Pitbulls are one of the most recognizable dog breeds, thanks in large part to their muscular physique. If you’ve ever seen a pitbull in person, you were likely taken aback by just how strong and built they look compared to other dogs. So what is it exactly that makes pitbulls such a muscular breed?
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Pitbulls have been selectively bred for strength, athleticism, and tenacity, leading to larger muscle mass and a stocky build.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the evolution of pitbulls and how their ancestry and breeding history has contributed to their muscular frames. We’ll cover topics like their origins as working dogs bred for bear baiting and dog fighting, how their genes promote muscle growth, and their exercise needs to maintain their impressive physiques.
The History of Pitbulls as Fighting & Working Dogs
Origins tracing back to bull baiting dogs in Europe
The history of pitbulls traces back hundreds of years to bull baiting dogs in Europe. Powerfully-built dogs like bulldogs and terriers were bred specifically for the cruel sport of bull baiting, where dogs would attempt to bite and bring down large bulls.
The dogs that showed immense tenacity, strength, and agility to take down bulls were selectively bred to produce even more effective bull baiting dogs. Eventually, the practice of bull baiting was outlawed in the 1800s, but people still wanted to test the strength and gameness of these dogs.
Bred for tenacity, strength, and athleticism for dog fighting
Dog fighting, unfortunately, emerged as a replacement blood sport to bull baiting. Breeders continued crossing bulldogs and terriers to produce dogs optimized for the fighting pit. They were called “pit bulls” or “pitbull terriers,” and were bred specifically for traits like powerful jaw muscles, muscled bodies, high energy, and a relentless willingness to fight.
According to the ASPCA, dog fighters wanted pit bulls that would “bite and hold bulls, bears and other large animals around the face and head. The dogs were bred to have large, muscled bodies to withstand injuries inflicted by horns and hooves.”
So function dictated form for pitbulls, and their muscular stature arose directly from breeding them for blood sports like bull baiting and dog fighting.
Through many generations of selectively breeding only the strongest, most athletic, and ferocious fighters, the modern American Pit Bull Terrier emerged as a distinct bully breed recognized by major kennel clubs like the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1898 and the American Kennel Club (AKC) in the 1970s.
Their athletic bodies and tenacious spirit continue to resonate throughout the breed today.
Used as all-purpose working dogs on farms and ranches
Despite their violent origins, pit bulls also proved themselves as hardworking all-purpose dogs on farms and ranches. According to the Love-A-Bull organization, “When bull baiting and dog fighting were banned in the late 19th and early 20th centuries…Pit Bulls began to be used as all-around farm dogs and family companions.”
Their strength made them useful for tasks like herding livestock, hauling carts, and serving as loyal guardians.
So while some pitbulls unfortunately remained in the spotlight as fighting dogs, many transitioned into beloved working dogs across America. In fact, a pitbull named Stubby even became an acclaimed World War I hero that received numerous medals for his brave military service! Clearly, pitbulls were capable of much more than blood sports if given the opportunity.
The legacy of strength, athleticism, and working ability remains woven through the pitbull breed today. Responsible breeding practices promote pitbulls using their natural attributes for positive outlets like sports, exercise, and activities instead of violence.
Their muscular physique reflects generations of specialized purpose.
Key Genetic Factors That Promote Muscle Growth
Naturally high levels of anabolic hormones like testosterone
Pitbulls have been selectively bred for strength and athleticism over many generations. This has led to higher baseline levels of anabolic hormones like testosterone compared to other breeds. Testosterone is crucial for building muscle mass and strength, so pitbulls are genetically primed for muscularity.
Studies have shown that pitbulls and other bully breeds like American Staffordshire Terriers have significantly higher testosterone levels than most other breeds. This gives them a genetic edge when it comes to developing lean muscle mass and explosive power.
Increased number of muscle fibers compared to other breeds
In addition to testosterone levels, research has found that pitbulls and related breeds have a higher number of muscle fibers per muscle group compared to other dogs. This allows their muscles to get thicker and expand more than other breeds.
For example, one study found that American Staffordshire Terriers had on average 34% more muscle fibers in their cranial tibial muscle than Labrador Retrievers. This translates into visibly more muscular and defined legs in pitbulls.
Efficient muscle-building metabolism
Pitbulls also tend to have a fast metabolism optimized for building lean muscle mass. Their bodies are extremely efficient at utilizing protein and nutrients to repair exercise-induced muscle damage and stimulate growth.
When combined with their genetically determined muscular structure and hormone levels, pitbulls’ metabolic capacity gives them an edge for developing thick, ripped muscles. Even when lying around, their metabolism is geared towards maintaining muscle.
The Role of Exercise in Maintaining Their Physiques
Need at least 60-90 minutes of activity per day
Pitbulls are a very active and athletic breed that needs plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. Veterinarians typically recommend pitbulls receive at least 60-90 minutes of activity per day to maintain their muscular physique.
Without enough activity, pitbulls can become bored, destructive, and even obese. Daily walks, playing fetch, swimming, or jogging with their owner are great ways to meet their exercise needs.
Free running and playing helps build muscle mass
One of the best ways for pitbulls to build up their muscle mass is through free running and playing. When pitbulls can run around off-leash in a safely enclosed area, they engage their muscles through sprints, jumps, starts, stops, and wrestling.
These explosive power movements help strengthen and tone their muscles. Interactive play like tug-of-war and fetch also promotes muscle use as they pull and resist force. The more time pitbulls can spend fully exerting themselves through play, the more defined their muscles will become.
Weight pulling and other strength exercises recommended
In addition to aerobic exercise, weight training activities are also important for developing pitbulls’ muscular frames. Weight pulling is an ideal strength exercise for this breed. With proper training and technique, pitbulls can safely pull carts or sleds loaded with weight.
As their muscles work against resistance, they become stronger. Other beneficial strength exercises include using spring poles for tugging, having them carry or pull a doggy backpack on walks, and doing core exercises like sit-to-stands.
A regular regimen of weight-bearing training helps pitbulls build power and muscle tone.
With their genetics for athleticism and the right amount of daily activity, pitbulls can develop and maintain the solid, muscular builds they are so well-known for. Proper nutrition is also key to help fuel their active lifestyles and build muscle mass.
When given the outlet to put their natural strength and energy into regular exercise, pitbulls thrive both physically and mentally.
Their Dietary Needs for Muscle Development
Pitbulls require a high-protein diet to support their muscular bodies. Here are some key dietary factors that contribute to their impressive physique:
Require high-protein foods to support muscle growth
Protein is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass. Adult pitbulls need a diet with at least 18% protein (puppies need up to 22%). Good protein sources include meat, eggs, fish, and dairy. Feeding your pit raw meaty bones also provides protein and keeps teeth clean.
Vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients support proper muscle function
While protein is the most important macronutrient, vitamins and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron allow muscles to function properly. Pitbulls also need omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation from their intense exercise.
Best to feed high-quality commercial or raw diet
You can meet your pitbull’s nutritional needs through a high-quality kibble, canned food, raw food diet, or a combination. Look for foods designed for high energy, muscular dogs with added glucosamine for joint health. Avoid filler ingredients. Rotate proteins to provide variety.
With the right diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, your strong, athletic pitbull will stay muscular and energized. Just be sure to monitor their condition and adjust food amounts to maintain an ideal weight.
Conclusion
In summary, pitbulls have been selectively bred throughout history to enhance traits like strength, athleticism, and determination – all of which require a muscular frame. Their genetic makeup promotes muscle growth in ways that surpass other breeds.
Maintaining their impressive physiques also depends on ample exercise and a protein-rich diet. While pitbulls have an unfair reputation for aggression, their muscular physique is a result of generations of breeding to create a top working dog rather than for fighting purposes.
With proper care and training, pitbulls can be outstanding canine companions and put their natural athleticism to positive use.
