Brindle Pitbull Breed Guide: Everything You Need To Know
For years, Pitbulls have faced a negative reputation as an aggressive dog breed that is not safe to own in your home as a pet. Thankfully, as more knowledge spreads, this canine can be just as friendly and loveable as any other dog breed.
The Pitbull breed is an umbrella term for particular types of canine breeds that the AKC (American Kennel Club) recognizes, including:
- American Pitbull Terrier
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- American Bully
However, there are also familiar names that many dog lovers use to describe their loveable pets that fall into these categories. They are distinct and can help characterize the animal’s appearance. Some other names include:
- Brindle Pitbull
- Blue Nose Pitbull
- Red Nose Pitbull
- Blue Nose Brindle Pitbull
- Red Nose Brindle Pitbull
- Gray Pitbull
- Bull Terrier
Alternatively, the Brindle Pitbull is a coat coloring only and can be either an American Pitbull Terrier, an American Staffordshire Terrier, or even a combination of these breeds. However, that does not mean Brindle coloring is restrictive of these two types. With crossbreeding, you can find Brindle Pitbulls that are also characteristic of the American Bully.
Everything You Need To Know About Brindle Pitbulls
Brindle coat coloring can vary, depending on the specific genetics of the parents. A brindle coat is typically a light coloring against a contrasting dark color in tiger-like stripes or criss-cross patterns, making them unique.
Its base color is usually tan, tawny-brown, or dark brown against darker stripes and patterns of black or dark brown hues with red or yellow points. This pattern is a recessive trait, also known as Phenotype, a physical, genetic characteristic or mutation, and is more common than many dog owners think.
However, Brindle Pitbulls are different by coat color only and will possess many typical Pitbull attributes. Brindles will typically appear and act as their white, gray, black, and brown counterparts from appearance, size, health, and temperament.
Brindle Pitbull Appearance and Size
Interestingly enough, the Blue Nose Brindle Pitbull can have blue coloring and eyes, even noses, to match. This combination is typically paired with a gray or fawn color and is one of the rarest Pitbulls.
The Red Nose Brindle Pitbull is more common and sports red or even white points. The eyes are typically amber or red, as well as their nose, lips, and toenails.
Even some brindles will sport a white belly or neck or include a mixture with a fawn or dark brown color. Their hair is short, stiff, and smooth. Brindle Pitbulls do not shed much because of their coat length.
Because a Brindle Pitbull may contain genetic lines from the American Staffordshire Terrier or the American Bull Terrier, they typically range between 16 and 19 inches tall. They can weigh between 30 and 80 pounds.
As medium-sized dogs, Pitbulls are more suited to active owners with adequate outdoor space to run and play regularly.
Brindle Pitbulls that are leaner will exhibit more characteristics of an American Staffordshire Terrier. Whereas stockier, more broad, and square-headed Brindle Pitbulls possess more American Bull Terrier genetics.
Rarity and Health Problems
While many dog lovers believe the Brindle coat coloring is rare, it is, in fact, more widespread than other standard colors. Alternatively, if you aim to find two Brindle Pitbulls that look identical, it will be challenging. Often, each coat is unique and will vary even in puppies of the same litter.
When observing a healthy lifestyle, including a proper diet and exercise, Brindle Pitbull can often live between fifteen to twenty years. However, these Brindle dogs are not immune to typical health problems plaguing the Pitbull breed. Some common ailments include:
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
- Allergies
- Thyroid Disease
- Heart Disease
- Gastric Torsion
Dog owners can help minimize health conditions by taking their Brindle Pitbull for regular veterinarian checkups and ensuring they receive a proper diet. Although it may not keep away any genetic health disorders, regular care and maintenance can help minimize later symptoms of several health ailments.
Brindle Pitbulls Personality and Temperament
While some dog lovers claim that Brindle-colored dogs have different personalities than dogs with alternative coats, there is no scientific evidence to back it up. A Brindle Pitbull will carry the same temperament as the Pitbull breed does, making them a fun-loving pet to have around.
These dogs have a lot of energy and a bold personality. They are highly intelligent, loyal, and love to please their owners. Many Pitbulls are food-driven, making training more manageable, including Brindle Pitbulls.
However, when comparing this dog to other breeds, they can appear stubborn and bull-headed. Their strong personality requires firm and consistent owners with training to ensure these dogs know boundaries and limits. A well-trained Brindle Pitbull makes an excellent companion.
Are Brindle Pitbulls Good Family Dogs?
Like other Pitbull colors, the Brindle can be loyal and enjoys an active lifestyle. Unfortunately, there is significant stigma attached to this breed due to their past, and many potential owners will pass them up as family pets.
However, with proper training, the Brindle Pitbull can be as loveable and enjoyable to have in the home as other dog breeds.
Compatibility With Children
In the early 1900s in England, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier carried the persona as a nanny dog for its compassionate nature. In addition, their shorter stature made them ideal companions for children to play with and as entertainment.
These dogs were gentle and protective of their human children and would often become upset with a child crying or fussing, helping to alert the parents.
Brindle Pitbulls: A Conclusion
Brindle Pitbulls, like all other dogs, with proper training, can be as friendly and loving as any different dog breed. This canine does not deserve the stigma that the breed carries even today.
If trained early, they make excellent therapy animals and working dogs for search and rescue or the police force. In addition, their personality and ability to bond with humans makes them a terrific choice for a companion dog or as a pet for the family.
