My first pitbull was a Razor Edge Pitbull. I’d heard the horror stories about Pitbulls, and I’m sure you have as well. I was pleasantly surprised to find that my dog didn’t seem to have an aggressive bone in their body.
They are certainly not guard dogs. In fact, my Razor Edge had a habit of rolling over in front of anyone they saw, even strangers. This wasn’t an act of submission, they simply wanted belly rubs.
Their large stature and tough appearance certainly play a part. They are large, strong, and tough. They have the invincible attitude of a teenager, without the rebellion.
They are extremely trusting, and never seem to meet a stranger. They may bark when they encounter someone new, but this is simply due to excitement. They are not alerting you to an intruder.
Razor Edge Pitbull Facts
There’s some debate about whether or not the Razor Edge Pitbull is its own breed. There are several registries that register them as a breed, instead of a bloodline. This makes sense, because they are different from other bully breeds.
Razor Edge Pitbull History
The Razor Edge Pit is descended from the American Pitbull Terrier. The American Pitbull Terrier was created by breeding English Bulldogs with English Terriers.
This is why the name includes “bull” and “terrier”. “Pit” comes from their original purpose, which was fighting each other or rats in pits, which were dug into the ground.
The Razor Edge Pitbull is not a purebred American Pitbull Terrier. Instead, it has been bred with at least 5 other breeds, including Bulldogs and Mastiffs.
The breed began in the 1980s. In the 1990s, the breed became fine tuned and standardized. The American Bully Kennel Club, or ABKC, was the first registry to recognize the breed. Eventually, the United Kennel Club, or UKC, followed suit.
The American Kennel Club, or AKC, is considered the most prestigious registry in the U.S. They do not recognize pitbulls, because they say it’s a group of dogs, instead of a specific breed.
This is true. There are 4 breeds that are considered pitbull breeds. The AKC recognizes only one of these breeds, the American Staffordshire Terrier. Other breeds, including the American Pitbull Terrier, and American Bully, are shunned by the organization.
Appearance
The Razor Edge Pitbull is similar to American Pitbull Terriers, with a few notable differences. One is their coloring. Razor Edge Pitties are typically blue, or brindle colored.
Brindle is common in Pitbull Terriers, but blue is often considered an undesirable trait for health reasons.
Their head and body shape also differ. Razor Edge’s have a larger head, and a stockier appearance. The American Pitbull Terrier is well muscled, but sleek.
The Razor Edge has a bodytype that resembles a cross between an American Pit and a Bulldog, being stocky and compact rather than sleek and strong. They are also larger than American Pitties.
Razor Edge Pitbull Price
Razor Edge Pitbulls are some of the most expensive pitbulls. They can be found for as little as $2,000. However, some will cost $5,000-$10,000. This depends on the breeder, location, their appearance, and pedigree.
Razor Pits from highly desired bloodlines can cost as much as $35,000.
Razor Edge Pitbull Rarity
Razor Edge Pitbulls are relatively rare. They are popular, so they are far from obscure. However, they aren’t particularly common either.
Razor Edge Pitbull Life expectancy
Some sources state that Razor Edge Pitbulls have a life span of 6-10 years, despite being a healthy breed. Other sources claim that 12 years is the average lifespan, with it ranging from 10-14 years.
This is similar to other Pitbulls, which logically makes it more likely to be correct. The American Pitbull Terrier has a lifespan of 10-16 years.
Razor Edge Pitbull Size and weight
Razor Pits can come in a few sizes and styles. The standard Razor Edge Pitbull is between 16 and 20 inches tall. American Pitbull Terriers grow to 17-21 inches tall, which makes them comparable in size.
Razor Pitbulls are stockier, which means they weigh more than other Pitbulls. Females weigh 40-55 pounds, and males weigh 55-70 pounds. American Pitbull Terrier females weigh 30-60 pounds, and males weigh 35-65 pounds.
The XL Razor Edge Pitbull is larger than other Pitbulls. They grow to 19-22 inches tall, and weigh 60 pounds or more.
Some breeders claim to have an XXL version, which exceeds 22 inches tall. However, this isn’t currently recognized within the breed standard.
There’s also the classic Razor Edge Pitbull. It’s very similar to the American Pitbull Terrier, and has the same body type and features.
Razor Edge Pitbull Health
Razor Edge Pitbulls are considered very healthy, because they have a broad gene pool. This makes some conditions less likely to be inherited, and is known as hybrid vigor.
There’s no health organization that currently oversees health and genetic testing for Razor Edge Pits, so it varies based on the breeder.
Genetic testing can prevent some health problems. If one or both parents has a condition, then breeding them can increase the risk of puppies having the condition.
It’s recommended that breeders test parents for:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Ichthyosis
If these tests are performed before breeding, it increases the odds of healthy puppies.
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
Hip and elbow dysplasia affects many medium and large breeds, including Razor Edge Pitbulls. It is an inherited condition that causes the hips to not form correctly.
This leads to the hip or elbow joint slipping out of place. The condition can cause pain and limited mobility, depending on the severity. A healthy diet and appropriate exercise can also decrease the risk of hip dysplasia.
Eye Disorders
Razor Pits are prone to several eye disorders. These include Cone Rod Dystrophy, or PRA, also known as Cone Rod Dystrophy 1. The disorder causes the dog to go blind, usually at 2 or 3 years old.
Other eye conditions include cherry eye, entrophin, cataracts, and glaucoma.
Allergies
Many Bully breeds, including the Razor Edge Pitbull, are prone to allergies. The most common allergy problem is skin allergies, which is also known as atopic dermatitis.
Skin allergies can cause itching, scratching, or frequent licking. They may also experience a rash, skin lesions, or hair loss.
Allergies can be triggered by an environmental factor, like dust, or a food ingredient, with wheat and dairy being common allergens.
Razor Edge Pitbull Behavior/Characteristics
The Razor Edge Pitbull was bred with temperament as a focus. This means they are very friendly and affectionate.
They are an excellent dog for families, because they are extremely gentle and patient. They also have a high need for affection. They are happiest when they are interacting with their humans. Kids who enjoy playing with the pooch and petting them will be treasured.
They can be goofy, and will brighten up the lives of you and your family. It’s nearly impossible to be in a bad mood when you see their excited tail wagging and signature smile.
Permanent Puppyhood
In a way, these pities never grow out of the puppy stage. They aren’t particularly hyper active, so you don’t have to worry about endless puppy energy. However, they never lose their sense of wonder.
They are like a young child. They are excited by things every single day. Take them on a walk, they will find something wonderous. Allow them to meet someone new, and they will go wild with happiness.
The downside to this is that this excitement can get them into trouble. For example, they see a person across the street, and immediately dart across the road to greet them, without noticing a coming vehicle.
How to care for a Razor Edge Pitbull
Like all breeds, Razor Edge Pitbull have unique requirements when it comes to care. Before you bring one home, you should know exactly how to care for them, and what they need.
Housing and Space
Surprisingly, the Razor Edge Pitbull doesn’t require a large amount of space. They can do well in smaller homes or apartments, as long as they have access to a play area.
They are best suited for a fenced in yard, because of their excitement. You won’t have to worry about them fighting with strangers or other dogs. However, they may not follow commands when they get excited, and as you know, they become excited very easily.
This means that they shouldn’t be in public off leash. If you are willing to take them for daily walks, they may live comfortably in an apartment. However, be sure to give them off leash play sessions as well, even if they are in your living room.
Diet
Like many bully breeds, the Razor Edge Pitbull does well on a high protein diet. This supports their muscle growth and energy needs.
Puppies should be fed a puppy food, preferably 3 times a day. Once they are a year old, they can transition to an adult food, and eat twice a day.
You should measure their food. Pitbulls have a notorious appetite, and may overeat if provided with extra food.
Training
Razor Edge Pitbulls are easy to train. They love people, and can never get enough human interaction. They are eager to please, and fairly intelligent. This means they will pick up on commands quickly, and want to follow them to please you.
They aren’t stubborn. However, you should only use positive reinforcement when training. Punishing them can cause issues with training, as well as your relationship.
Remember that these loveable bundles of muscles are very strong. They are incredibly gentle, but their size and strength makes it important to train them early and well.
For example, they would never hurt a small child, but they could easily knock them over in excitement if they aren’t trained properly.
Exercise
Razor Edge Pitbulls have a reputation for being sprinters, and not endurance runners. They will play hard for a short period of time, and then rest.
A few play sessions each day are the best way to provide them with physical activity. Aim for 30-60 minutes a day, split into several sessions.
Mental exercise is also important. Puzzle toys, games, and training are all great ways to give them mental stimulation. Mental exercise is just as tiring as physical exercise, so they work well together.
How do you buy a Razor Edge Pitbull?
You can search for a Razor Edge Pitbull at your local shelter. However, it will be difficult to know if they are truly a Razor Edge. The other option is ti purchase one from a reputable breeder.
Finding a Breeder
There are a few ways to find a breeder. The best way is to check a breeder registry. The UKC provides a breeder directory. They have strict standards that help eliminate unethical breeders, making it more likely for you to find an ethical breeder.
You can also perform an internet search for Razor Edge Pitbull breeders in your area. However, its best to choose one that has their dogs registered. They are more likely to be ethical, and meet the registry standards.
The American Bully Kennel Club offers registration for Razors Edge Pitbull.
Speaking with a Breeder
Once you find a breeder, you should ask them some questions. Ask them how they ensure the health of their puppies. Did the parents undergo genetic testing? Do the puppies have health certificates? How do they choose which dogs to breed?
You should also expect them to ask you questions. A reputable breeder will want to ensure the puppies go to good homes. Expect them to ask you about the living conditions the dog will have, and your purpose for buying them, at the least.
Checking Out the Scene
Lastly, you should always visit the dogs when possible. Reputable breeders should be happy to show you the parents and the puppies.
If the dogs have good living conditions, you can assume the breeder is reputable. Ethical breeders care about their dogs first and foremost, while unethical breeders are concerned purely with profits.