The Pitbull Growing Process
When does a Pitbull stop growing? We will look at a Pitbull’s growing process in this article. But first, pitbulls are brave dogs with a loving, gentle side. They are popular for their ferocious athleticism and strength.
Pitbulls are a cross between Bull and Terrier dogs, with solidly built, short-coated bodies. They are dependable, fiercely loyal dogs who add excellent to many households.
When Does a Pitbull Stop Growing?
Many pet owners are ecstatic when they bring home and welcome their newly adopted pets, especially when they are puppies! We feel warm and delighted at their adorable small paws or toe beans!
Because time passes so quickly, days turn into months, and months turn into years. You will suddenly realize that your canine companions are quite large. Some dogs can still fit in your handbag, but others grow so large that you need a larger couch. Then you ask yourself again, when does a Pitbull stop growing?
Have you ever wondered when they’ll stop growing? Each dog’s growth pattern is unique. Pitbull puppies will grow until they are two to three years old. They can reach their full height and weight between 12 and 18 months and two and three years. However, regardless of height or age, they will always look adorable in dog clothes or Cuban dog collars.
When Does a Pitbull Puppy Stop Growing?
Puppy growth is rapid, especially in Pitbulls. They have increasing growth spurts between the ages of four and nine months. If you don’t put in a lot of effort to train them during these months, they can become completely out of control. Pitbull puppies are extremely excitable.
The only method for calming them down is to engage them in physical activities. During those months, they will continue to grow slowly until they are between 12 and 18 months old. They then reach full maturity. When they reach full maturity, they will begin to gain weight and muscle.
An Adult Pitbull’s Height and Weight
The average Pitbull weight for males should presumably weigh between 35 and 60 pounds (15.9 and 27.2 kilograms). On the other hand, the average Pitbull height is between 18 to 21 inches (45.7 to 53.3 centimeters) from the floor to the shoulders. This is according to the United Kennel Club Pitbull Breed Standards.
A female American Pitbull Terrier is slightly smaller, weighing between 30 and 50 pounds (13.6 and 22.7 kilograms) and standing 17 to 20 inches (43.2 to 50.8 centimeters) tall at the shoulders.
Pitbull is a catch-all term for a Bulldog and Terrier mix, most commonly applied to the American Pitbull Terrier. Staffordshire Bull Terriers, also known as Pitbulls, are smaller dogs, with most males weighing 28 to 38 pounds (12.7 to 17.2 kilograms) and females weighing 24 to 34 pounds (10.9 to 15.4 kilograms). Staffordshire Bull Terriers will be a little shorter as well.
They stand 14 to 16 inches (35.6 to 40.6 centimeters) tall. This is according to the American Kennel Club.
What About Pitbull Head Growth?
You may be wondering, when does a Pitbull’s head stop growing? A Pitbull’s head will continue growing as its weight and height increase. Most of the time, the head will grow up to 23 inches (58 centimeters).
A Pitbull Weight and Growth Chart
“PitBull” refers to various Bulldog and Terrier mixes, including the American Pitbull Terrier and Staffordshire Bull Terrier. The Pitbull growth chart below shows the estimated weight of an American Pitbull Terrier.
Staffordshire Bull Terriers are smaller than Pitbulls and typically weigh between 25 and 40 pounds (11.3 and 18.1 kilograms), putting them on the lower end of these estimates.
Please bear in mind that the figures below are estimates. All puppies develop at their own pace, and the Pitbull breed is susceptible to significant size variations. Suppose you are worried that your Pitbull is miles ahead or behind the following figures; please consult with your veterinarian.
Your veterinarian will be able to provide you with personalized advice on your pup’s growth and weight.
| Age | Weight |
| 1 month | 9 pounds (4 kilograms) |
| 2 months | 20 pounds (9 kilograms) |
| 3 months | 31 pounds (14 kilograms) |
| 4 months | 42 pounds (19 kilograms) |
| 5 months | 51 pounds (23 kilograms) |
| 6 months | 57 pounds (25.9 kilograms) |
| 7 months | 63 pounds (28.6 kilograms) |
| 8 months | 66 pounds (29.9 kilograms) |
| 9 months | 70 pounds (31.7 kilograms) |
| 10 months | 72 pounds (32.7 kilograms) |
| 11 months | 74 pounds (33.6 kilograms) |
| 12 months (1 year) | 76 pounds (34.4 kilograms) |
Ensuring Your Pitbull is Healthy
Pitbulls are one of America’s most beloved breeds for a good reason. Their friendly demeanor and devotion to their pet parents make them excellent family pets. These dogs will enjoy spending time with you as much as they do with their other canine companions.
Your Pitbull is your fur child, and you want to ensure it is content. The best way to go about this is to prevent any illnesses or health problems before they become serious.
Preventive care will always benefit dogs whose owners have been proactive rather than reactive with their vet visits. Pitbulls, like any other dog, are susceptible to a variety of health issues, the most common of which are listed below:
Hip Dysplasia
Canine hip dysplasia, also known as CHD, causes pain and makes it difficult for dogs to move freely. Dogs with this condition have a shallow hip socket and an inappropriate fit of the femur ball (“femoral head”).
Assume the femoral ball and hip socket do not fit together. In that case, the cartilage in the hip wears away, causing initially mild to deeply uncomfortable pain. CHD is also responsible for hip arthritis, which worsens as the adult Pitbull ages.
As dogs age, they may develop joint instability. This malformation happens when the surrounding ligaments and muscles that support the joints fail to hold together over time. This is due to injury or deterioration caused by various other factors, such as genetics and environmental stressors.
Unfortunately, Pitbulls are more prone to developing this painful and crippling condition.
Kneecap Dislocation (Luxating Patella)
Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap (patella) slips out of its normal position. Laterally, this can occur when the leg is not touching anything on that side. It can also happen medially when it moves away from being centered and toward the opposite leg.
The dog’s knee cannot extend properly. It bends because the kneecap dislocated medially. After a few steps, the kneecap may naturally return to its original position. In severe cases, however, surgery is the only feasible option for improving the dog’s quality of life. Pitbulls are one of the breeds that are more prone to congenital kneecap dislocation.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative myelopathy is a common diagnosis in the American Pitbull Terrier. Because of an inherited mutation in their SOD1 gene, this disease causes progressive loss of nerve function. According to research, Pitties develop this condition due to genetic or environmental factors. This disease affects the spinal cord in the same way that Lou Gehrig’s disease does in humans.
Degenerative myelopathy manifests in the Pitbull as muscle wasting and loss of coordination. Although this health condition very seldom causes pain in the dog, it will ultimately prevent the dog from walking.
Heart Defects at Birth
The Pitbull is susceptible to heart disease and may develop aortic stenosis when the left ventricle is under too much pressure. Because of its narrowing size, this condition can cause shortness of breath or chest pains.
Pitbulls are more likely to develop health problems such as heart disease. A veterinarian can quickly diagnose an irregular heartbeat or murmur by listening to the dog’s heart.
Pitbull Skin Issues
Unfortunately, Pitbulls are predisposed to various skin disorders, including tumors, itchy allergies, and skin cancer. To avoid skin allergies, groom your Pitbull regularly and clean their ears. Because of their short hair, they are susceptible to sunburn, so you must provide shade for them.
Additionally, if your yard has an infestation of bugs and mosquitoes, you should consider purchasing a dog-safe bug repellent. If the itching continues, your Pitbull may scratch itself until cuts form, exacerbating the problem.
Skin cancer is the most dangerous disease your Pitbull can contract, so consult a veterinarian as soon as you notice any skin abnormalities.
Allergies
Pitbulls are more prone to allergies than other dog breeds. Pitbull allergies are typically skin allergies that cause dry, itchy patches of skin, hair loss, and hot spots. Pitbulls are more susceptible to grass, pollen, ticks, and flies than other breeds. Food allergies also affect them, particularly those with grains or wheat.
Allergic Pitbulls lick, scratch, drool, and shed excessively. Scratching can result in wounds and bleeding. To prevent skin infections, treat your dog as soon as possible.
Thyroid Disease
Another common issue in Pitbulls is thyroid disease. Pitbulls, in particular, are predisposed to hypothyroidism. When there is less production of thyroid hormones, your Pitbull will gain weight and develop skin problems.
Thyroid disease can cause frightened aggression and other behavioral changes in addition to physical symptoms. To diagnose thyroid disease, your veterinarian will conduct blood tests. To combat the disease, your Pitbull may need to take thyroxine for the rest of its life.
Ichthyosis
Pitbulls are predisposed to ichthyosis. Ichthyosis is a congenital condition that can be painful if not treated. You may notice a thickening of your Pitbull’s skin and the outer layer of the footpads from time to time. This could mean your dog has ichthyosis. This problem, more common in Terrier breeds, can be passed down to your Pitbull from its parents.
It is a strange skin condition with symptoms similar to human dandruff and fish scales. If a vet doesn’t treat the scales, they will worsen as the dog ages.
Some Pitbull Facts
Pitbulls were once one of the most popular dog breeds, first appearing on army recruitment posters during World War I. Some even worked in the military. However, over the last 80 years, the perception of these dogs has changed significantly. Several people regard Pitbulls as dangerous and frightening.
On the other hand, Pitbulls are loving and loyal companions. So, to give you a better understanding of this breed, here are fascinating facts about Pitbulls:
Pitbulls are Nice
People fear bully breeds because of their size, but Pitbulls are among the most gentle dogs. The reality of the Pitbull also contradicts the popular belief that the breed is to blame for many dog attacks and bite-related deaths.
Pitbulls are large, muscular dogs that can be protective of their owners while also being reactive to other dogs and animals. They also have a strong bite, exacerbated by their locking jaws.
Caring for Pitbulls
Hulk and Pitbull breeds generally are surprisingly easy to care for despite their size. They require consistent training, handling, and socialization, so they are best for more experienced dog owners. However, their care routine is fairly low-maintenance.
Because their short coat is single-layered, they will not shed heavily during the winter but moderately all year. This means they only need brushing a couple of times a week, with an occasional bath using the proper Pitbull shampoo to keep them smelling nice.
They Can Climb Walls
Pitbulls have a lot of great physical characteristics, including the ability to climb. They are strong enough to climb walls that other dogs would never consider. This makes them one of the best climbers in the canine world. The highest height reached by a Pitbull is 12 feet (3.7 meters).
This means the cunning Pitbull can also escape, so ensure your outdoor space is enclosed to keep them safe.
They are Therapy Dogs
Contrary to popular belief, Pitbulls are not dangerous or aggressive when you train and handle them properly. That means showering your Pitbull with love and affection, as they are true family-loving goofballs!
Pitbulls are intelligent canines with highly trainable brains. This means that, in addition to being great working dogs, they are also great at therapy work and emotional support.
Because of their caring, intuitive, and affectionate nature, Pitbull dogs make excellent therapy dogs. And their goofy, almost puppy-like playful nature – a far cry from the aggressive pittie stereotype – makes them ideal as emotional support dogs in hospitals, schools, and retirement homes.
Information on Bully Growth Rates
It is fascinating to watch tumbling Pitbull puppies develop into gangly young dogs before settling into their final form. Here are the growth rates:
Stage One: From Birth to 3 Weeks
The neonatal period lasts from birth until the Pitbull puppy’s second week of life. They will completely rely on their mother for warmth, food, and feces. You will notice them sleeping or eating most of the time during this time.
Pitties need to double their birth weight and open their eyes by the time they are two weeks. Surprisingly, a puppy’s hearing does not develop until three weeks old, when their teeth begin to emerge.
Stage Two: 3 to 7 weeks
Pitbull puppies grow quickly at this stage, both emotionally and physically. Their littermates and mother will teach them appropriate behavior. Socialization can begin at this age, but be careful not to startle your puppy because phobias can develop quickly.
At this age, gentle handling is appropriate. Your Pittie should be eating solids, vocalizing, running, and learning to wag its tail by seven weeks of age.
Stage Three: 7 to 12 Weeks
You can place the puppies of the American Pitbull Terrier in new homes at eight weeks of age. If possible, allow your puppy to stay with its littermates until it is ten weeks old for better social development.
You should never bring your Pittie home before eight weeks of age. It may be detrimental to their behavioral development because they lack the necessary experiences to prepare them for adulthood.
Pitbulls should weigh between 6 and 10 pounds (2.7 and 4.5 kilograms). Your puppy is ready for some social experiences and basic obedience. You can start by teaching it to wait before meals and to sit before going out.
Stage Four: 12 to 16 weeks (3 to 4 Months)
You’ll notice that a harsher, denser adult coat gradually replaces your Pittie’s soft coat. They will begin to develop teeth at this age. You should introduce appropriate teething toys to keep them away from shoes and furniture.
Socialization begins at home, where you should expose them to common sights and sounds such as a vacuum cleaner, hairdryer, children, and other pets. It’s a good idea to enroll your dog in a doggie obedience class after they’ve received all of their immunizations. You can also start taking them to the dog park to learn good manners from other dogs.
Stage Five: 16 to 40 Weeks (4 to 10 Months)
Pitbulls will increasingly challenge your authority as their cognitive thinking matures. Avoid games that encourage dominance, such as tug of war. To have a healthy relationship with your puppy, it is critical to remain consistent. Try to use positive reinforcement and not punishment.
At four months old, your Pittie should weigh 25 to 50 pounds (11 to 22 kilograms), and males should lift their legs to mark, while females should enter their first heat.
Stage Six: 10 Months to 1 Year
Don’t be fooled by your Pitbull’s appearance because, while it may appear to be an adult dog, it is still mentally a puppy. You should spend a lot of time playing with it to keep it stimulated. If you confine them and prevent them from releasing this energy, you will end up with a destructive dog.
Stage Seven: Over One Year
At this point, your American Pitbull Terrier will begin to fill out their chest a little more. Pitbulls don’t finish developing their muscles until they’re about 2 to 3 years old, but you can switch from puppy to adult dog food at once because they’ll be of adult size.
When they stop growing taller, you can start doing more strenuous exercises like hiking or running long distances. Training is for life, so take advantage of every opportunity to reinforce what they already know while teaching them something new.
Factors that Determine Pitbull Growth
Several factors influence the growth rate of a Pitbull. Some factors are genetic and, therefore, uncontrollable, while others are. Examine some of the variables and see how you can estimate your Pitbull’s growth rate:
Pitbull Sub-Breed
Pitbulls come into four sub-breeds, each with its growth rate. Some grow faster than others, and their heights and weights vary.
Gender
The gender of your Pitbull puppy will determine how big it can grow. Male and female sex hormones affect the size of the dog. We expect male Pitbulls, like other dog breeds, to outgrow their female counterparts.
Genes
Genes play a significant role in determining the appearance of your Pitbull when they grow fully. This is especially important when there is a mixed breed between different sub-breeds among the parents.
Nutrition and Feeding Habits
What and how much does your dog eat? If your dog consumes a lot of food, you can expect them to have a larger body frame than the average. Due to stunted growth, an underfed dog will eventually be smaller than average. When feeding your dog, always use the best diet possible, and never leave your dog without food or water for extended periods.
You can consult your veterinarian to determine the best type and amount of food for them while keeping several factors in mind.
Exercises and Training
Active dogs will always have larger bodies than less active dogs. This is because the latter have strengthened their muscles and bones through regular exercise. All young, adult, or senior dogs require physical stimulation to maintain good health.
Pitbulls are hardworking dogs with muscular bodies. They adapt quickly to training and exercise sessions, and they learn quickly. As a result, taking your Pitbull for its daily walks and runs should be a breeze.
An active dog is also less likely to become ill than a less active one. You can reduce the likelihood of your Pitbull becoming ill by keeping it active and physically fit.
FAQs On Bully Height and Weight
Q: What to do when your Pitbull is not the right weight
A: If you own a Pitbull, there may come a time when you wonder if your dog is the proper weight. A Pitbull can become overweight or underweight if you don’t feed it properly or do not get enough exercise, or has a disease.
You may be able to return the Pitbull to a healthy weight by changing its diet, increasing its exercise, and treating any diseases that may be causing weight issues.
Q: What should I do when my Pitbull is growing too fast?
A: Overfeeding causes them to grow too fast, putting strain on their growing bones. Feeding the appropriate amount of a complete and balanced doggie diet allows them to reach their full potential while growing at a healthy and steady pace.
Q: Is there varying sizes in Pitbull mixed breeds?
A: The American Pitbull Terrier comes in a variety of sizes: males are typically 18 to 21 inches (45 to 53 centimeters) tall and weigh 35 to 60 pounds (15 to 27 kilograms), while females are typically 17 to 20 inches (43 to 50 centimeters) tall and weigh 30 to 50 pounds (13 to 22 kilograms).
The Largest Pitbull Recorded in History
The largest Pitbull ever recorded weighed 174 pounds (79 kilograms). It gave birth to eight adorable Pitbull pups. This massive dog is getting training for protection services by Marlon and Lisa Grennan, the founders of Dark Dynasty K9s in New Hampshire, USA. If trained to be elite protection dogs, Hulk Pitbull puppies can fetch up to around $55,000 per pup.
Recap
Pitbulls are wonderful and loving pets who have received a lot of bad press due to irresponsible dog owners. Regardless of their reputation, we should give these dogs a chance to demonstrate what loyal and loving animals they are. And who knows, maybe you’ll meet your new four-legged closest friend.