American Pit Bull Terrier
I. Introduction
A. To truly understand any breed standard, one must know the history behind a breed’s existence.
B. The purpose of a judge is the unbiased selection of quality breeding stock with true breed type.
C. The responsibility of judging is to put up the dogs that conform most to the conformation standard leaving personal bias aside.
II. Overall Appearance
A. Conforming to breed type
1. Should look like an American Pit Bull Terrier from across the ring
2. Sturdy, three dimensional. Giving the impression of strength, not slight or frail.
3. Appears square, with heavy boned, solid front end with a light and springy back end.
4. Should look athletic, not bulky. Musculature should be smooth but defined.
5. Presentation of an adult dog should be of a lean, exercised animal, showing a hint of rib and backbone (without hipbones showing) with muscles firm and defined.
B. Balance
1. Balanced angulation of front and rear assembly – judged best at the trot.
2. Height to weight ratio – the tallest dog at a given weight
3. Head size in proportion to the body.
C. Presentation
1. Dog is socialized, showing interest in things around him.
2. Unruly behaviour will detract from the judge’s ability.
D. Health
1. Gloss of coat and sharpness of eye reflect health.
2. Merle and albinism are serious faults.
III. Attitude
A. Confident and alert
B. Interested in surroundings
C. Gentle with loved ones
Major Fault: Shy or timid
IV. Back End
Loin: Broad and proportioned
Hip: Long and sloping
Rear Assembly: Strong angulation and muscle attachment
V. Front End
Ribcage: Deep and elliptical
Shoulders: Well laid back
Feet: Small, tight, well padded
VI. Head & Neck
Text preserved exactly as provided.
VII. Tail & Coat
Text preserved exactly as provided.
Disqualifications
Human aggression, cryptorchid, spayed or neutered dogs.