Brindle Pitbulls are common, but striking. They are a favorite of many Pitbull lovers because of their unique appearance. They are affectionate and energetic dogs, and make wonderful companions.
Brindle Pitbull Facts
First, it’s important to know what a Pitbull is. Technically, a pitbull isn’t a breed. Instead, it’s a type of dog. Pitbulls were created from English Bulldogs and Terriers.
Today, there are 4 Pitbull breeds. These include the American Bulldog, American Bully, Staffordshire Terrier, and the American Pitbull Terrier.
However, most people are referring to the American Pitbull Terrier when they say Pitbull. We will focus on the American Pitbull Terrier in this article.
What is a Brindle Pitbull?
A Brindle Pitbull is a Pitbull with brindle coloring. This is similar to tiger stripes. The base color can be fawn, brown, or dark brown. The stripes are typically black.
Some Pitbulls are reverse brindle. This means they appear to be black, with fawn or brown stripes. However, this is simply a matter of appearance.
In either case, the lighter color is the base color, and black is the top color. Reverse brindle pooches simply have more stripes than brindle dogs.
Brindle Pitbull History
Pitbulls have a bloody history, which is unfortunate. In 1835, bull baiting was outlawed in England. The practice involved an English Bulldog, who would attempt to take down a bull.
When bull baiting was outlawed, those who loved the blood sport simply changed it. They would dig pits, and place rats inside. Then, they would put dogs into the pit. This was known as ratting. The dog who killed the most rats would be declared the winner. Dog fighting also became popular during this time.
English Bulldogs were too large and heavy for this style of fighting. They were bred with Terriers. The resulting dogs were muscular, agile, and very tough. They were perfect for fighting in pits, so they became known as pitbulls.
Soon, the Pitbull would make its way to America. Dog fighting was popular in early America. However, Pitbulls soon became beloved pets. Dog fighting was eventually outlawed, but it still continues underground today.
Most Pitbulls have been bred for companionship for many generations. In fact, some of the things that made them great fighters also makes them excellent furry family members.
Brindle Pitbull Price
Brindle Pitbulls are common, and generally inexpensive. Expect to pay $800-$1,200 on average. If the Pitbull is from a prestigious bloodline, however, they can cost much more. Well respected bloodlines can cost from $3,000-$30,000.
You can also find bindles without registration for a lower price. They can range from $100-$500. However, there is more risk involved, because you won’t know the dog’s heritage.
Brindle Pitbull Rarity
Brindle Pitbulls are not rare. The brindle coloring is caused by a recessive gene. This means that both parents must have the gene for brindle coloring for the puppy to have it, because they must inherit it from both parents.
However, since the brindle gene is common, the brindle coloring isn’t nearly as rare as other colors caused by recessive genes.
Brindle Pitbull Life expectancy
Brindle Pitbulls have a long life span. Their life expectancy is 10-16 years, with 12 to 14 years being the average.
Some Pitbulls live for 20 years or more. The oldest Pitbull recorded is Max, who lived to be 26.
Brindle Pitbull Size and weight
Brindle Pitbulls are medium-sized dogs. Females are slightly smaller than males. They grow to 17-20 inches tall, and weigh 30-50 pounds. The males are typically 18-20 inches in height, and weighs 35 to 60 pounds.
Brindle Pitbull Health
Brindle Pitbulls are a healthy breed, but they are prone to some health conditions.
Allergies and Skin Conditions
Allergies are a common issue for Pitbulls, particularly skin allergies. Other skin problems can also occur.
Allergies can be caused by environmental allergens, like dust or grass. Food allergies can be triggered by food ingredients, including wheat, dairy, or corn.
Mange is another skin condition that can affect Pitbulls. It’s caused by mites, and causes hair loss and red or scaly skin. All dog breeds can get mange, but it’s typically confined to a few areas of the body.
Some Pitbulls lack the immunity necessary to fight the parasites, which leads them to develop hair loss and red scaly skin over their entire body.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a problem for many medium and large sized breeds, including Pitbulls. It occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, which allows it to come out of place easily. This leads to pain and loss of mobility, depending on the severity.
The condition is inherited, so genetic testing can reveal the risk of the dog developing it. Lifestyle factors can also increase or decrease the risk. A healthy weight and exercise can help prevent or minimize hip dysplasia.
Eye Problems
Pitbulls are at a higher than average risk of a few eye conditions. One of these is Progressive Retinal Atrophy, or PRA. This causes the eyes to go blind, usually at 2 or 3 years old.
Cataracts can also occur. Like humans, dogs typically develop cataracts in old age. It causes a cloudy film over the eyes, which impairs their vision.
Degenerative myelopathy
Degenerative myelopathy is an unfortunately common condition for Pitbulls. It’s thought that between 10-18% of Pitbulls have the disorder.
It causes the spine to stop functioning properly, which affects the rear legs. It’s a progressive condition. At first, you may notice a slight change in your dog’s gait when walking. As the years progress, they back legs will eventually become paralyzed. At this stage, they must use a wheelchair to move around.
The condition affects dogs later in life. It usually begins at 8 to 9 years old, and takes years to paralyze the dog.
Bloat
Bloat is a condition all dog owners should be aware of. It occurs when the gas from digestion can’t escape the stomach. Why this occurs still isn’t completely clear, but some dogs are at a higher risk.
Pitbulls are at a higher risk due to their deep or broad chest. They also love to eat, and many will gulp their food down without chewing, which also puts them at risk.
As the pressure in the stomach increases, ti causes severe pain and bloating. The dog will retch or gag, but will not be able to vomit, particularly in later stages of bloat.
Bloat must be treated very quickly. It can be fatal within hours of symptoms beginning.
You can reduce the risk of bloat by feeding your pooch 2 smaller meals each day, rather than 1 large meal. If your Brindle Pitbull eats too quickly, a slow feeder bowl is a good idea.
Brindle Pitbull Behavior/Characteristics
Brindle Pitulls are affectionate and gentle. They need lots of affection and attention, and don’t do well if they are left alone for long periods of time.
They are a great pet for families, because they will bond closely with everyone in the household.
They are very patient, particularly with children. They are also fearless. These factors mean that a child can lay on them or pull their tail without the Pitbull becoming aggressive.
They are playful, and have a zest for life. They seem to be happy and excited nearly all of the time, which makes them charming companions.
How to care for a Brindle Pitbull
Brindle Pitbulls are relatively low maintenance. However, like all dogs, they do have specific needs that should be met.
Exercise
Exercise, both mental and physical, are essential for Pitbulls. They are well behaved pooches. However, if they get bored, they can become destructive or develop other unwanted behaviors. Exercise prevents this, and saves your shoes from being chewed.
Pitbulls need about 1 hour of exercise each day. They are generally relaxed when they aren’t playing. They are perfectly at home basking in the sunshine napping.
However, when its time to play, they are very energetic. Some will play or run as long as you will allow them to, while others have lower endurance.
If your Pitbull gets tired, you may need to split their exercise into a few sessions.
Walking, running, and playing fetch or tug of war are excellent ways to exercise your canine companion.
In addition to physical activity, your Pitbull needs plenty of mental exercise. This is just as important as physical exercise. Teach them new tricks or commands. Play games with them. Get them puzzle toys. These are all great ways to keep their mind occupied and deepen your bond.
Grooming
Pitbulls are easy to groom. They require brushing once or twice a week. This is easy to do, thanks to their short coat. They do shed, but they don’t shed very much at a time.
They need a bath once every 1-2 months. Bathing them too frequently can cause skin irritation.
Diet
Brindle Pitbulls need a high quality diet that is high in protein. Feed them a high quality food with protein listed as the first few ingredients. 30% protein or higher is optimal.
Pitbull puppies should be fed a puppy formula 3 times a day. Once they are 6-12 months old, you can transition to feeding them twice a day. At 1 year old, you can switch them to an adult dog food.
It’s best to continue feeding them twice a day to reduce the risk of bloat.
Be sure to feed them proper proportions. Their healthy appetite can cause them to overeat, which can lead to them being overweight.
Training and Socialization
Training and socialization are very important for Pitbulls. Their aggressive reputation is undeserved, but they do require training to prevent behavioral issues or unwanted aggression.
They are strong, energetic, and easily excitable. This means you’ll need to be able to control them with commands, rather than physical force.
They are intelligent and love pleasing their owner, so training is enjoyable for them as well.
Pitbulls were originally bred to fight other dogs. You’ll need to socialize them with other dogs as well as any other animals they may encounter as pets early on.
Most are protective, and they can be wary of strangers, so you’ll need to socialize them with other humans as well. This will prevent them from acting aggressively when they encounter someone new.
How do you buy a Brindle Pitbull?
There are two ways to get a Brindle Pitbull. The first way is to adopt one. The second method is to purchase one from a breeder.
Adopting a Brindle Pitbull
Unfortunately, there are many Pitbulls in shelters, so the odds are good you can find a Brindle Pitbull at your local shelter. You can also check out local Pitbull rescue groups, or Pitbull Rescue Central.
Puppies are difficult to find at shelters, however. If you have your heart set on a Pitbull puppy, you may need to purchase one from a breeder.
Finding a Breeder Through Breeder Registries
Breeder registries are a great way to ensure that you have found a reputable breeder. Registries have requirements that will generally weed out any breeder who is unethical.
The American Dog Breeders Association(ADBA), and the UKC (United Kennel Club) offer Pitbull breeder registries.
If you can’t find a breeder through these registries, you can do an internet search for Brindle Pitull breeders in your area.
Determing if a Breeder is Ethical
To determine if a breeder is ethical, ask them a few questions. How do they determine which dogs to breed? Do they focus on the health and temperament of the dogs, or simply their appearance?
Ethical breeders will always put the health and temperament of their dogs first. Unethical breeders are only concerned with profit. Since dogs with certain features or colors tend to bring a higher price, this is what they focus on.
You should also expect the breeder to ask you questions. Reputable breeders are concerned with where the dogs will be going, and what kind of life they will have.
If the breeder shows no concern for where and how the dog will live, and your intentions for the dog, they are not ethical.