The Pit Bull Federation of South Africa (PBFSA) is the only recognised breed organisation in South Africa that actively promotes the positive image of the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT). Our mission is to ensure that the breed is preserved, understood, and responsibly owned. A key aspect of our work is maintaining a clear and authentic breed standard. The PBFSA follows the ADBA (American Dog Breeders Association) standard, which reflects the true historical and functional qualities of the APBT. We do not adhere to the UKC (United Kennel Club) standard, and there are definitive differences between the two. ADBA vs. UKC: Understanding the Difference ADBA Standard (Followed by PBFSA): Recognizes the APBT as a working, athletic, performance-bred dog. Prioritizes agility, stamina, and structure suitable for the breed’s historical purpose. Dogs have a lean, muscular build, with an emphasis on function over exaggerated features. Animal aggression is acknowledged as part of breed history, but human aggression is a disqualification. UKC Standard: Recognizes the APBT as a companion/show dog rather than a working athlete. More emphasis is placed on bulkier, heavier dogs with a stockier appearance. Focuses more on conformation for show ring aesthetics rather than the breed’s original purpose. Includes a broader range of dogs, often leading to dilution of working traits. Why Does This Matter? The ADBA standard ensures that the integrity of the APBT is preserved, maintaining the breed’s historic temperament, physical ability, and drive. The PBFSA remains committed to upholding this standard, educating the public, and advocating for responsible ownership. By following the ADBA standard, we promote healthy, well-structured dogs that meet the true definition of the American Pit Bull Terrier—not a diluted or misrepresented version of the breed. Pit bulls are not for everyone, and responsible ownership starts with understanding the breed’s history, purpose, and standard. The PBFSA is dedicated to ensuring that the true APBT is preserved and promoted in South Africa.

We know we have been very quiet, things have been very busy behind the scenes. We would like to assure you that we are busy shaping a better world for the APBT in South Africa. Some FAQ we have had. Is PBFSA only fighting for the legitimate APBT with verified papers? No we are not. This has been a narrative spread by people who sadly are more about their own agenda. We accept that there are unregistered dogs who are as deserving of a good life. We do not plan on having these dogs mass culled. They too will be protected. How is DNA going to solve anything? We all know the media, ill informed paramedics, SAPS and actually society love to lable every dog that bites a pit bull. The APBT is a breed, just because the FCI will not acknowledge our dogs does not mean old APBT registries like the ADBA are not legitimate. The APBT has a registry, proven blood lines and each dogs lineage can be traced. Our goal is to build a DNA profile of the proven “pure bred” APBT in South Africa. The current DNA-research underway conducted by Government and other stakeholders is to study the correlation between genetics and aggression and to clear up misconceptions. So how will this affect ALL APBT? Quite simple. When there is a mauling, nobody will be able to state the dog who mauled or killed anyone is an APBT unless the dog can be proven to be an APBT ( by means of DNA). Think of DNA as the court evidence that clears an innocently accused person of murder. This will mean ALL pit bulls are protected from false reporting. Where then does this leave mauling victims? By removing the smoke and mirror effect of making the dog the problem, it forces all those within law enforcement to actually do their jobs and enforce the Animal Matters Amendment Act and the irresponsible owner is then criminally charged. We hope this clears things up. We would like to leave you with this very informative flyer explaining how it really is not all how you raise them…