10 Common American Pit Bull Terrier Health Issues 2024

American Pit Bull Terriers are strong, energetic dogs known for their loyalty and playful nature. They make great family pets and are often good with kids. However, despite their tough look, they can have some health problems that need attention.

Having pet insurance can be really helpful for managing these health issues. It can help cover the costs of vet visits and treatments. Common health problems for American Pit Bull Terriers include hip dysplasia, which affects their joints, and various skin allergies. With pet insurance, you can make sure your Pitbull gets the care they need to stay healthy and happy.

10 Most Common Pitbull Health Problems

Here are ten common health problems for American Pit Bull Terriers, with detailed information on how to identify, treat, and prevent each condition:

#1: Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit into the hip socket correctly. This misalignment can cause pain and can lead to arthritis. American Pit Bull Terriers, like many larger breeds, are susceptible to this issue.

When It Develops:

Typically starts showing symptoms in dogs over 6 months old but can develop later in life.

Approximately 10-15% of Pit Bulls are affected by hip dysplasia, according to the American Kennel Club.

How To Spot Symptoms:

Watch for signs like difficulty walking, limping, or reluctance to jump and play.

Treatment:

Treatment options include weight management, pain relief medication, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgical options like hip replacement.

Prevention:

Regular vet check-ups, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding over-exertion can help manage the risk. Breeding from dogs with a history of hip dysplasia should be avoided.

#2: Skin Allergies

Skin allergies are common in American Pit Bull Terriers and can be triggered by food, environmental factors, or contact allergens. These allergies can cause discomfort and lead to skin infections if not treated.

When It Develops:

Allergies can occur at any age but are often seen in dogs with a history of environmental or food sensitivities.

How To Spot Symptoms:

Look for persistent scratching, redness, inflamed skin, and recurrent ear infections. Your Pitbull might also have hair loss or greasy, flaky skin.

Skin allergies affect about 10-15% of Pit Bulls, according to PetMD.

Treatment:

Treatments include allergy testing to identify triggers, hypoallergenic diets, topical treatments, and medications like antihistamines or steroids.

Prevention:

Regular grooming, keeping your dog’s environment clean, and monitoring their diet can help prevent allergic reactions. Avoid known allergens whenever possible.

#3: Heart Disease

Pit Bulls are prone to heart conditions such as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), where the heart becomes enlarged and less efficient at pumping blood. This can lead to serious health issues and reduced quality of life.

When It Develops:

Typically affects middle-aged to older dogs, though symptoms may develop gradually.

How To Spot Symptoms:

Symptoms include coughing, difficulty breathing, exercise intolerance, and sudden weight loss. Your Pitbull may also show signs of lethargy or weakness.

Heart disease affects about 5-10% of American Pit Bull Terriers, according to veterinary sources.

Treatment:

Management usually involves medications to support heart function, dietary changes, and regular vet visits to monitor heart health.

Prevention:

While some heart conditions are genetic, maintaining a healthy weight and regular check-ups can help catch and manage issues early.

#4: Ear Infections

American Pit Bull Terriers, with their floppy ears, are prone to ear infections. Moisture and debris can get trapped in their ears, leading to infections that cause discomfort and can lead to more severe issues if untreated.

When It Develops:

Can occur at any age, often exacerbated by allergies or poor ear hygiene.

How To Spot Symptoms:

Look for symptoms like shaking of the head, scratching at the ears, and a bad odor. The ear canal might also appear red or inflamed.

About 10-20% of Pit Bulls experience ear infections, according to PetMD.

Treatment:

Treatment involves cleaning the ears with vet-recommended solutions and possibly using medications to address infections or inflammation.

Prevention:

Regular ear checks, keeping the ears dry and clean, and managing allergies can help prevent infections.

#5: Demodectic Mange

Demodectic mange is caused by mites that live in the hair follicles and can lead to hair loss and skin infections. It is often seen in puppies or dogs with weakened immune systems.

When It Develops:

Usually appears in puppies or dogs with compromised immune systems, often before the age of 1.

How To Spot Symptoms:

Symptoms include patchy hair loss, redness, and scabs. It may start in one area and spread if not treated.

Demodectic mange affects about 5-10% of American Pit Bull Terriers.

Treatment:

Treatment involves prescription medications, such as topical or oral anti-mite treatments, and addressing any underlying health issues.

Prevention:

Keeping your dog’s immune system healthy through proper nutrition and avoiding contact with infected animals can help prevent mange.

#6: Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

PRA is a genetic condition that leads to the gradual degeneration of the retina, resulting in vision loss and blindness over time. It is hereditary and can significantly affect a Pitbull’s quality of life.

When It Develops:

Symptoms usually start to appear in middle-aged dogs, though the condition may develop earlier.

How To Spot Symptoms:

Signs include night blindness, difficulty seeing in low light, and changes in behavior due to vision loss.

PRA affects about 1-5% of Pit Bulls.

Treatment:

There is no cure for PRA, but supportive care can help manage the condition. Keeping the environment safe and familiar can help dogs adjust to vision loss.

Prevention:

Avoid breeding dogs with a history of PRA and have regular eye exams to monitor for early signs.

#7: Allergic Dermatitis

Allergic dermatitis in American Pit Bull Terriers is an inflammation of the skin caused by allergens, including pollen, dust mites, or certain foods. This condition can cause significant discomfort and skin issues.

When It Develops:

Can occur at any age, often triggered by exposure to allergens.

How To Spot Symptoms:

Look for itchy, inflamed skin, hair loss, and frequent scratching or biting at the affected areas.

Allergic dermatitis affects about 10-15% of Pit Bulls, according to veterinary sources.

Treatment:

Treatment includes identifying and avoiding allergens, using medications to control inflammation, and applying topical treatments to soothe the skin.

Prevention:

Regular cleaning of your dog’s environment, managing allergies, and providing a balanced diet can help reduce the risk of dermatitis.

#8: Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV)

Also known as bloat, GDV is a life-threatening condition where the stomach twists and fills with gas. This can quickly become an emergency requiring immediate surgery.

When It Develops:

Can happen suddenly, often in large, deep-chested breeds like American Pit Bull Terriers, especially after eating large meals or vigorous exercise.

How To Spot Symptoms:

Symptoms include a swollen abdomen, restlessness, unproductive vomiting, and signs of severe discomfort.

GDV affects about 5-10% of large breeds, including American Pit Bull Terriers.

Treatment:

Emergency surgery is required to untwist the stomach and relieve pressure. Post-surgery care includes managing diet and monitoring for recurrence.

Prevention:

Feeding smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding exercise immediately after eating, and monitoring for signs of distress can help prevent bloat.

#9: Thyroid Problems

Hypothyroidism is a common thyroid issue in Pit Bulls where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. This condition can affect metabolism and overall health.

When It Develops:

Typically seen in middle-aged dogs but can occur at any age.

How To Spot Symptoms:

Symptoms include weight gain, lethargy, a dull coat, and skin issues.

Hypothyroidism affects approximately 5-10% of Pit Bulls.

Treatment:

Thyroid hormone replacement therapy is used to manage the condition, along with regular vet check-ups to monitor hormone levels.

Prevention:

While not always preventable, early diagnosis and treatment can manage symptoms effectively.

#10: Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes seizures in American Pit Bull Terriers. It can be idiopathic (without a known cause) or secondary to other conditions.

When It Develops:

Often starts in young dogs, typically between 6 months and 3 years old.

How To Spot Symptoms:

Look for convulsions, loss of consciousness, and uncontrolled movements. Seizures can vary in frequency and severity.

Epilepsy affects about 1-5% of Pit Bulls.

Treatment:

Seizures are managed with anticonvulsant medications and monitoring for triggers. Supportive care and a stable environment can help manage the condition.

Prevention:

While not always preventable, managing triggers and providing consistent care can help control seizure frequency.

Does Pet Insurance Cover Common Pit Bull Health Issues?

Pet insurance can help cover many of the common health issues seen in American Pit Bull Terriers, such as hip dysplasia, skin allergies, and ear infections. With pet insurance, you can get financial support for treatments and vet visits, making it easier to manage your dog’s health care costs. It usually covers:

• Accidents and Injuries: Coverage for unexpected accidents or injuries.
• Illnesses: Includes treatment for common illnesses like infections or chronic conditions.
• Diagnostic Tests: Costs for tests such as X-rays and blood work.
• Medications: Coverage for prescription medications and treatments.
• Surgery: Costs associated with necessary surgeries.
• Routine Care: Some policies offer options for routine care like vaccinations and check-ups.

However, pet insurance usually does not cover:

• Pre-existing Conditions: Any health issues your Pit Bull had before starting the policy.
• Experimental Treatments: New or unproven treatments.
• Grooming: Regular grooming needs.
• Food and Supplements: Diet-related costs and nutritional supplements.

It’s always a good idea to read and understand your policy to know what is covered and what is not.