Pit Bull Terriers 101

Terrier group

A good Pit Bull – and most are just that – is sweet-natured and calm, loving to family and friends alike. They do best with responsible families who work to ensure their Pit Bulls behave as model citizens. This prevents adding to the reputation most of these dogs do not deserve. The breed does well in all kinds of activities, and regular exercise of mind and body keeps these dogs in good shape.

What we love about Pit Bull Terriers

The best ones are solid, funny and friendly

Energy level

75% energy level

Energy level: 75% (High)

Bark level

  • Very vocal
  • Talkative

Bark level: As needed. This breed only barks when necessary

Size

17 to 19 inches tall
Medium breed size

Size: 17 to 19 inches tall. This is a Medium sized Dog.

Lifespan

12 to 16 years

Lifespan: 12 to 16 years average

Weight

40 to 70 lbs

Weight: 40 to 70 lbs typical range

Energy level
High (75%)
Bark level
As needed
Height
17 to 19 inches
Lifespan
12 to 16 years
Weight
40 to 70 lbs

The Pit Bull Terrier stands 17 to 19 inches tall and weighs 40 to 70 lbs. Pit Bull Terriers have a lifespan of 12 to 16 years. They are known for a high (75%) energy level and a as needed bark.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big do Pit Bull Terriers get?
Pit Bull Terriers stand 17 to 19 inches tall and typically weigh between 40 and 70 pounds.
How long do Pit Bull Terriers live?
The average lifespan of a Pit Bull Terrier is 12 to 16 years.
Are Pit Bull Terriers good for first-time dog owners?
Pit Bull Terriers are intelligent but have high energy. They do best with experienced owners who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Do Pit Bull Terriers bark a lot?
Pit Bull Terriers typically only bark when necessary — they are not known to be excessive barkers.

We want to see pictures of your Pit Bull Terrier!

Tag @NationwidePet on social media!

My pet’s health plannerSM

This Pit Bull Terrier health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.

Mature adult Pit Bull Terrier

6 years to 9 years

Risk level for common Pit Bull Terrier conditions

Mid-life Pit Bull Terriers should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Cruciate ligament tear (knee) and Skin cancer pose very high risk. Skin allergies is at high risk.

80% on risk scale
Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
Very High Risk
80% on risk scale
Skin cancer
Very High Risk
70% on risk scale
Skin allergies
High Risk

Senior Pit Bull Terrier

10+ years

Risk level for common Pit Bull Terrier conditions

Senior Pit Bull Terriers face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Skin cancer and Cruciate ligament tear (knee) and Arthritis pose very high risk.

80% on risk scale
Skin cancer
Very High Risk
80% on risk scale
Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
Very High Risk
80% on risk scale
Arthritis
Very High Risk

Pit Bull Terrier puppy

0 to 1 year

Risk level for common Pit Bull Terrier conditions

Pit Bull Terrier puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Skin allergies is at high risk.

70% on risk scale
Skin allergies
High Risk
40% on risk scale
Gastritis
Above Average Risk
60% on risk scale
Ear infection
Moderate Risk

Young adult Pit Bull Terrier

1 year to 5 years

Risk level for common Pit Bull Terrier conditions

As Pit Bull Terriers grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant. Cruciate ligament tear (knee) poses very high risk. Skin allergies is at high risk.

70% on risk scale
Skin allergies
High Risk
60% on risk scale
Ear infection
Moderate Risk
80% on risk scale
Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
Very High Risk

Mature adult Pit Bull Terrier

6 years to 9 years

Risk level for common Pit Bull Terrier conditions

Mid-life Pit Bull Terriers should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Cruciate ligament tear (knee) and Skin cancer pose very high risk. Skin allergies is at high risk.

80% on risk scale
Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
Very High Risk
80% on risk scale
Skin cancer
Very High Risk
70% on risk scale
Skin allergies
High Risk

Senior Pit Bull Terrier

10+ years

Risk level for common Pit Bull Terrier conditions

Senior Pit Bull Terriers face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Skin cancer and Cruciate ligament tear (knee) and Arthritis pose very high risk.

80% on risk scale
Skin cancer
Very High Risk
80% on risk scale
Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
Very High Risk
80% on risk scale
Arthritis
Very High Risk

Pit Bull Terrier puppy

0 to 1 year

Risk level for common Pit Bull Terrier conditions

Pit Bull Terrier puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Skin allergies is at high risk.

70% on risk scale
Skin allergies
High Risk
40% on risk scale
Gastritis
Above Average Risk
60% on risk scale
Ear infection
Moderate Risk

Young adult Pit Bull Terrier

1 year to 5 years

Risk level for common Pit Bull Terrier conditions

As Pit Bull Terriers grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant. Cruciate ligament tear (knee) poses very high risk. Skin allergies is at high risk.

70% on risk scale
Skin allergies
High Risk
60% on risk scale
Ear infection
Moderate Risk
80% on risk scale
Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
Very High Risk
Pit Bull Terrier standing — health planner for puppies through senior dogs

Nationwide can help you save on your Pit Bull Terrier's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.

Puppy (0 to 1 year)
Skin allergies: High Risk, Gastritis: Above Average Risk, Ear infection: Moderate Risk
Young Adult (1 year to 5 years)
Skin allergies: High Risk, Ear infection: Moderate Risk, Cruciate ligament tear (knee): Very High Risk
Mature Adult (6 years to 9 years)
Cruciate ligament tear (knee): Very High Risk, Skin cancer: Very High Risk, Skin allergies: High Risk
Senior (10+ years)
Skin cancer: Very High Risk, Cruciate ligament tear (knee): Very High Risk, Arthritis: Very High Risk
3-Fun fact Pit bull GettyImages-1362582590

At the Connecticut Trees of Honor Memorial in Middletown, CT, you’ll find a statue of a Pit Bull named “Sergeant Stubby,” who served with the 102nd Infantry Regiment during World War I. He became renowned for his bravery, loyalty, and heroism, and he was awarded the Purple Heart, the Silver Star, and multiple battle ribbons, making him one of the most decorated war dogs in history.

Pit Bull Terrier coat care and colors

The Pit Bull Terrier provides no reason to complain when it comes to coat care, since the breed’s sleek, short coat in a variety of patterns and colors requires little more than a weekly brushing and an occasional bath to keep it in good condition. The Pit Bull is a large dog, and that means large nails that need to be kept short. Acclimating puppies to having their feet handled will make a lifetime of nail trims easier. Some dogs better tolerate nail grinding rather than trimming, so experiment with which method works best.

Pit Bull Terrier exercise & training

Exercise level

Exercise level

While they’re happy just to hang out with their families, Pit Bull Terriers do best with moderate daily exercise. Because of their strength, good leash manners are must for daily walks.

Trainability

Trainability

Pit Bull Terriers are devoted and smart, but they are strong dogs. Start training early, and reward good manners with praise and tiny treats.

Pit Bull Terrier fun facts

Top girl names for Pit Bull Terriers

100%

of Pit Bull Terriers are female

0%

of Pit Bull Terriers are male

Top boy names for Pit Bull Terriers

Nationwide loves Pit Bull Terriers of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Explore pet insurance
Pit Bull Terrier gender distribution
GenderPercentage
Male0%
Female100%

Among Pit Bull Terriers insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.

Pit Bull Terrier statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.

Other breeds like Pit Bull Terriers

Best. Pit Bull Terrier insurance. Ever.SM

  • Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
  • Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
  • Cancel at any time, risk-free
Get a quote today