Pitbulls are crossbreeds of Bulldogs and Terriers. The main pitbull breeds are, The American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier and American Bully.
Pitbulls have been generally misunderstood to be aggressive and very wild dogs due to how often cruel owners used them for Bull-baiting which thankfully has been banned by the Breed Specific Legislation. Pitbulls were also banned as pets in places across America and different Canadian communities and towns but one cool fact about Pitbulls is that they are actually good loving and fantastic creatures that can serve as pets and companions generally.
One of the basic question most intending pitbull owners always ask before adopting a pitbull is “How long do Pitbulls live?”
SEE MORE: Where Are Pitbulls Banned? List Of Countries Where Pitbulls Are Banned
If that’s the same question you have right now, read on to get answers to your question.
This article has the right information about the lifespan of pitbulls. Let’s delve into it!
How Long Do Pitbulls Live?
Pitbulls live for a minimum number of 8 years depending on what specific crossbreed it is. Although, most pitbulls live for a maximum of 14 to 16 years.
The American Staffordshire Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier are the breeds known to live longer than others. If your goal is to have a pitbull that will stay with you for a long time, then it is advised you go for one with a long lifespan.
Pitbull Lifespan By Breed
The American Staffordshire Terrier live for a maximum number of 12 to 16 years averagely and is known to have the longest lifespan. Although, all pitbull breeds can live up to their teen years when well taken care of and nurtured very well.
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Below is the Pitbull lifespan broken down by breed:
- American Pitbull Terrier ~ 8 to 15 years.
- American Staffordshire Terrier ~12 to 16 years.
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier ~ 12 to 14 years.
- American Bully ~ 8 to 15 years.
5 Factors That Impact Pitbull Lifespan
Listed below are some factors that determines how long your pitbull can live;
1. Diet
This is one of the factors that determines how long pitbulls can live. When they are well fed and nourished, they will be healthy and live longer. Before purchasing any dog food for your pitbulls, endeavour to examine the labels so as to know which will be right for your dog.
Some good options of dog meals are homemade dog food and treats. Always give them a balanced diet of carbohydrates, protein and fats.
Do not overfeed them as this can make them obese. To get the right dog meal or diet for your pitbull, visit a dog nutritionist.
2. Exercise
For your dog’s longevity, it is important you keep it active and moving. Take your dog out for a walk occasionally, workout, swimming and game activities. Exercises are very important to your dog’s health. Make sure they do not overwork. After every exercise, ensure they drink enough water.
3. Environment
The kind of environment your dog lives in can also affect its lifespan. Outdoor dogs tend to live a shorter life than the indoor dogs because they are prone to dogfights, accident and even diseases. While an indoor dog has a better chance to escape this kind of mishaps.
When you take your dog outside to an environment that is not too secured, ensure you put a leash on it so that you can monitor its movement for it’s safety. Always check up on your dog and do not leave it unattended to for too long.
4. Love
If you want your dog to live long, then you have to show it lots of love. Dogs are very affectionate creatures, ensure you treat them with the love they deserve. They love to snuggle and cuddle, ensure you do that with them as much as you can.
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Communicate with them as much as possible, even if it seems as if they do not understand, keep talking to them as this will serve as a means for them to get acquainted with your voice.
Love your dog and let them feel like family.
5. Underlying Health Conditions
Before purchasing a Pitbull, ensure it was bred by a trust worthy breeder. Make sure your pitbull is evaluated for any underlying health conditions before adopting it. Let DNA screening be done on the parent dog because a dog’s general health is determined by genetics
As a dog owner, be very concerned about your dog’s health because sometimes, pitbulls can have health issues that are not genetically related.