen as willing to
please its master. It is extremely protective of its master’s property and
fights an enemy to the death. Animal experts have reports that show these dogs
learn tricks, commands and rules with ease.
You need to possess certain skills while training a dog, and if it is
a pitbull, you are meek, the dog can make you accede to his demands. In short,
these dogs are not for people who cannot spend time on them or give attention.
You have to give thirty minutes a day for training and aerobic level exercises.
They should never be left alone with unfamiliar pets or children.
When walking in a park, always have a leash on your dogs. Letting
loose can make your dog pick up a fight with another of the same family, and a
fight to the finish will result in unwanted turn of events.
You have to have your pit bull registered in the Breed Specific
Legislation, which prevents people from aggressive breed dog attacks. Certain
communities restrict the presence of pit bulls and if you are changing your
home with a pitbull as a pet, kindly ensure that the new surroundings are
favorable to your animal member of the family.
Small plastic toys or cheap toys can be broken easily by the powerful
jaws of your pet. To exercise their mouth, have them play with large, tough and
durable toys.
How Long Does A Pitbull Live?
They are extremely healthy dogs, but as with all living animals, they
also suffer from certain health conditions.
Hip Dysplasia (HD): a
malformation of the socket and hip joint ball. It can become painful for your
pet if the treatment is prolonged. Dog experts advise pit bull owners to have
x-rays of their pets every two years to check they do not suffer from this disease.
Generally labeled as hereditary, this disease is usually passed from
one generation to the next. It can affect both the hips and can severely
immobilize movement. Pitbulls having this disease should be never allowed to
reproduce but the deformity can, however, be lessened if your pet is made
accustomed to exercises such as swimming, medication, surgery and dietary
changes.
Allergies: They are usually
caused by diet or environmental changes and microorganisms such as pollen,
dust, grass and fleas. If you take into account the food aspect, then rice,
beef, wheat and corn can be factors. The discomfort may cause your pet to
scratch their body to a large extent or dig and chew items making them spit
blood. These actions can result in secondary infections of the damaged tissues.
You need to take the pit bull to your vet and follow the instructions. The
symptoms of allergy can be seen if your pet scratches the body continuously
leading to skin problems. There are other factors such as allergies to certain
plants, dust and fleas etc. The allergies can be easily cured by
over-the-counter skin creams or medication.
Hypothyroidism: As the name
suggests, this is a malfunction of the gland (thyroid). It can cause many
challenges such as poor coat, weight gain in a short period, problems in
reproduction etc. Hypothyroidism can affect pit bulls in their middle age.
Medication from a vet has to be continued throughout their lives.
Heart Diseases: Although
heart diseases are common, it is found in dogs that are not properly exercised
and nourished. The most common diseases that affect these animals is aortic
stenosis. It consists of a defect – the connection between the aorta and left
ventricle of the heart is narrowed. This makes the dog less energetic and can
cause sudden death. The vet can diagnose the disease by an X-ray or a
cardiogram.
