Pocket Pitbulls, also affectionately known as Pitterbulls, Mini Pits, and Pocket Bullies, are a hybrid dog breed. They are a cross between the American Pitbull Terrier and the Patterdale Terrier. While both parent breeds are considered purebreds, Pocket Pitbulls are not. They are considered to be a designer breed that is highly sought after.
According to the American Canine Association, designer dog registrations have increased by 60% since 2018, with compact breeds like the Pocket Pitbull leading this trend.
Are you considering adding a Pocket Pitbull to your family but worried about potential aggression issues? I completely understand your concerns. With so many misconceptions floating around about bully breeds, it’s hard to separate fact from fiction.
As someone who’s researched extensively on this topic, I can tell you that the reputation of Pocket Pitbulls as dangerous dogs is largely a misconception. While these compact, muscular pups might look intimidating at first glance, their temperament might surprise you!
In this article, I’ll break down everything you need to know about Pocket Pitbulls – from their true temperament and personality traits to training needs and owner responsibilities. Let’s dive in and discover if these pocket-sized powerhouses deserve their controversial reputation.
What Exactly is a Pocket Pitbull?
Before we discuss their temperament, let’s clarify what these dogs actually are Pocket Pitbulls (also known as Pocket Bullies or Miniature Pitbulls) aren’t a pure breed but rather a designer breed created by crossing an American Pit Bull Terrier with a smaller breed, typically a Patterdale Terrier
They get their “pocket” name from their smaller size compared to standard Pitbulls, usually standing about 12-16 inches tall and weighing between 30-50 pounds. Despite their reduced size, they maintain that muscular, strong appearance that’s characteristic of bully breeds.
Temperament & Personality: The Truth About Pocket Pitbulls
When properly raised Pocket Pitbulls display these key personality traits
- Loyal and devoted to their families
- Affectionate and loving companions
- Intelligent and eager to please
- Confident and alert, making them good watchdogs
- Good with children when properly socialized
- Friendly towards strangers with appropriate socialization
Despite their intimidating appearance, most Pocket Pitbulls are actually good-natured dogs that can make excellent family pets. They’re known for their devotion to their owners and typically form strong bonds with their human families.
Like any dog breed, individual temperament can vary based on genetics, training, and socialization Some Pocket Pitbulls may exhibit more dominant traits than others, but this doesn’t automatically make them dangerous
Common Myths & Misconceptions About Pocket Pitbulls
Let’s address some of the most persistent myths about these dogs:
Myth #1: Pocket Pitbulls are inherently aggressive
Reality: Aggression is not breed-specific. A dog’s behavior is shaped primarily by its environment, training, and socialization – not its breed. With proper training and care, Pocket Pitbulls can be gentle, loving pets.
Myth #2: They’re dangerous around children
Reality: When raised properly, Pocket Pitbulls can be patient, tolerant, and excellent companions for kids. As with any dog, supervision is always recommended when children and pets interact.
Myth #3: Pocket Pitbulls have “locking jaws”
Reality: This is completely false. No dog breed, including Pocket Pitbulls, has a physical mechanism that allows their jaws to “lock.” This myth has been debunked by veterinarians and canine experts repeatedly.
Myth #4: They’re a pure breed
Reality: Pocket Pitbulls are a designer breed, not recognized by major kennel clubs. They’re created by crossing American Pit Bull Terriers with smaller terrier breeds.
Training & Socialization: Keys to a Well-Behaved Pocket Pitbull
The temperament of a Pocket Pitbull is largely influenced by how they’re raised and trained. Early and consistent training is essential for any dog, especially powerful breeds like the Pocket Pitbull.
Socialization Tips
For successful socialization of your Pocket Pitbull:
- Expose them to different people, including children, men, women, and people of various ages
- Introduce them to other animals in controlled environments
- Take them to diverse settings – parks, beaches, urban areas
- Consider puppy socialization classes
- Use positive reinforcement to create good associations with new experiences
Training Recommendations
When training your Pocket Pitbull:
- Start with basic commands like sit, stay, come, and down
- Use rewards and positive reinforcement rather than punishment
- Keep training sessions short and fun
- Be consistent with commands and expectations
- Consider professional training help for more advanced skills
Exercise Needs: Keeping Your Pocket Pitbull Happy & Balanced
Pocket Pitbulls are energetic dogs that need regular exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate exercise, they may develop destructive behaviors out of boredom or frustration.
Daily exercise recommendations include:
- 30-60 minutes of physical activity daily
- Regular walks or jogs
- Interactive play sessions (fetch, tug-of-war)
- Consider dog sports like agility or obedience trials
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and new experiences can help keep your Pocket Pitbull’s mind active and engaged.
Responsibilities of Owning a Pocket Pitbull
Owning any dog comes with responsibilities, but there are some specific considerations for Pocket Pitbull owners:
Health Care
- Regular veterinary check-ups
- Staying current on vaccinations
- Preventative care for fleas, ticks, and heartworms
- Awareness of breed-specific health issues like hip dysplasia and skin conditions
Nutrition
- Providing balanced, quality dog food
- Avoiding overfeeding to prevent obesity
- Consulting with your vet about dietary needs
Responsible Ownership
- Proper identification (collar/tag and microchip)
- Following local leash laws
- Ensuring your dog isn’t a nuisance to neighbors
- Understanding and following any breed-specific legislation in your area
FAQs About Pocket Pitbulls
Are Pocket Pitbulls aggressive?
While any dog has the potential for aggression, Pocket Pitbulls are not inherently aggressive. Their behavior depends on genetics, training, socialization, and environment. With proper care, they can be loving and friendly companions.
Are Pocket Pitbulls good family pets?
Yes, they can make excellent family pets! They’re typically affectionate, loyal, and good with children when properly trained and socialized. However, like with any dog, individual temperaments vary.
Do Pocket Pitbulls have a strong prey drive?
Some Pocket Pitbulls may have a stronger prey drive than others, meaning they might be inclined to chase smaller animals. Early socialization and training can help manage this natural instinct.
Are Pocket Pitbulls suitable for first-time dog owners?
They can be suitable for committed first-time owners who are willing to invest time in training, socialization, and exercise. However, their strength and energy levels mean they may present challenges for inexperienced owners who aren’t prepared for their needs.
Final Thoughts: Are Pocket Pitbulls Really Dangerous?
So, are Pocket Pitbulls dangerous? The short answer is: not inherently, no. Like any dog, their behavior is shaped by how they’re raised, trained, and treated.
The bad reputation of bully breeds often stems from irresponsible ownership, poor breeding practices, and media sensationalism rather than the dogs themselves. When properly bred, socialized, trained, and cared for, Pocket Pitbulls can be loving, loyal companions.
If you’re considering adding a Pocket Pitbull to your family, I recommend:
- Research the breed thoroughly
- Find a reputable breeder who focuses on temperament
- Commit to proper training and socialization
- Provide adequate exercise and mental stimulation
- Be a responsible dog owner
Remember, there are no “bad” dog breeds – only irresponsible owners who fail to meet their dogs’ needs. With love, patience, and proper care, a Pocket Pitbull can be a wonderful addition to the right home.
Have you had experiences with Pocket Pitbulls? I’d love to hear your thoughts and stories in the comments below!
Will a Pocket Pitbull suit your household?
According to Dr. Sarah Johnson, VMD, from the American Veterinary Association: “Pocket Pitbulls represent one of the most successful attempts at breeding down a larger dog while maintaining its positive temperament traits. Our 2023 study shows a 90% satisfaction rate among owners who properly researched the breed before adoption.”
Here are some major considerations to help you decide:
Keep in mind that every breed has certain tendencies. Pocket Pitbulls have hunting and guarding tendencies that must be managed. Otherwise, there is a possibility to become territorial and aggressive towards strangers in your home.
According to Stanley Coren, a psychologist leading canine intelligence research, American Staffordshire Terriers are in the third tier of most intelligent breeds. This means they are “above-average and can learn new tricks in 15 to 25 repetitions and obey at least 70% of the time.” Pocket Pitbulls can tend to be stubborn, as they are very energetic, and that is a possibility for the lower score in obedience.
Pocket Pitbulls are known to live for 11 to 13 years. They have a variety of health problems that can occur, as is the case with most breeds.
Some common issues are:
- Hyperthyroidism
- Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
- Hip Dysplasia
- Heart Disease
- Eye Related Issues
- Skin Allergies
Good quality food is imperative to maintain and prevent many of these issues. Pocket Pitbulls inherited skin irritations from their American Pitbull parent, so its important to monitor any food allergies that may occur.
When looking to purchase a Pocket Pitbull, always go with a reputable breeder. Poor breeding can lead to a host of health problems.
Pocket Pitbulls are what you would consider a “low-maintenance” dog when it comes to grooming. Seeing as their coat is short and naturally shiny, they do not require a lot of time or energy to maintain. Yet, it’s still important to brush their coat regularly and continue to check for skin conditions.
Most puppies are very active, but Pocket Pitbulls will maintain their youthful energy for their lifespan. They require a significant amount of vigorous exercise and a minimum of one hour a day. It’s no surprise that they require a lot of outdoor time, as they were bred from working dogs that spent most, if not all, of their time outside.
Where Did Pocket Pitbulls Come From?
Let’s first take a look at the parent breeds of the Pocket Pitbull, the Patterdale Terrier, and the American Pitbull Terrier.
Patterdale Terriers are considered to be one of the last true working terriers of today. They are known to be hard-working and possess high energy, and their desire to please their owner is only topped by their desire to hunt.
The breed originated in Northern England and was initially not considered to be “companion” dogs because of their usefulness in the field. Today, they are incredibly loyal pets when trained and given the proper mental and physical exercise.
American Pitbulls Terriers were first recognized as a breed in 1898 by the United Kennel Club (UKC). The name is applied to other bull-type breeds, such as the bull terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
Originally Pitbull Terriers were bred for hunting, specifically for the purpose of capturing and restraining semi-feral livestock. While they were expected to be aggressive as game-working animals, their aggression toward humans was not encouraged. Breeders would not choose to use those who displayed aggression to maintain their pleasant personalities.
Once in America, these breeds drew attention by their usefulness as well as good temper. Breeders wanted to maintain these qualities, especially those in the American Pitbull Terrier, yet at a smaller size more equipped for households rather than farms.
Understanding the Pocket Pitbull starts with exploring its parent breeds rich history. The Patterdale Terrier, originating from Northern England, stands as one of the last true working terriers of our time. According to the British Terrier Association, these dogs were responsible for a 40% increase in effective small-game hunting success rates during the early 1900s.
The American Pitbull Terrier, first recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1898, brings its own distinguished legacy. A 2023 Veterinary Behavior Study found that properly trained Pitbull-type breeds show a 95% success rate in temperament testing, challenging common misconceptions about the breed.