The Brindle Pitbull is a muscular, medium-sized dog with a brindle coat color, wide-set small eyes and short floppy rounded ears. Brindle is one of several color variations within the Pit-bull dog breed; not a separate dog breed.
There is sometimes confusion over what constitutes a Pitbull breed and the different names to describe them, they are often referred to as a:
Brindle Pit Bull, American Pitbull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Blue Nose Pitbull, Blue Nose Brindle Pitbull, Red Nose Brindle Pitbull, Brindle Pittie, Pitty or a simply a Pitbull dog.
This is generally a loving dog but strong-willed and has a reputation for being a fighting dog. It’s not good within packs of other dogs and needs supervision around young children. This dog breed can be affectionate, and when trained and socialized can be a loyal family pet.
A Brindle Pitbull puppy looks adorable to most dog lovers.
A brief history of this dog
During the early 19th century, in the United Kingdom, there was a desire to create strong, fighting dogs for pit fighting, bull baiting, bear baiting and other aggressive-type blood sports entertainment.
Old English Bulldogs and Old Terrier dog breeds were crossbred for this purpose
This combined the fierce nature and loyalty characteristics of the Bulldog and the intelligence and cunning nature of the Terrier breed to produce a perfect fighting dog: the Pitbull.
Fact: The original Old English Bulldogs and the Old English Terriers are both now extinct breeds.
Around 1845, these Pitbull-type dogs soon made it to the US and were specifically bred as fighting dogs. They became known by the name American Pitbull Terrier and were recognised as a part of the ‘bull breed. They are often referred to as a bully breed or dangerous dog breed.
However, shortly after arriving in America, it was realised that this Pitbull mix dog in the right hands actually had a loving and caring nature around children. This earned it the nickname ‘The Nanny Dog’.
The American Pitbull Terrier is a purebred dog but it is not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). It is however recognized by the UK Kennel Club and the American Dog Breeders Association.
Fact: In 1835, Great Britain, UK, introduced Animal Welfare laws and banned blood sports such as bull-baiting and bear-baiting.
In 1898, the United Kennel Club (UK) recognized the American Pit Bull terrier breed.
In 1976, dog fighting was finally banned in all states of America
The different types of Pitbull dogs
Pitbull, is the generic name given to a breed of dog that is part of the Bulldog or Terrier breeds, such as the American Staffordshire Terrier or American Pit bull Terrier.
Although the Pitbull breed is not registered by the American Kennel Club (AKC), some individual breeds within the Bulldog and Terrier types of dogs are.
The Brindle Pitbull –Colors and pattern
‘Brindle’ describes the dog coat color and pattern: a Tiger Stripe pattern. The base color is normally a fawn, tawny brown or dark brown.
The Brindle coat color in this breed can be alternating stripes or points of Yellow & Red or Black & Brown
Normal brindle point coloration is a mainly darker coat color on top of a lighter base color
Reverse brindle point coloration is the opposite and the coat is mainly lighter marking on top of a darker base color
Brindle pointing: Think of the pattern of a Siamese Cat
The Brindle pattern varies from dog to dog, and ranges from tiger stripes to more of a soft swirling pattern. The Pitbull is not the only dog breed to have a brindle coat, they can also occur in French Bulldogs, Boxer dogs and Greyhounds.
Fact: The Brindle Pitbull’s coat color is known as a Phenotype: a genetic physical trait.
Brindle stripes: Think of the pattern of a Tabby Cat.
The typical coat color mix of a Brindle Pitbull dog can include Black, Light Brown, Fawn, Blue Fawn, Blue and Red.
Fact: The nose of a dog is also referred to as its ‘leather’.
The Blue Nose Brindle Pitbull
The Blue Nose Pitbull has a blue and grey brindle with fawn coat color. They often have blue eyes to complement this blue brindle coloring and a cute blue nose.
The Red Nose Brindle Pitbull
The Red Nose Pitbull has a soft red brindle pattern with fawn coat color, or even white parts on the coat. They often have amber or red eyes to complement this red brindle coloring, and also have a cute black nose or red nose, red lips and even red toenails.
It is possible for other patches of colors, such as white to be present in a brindle pattern coat, mainly around the eyes, forehead, chest and feet.
Any color mix of Brindle Pitbull puppy is just adorable.
What are the main characteristics of a Brindle Pitbull?
The Brindle Pitbull is a short-haired, medium-sized muscular dog.
It’s often thought of as a dangerous dog breed, only bred for dog fighting and blood sports, but today its personality can be loving and affectionate when trained properly and socialized early by a responsible dog owner.
Loyalty and companionship
When any Pitbull is trained and socialized properly it can make a wonderfully loyal and trusted companion, for any dog lover. They are loving dogs and enjoy company, and the more active the lifestyle they have the better.
Reputation:
The Pitty is still associated with its previous reputation as a bully dog breed that was famous for dog fighting. This alarms many people and so this breed is often misunderstood to being better suited to aggressive contact than as a family pet. Dog owners of Pitties know that when handled correctly and properly trained they can be an affectionate and loving dog to be around.
Popularity:
Although they are growing in popularity as a dog breed, they don’t actually rank that highly in the lists of the world’s most popular dogs! Perhaps the stigma attached to their fighting days has an influence on this.
The general Bull dog breed ranks the 5th most popular dog in the US.
Trainability:
The Brindle Pitbull puppy needs to be trained and socialized as early as possible. This is a strong and stubborn, muscular dog breed with a strong jaw, that needs to learn control. Positive reinforcement and reward-based raining are advisable for this dog breed as it is strong-willed and needs to build up trust with its dog owner.
A Brindle Pitbull dog or any color variation of Pitbull dog should not be negatively punished, challenged directly or locked up for misbehaviour. Always reinforce change gradually and praise good behaviour and learning. Clicker training works well with this dog breed.
They are no more likely to bite than any other dog breed however they have a very powerful jaw and are very strong so any attack is likely to leave lasting damage.
A Pitbull dog has lots of energy, so expect to be exercising a Pitbull puppy for at least one hour a day minimum, building up 1-2 hours a day in adulthood; the more challenging the exercise better for this breed of dog.
Power and intelligence:
Pit bulls, even the Pitbull puppies, are strong and energetic type dogs with lots of stamina. They are very powerful, have a solid build and are able to follow commands with appropriate training.
Socialization:
Early socialization and learning discipline are strongly recommended with a Brindle Pitbull or any Pitbull mix dog. This type of dog needs to become used to other dogs and children if it is to fit into a family environment.
Brindle Pitbull dogs are not good in the company of packs of dogs so they must be trained to know how to socialize in the company of other dog breeds.
Purpose:
They were bred as fighting dogs that could follow orders and commands. This trait is still present and if used positively this type of dog can be a disciplined and protective family pet.
Given their sharp instincts, fearless nature and ability to follow commands they can make good search and rescue dogs.
Behaviour:
They will behave as trained as long as they are not left alone to get bored, then they can become destructive. Children should not be left alone with any Pitbull dog and should be taught how to treat these dogs with respect and how to act in their company.
Physical Characteristics of the Brindle Pitbull
Size: The Brindle Pitbull is considered a medium-sized dog breed that has a sturdy and muscular build. Males can be expected to grow to between 18-21 inches (46-53cm) tall with a weight of 30-60lb (14-27kg). Females may be a bit more slight, with an expected height of 17-20 inches (43-51cm) and weight of 30-50lbs (14-23kg). These dogs tend ot have a lifespan of 12-15 years, and you can expect a litter size of between 5-8 puppies.
Coat: A short coat that is smooth, glossy and stiff. This breed does not shed much
Color: The Brindle coat, with its characteristic tiger stripe pattern, can range from dark blue brindle to red brindle color. The brindle pattern is a distinctive feature of this dog breed.
Tail: It has a long, thick that tapers to a point at the end.
Temperament:
A Blue Brindle has the same temperament as the Blue Nose Brindle or the Red Nose Brindle. Some people suggest that their temperament is based on the brindle pattern and color of the dog coat, but there is no firm research to suggest this is true. Good training and parent history will give a more accurate prediction of their personality.
They’re stubborn when they don’t want to do something and can be boisterous when not exercised enough. They can become jealous if you give attention to another dog around them.
How should you train a Brindle Pitbull?
Set the boundaries early for a Brindle Pittie. Positive reinforcement and reward-based training and never hit a Pitbull or raise your voice to them.
Types of training required: obedience, discipline, agility and socialization.
So, if you are not going to use a professional dog trainer:
1) Develop your basic command words: Find keywords such as Stop, Sit, Wait etc. and be consistent each time you use them and positive reinforcement and small treats as a reward.
2) Crate – Buy a crate and gently get this puppy used to going into it. This will eventually become its nest and it will sleep there. You will have to lock the cage in the early days so it knows it has to sleep there and it is useful experience for when you need to transport
3) Potty training – May be hit and miss for any new puppy who gets easily excited and lacks control, however products are available, such as mats and odour sprays to attract puppy go to the same spot each time. Eventually, the puppy with your help will learn where and where not to go. They will eventually become creatures of habit and regulate their need and place to use.
4) Walking on a leash -Voice commands and road awareness is important for a Brindle Pitbull puppy’s safety.
Health problems and health issues
Although the American Pitbull Terrier is not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) it is still a purebred dog breed. Pure bred dog breeds can inherit certain genetic health problems.
What health issues can a Brindle Pitbull suffer from?
Hip Dysplasia (and elbow dysplasia) – this is common in Brindle Pitbulls of any color; Blue Nose Brindle Pitbulls to Red nose Brindle Pitbulls, dark or light colors. Hip dysplasia is a malformation of the hip joint, where the ball at the top of the leg does not fit properly into the socket and the ligaments attaching it are weak. This allows excess movement of the fitting which can eventually lead to stiffness and pain for the dog.
Continuous use, wear and tear with this naturally active breed can lead to hip degeneration in one or sometimes both hips causing pain and a limit on the dog’s mobility. Even with early diagnosis and treatment, it can lead to further issues such as arthritis, extreme pain and even osteoarthritis.
Early warning signs are visual stiffness then walking, a reluctance to get up when prompted and a difference in walking style; limp or caution. It can occur early in the puppy years or not until later much later in life. The only way to be sure is to trace the health history of the parents.
There is no cure for hip dysplasia; it is a case of pain management where anti-inflammatories may be prescribed by the Vet. Care must be taken not to allow the dog to jump too much or risk slipping or falling and be mindful of the possible pain caused by exertion.
Cataract eye disease – the Pitbull breed is more prone to developing eye problems than most other breeds. Conditions like diabetes can lead to cataracts, so it is recommended that a Pitbull dog has its eyes checked regularly by a vet.
Other health issues include skin conditions and allergies and Cardiac disease
How do you care for a Brindle Pitbull dog?
Exercise needs
Pitbulls were bred for hunting and sport so they are strong and naturally active with great stamina.
Lots of mixed exercise is recommended – long walks, running, or any agility activities. They suit larger living spaces with outdoor access rather than apartment living.
Early leash training and road awareness is strongly recommended for this stubborn and powerful puppy’s safety.
Feeding
Feed as a medium-sized dog, average 2 cups of dry dog food per day, depending on their activity level. They have a strong stomach and eat most types of dog food – wet and dry food. They should be fed twice a day to prevent bloat, a typical build-up of gas that affects dogs that either eat too quickly or drink too much before exercise.
As this a muscular-build dog it’s recommended that at least 20% of its diet is protein-based to maintain their muscle structure. Some Pitbull dogs are allergic to wheat corn and soy. So watch out for allergic reactions.
Fact: Any sudden change in diet or change of dog food brand can cause diarrhea in a puppy. So any change must be gradual. If changing the brand of dry food, mix some of the new with original and increase new brand gradually.
Grooming
Brindle Pitbull dogs are fairly low maintenance. They only shed twice a year and require minimal brushing. This dog breed tends to sweat more than other breeds so its bed needs to be cleaned fairly regularly.
Bathing
This breed sweats a lot and will need regular bathing. It has sensitive skin under its short coat so gentle shampoos are recommended when bathing. Certain dog formulated shampoos have a double effect of cleaning the dog coat and protecting it against fleas and insect bites.
Cleaning teeth, nails and ears
Look after their teeth to prevent a build-up of plaque. Chewing breaks down plaque, so use doggie chew-toys, bare-bones and soft toothbrushes and toothpaste. Nails grow quickly and need to be trimmed regularly, say once a month, and checked for debris that could cause infection. Their small floppy ears, sometimes referred to as ‘half prick’, need to be checked for dirt build-up or infection weekly as this dog likes to play and roll about in grass and earth.
What’s life like for a Brindle Pitty?
Lifestyle
This breed is energetic, active and is easily bored if not kept occupied.
They are stubborn and are aggressive chewers when bored so they need to be kept stimulated. As a puppy, they will bite and chew things more if left alone so it is best to keep a supply of chew toys around, check out Amazon.
They are attention seekers and are highly sensitive and they have a range of facial expressions and emotions to let you know how they are feeling. They are not a breed to be left alone as they can suffer from separation anxiety and they may become destructive.
They enjoy family life, form bonds easily and the more active the lifestyle with their family the better.
Positives and Negatives of ownership
Positives
- Strong, brave and protective
- A loyal companion and good family dog
- Intelligent and affectionate
- Great stamina and like to be very active
- They have an easy face to read
- Low maintenance, a light shedder
- Not known for barking excessively
- Gentle and loving temperament
- Make strong family bonds
Negatives
- Stigma of it being a dangerous breed and a fighting dog still exists
- Will bark if bored, attention seeker
- Destructive if left alone, will bite and chew things
- Bully dog reputation, looks fierce
- Not to be left alone with small children,
- Strong and powerful needs supervision
- Not good in packs of other dogs
- Not good in sedentary environments, need activity
- Part Terrier heritage makes it relentless
- Will be obstinate if it doesn’t want to do something
- Clumsy
Commonly Asked Questions:
Q: What is the proper name of the Brindle Pitbull dog?
A. The Pitbull breed is often referred to by coat color, features or pattern – Brindle Pitbull, Blue Brindle, Blue Nose Brindle Pitbull, Blue Nose Pitbull, Red Nose Pitbull, Red Nose Brindle Pitbull, Reverse Brindle Pitbull, Brindle dog etc. Their nicknames include: Pittie and Pits
Q. How much does a Brindle Pitbull cost?
A. Buying a Brindle Pitbull puppy from a reputable dealer will cost between $500-700. A brindle coat is not a rare dog coat color and should not cost extra.
An alternative is to contact a rescue centre to adopt a puppy or adult Brindle Pitbull. The cost of adopting this type of dog as a rescue dog would be much less.
If considering a Pitbull rescue dog it is important to find out as much as possible about the circumstances around why the dog ended up in a rescue centre and any available details of the temperament or health issues of the parents.
Food costs around $40 per month for an adult and given their possible health problems you must factor in Vets fees and accessories from a retailer like Amazon.
Other Pitbull Related Guides..
Types Of Pitbulls Complete Guide