Long-haired pitbulls are captivating canines with the muscular build and tenacity of their Pitbull heritage, while their luscious, flowing locks add a touch of elegance to their appearance. With their endearing personalities and stunning coats, these canines have quickly stolen the hearts of dog lovers everywhere.
Keep reading to learn more about the unique characteristics of long-haired pitbulls and how you can properly take care of them.
What Are Long-Haired Pitbulls?
Long-haired Pitbulls, also known as American Bully Longs, are a variation of the American Pitbull Terrier breed with a longer and thicker coat than their short-haired counterparts. While Pitbulls are typically recognized for their short, sleek coats, long-haired variations showcase a distinct, eye-catching appearance.
Long-haired Pitbulls inherit their longer coats from other breeds with a longer hair gene, such as the American Staffordshire Terrier, American Bully, or Staffordshire Bull Terrier. The coat of long-haired Pitbulls is often dense, wavy, or slightly curly, giving them a unique and striking appearance.
It’s important to note that long hair in Pitbulls is considered a genetic variation and not a breed standard. While these dogs may differ in physical appearance, their temperament, behavior, and overall characteristics remain similar to those of regular Pitbulls.
Long-haired Pitbulls can come in various colors and patterns, including brindle, solid, parti-color, or piebald. They still retain the strong, muscular build and athletic physique typical of Pitbulls. These dogs are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and affectionate nature, often making them excellent companions and family pets.
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Unique Features of Long-Haired Pitbulls
Long-haired Pitbulls have many physical similarities to their short-haired counterparts, but the most noticeable difference is their long coat. These dogs typically have a medium-sized body, standing 17 to 21 inches tall and weighing between 30 and 65 pounds.
They possess a muscular and athletic build characterized by a broad chest and strong legs. Their coat ranges from medium to long, with wavy or curly hair with a soft, silky texture. Long-haired Pitbulls come in various coat colors, including black, blue, chocolate, fawn, red, and white, with common brindle and merle patterns.
Nutrition & Diet
Proper nutrition is vital for the overall health of a long-haired Pitbull. Choosing a high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs is essential, focusing on premium options containing high-quality protein sources, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Portion control is crucial to prevent overeating and weight gain, so dividing the dog’s daily food allowance into two or three meals is recommended.
Consulting a veterinarian can guide appropriate portion sizes. Treats should be in moderation, ensuring they do not exceed 10% of the dog’s daily caloric intake.
Temperament And Personality
In terms of temperament and personality, long-haired Pitbulls exhibit the exact loyal, friendly, and affectionate nature as their short-haired counterparts. They are intelligent dogs eager to please, making them great companions for individuals and families of all ages.
These dogs have high energy levels and require regular exercise to remain happy and healthy. Additionally, long-haired Pitbulls are social and friendly, enjoying interactions with both people and other animals. They are known to be protective of their families and will go to great lengths to ensure their safety.
Maintenance & Grooming
Caring for a long-haired Pitbull’s coat requires more grooming than a short-haired Pitbull. To maintain their coat’s condition, brushing them at least twice a week is recommended to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Bathing should be done once a month or as needed, using a gentle dog shampoo and ensuring the coat is thoroughly rinsed to prevent residue buildup.
Weekly ear cleaning is vital to prevent ear infections, using a gentle ear-cleaning solution and cotton balls. Nail trimming should be done every few weeks to avoid overgrowth and discomfort. It’s crucial to use a dog nail clipper or grinder and be cautious not to cut the quick. Regular teeth cleaning with a dog toothbrush and toothpaste is essential to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent dental issues.
Playtime & Exercise
Like all Pitbulls, long-haired Pitbulls are energetic dogs requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation. Daily walks of at least two 30-minute sessions help engage them physically and mentally. Engaging in interactive play, such as fetch, tug-of-war, and frisbee, allows the dog to burn off energy while strengthening the bond with the owner.
Agility training is particularly well-suited for long-haired Pitbulls, providing both physical exercise and mental stimulation. Regular dog park visits offer socialization opportunities with other dogs and off-leash play. Monitoring the dog’s energy levels during exercise and adjusting activities as needed is vital to ensure their health and safety.
Care & Health
While long-haired Pitbulls are generally healthy, like all dogs, they can be prone to specific health conditions.
Common issues include:
- Hip dysplasia is a genetic disorder affecting the hip joints.
- Allergies, particularly skin allergies, may be more common in long-haired varieties.
- Heart diseases like aortic stenosis.
Regular veterinary checkups, proper nutrition, and a consistent exercise routine are vital for keeping long-haired Pitbulls healthy.
Training & Socialization
Long-haired Pitbulls are highly trainable due to their intelligence and eagerness to please. Early socialization and positive reinforcement training are crucial to raising a well-behaved and confident dog. Obedience training, focusing on basic commands such as sit, stay, and come, should start early, with consistency and patience crucial for success.
Socializing dogs with different people, animals, and environments from a young age helps them become well-adjusted and confident adults. Positive reinforcement, such as treats, praise, and playtime, should reinforce desired behaviors and strengthen the bond between the dog and the owner.
Long Haired Pitbulls – FAQ
Can Pitbulls Be Long-Haired?
Yes, Pitbulls can have long hair. While it is not as common as the short-haired variety, a genetic variation can produce long-haired Pitbulls. These dogs inherit the longer coat from other breeds with the long hair gene, such as the American Staffordshire Terrier, American Bully, or Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Long-haired Pitbulls have a distinct appearance with a dense, wavy, or slightly curly coat.
Can Full-Bred Pitbulls Have Long Hair?
Yes, full-bred Pitbulls can have long hair. The long-haired variation is considered a genetic trait and not a separate breed. Although it is not as prevalent as the short-haired variety, some full-bred Pitbulls can inherit the long-haired gene from their lineage.
These long-haired Pitbulls maintain the same temperament, behavior, and physical characteristics as their short-haired counterparts but have longer and thicker coats. It’s important to note that finding a long-haired Pitbull may require effort, as they are less common than the short-haired variety.
Final Thoughts
Despite its controversial history, the long-haired Pitbull is an exceptional and remarkable breed with the potential to be a devoted and affectionate companion for the right family. When provided with proper care and training, these dogs can lead fulfilling and healthy lives while becoming cherished members of their households.
If you are contemplating the addition of a long-haired Pitbull to your family, conducting thorough research and gaining a comprehensive understanding of this breed’s specific requirements is crucial.