Food

Always have fresh water available for your dog. And feed a quality, nutritionally balanced canine diet, typically in two measured meals per day. Discuss the type of diet and the quantity with your vet, as this can vary depending on size, activity level, age, and other factors.

Also, be mindful of treats and other extra food to help prevent overeating. Many American Pit Bull Terriers are food-motivated and will beg and/or perform tricks for a treat. To keep them at an ideal weight, consider setting aside a portion of their daily meals for treats instead of adding extra food.

Housing

Pit bulls need a fenced yard in which to exercise. If they stay outside they need a proper dog house to provide shelter from the natural elements (sun, wind & rain). Because of the breed’s athletic and tenacious nature, extra care should be taken to ensure that the fence is secure, with strong and tall sides that cannot be tunneled under. Time in the yard should be supplemented with leash walks, and a pit bull should wear an appropriate harness that limits the dog’s ability to pull the handler. Other recommended activities include games; agility, obedience, and scent work; coursing; flyball; and anything that engages both its mind and body.  Pit bulls may or may not like swimming.

Grooming

Coat care is minimal, consisting of occasional bathing and weekly brush to remove loose fur and distribute skin oils. You might notice an uptick in shedding in the spring and fall as the weather changes. An extra brushing each week can help to keep up with the loose fur. Baths will be necessary roughly every month, depending on how dirty your dog gets. You also can clean your dog between baths with a damp towel. Check nails monthly to see whether they need a trim. And look in your dog’s ears at least weekly for any wax buildup, debris, redness, or other abnormalities. Also, aim to brush your dog’s teeth every day. Pit bulls do not like extreme cold nor heat.

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