Pocket Pits FAQ

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.

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.

Characteristics of the Pocket Pitbull

Now that you are familiar with the pocket pitbull’s lineage, let’s look at the main characteristics of the breed, including its appearance and overall temperament.

Pocket Pitbull Appearance

According to the AKC, Pocket Pitbulls are considered a small breed as they do not get taller than 16” and weigh between 11-22lbs. Their size does fluctuate, though, depending on the parent sizes.

Although they are considered a “small” breed, do not let that confuse you into thinking you are getting a small dog. They maintain the American Pitbull Terrier physique with a broad and deep chest, well-developed muscular legs and hindquarters, and overall stocky appearance.

Their coat is short, relatively stiff, and glossy. However, if they take more after their Patterdale parent, they may exhibit a slightly longer, wiry coat. Their color can range from white, tan, cream, black, brown, and gray.

Temperament

The Pocket Pitbull’s parent breed, the American Bully, are known for their friendly and gentle demeanor. They are rarely aggressive and are particularly athletic, making them a great choice for a family dog.

These traits are carried over to the Pocket Pitbull. Any owner of a Pittie can attest to the fact that they are one of the sweetest breeds. They enjoy being held, are playful, and maintain the “nanny” dog trait Pitbulls are known for. Some owners even believe that their Pocket Pitbulls smile back at them.

Unfortunately, there has been a lot of stigmas that comes with owning a Pocket Pit. Although aggression was once being bred out, an increase in illegal dogfighting both in the United States and England brought backyard breeding and aggression into the eye of the public.