
Pit Bull sizes do vary, however, and so more important than actual weight and size is the dog's proportion. The American Pit Bull Terrier has a shoulder height of 46-56 cm (18-22 in) and generally weighs between 30-70 lb. They often serve as search dogs or police dogs. The American Pit Bull Terrier’s natural aggression is directed toward other dogs, not humans, and even this can be overcome with training. Despite its media reputation for ferociousness, the American Pit Bull Terrier is an affectionate dog which has risen to popularity as a pet. American Pit Bull Terriers became popular with ranchers and farmers for protection, companionship, and catching hogs and cattle. The American breed was recognized as a distinct breed in 1936.

The American Pit Bull Terrier (also known as ‘Yankee Terrier’, and closely related to the American Staffordshire Terrier) derived from crossing Bulldogs with an older Terrier line.
