Exotic Pitbulls: Beyond the Ordinary Canine

Pitbulls, often recognized for their muscular build and distinctive appearance, are a group of breeds that include the American Pit Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, among others. In recent years, there's been a growing interest in what many enthusiasts refer to as "exotic" pitbulls.

This term can be somewhat misleading, as it often doesn't refer to a distinct breed but rather unique colorations, sizes, and other physical traits. Let's dive into the world of exotic pitbulls to uncover the facts.

What Makes a Pitbull "Exotic"?

Size Variations:

Some breeders have focused on producing pitbulls that are notably smaller or larger than the standard size for the breed. For instance, "Pocket Pitbulls" are smaller versions, while "XXL" or "Giant" pitbulls are on the larger end.

Pocket Pitbulls

These are smaller versions of the standard pitbull, typically standing around 12 to 16 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 11 to 22 pounds. They still maintain the muscular build and confidence of larger pitbulls but in a more compact size.

Courtesy of a-z animals

Giant Pitbulls

These pitbulls are bred to be larger, sometimes weighing over 100 pounds. They often have a more pronounced muscular build and can be quite imposing in appearance, though they can be just as affectionate and loyal as standard-sized pitbulls.

Courtesy of a-z animals

Unique Colorations:

While pitbulls can naturally come in a range of colors, certain hues like merle or tri-color have become sought after as "exotic" colorations.

Merle Pitbulls

The merle gene creates a mottled pattern in the dog's coat, resulting in a unique and striking appearance. However, this gene can also bring health concerns, especially if two merle pitbulls are bred together, leading to the potential for deafness or blindness in the offspring.

Courtesy of marvelousdogs.com

Tri-Color Pitbulls

These pitbulls have three distinct coat colors, often black, white, and brown or blue, white, and tan. This unique coloration is highly sought after by many enthusiasts.

Physical Traits:

Some exotic pitbulls may have specific physical characteristics, such as shorter legs or a more pronounced jawline, differentiating them from standard pitbulls.

Blue Nose & Red Nose Pitbulls

These terms refer to the color of the pitbull's nose and, often, the tone of their coat. Blue nose pitbulls have a slightly bluish-gray coat and nose, while red nose pitbulls have a reddish-brown coat and nose.

Courtesy of a-z animals

Controversies Surrounding Exotic Breeding

Health Concerns:

Breeding for specific physical traits can sometimes lead to unintentional health issues. For example, dogs with the merle pattern can face an increased risk of deafness or blindness if bred improperly. Dogs bred for unique coat colors or patterns can sometimes face skin sensitivities or increased risk of skin diseases. For example, dogs with lighter pigmentation might be more prone to sunburn or skin cancer.

Also, to achieve and maintain specific traits, some breeders might resort to inbreeding, or breeding closely related dogs. This practice can amplify the risk of inheriting genetic disorders.

Ethical Concerns:

Some animal advocates argue that breeding for "exotic" traits can sometimes prioritize aesthetics over the health and well-being of the animal.

Purebred Debates:

The breeding of exotic pitbulls sometimes involves introducing genes from other breeds, which can lead to debates about the purity and authenticity of the resultant dogs.

At its core, a purebred dog is one whose lineage consists of ancestors of the same breed, often documented in a recognized breed registry. For many dog enthusiasts, breed standards are set to maintain certain physical and temperamental traits consistent across generations.

The introduction of "exotic" traits can muddy the waters regarding what constitutes a purebred pitbull, especially when these traits are achieved through crossbreeding with other dog breeds.

How to Care for an Exotic Pitbull

Special Needs:

Depending on their physical traits, some exotic pitbulls may have specific care requirements. For example, larger pitbulls might need more space and exercise, while smaller ones could be more susceptible to cold and might need protective clothing in colder climates.

Regular Check-ups:

Given the potential health issues associated with certain traits, regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to ensure the well-being of an exotic pitbull.

To keep your exotic pup in tip-top shape, be sure to take it for regular walks. Our Sparkpaws range of harnesses includes a no-pull and activewear range to ensure your dog walk is a pleasurable experience!

Courtesy of marvelousdogs.com

Popularity and Price

Exotic pitbulls, due to their unique appearance, have garnered significant attention, leading to a rise in demand. These dogs often come with a higher price tag compared to standard pitbulls, sometimes reaching thousands of dollars for a single pup.

The price of the Exotic Pitbull can vary greatly based on its size, color, and pedigree. 

Most Exotic Bullies cost $2,000 to $5,000. However, a tri-color Exotic can cost $10,000 to $20,000. A micro Exotic Bully is smaller, and can cost up to $30,000. 

Exotic Pitbulls with a pedigree will also be more expensive. If they have a prestigious bloodline, they can cost up to $30,000 as well.

What About The Exotic American Bully Breed?

The Exotic Bully is a relatively recent and controversial breed that has emerged from the American Bully world. Characterized by its distinct appearance, the Exotic Bully often has a more compact and shorter stature compared to the traditional American Bully, with pronounced muscular definition, a broader head, shorter snout, and sometimes bow-legged or "roached" back.

While many admire the Exotic Bully for its unique looks, the breed has drawn criticism from canine enthusiasts and experts due to concerns over health and breeding practices. Selective breeding to achieve the Exotic Bully's distinct appearance can sometimes lead to inherent health issues, including respiratory and skeletal problems. 

Related: American Bulldog vs. Pitbull Breed Comparison

Courtesy petsmagazine.com

Conclusion

While exotic pitbulls can undoubtedly stand out in a crowd, potential owners should be well-informed about their care requirements, potential health risks, and the ethical considerations surrounding exotic breeding.

As with any pet, the health, well-being, and happiness of the animal should always be the top priority. If considering acquiring an exotic pitbull, always choose reputable breeders who prioritize the health and welfare of their animals.