Although they have a reputation for being aggressive, the American Pitbull Terrier is about as far from aggressive as possible. Most Pitbulls, when raised in a loving home and socialized well, are sweet, affectionate, and endearing dogs. That includes the Brindle Pitbull, which is one of the prettiest coat colors you can find on a Pit. If adopting a Brindle Pitbull is in your plans, read on to learn everything you need to know about this fantastic canine.
Breed Overview
Height:
16–19 inches
Weight:
35–80 pounds
Lifespan:
11–16 years
Colors:
Brindle
Suitable for:
Active families, those looking for a dog that sheds minimally
Temperament:
Affectionate, playful, great with children, and people-oriented when socialized well
Despite what you may have heard, Pitbulls are typically affectionate dogs that love their humans and are loyal to the core. When raised with other pets, they get along very well with them, even cats. Pitbulls also happen to be intelligent and make delightful companions for their owners.
Brindle Pitbull Breed Characteristics
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The Earliest Records of Brindle Pitbulls in History
Unfortunately, the brindle Pitbull’s history is filled with darkness and pain. As a descendant of the Old English Bulldog of the United Kingdom, the first Pitbull likely appeared in the early 1800s. Sadly, throughout that century, they were involved in several so-called “sports,” including bull baiting and ratting. The ratting gave the Pitbull the “pit” in its name. That’s because, when engaging in this barbaric sport, a Pitbull would be placed in a pit and would be timed to see how many rats it could kill in a specific amount of time. The only good thing to come out of this century was that those who loved Pitbulls started breeding them to have many of the traits we still love about the dog today.
Around the time of the American Civil War, immigrants came to the United States from the British Isles and brought their Pitbulls with them. Although they were involved in dog fighting, the Pitbull was also taught to herd cattle, guard livestock, and guard families during the frontier days of the United States.
How Brindle Pitbulls Gained Popularity
Pitbulls gained popularity in the United States almost immediately after being imported but for all the wrong reasons. They were engaged in dog fighting in the U.S. up until as recently as the 1990s. In 1987, the venerated Time magazine ran a story called “The Pit Bull: Friend and Killer” that had a negative effect on the breed’s popularity1.
What happened in 2007, however, was a major turning point for Pitbulls across the country. That was when NFL quarterback Michael Vick was caught and convicted of dog fighting. While one would think this was another dent in the Pitbull’s reputation, the opposite occurred. Of the 51 Pits at Vick’s Bad Newz Kennels, 48 were successfully adopted and rehabilitated. Their rehabilitation was so successful that Sports Illustrated ran another kinder article about the dog in 2008. This showed the nation that Pitbulls were actually gentle, affectionate dogs when raised well.
Formal Recognition of Brindle Pitbulls
Unfortunately, the Pitbull has never been considered a purebred dog. That includes the Brindle Pitbull, which the American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize. Yes, the AKC recognizes two dogs that are very similar to the Pitbull, including the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier. Also, the brindle color is recognized and common among many breeds.
Although the AKC does not recognize Pitbulls of any color, they are recognized by the American Dog Breeders Association (ADBA) and the United Kennel Club (UKC). It’s helpful to note that the term “pit bull” usually refers to dogs of mixed breed origin with similar physical traits, including a broad head, muscular body, and other similarities to the American Staffordshire and Bull Terrier.
Top 10 Unique Facts About Brindle Pitbulls
1. The Most Decorated Dog in World War II Was a Brindle Pit Named Stubby
Stubby was the mascot for the 102nd Infantry and was promoted to Sergeant status when he helped capture a German spy.
2. The Brindle Color Comes From the K Locus Gene
This is a recessive gene found in many breeds.
3. According to Scientific Research, Brindle Is the Second-Most-Common Pitbull Color
Black is the #1 color, and fawn is #3. However, these dogs come in a variety of color choices.
4. Petey the Pitbull From The Little Rascals Was a Brindle
Petey was a brindle mixed with white, and his infamous “eye ring” was makeup.
5. Brindle Pitbulls Don’t Have Locking Jaws
Yes, they’re incredibly powerful, but when a Pitbull bites, which they usually do only when attacking vermin, their jaw doesn’t and can’t lock.
6. Nearly 90% of Pitbulls Tested Were Found to Be Friendly
This was the result when the American Temperament Test Society (ATTS) tested over 900 Pitbulls.
7. Brindle Pits Are Very Friendly With Most Other Dogs
Ask anyone who’s ever owned a Pitbull and another dog simultaneously. They get along well and love playing with their dog friends.
8. Zoey the Brindle Pitbull Won the 2015 Obedience Trials at the AKC
This perfect Pitbull was also, not surprisingly, a therapy dog. She proved that Pitbulls are an incredibly intelligent breed.
9. Brindle Pitbulls Shed Very Little
You can thank their short, wiry coats for this wonderful trait. Indeed, they shed so little that you won’t need to bring them to a professional groomer.
10. It’s Believed That the Term “Nanny Dog” Came From a Brindle Pitbull
That’s because these dogs, contrary to popular belief, are fantastic with children.
Do Brindle Pitbulls Make Good Pets?
No matter the color, dog experts and veterinarians agree that the Pitbull, when raised in a loving, caring home, will make a fantastic pet and loyal, fun-loving companion. Brindle Pitbulls are one of the most affectionate dog breeds you’ll find, and they enjoy spending as much time as possible with their human companions.
As with any dog, you must socialize your brindle Pitbull well when they’re still a puppy. Exposing them to as many people, dogs, and other pets as possible is a fantastic idea and will show your brindle Pit that being kind to people and pets is preferred.
Closing Thoughts
Although they’ve faced more than their fair share of adversity, Pitbulls are now regaining their status as one of America’s favorite dogs. Their affection, intelligence, and playfulness are part of the reason; they are much less aggressive than portrayed in the media. If you adopt one of these amazing dogs, you will find they are better than you could have dreamed and will be your loyal friend for life.
Featured Image Credit: Mary Swift, Shutterstock
4 Responses
My beautiful long legged grey/brown brindle and white american pitbull terrier was teh most beautiful dog I ever owned, or he owned me. He lived to be three months short of 17 years and was the best all around dog breed I've ever lived with. Friendly with people to a fault, he would lick an intruder to death, the craziest ball prey drive. He would chase a ball till he dropped dead if Iet him. He always had a smile on his face, even when he got so arthritic at 16 years plus that he couldn't walk anymore. I still love that dog as much or more than many human family members. There is no loyal love like that of a dog, and american pitbull terriers are amazing, their eyes melt you.
Best dog ever. His wifey, my adopted Malinois still misses him. She still lays where he laid in the yard and where he is buried. Everyone loved him
Hello Maggie,
thank you so much for sharing your story with us. Your Pitbull sounds like such a sweetheart! It is heartbreaking to hear about his passing. However, I am sure he had the best possible life with you, as it sounds you loved him immensely!
Best wishes to you!
Petey was not a brindle but he was a Pitbull.
Hello Jane,
thank you for your comment. The answer depends on which dog actor we are talking about. The first original actor Pal the Wonder Dog wasn't brindle, however their offspring, who also played Petey later on, Lucenay's Peter, was indeed blue brindle. Hope this clears the things out.