Alaskan Pit Bull -- Alaskan Malamute X American Staffordshire Terrier

		Alaskan Pit Bull
		He is not recognized by the F.C.I.


Origin			U.S.A. -> U.S.A.
Translation			Francis Vandersteen
This breed is also known as			Mally Pit

A brief presentation of the Alaskan Pit Bull

This large dog combines the endurance of the Alaskan Malamute with the loyalty of the American Staffordshire Terrier. The result is an affectionate, devoted pet that loves cuddles as much as outdoor activities. Alaskan Pit Bulls are also a robust breed with few chronic health problems. They were born in the late 1800s or early 1900s, when both parent breeds became popular in the United States. Although adorable, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as purebreds and are not very popular in any part of the world.

History of the Alaskan Pit Bull

The name Alaskan Pit Bull is a combination of the names of the dog's parent breeds: the Alaskan Malamute and the American Staffordshire Terrier, also known as the Pit Bull Terrier.

	A little of the Alaskan Malamute
	The Alaskan Malamute was born over 4,000 years ago, and is named after the Mahlemuts Innu tribe that inhabited the present-day northwest coast of Alaska. Originally, this tribe used Alaskan Malamutes for bear and seal hunting, as well as for sledding over difficult terrain. In the 1800s, Alaskan Malamutes were imported to the United States to help gold rush prospectors on the West Coast. Once in the U.S., breeders began mixing Alaskan Malamutes with smaller dogs for racing purposes. The breed became very diluted as a result; however, in the 1920s, efforts were successfully made to revive the purebred variety, and the AKC recognized the breed in 1935.

	Standard of the Alaskan Malamute
	A little of the American Staffordshire Terrier
	The American Staffordshire Terrier was developed in England's Shaffordshire region in the 1800s for dog fighting. It was probably a mix between an Old English Bulldog and various terrier breeds. In fact, it was originally called a Bull and Terrier. The breed fell into disuse when dog fighting was banned. Nevertheless, some specimens reached the United States during the 19th century, and American breeders developed a stronger, broader-headed animal. This variation became known as the Pit Bull Terrier. It was recognized as such in 1936; however, over thirty years later, the breed was renamed American Shaffordshire Terrier. Alaskan Pit Bulls may have been bred as early as the late 1800s, given the long history of the Malamute and Pit Bull in the United States. However, they remain an unusual hybrid dog and are not recognized by the American Kennel Club.

	Standard of the American Staffordshire Terrier

Appearance of the Alaskan Pit Bull

This breed is not totally stabilized and can inherit any combination of American Staffordshire Terrier and Alaskan Malamute physical traits. Generally, however, the result of these two pure breeds is a large dog with the lean, imposing body of a Spitz descendant, but the smooth, trim coat and square muzzle of an American Staffordshire Terrier. If the dog takes after the Malamute, it will have erect ears. If it takes its inspiration from the American Staffordshire Terrier, it will have small, hanging ears. In all cases, these dogs have short, dense coats that can be black, blue, fawn, red, white, brown or silver. They may also have a sable, agouti or brindle pattern and/or mask, points, spots or markings. What's more, Alaskan Pit Bulls are powerful animals made of pure muscle, from their medium-length tails to their deep chests, robust legs and well-padded toes.

Temperament of the Alaskan Pit Bull

These dogs are true pack and companion animals. Alaskan Pit Bulls love to give and receive affection. As such, this versatile hybrid makes an excellent family dog that's just as eager to go hiking as it is to sit on the couch with its family. What's more, Alaskan Pit Bulls are known to be extremely loyal to their families. They openly develop strong bonds with all members of their household. What's more, Alaskan Pit Bulls love to be around other people and get on very well with children and other dogs, provided they are well socialized. Bear in mind, however, that this breed is confident and bold, so it's important to be firm with them from the start - otherwise, this dog will lay down the law. They also have periods of independence when Alaskan Pit Bulls simply need to be left alone. For this reason, many dog owners feel that this hybrid represents the perfect balance between warmth and independence.

Needs and activities of the Alaskan Pit Bull

This hybrid is descended from two highly energetic parent breeds. The Alaskan Malamute, in particular, is known for its stamina and vitality. It follows that the Alaskan Pit Bull needs vigorous exercise for about an hour every day. Like many Spitz descendants, this breed enjoys outdoor activities, especially hiking and long walks. Alaskan Pit Bulls can also enjoy trips to the dog park, learning tricks and playing games with family members. This dog can thrive in almost any type of climate; however, because of its size and energy, it is best suited to rural or suburban environments where it has access to a yard and/or a large outdoor space.

Maintenance of the Alaskan Pit Bull

Despite the Alaskan Pit Bull's Spitz heritage, its coat is relatively short and easy to maintain. It sheds moderately, but owners can control this to some extent by brushing weekly with a long-haired brush. Alaskan Pit Bulls should not be bathed more than once a month to avoid drying out the natural oils in their coat. Ears should be cleaned regularly, teeth brushed daily and nails trimmed monthly. Please note that Alaskan Pit Bull dogs are not hypoallergenic, and owners of allergic pets will not enjoy the company of this dog.