Will the bad reputation of Pitbulls ever end?
Despite being proven as one of the most loyal dogs out there with a huge, courageous heart, black Pitbulls are still living on the margins. Many dog lovers won’t even think of owning one of these good boys because of all the stereotypes.
In fact, black dog breeds are associated with a lot of controversy, and this is also the case with the Pitbull.
The biggest stereotype is that black Pitbulls are aggressive dogs that always attack first. The second is that they are evil dogs once used for dogfighting and hunting.
These are all simply exaggerated assumptions and all completely wrong.
Black Pitbulls are as sweet as any other Pitbull color. Compared to some other, widely-beloved dog breeds, Pitbulls win on all fronts with their intelligence, kind hearts, and excellent training skills.
Today, we’re going to shine the light on the black Pitbull and try to get rid of those stereotypes once and for all.
What Is A Black Pitbull?
Photo from: @kiarablackpitbull
A black Pitbull is a Pitbull puppy that comes from powerful parent dog breeds, the American Pitbull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier (Amstaff), or a Staffy with a solid black color coat.
Although they don’t sport the same color, black Pitbulls have the same temperament as all other Pitbulls.
Once bred for dogfighting and other bloodsports, Pitbulls now have a strong jaw that can do a lot of damage if they want to. Unfortunately, this can also be one of the reasons why people are so against them.
Black Pitbulls are just like other dogs. They can and will show aggression if not properly trained and socialized.
Despite what the majority of people think, black Pitbulls are one of the best family pets ever. They could be your next best friend if you give them a chance.
What Does An All Black Pitbull Look Like?
Black Pitbulls are, naturally, dogs with a solid black coat. This adds up to them being intimidating, but in fact, they’re very gentle and loving dogs.
A full-grown Pitbull can stand at 17 to 19 inches and weigh anywhere from 30 to 85 pounds. These dogs are very muscular and athletic. Some may be wider and taller than others. This makes Pitbulls excellent guard dogs.
With their pronounced cheekbones, fleshy noses, broad heads, and dark eyes, they’re showstoppers that will sweep you off your feet.
Is A Black Pitbull Puppy Rare?
The Pitbull breed has a wide color spectrum. They come in all sorts of colors and shades, including black, blue, red, white, patterned, and color shades. The most sought-after is the black color because many people believe they’re quite rare.
In fact, black Pitbulls are not rare; they’re very common. They are not as rare as white Pitbulls, and the rarest one of them all, the Merle Pitbull.
The only reason black Pitbulls are perceived as rare is that some breeders take advantage of new pet owners and sell their dogs at a higher price.
Panther Black Pitbulls With Blue Eyes
Black Pitbulls with blue eyes are not that uncommon. Most dog breeds are born with this eye color, which may or may not change as the dog grows up.
According to the geneticist Kristopher Irizarry, dogs with blue eyes don’t really have any eye color. It’s the same optical illusion as with the color of the sky and the sea.
These are the three reasons why black Pitbulls might have blue eyes:
• Melanin Levels. Melanin is a skin pigment we hold responsible for the lightness and darkness of a Pitbull’s skin and eyes. Low melanin production or pigmentation loss translates to lighter brown eye color or light blue eyes.
• Genetics. Another reason why Pitbulls can have blue eyes is the merle gene (M-locus). This is the gene that dilutes or lightens pigments of the nose, eyes, fur, etc. However, not all Pitbulls with the merle gene will possess these eye characteristics.
• ALX4 Gene. This genetic mutation is also associated with the eye color of some black Pitbulls. If the mutation is near the gene ALX4, then there’s a higher chance the eyes will appear blue.
It is possible for most black Pitbulls with blue eyes not to have health issues. Still, a small percentage will suffer from some health problems due to their blue eyes.
Here are some disorders that may affect your Pitbull with blue eyes:
• Blindness
• Deafness
• Albinism
• Cataracts
What Makes A Black Pitbull Terrier Different From Other Pitbulls?
Photo from: @banksyisadog
The black Pitbull is not a separate dog breed. It’s a Pitbull like all the others. However, some things set this good-looking Pittie apart from other varieties.
Since black Pitbulls were used in dogfighting, bull-baiting, bear-baiting, and other blood sports, they manifest the following characteristics:
• graceful and confident movements
• easy to train
• they love physical and mental challenges
• they have developed guard instincts and hunting skills
These traits do speak of how powerful Pitbulls are. However, a trained black Pitbull can easily serve as the gentlest companion dog ever.
Does The AKC Recognize The Black Coat Color?
Photo from:@rileythepittie_
The Pitbull breed is very controversial. Not many dog experts accept Pitbulls as a dog breed because Pitbull is just an umbrella term to cover many purebred and mixed breed dogs.
Black Pitbulls are offsprings of the American Staffordshire Terrier and American Pitbull Terrier, so further discussion will address their breed standard colors according to different kennel clubs.
American Pitbull Terrier
The American Pitbull Terrier has been recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) ever since 1898.
The standard colors of the American Pitbull Terrier (APBT) are almost all of them, except merle. This means black Pitbulls of this dog breed are also recognized. However, the American Pitbull Terrier dog as a dog breed is not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
American Staffordshire Terrier
On the other hand, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1936. The standard colors of this breed are any solid color or any patches.
Pure white varieties or those that are more than 80% white, black and tan, and liver are not accepted. Hence, black Pitbulls from this dog breed are also recognized.
Black Pitbull Dog Genetics
Pitbulls can thank their genetics for the gorgeous deep black coat color.
Let’s learn some basic dog genetics today, shall we?
Dogs have two types of pigments present. The first one is the black pigment called eumelanin. The other one is the red pigment or pheomelanin. These colors are modified by the dog’s genes, which they inherit from their parents.
When it comes to black Pitbulls, the K locus or the dominant black gene affects the coat color.
The K locus consists of three gene variations or alleles:
• KB or dominant black
• kbr or brindle
• ky or recessive black
We understand this all sounds a bit confusing, especially if you have no previous experience in dog genetics. However, if you spend some time around dogs and get into the world of dog breeding, you will easily understand how dog genes work.
To make things a bit simpler: the presence of the KBky and KBKB genes leads to the solid black coat color. Your pet can have a black coat color through these K locus combinations.
Does The Black Coloring Affect The Dog’s Health & Behavior?
Photo from: @pit4life_knl
There are no studies and very little literature to prove color affects the Pitbull’s health.
We simply can’t say the black coloring affects the black Pitbull’s behavior or health status.
But, if you train your dog in a manner he thinks he’s a tough dog, all because of the false presumption that black Pitbulls are dangerous, your Pitbull may, in fact, act aggressively.
The black dog syndrome does much harm to Pitbulls. They can be the sweetest Pitties of them all, but if the owner labels the dog as aggressive because of the color, not many future dog owners will want to get that dog.
Solid Black Pitbull Temperament
Black Pitbulls have the same temperament as their differently-colored brothers and sisters. These dogs are intelligent and brave, as well as being affectionate and completely loyal to their owner.
Here are the black Pitbull’s finest personality traits you should know about:
• They’re full of energy and enthusiasm
• They’re confident dogs, not aggressive by default
• They’re fast learners despite their short attention spans
• They’re obedient to their owners
• If provoked, they won’t back down
• If you raise them with other animals, they will be friendly and gentle
• They have a strong need for attention, so you should always include them in your activities.
Black Pitbulls are active dogs that love learning, especially new tricks. Learning helps them with staying disciplined.
Pitbulls love playing with toys, especially chew toys. Give them durable chew toys to gnaw on. They have strong jaws and an even stronger desire to be challenged by cool dog toys.
Pure Black Pitbull Health
Photo from: @madflockkennel
Black Pitbulls are robust dogs, but they’re not safe from many potential health risks. They still suffer from the same health problems other Pitbulls do.
Some of the most common health issues are:
• Coat and Skin Allergies. Coat and skin allergies are one of the biggest health problems for black Pitbulls, especially due to their short hair. To prevent such problems, dog owners should properly groom their dogs regularly. Also, bug repellents on the dog’s skin work miracles.
• Cataracts. Black Pitbulls, especially black Pitbulls with blue eyes, are prone to eye problems, mainly cataracts. This is an inherited condition, but it may also develop as a result of diabetes, hypocalcemia, and uveitis. Medicine should take care of it, but severe cases require an eye operation.
• Cardiovascular Disease. Cardiovascular diseases are also inherited by some black Pitbulls. Sadly, this disease has almost no symptoms, which makes it hard to discover. But, regular vet check-ups should help you find out what’s wrong with your dog.
• Hip & Elbow Dysplasia. Suffering from hip dysplasia as well as elbow dysplasia makes your black Pitbull’s movement limited. Climbing up the stairs, running, or even walking becomes difficult for these dogs. This is also an inherited health problem that can be prevented with a proper breeding process.
• Ichthyosis. This is a thickening on the dog’s coat and footpads, a skin problem comparable to fish scales and dandruff.
• Cerebellar Ataxia. This health issue manifests through imbalance and poor coordination. Dogs affected by cerebellar ataxia have tremors, a wobbly gain, and uncoordinated movements.
Black Pitbull Price: Do They Cost More Than Other Pitbulls?
Photo from: @legomajesticpitbull
Just like any other dog breed, black Pitbulls can be found at a low price but also at a high one. It all depends on the quality of the dog you’re looking for.
Black Pitbulls usually go for $800 to $1,000. There is no significant difference between this price and other Pitbull prices.
If you’re on a tight budget, you can find a black Pitbull for as low as around $100 to $500, but you need to know those puppies won’t be of good quality. They will be awesome pets, but some things like their health or lifespan may be affected by poor breeding.
A black Pitbull from an excellent bloodline will cost you anywhere around $1,000 to $2,000. Some breeders go as high as up to $10,000! Those are either high quality puppies or ridiculously overpriced mediocre dogs.
Where To Find An All Black Pitbull For Sale
The exciting part of getting a black Pitbull is, of course, the buying process. But, where on earth can you get a black Pitbull puppy?
Well, pretty much everywhere.
There are lots of dog breeders that carry different quality black Pitbulls. As we mentioned earlier, black Pitbulls aren’t as rare as white color Pitties, so finding one in your area won’t be as problematic as you may think.
Before you head for the store or call a breeder, you should check out these reminders:
• Do a background check if possible to ensure puppies are legitimate
• Avoid buying overpriced puppies. There’s really nothing so special about black Pitbulls that makes them very expensive dogs. They’re excellent pets but not show-stopping material worth thousands of dollars.
• You should know the difference between a black Pitbull and a blue Pitbull. These two have almost the same shade of color. Some unethical breeders may even trick you into buying a black Pitbull, when in fact, it’s only a blue Pittie.
1. XXL Designer Pitbulls
XXL Designer Pitbulls or XDP is a state-of-the-art facility that breeds black Pitbulls. If you want an XL or XXL- sized Pitbull, contacting these guys is your best option. All dogs from this facility are obedient and well-trained. They were raised in the perfect environment, making them friendly and non-aggressive.
2. Unleashed Kennels
Unleashed Kennels is another Pitbull breeding facility with many good reviews from dog owners. Their Pitbulls have stable temperaments. Unleashed Kennels have facilities in Michigan, Kansas, and California. They have an open-door policy for future clients, and you can visit them anytime you want.
3. Manmade Kennels
Manmade Kennels has been breeding Pitbulls for ten years. They deliver pups all over the world, and they are very hands-on in the transition of their Pitbulls to their new owners.
Each member of their staff has several years of experience in training Pitbulls, so you are assured that your dog will have a good temperament.
4. McNamara Pit Bull Kennels
McNamara offers different Pitbull puppies, including black ones. They claim that the bloodlines of their Pitbulls are “world-renowned and time-tested.” They also ensure that their dogs are not mixed with other breeds.
5. Mugleston’s Pitbull Farm
Mugleston’s Pitbull Farm offers a Pitbull pick-up and delivery service anywhere in the States.
They raise Pitbulls inside the house in the first few months of their lives. Later, they’re transferred to Pitbull kennels outside, where they receive the best care possible.
Where To Find All Black Pitbull For Adoption
Photo from: @bullypitsweden
Adopting is always the best possible option because you’re rescuing a Pitbull from the street and giving it a forever home. What’s better than that?
In case you’re having trouble finding a purebred Pitbull, you can always ask to see some of the Pitbull mixes, i.e., mixes with German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, Cane Corso, Mastiff, etc.
Here you’ll find some of the best rescue organizations in the States. Keep their numbers on speed dial if you’re looking for a rescue black Pitbull.
1. Misspits Rescue
Misspits Rescue aims to help Pitbulls that are neglected or even abused. All of the Misspits dogs are spayed or neutered, treated for parasites, up to date on their shots, and ready for you to show them some love.
2. Tough Love Pitbull Rescue
Tough Love is a network of Pitbull lovers currently volunteering in Arizona, California, and Washington. They rescue Pitbulls, teach them basic dog commands, and even train them to go potty!
3. Rescue Me!
Rescue Me is a website where dog owners can post pets for adoption. This website carries not only Pitbulls but also other dog breeds.
4. Bobbie’s Pit Bull Rescue & Sanctuary
This sanctuary aims to rescue, rehabilitate, and find forever homes for neglected Pitties. What’s so great about this rescue center is that they actually visit the future dog owner’s home and evaluate if he or she is the right person to adopt.
5. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
Who hasn’t heard of the ASPCA and all the incredible things they do?
Their adoption centers in New York and Los Angeles may be your source for getting a black Pitbull dog that desperately needs a home.
Male Vs. Female Black Pitbull: Are There Any Differences?
The one thing all future dog owners do when buying or adopting is check the dog’s gender. There is a significant difference between a male and female black Pitbull.
Female Pitbulls are usually smaller in height and weight. The only thing that’s bigger/longer with them is their back.
In terms of bone structure, female black Pitbulls have narrower heads and tighter lips. Their eyes are also slightly apart, unlike male Pitbulls.
As for their temperament, unneutered males are more aggressive than any female black Pitbull. This can be easily fixed if your dog gets fixed. Luckily, aggression is only towards other dog breeds.
Generally speaking, both male and female black Pitbulls are great companions.
Black Nose Pitbull Vs. Red Nose Pitbull Vs. Blue Nose Pitbull
The AKC accepts all nose colors; thus, the black nose Pitbull is completely accepted. As for the red nose Pitbull and blue nose Pitbull, these puppsters are also accepted and can be registered with the AKC.
Of all three of these nose colors, the AKC favors the black nose color.
White And Black Pitbull
Photo from: @panda_cow_the_pit
White and black Pitbulls have a specific coat color. Since most Pitbulls have black as a dominant shade, we can say these Pitbulls are not as rare as you might think.
Like other Pitbulls, they also have a smooth, short, and glossy coat. They’re very muscular and athletic. Their eyes are sharp, and their ears are pointy.
These Pitbulls can have black and white coats with small specks, large white markings, or even shades throughout the body. There is no standard black to white ratio.
The white and black Pitbulls are the same as every other Pitbull in terms of nature, health issues, and upbringing.
My Final Thoughts
Photo from:@black_wild_8800
The black Pitbull has a bad reputation without any justified reason. Their days of fighting in blood sports are long gone. When will future dog owners understand that?
Pitbulls are more than tough-looking dogs. They’re cute dogs and huge sweethearts with the warmest smile ever.
Black Pitbulls may be your guard dogs or watchdogs, but generally, they’re much better at being a cuddly family member.
What sets these Pitbulls apart from other dogs is their all-black color coat. They’re not black and white, or black and a bit of tan. Black Pitbulls are all black Pitbulls!
These dogs have a strong jaw, which makes them quite intimidating.
However, black Pitbulls show no signs of aggression if socialized and trained in time.
You’ve learned what black Pitbulls are, how to find a breeder, and what kind of pups these good boys are.
Now, it’s time for you to learn what it’s like living with a black Pitbull.
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