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Black Pitbulls are often misunderstood dogs. They get a bad rap for being aggressive and dangerous, but this is not always the case.
In fact, they can make great family pets when properly trained and socialized.
This post will cover everything you need to know about Black Pitbulls – from their physical appearance and size to their temperament and history.
We will also answer some of the most commonly asked questions about these dogs. So if you are considering adding a Black Pitbull to your family, read on to discover all you need to know about these dogs.
Let’s jump right in.
Table of Contents
What Is a Black Pitbull?
Put simply, a Black Pitbull is a type of American Pitbull Terrier. Their history is the same as other colored Pitbulls.
The only real difference is their unique full black coat. Other than that, they are very similar to their other Pitbull brothers and sisters.
And unfortunately, this leaves them with the same history and controversy. But why are these dogs seen with such controversy?
Let’s take a quick look at their past to better understand their situation.
The American Pitbull Terrier (or APBT) was initially bred in the early 1800s for two main purposes – bull and bear baiting and later ratting.
Both of these “sports” were very popular at the time, and unfortunately, the dogs used for them were often abused and mistreated.
This, combined with their natural aggressive tendencies, led to the APBT getting a bad reputation. And unfortunately, this reputation has followed them throughout history.
In the early 1900s, these dogs were used in illegal dog fighting rings. Unfortunately, this only furthered their negative image, and by the mid-1900s, they were banned in many parts of the United States.
Thankfully, things have started to change in recent years, and the American Pitbull Terrier is slowly but surely shaking off their negative reputation.
But because of their past, they are still often misunderstood – especially Black Pitbulls.
How Is a Black Pitbull Different From Other Pitbulls?
As we mentioned before, the only real difference between Black Pitbulls and other Pitbulls is their coat color.
All Black Pitbulls are American Pitbull Terriers, but not all American Pitbull Terriers are Black Pitbulls.
Other than that, these dogs are very similar in terms of temperament, size, and physical appearance.
Is a Black Pitbull Rare?
No, Black Pitbulls are not rare. In fact, they are one of the more common colors of American Pitbull Terriers.
This is likely because black is a recessive gene, which is why it’s not uncommon in these dogs.
Not to mention their all-black coat is very striking and unique, which makes many people want them as pets.
It also doesn’t hurt that they often have those signature blue eyes, which just adds to their overall look.
Male Vs. Female Black Pitbull: Which Is Better?
There is typically no substantial difference between males and females when it comes to Black Pitbulls (or any dog, for that matter).
Both sexes can make great pets, and it really just comes down to personal preference. That being said, some people do believe that male dogs are more difficult to train than females – but this is not always the case.
Also, male dogs tend to reach maturity later than females, making them typically more stubborn/harder to train. But again, this is not a rule and is just something to keep in mind.
The last thing that really separates them is their size difference. Males tend to be slightly bigger, whereas females tend to be slightly smaller.
So if you are thinking about getting a Black Pitbull, it is important to meet with several different dogs before making your decision. This way, you can find the right one for you – regardless of sex.
Black Pitbull Appearance & Traits
Size (Weight & Height)
The average Black Pitbull weight is between 30-80 pounds. They typically stand between 17-19 inches tall at the shoulder.
Coat Markings & Texture
As the name suggests, Black Pitbulls have a black coat. This coat can be short or medium in length and is typically very shiny and smooth.
Some Black Pitbulls may also have white markings on their chest or toes, but this is not always the case.
Shedding & Grooming
Black Pitbulls are moderate shedders, and therefore, they will require some regular grooming.
Brushing them once or twice a week should be enough to remove any loose hair and keep their coat looking healthy and shiny.
Many parents of this breed opt to get a robot vacuum to help them stay on top of all their shedding.
When it comes to the other aspects of grooming, Black Pitbulls are pretty low maintenance.
They only need to be bathed every few months (2-3), have their nails trimmed and ears cleaned once a month, and their teeth brushed a few times per week.
Are Black Pitbulls Hypoallergenic?
No, Black Pitbulls are not hypoallergenic. They do shed moderately, which means they are not the best breed for those with allergies.
Ears & Tail
Black Pitbull’s ears are typically cropped (or cut) short and stand upright. And their tail is usually docked (or cut) short as well.
Now, not all Black Pitbulls will have cropped ears and docked tails.
This is because it is now illegal in some states and countries. So if you are opposed to this, then you will need to do your research before getting one of these dogs.
When they aren’t cropped, they will have long, floppy ears that lay close to their head. And their tails will be long and thick and usually taper to a point at the end.
Eye Color
The most common eye color for Black Pitbulls is brown, black, or hazel. However, some of these dogs can have beautiful blue eyes.
It is important to note that blue eyes are rarer than other eye colors; therefore, they often come with a higher price tag.
So if you are looking for a Black Pitbull with blue eyes, you may have to do some extra searching.
Lifespan
The average Black Pitbull lifespan is between 12-16 years.
This is about the same as other breeds of similar size. However, it is still important to remember that every dog is different. Therefore, some may live shorter or longer than this.
To help a Black Pitbull live a long and healthy life it is important to feed them a high-quality diet, give them plenty of exercise, and take them to the vet for regular check-ups.
Common Health Issues
Black Pitbulls are generally a very healthy breed, but there are a few health problems that they are more prone to than others.
These include heart disease, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and allergies.
Heart disease is a common condition in all dogs, particularly as they get older. The most common type of heart disease in dogs is called congestive heart failure, which occurs when the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. Symptoms of heart disease can include fatigue, coughing, difficulty breathing, and fluid buildup in the chest and abdomen.
Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the hip joints and can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis. It is caused by a malformation of the hip joint and is more common in larger breeds of dogs.
Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones. This can cause a number of problems, including weight gain, hair loss, and lethargy.
Allergies are another common health problem in Black Pitbulls. They can be allergic to a variety of things, including pollen, dust mites, mold, and certain foods. Symptoms of allergies can include itching, red eyes, and diarrhea if food based.
While these conditions are most common in Black Pitbulls, it’s not guaranteed that they’ll experience them.
And there are many things you can do to help prevent them. For example, as previously mentioned, feeding them a high-quality diet and taking them to the vet for regular check-ups.
Trainability & Intelligence
Black Pitbulls are intelligent dogs, but they can be stubborn at times. This means that they need a firm yet loving hand when it comes to training.
They respond best to positive reinforcement methods such as praise, treats, and belly rubs. And they should be started on training early to ensure the best results.
Socialization is also an important part of their training. This means exposing them to various people, places, and things so they can learn how to behave properly around them.
With patience and consistency, these dogs aren’t known for being terribly difficult to train.
Activity Level & Exercise Needs
Black Pitbulls are relatively high-energy dogs that need a lot of exercise. They are the perfect breed for active people who enjoy spending time outdoors.
They need roughly 45 minutes of physical activity per day. So a couple of 20-minute walks per day are important for them.
They would also benefit from having access to a yard where they can run and play.
And because they are high energy, it’s important to ensure they get plenty of mental stimulation as well. This can be in the form of obedience training, puzzle toys, and interactive games.
Temperament & Behavior
Do Black Pitbulls Bark A Lot?
This is a common question about Black Pitbulls. And the answer is that they can bark quite a bit, but it really depends on the dog. Some may bark more than others, and it also depends on what they’re barking at.
In general, Black Pitbulls are not known for being yappy dogs.
They will bark when they feel it’s necessary like to let their family know people are at the door or when they’re excited, but they’re not excessive barkers.
Do Black Pitbulls Like To Cuddle?
Black Pitbulls can be cuddly dogs, but again, it depends on the individual dog. Some may enjoy cuddling more than others, but they are generally not known for being lap dogs.
They may lean against you when they want affection or lay their head on your lap, but they’re not typically the type of dog that will want to sit on your lap for long periods of time.
Are Black Pitbulls Good With Kids?
Black Pitbulls can be good with kids, but it’s important to introduce them early and socialize them well.
They may be too rough for very small children, but they can learn to play nicely if they’re raised with kids.
And because of their protective nature, they can make good guard dogs for families.
Are Black Pitbulls Good With Other Dogs?
Yes, Black Pitbulls can be great with other dogs. They are typically social dogs that enjoy the company of their canine companions.
However, it’s important to introduce them early and socialize them well so they learn how to appropriately interact with other dogs.
Without proper socialization, they never learn that unfamiliar dogs can be potential friends. Which causes them to feel anxious when other dogs are around and can make them go into defense mode.
Are Black Pitbulls Good With Strangers?
Black Pitbulls can be good with strangers, but it really depends on the individual dog. Some may be more reserved and take longer to warm up to new people. Others may be more outgoing and friendly.
And because of their protective nature, they may bark at strangers or try to defend their family if they feel someone is a threat.
This is why it’s important to socialize them well so they learn to trust and accept new people.
Are Black Pitbulls Good Apartment Dogs?
Black Pitbulls can do well in apartments, but it’s not the best living environment for them.
Because of their higher energy, they need a lot of physical & mental stimulation. Without it, they can become bored and destructive.
So, if you live in an apartment and are considering a Black Pitbull, make sure you’re prepared to give them the exercise & stimulation they need.
Food & Diet
The best foods for Black Pitbulls are high-quality, grain-free dog foods that are rich in protein.
Protein is essential for their growth and development. It helps to build strong muscles and keeps them healthy and fit.
How much you should feed your Black Pitbull depends on their age, activity level, and weight.
Puppies will need more food than adults because they’re growing and developing. And active dogs will need more food than sedentary dogs.
As a general guideline, you should feed your Black Pitbull twice a day and divide their daily ration into smaller meals.
Black Pitbull Price
The average Black Pitbull price can range from $300 to $2000 depending on the breeder, bloodline, and other factors.
When looking for a Black Pitbull puppy, be sure to do your research and only buy from a reputable breeder.
Unfortunately, there are many unscrupulous breeders out there who are looking to make a quick buck by selling sick or unhealthy puppies.
Where Can You Find Black Pitbull Puppies For Sale?
Before sharing some of the places you can find a Black Pitbull puppy, it’s important to reiterate that these dogs are particularly rare.
This means if you speak with a breeder that mentions a considerably high price claiming that they are rare, you should walk away.
With that being said, here are a few places you can find Black Pitbull puppies online.
First, I will list breed directories. These are websites where breeders from all over North America list their puppies for potential owners to look at and inquire about.
Some of the more well-known breed directories are:
If you don’t find any Black Pitbull puppies available or breeders you’d like to contact after looking on those sites, here are a couple of established Pitbull breeders:
- XXL DESIGNER PITBULLS (http://www.xxldesignerpitbulls.com)
- Manmade Kennels (https://www.manmadekennels.com)
- Mugleston’s Pitbull Farm (https://www.muglestonspitbullfarm.com)
Also, always keep in mind that adopting from a shelter or rescue is an option as well.
You can check out Petfinder’s website to get started on your search. They have a very user-friendly database where you can input your zip code and find adoptable dogs near you.
Final Thoughts
I hope this guide has given you a better understanding of the Black Pitbull.
These dogs are often misunderstood and have gotten a bad rap in the media. But if you take the time to learn about them, you’ll see they’re actually sweet, loving, and loyal companions.
If you’re thinking about adding a Black Pitbull to your family, just be sure to do your research and purchase from a reputable breeder.
It may take a little extra time, but it definitely pays off in the long run.
Other posts you might find interesting:
Siberian Rottweiler: Complete Breed Guide With Comparisons
The Rare Red Rottweiler: Everything You Need To Know (Guide)
