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American Pit Bull Terrier puppies and dogs in Des Moines, Iowa

Looking for an American Pit Bull Terrier puppy or dog in Des Moines, Iowa? Adopt a Pet can help you find an adorable American Pit Bull Terrier near you.

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Adopt an American Pit Bull Terrier near you in Des Moines, Iowa

These American Pit Bull Terriers are available in Des Moines, Iowa.
We'll also keep you updated on Mia's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Mia

Mia

Pit Bull Terrier Mastiff

Female, Adult
Des Moines, IA
Size
(when grown) X-Large 101 lbs (46 kg) or more
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Mia is a stunning 2-year-old sweetheart weighing 74 pounds. With her fun-loving energy, happy demeanor, and beautiful green eyes, she’s sure to steal your heart!Mia’s story hasn’t been easy—she and her brother were left abandoned in their owner’s backyard after his passing. Despite this, Mia has remained a joyful and resilient girl who gets along wonderfully with other dogs and is always ready for playtime and affection.She’s got a fantastic temperament and would make a loving addition to any home that can match her lively spirit. If you’re ready to welcome a loyal, happy companion into your life, Mia is ready to bring her sunshine to you!IMPORTANT: Please read all below, especially if you live outside of Texas, which is where our rescue is located.Apply to adopt on our website: https://www.charmingpetrescue.org/adoptAll of our animals are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on shots.ALL of our animals are located in Boerne, TX, but transport after adoption is available to other states for a $300 fee for dogs or an additional fee varying by location for cats. If you are seeing our pets posted in your state, that's because you live near a transport stop, they are not currently at that location. Petfinder lists our pets as 'Out of Town' pets at other locations, and Adopt-a-Pet lists our location as a Transport stop. Those are currently the only options they offer to make this clear, so we put this description we've put at the bottom to explain it. You can read more about transport here: www.charmingpetrescue.org/transportWe understand transport is not an option for everyone, but we offer it at the cost we pay the transport company for those who wish to adopt from us.March 4, 2025, 4:49 am
We'll also keep you updated on Hank's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Hank

Hank

Pit Bull Terrier Mastiff

Male, Adult
Des Moines, IA
Size
(when grown) X-Large 101 lbs (46 kg) or more
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Hank is a handsome 2.5-year-old Mastiff-Pit mix with stunning light grey brindling and a big heart to match his 72 pounds. He’s low key and has a calm presence in the home.Hank’s great with other dogs and cats, too! He’s also good with kids. If you’re looking for a loyal, gentle companion, Hank might just be your perfect match!IMPORTANT: Please read all below, especially if you live outside of Texas, which is where our rescue is located.Apply to adopt on our website: https://www.charmingpetrescue.org/adoptAll of our animals are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on shots.ALL of our animals are located in Boerne, TX, but transport after adoption is available to other states for a $300 fee for dogs or an additional fee varying by location for cats. If you are seeing our pets posted in your state, that's because you live near a transport stop, they are not currently at that location. Petfinder lists our pets as 'Out of Town' pets at other locations, and Adopt-a-Pet lists our location as a Transport stop. Those are currently the only options they offer to make this clear, so we put this description we've put at the bottom to explain it. You can read more about transport here: www.charmingpetrescue.org/transportWe understand transport is not an option for everyone, but we offer it at the cost we pay the transport company for those who wish to adopt from us.March 4, 2025, 5:57 am
We'll also keep you updated on Phatgirl's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Phatgirl

Phatgirl

Pit Bull Terrier

Female, Adult
Des Moines, IA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Not good with cats, House-trained, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Phatgirl!Phatgirl is a 2-year-old pittie with a heart full of love and 65 pounds of pure snuggle potential. She was found as a stray but has proven to be a shining example of resilience and sweetness. Now, she’s ready to find a forever family that will shower her with the love she deserves.Phatgirl is a social sweetheart who gets along great with dogs of all sizes and absolutely adores children. She’s crate trained, house trained, and leash trained, making her an easy addition to any home. While she loves canine companions and people, she prefers a cat-free household.This loving girl is smart, snuggly, and always ready to make your day brighter. Whether it’s learning a new trick or curling up on the couch for some quality cuddle time, Phatgirl is happiest when she’s with her people.If you’re looking for a sweet and loyal best friend who will fill your home with love, Phatgirl is the one for you. Are you ready to give her the forever home she’s been waiting for?IMPORTANT: Please read all below, especially if you live outside of Texas, which is where our rescue is located.Apply to adopt on our website: https://www.charmingpetrescue.org/adoptAll of our animals are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on shots.ALL of our animals are located in Boerne, TX, but transport after adoption is available to other states for a $300 fee for dogs or an additional fee varying by location for cats. If you are seeing our pets posted in your state, that's because you live near a transport stop, they are not currently at that location. Petfinder lists our pets as 'Out of Town' pets at other locations, and Adopt-a-Pet lists our location as a Transport stop. Those are currently the only options they offer to make this clear, so we put this description we've put at the bottom to explain it. You can read more about transport here: www.charmingpetrescue.org/transportWe understand transport is not an option for everyone, but we offer it at the cost we pay the transport company for those who wish to adopt from us.February 3, 2025, 9:37 pm
We'll also keep you updated on Molly May's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Molly May

Molly May

Pit Bull Terrier

Female, Adult
Des Moines, IA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Not good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
This beautiful bully girl was found dumped on a lonely back country road known for heartbreak — but Molly’s story is about second chances and snuggles.At around 5 years old and a curvy 75 lbs, Molly May is a gentle sweetheart who’s ready to leave her past behind and find her perfect family. We believe she was used for breeding, but now it’s her turn to be spoiled with love.The highlights:Dog friendly (no cats for this girl)House & crate trainedGreat recall and already knows sitWalks beautifully on a leashTakes treats like a ladyA+ snuggler and loves being your loyal little shadowMolly loves to play, but her true talent is giving the best bully cuddles around. She’s ready to soak up all the love and attention her new family has to give — could that be you?Let’s get this sweet girl the happy ending she deserves!#AdoptMollyMay #RescueBully #SecondChancePup #SweetestBully #AdoptDontShopIMPORTANT: Please read all below, especially if you live outside of Texas, which is where our rescue is located.Apply to adopt on our website: https://www.charmingpetrescue.org/adoptAll of our animals are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on shots.ALL of our animals are located in Boerne, TX, but transport after adoption is available to other states for a $300 fee for dogs or an additional fee varying by location for cats. If you are seeing our pets posted in your state, that's because you live near a transport stop, they are not currently at that location. Petfinder lists our pets as 'Out of Town' pets at other locations, and Adopt-a-Pet lists our location as a Transport stop. Those are currently the only options they offer to make this clear, so we put this description we've put at the bottom to explain it. You can read more about transport here: www.charmingpetrescue.org/transportWe understand transport is not an option for everyone, but we offer it at the cost we pay the transport company for those who wish to adopt from us.March 12, 2025, 3:07 pm
We'll also keep you updated on Smurfette's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Smurfette

Smurfette

Pit Bull Terrier

Female, Young
Des Moines, IA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
*Meet Smurfette!**Smurfette is a sweet, one-year-old pup with a heart full of love and a smile that can melt anyone’s heart. She spent a few months roaming a neighborhood as a stray before being rescued, but despite her rough start, she has proven to be an absolute sweetheart.At 50 pounds, Smurfette is the perfect mix of playful and cuddly. She gets along wonderfully with other dogs, showing no signs of aggression, and she greets new people with a friendly and gentle demeanor. She’s also a great passenger, riding calmly in the car.And let’s talk about her signature pittie smile—absolutely irresistible! But you know what would make her even cuter? Seeing her in pajamas! Can you imagine how adorable she’d be, all snuggled up in some cozy PJs? Smurfette is ready to bring love, laughter, and the best pajama fashion to her forever home. Could that be with you?IMPORTANT: Please read all below, especially if you live outside of Texas, which is where our rescue is located.Apply to adopt on our website: https://www.charmingpetrescue.org/adoptAll of our animals are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on shots.ALL of our animals are located in Boerne, TX, but transport after adoption is available to other states for a $300 fee for dogs or an additional fee varying by location for cats. If you are seeing our pets posted in your state, that's because you live near a transport stop, they are not currently at that location. Petfinder lists our pets as 'Out of Town' pets at other locations, and Adopt-a-Pet lists our location as a Transport stop. Those are currently the only options they offer to make this clear, so we put this description we've put at the bottom to explain it. You can read more about transport here: www.charmingpetrescue.org/transportWe understand transport is not an option for everyone, but we offer it at the cost we pay the transport company for those who wish to adopt from us.March 12, 2025, 6:56 am
We'll also keep you updated on Silverado's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Silverado

Silverado

American Pit Bull Terrier

Male, Adult
Des Moines, IA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
HOW TO ADOPT: This pet is available for adoption by appointment. To schedule a time to meet this pet, please email fosterinquiry@arl-iowa.org.---- Busy pup who loves to connect with people through play and other activities; will likely enjoy physical activity and mental challenges to keep their bodies and brains busy- Has lots of energy, but can also be a big snuggler; likes sleeping in bed with his people and plopping down on the couch with you - Snores and dreams while he sleeps - LOVES food an will absolutely inhale it; has done best with a slow feeder in his foster home - Loves running around outside and getting his zoomies out; enjoys sniffing everything he can - Smart boy knows sit and down- Loves to learn and has great focus - especially if you have treats - so would be a lot of fun to train - Enjoys going on walks and does best with a harness- Can to be socially awkward with other dogs (dog intro recommended) - Tends to be a linebacker-type player with other dogs, which some dogs may not appreciate; will likely do best with a select group of rough-and-tumble dog friends with a similar play style (dog intro recommended) All adoptable dogs and puppies are spayed/neutered, microchipped and up to date on vaccinations (rabies and DA2PPV as appropriate for ageThe ARL's shelter software requires that we choose a primary breed for our dogs. Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable, so for most dogs we are only guessing at primary breed. We get to know each dog as an individual and do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, and not breed label Primary Color: White Weight: 64.5 Age: 2yrs 3mths 3wks

Or, how about these American Pit Bull Terriers in cities near Des Moines, Iowa

These American Pit Bull Terriers are available for adoption close to Des Moines, Iowa.
We'll also keep you updated on Marsay's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Marsay

Marsay

American Pit Bull Terrier Mixed Breed (Medium)

Male, 12 yrs 7 mos
Johnston, IA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Not good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Marsay is a 12 year old 60 lb pit mix looking for an active retirement home. Marsay is incredibly affectionate and still has the energy of a young pup! He loves to cuddle but also loves going for walks with his foster mom. He is house/crate trained. He does fine with most dogs one-on-one and after a proper intro; we haven't seen him with cats yet and require a meet with any resident pets before adoption. He does tend to guard resources (particularly food and high value toys/bones) so we are suggesting older kids in the home and a dedicated adopter willing to put some one-on-one training time in with him. He loves to meet new people and be part of the action! If interested in meeting Marsay, please apply at www.foreverhomedogs.org!All adoptions are $300 per dog for puppies under 1 year, $250 for adults 1 - 9 years old and $150 for senior dogs which include spay/neuter, micro-chipped and up-to-date on required shots. Senior dogs, at our discretion, are adopted out at $150 per dog because we know they will have less time with your family and may eventually have more needs as they get older. But we feel these dogs deserve to live out the rest of their lives as part of a loving family.
We'll also keep you updated on Neva's adoption status with email updates.
Special Needs
Photo of Neva

Neva

American Pit Bull Terrier Boxer

Female, Young
Ankeny, IA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Not good with dogs, Good with cats, Needs special attention, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
We got Neva at the ARL in mid-December. Her breed and age are hard to pin down, but she is definitely a pit mix and is roughly 3 years of age. We love her so much and she loves people more than she can handle sometimes. She loves to snuggle and is great when we need a nap, but she is also bursting with energy. She loves fetch and tug of war! She does have the issue of wanting to bite hands when she's playing. It is more of an annoyance than anything, but something to work on. She gets overly excited seeing other dogs, so walks can be a bit challenging. She does have little accidents when she gets too excited meeting new people, but overall, she does seem potty trained when we're home. The reason for needing to rehome is because she does seem to have very severe seperation anxiety that usually results in accidents in her kennel. My wife and I work together and cant get opposite schedules so its been challenging. She is showing progress, but it will take time to get her there.
We'll also keep you updated on IVY's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of IVY

IVY

American Pit Bull Terrier Labrador Retriever

Female, 6 mos
Ames, IA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
-
We'll also keep you updated on FINN's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of FINN

FINN

American Pit Bull Terrier Labrador Retriever

Male, 6 mos
Ames, IA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
-
We'll also keep you updated on Grace's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Grace

Grace

Pit Bull Terrier

Female, Adult
Nevada, IA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
House-trained, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
All dogs and puppies come spayed and neutered, microchipped and vaccinated. Adoption fees are $75.00 for adult dogs and $100.00 for puppies at the time of adoption. Our adoptions are done by approved applications, so you must apply and be approved before being able to meet any of our dogs or puppies. To be approved, you can apply online at: https://www.storycountyiowa.gov/1486/Adoption-Application or you can apply in person. Applications can take a few business days to be approved and you will be emailed with communications regarding your application
We'll also keep you updated on Brad Pitt's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Brad Pitt

Brad Pitt

Pit Bull Terrier

Male, Adult
Nevada, IA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
House-trained, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
A sweet and happy guy! Pitt always has his tail wagging and a smile on his face. All dogs and puppies come spayed and neutered, microchipped and vaccinated. Adoption fees are $75.00 for adult dogs and $100.00 for puppies at the time of adoption. Our adoptions are done by approved applications, so you must apply and be approved before being able to meet any of our dogs or puppies. To be approved, you can apply online at: https://www.storycountyiowa.gov/1486/Adoption-Application or you can apply in person. Applications can take a few business days to be approved and you will be emailed with communications regarding your application

These pups are in Des Moines, Iowa too!

Below are our newest added American Pit Bull Terriers available for adoption in Des Moines, Iowa. To see more adoptable American Pit Bull Terriers in Des Moines, Iowa, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria!
We'll also keep you updated on Jessie's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Jessie

Jessie

Boxer Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium)

Female, Adult
Des Moines, IA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Jessie!Jessie is a gentle, calm soul with the sweetest demeanor. At about 2 years old and 50 pounds, this beautiful Boxer mix was found in the cold but showed right away what a loyal and patient girl she is—hopping out of the car without a leash when arriving at the rescue and waiting patiently for help. Her finder said she even seemed house trained for the few days he had her.She’s incredibly quiet and mellow, fantastic with kids, and neutral with other dogs. Jessie has no desire to run off—she just wants to be near her people. Though she’s still gaining weight, she’s thriving and enjoying life at the rescue. She was found with her buddy, Caroline.With her big Boxer lips and even bigger heart, Jessie is ready to find a loving home where she can be the loyal companion she was meant to be. Could that be with you?IMPORTANT: Please read all below, especially if you live outside of Texas, which is where our rescue is located.Apply to adopt on our website: https://www.charmingpetrescue.org/adoptAll of our animals are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on shots.ALL of our animals are located in Boerne, TX, but transport after adoption is available to other states for a $300 fee for dogs or an additional fee varying by location for cats. If you are seeing our pets posted in your state, that's because you live near a transport stop, they are not currently at that location. Petfinder lists our pets as 'Out of Town' pets at other locations, and Adopt-a-Pet lists our location as a Transport stop. Those are currently the only options they offer to make this clear, so we put this description we've put at the bottom to explain it. You can read more about transport here: www.charmingpetrescue.org/transportWe understand transport is not an option for everyone, but we offer it at the cost we pay the transport company for those who wish to adopt from us.March 4, 2025, 5:11 am
We'll also keep you updated on Uber's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Uber

Uber

Boxer Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium)

Male, Young
Des Moines, IA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Uber is a 57-pound purebred Boxer with a heart as big as his paws! At just a year old, he’s full of that classic Boxer energy—playful, goofy, and always ready for an adventure. Despite being found as a stray, Uber is as sweet as can be and has zero aggression. He loves people, belly rubs, and making new friends. Whether he’s zooming around the yard or snuggling up for some love, Uber is sure to bring joy to any home. Who doesn’t love a Boxer? Come meet Uber and let him steal your heart!IMPORTANT: Please read all below, especially if you live outside of Texas, which is where our rescue is located.Apply to adopt on our website: https://www.charmingpetrescue.org/adoptAll of our animals are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on shots.ALL of our animals are located in Boerne, TX, but transport after adoption is available to other states for a $300 fee for dogs or an additional fee varying by location for cats. If you are seeing our pets posted in your state, that's because you live near a transport stop, they are not currently at that location. Petfinder lists our pets as 'Out of Town' pets at other locations, and Adopt-a-Pet lists our location as a Transport stop. Those are currently the only options they offer to make this clear, so we put this description we've put at the bottom to explain it. You can read more about transport here: www.charmingpetrescue.org/transportWe understand transport is not an option for everyone, but we offer it at the cost we pay the transport company for those who wish to adopt from us.March 12, 2025, 6:56 am
We'll also keep you updated on Arty's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Arty

Arty

English Bulldog

Male, Adult
Des Moines, IA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Arty is a handsome 5-year-old purebred Bulldog, weighing in at 50 pounds. This sweet boy was surrendered simply because his owner didn’t have enough time for him—no fault of his own. Now, he’s getting vetted and neutered, and he’ll be all set for his forever home!Arty is the ultimate friendly companion—he loves kids, people, other dogs, and even cats! He’s house-trained, has great house manners, and enjoys going on short walks. With his gentle, affectionate nature, he’ll make a wonderful addition to just about any family.If you’re looking for a laid-back, loving, and well-mannered Bulldog, Arty is your guy!IMPORTANT: Please read all below, especially if you live outside of Texas, which is where our rescue is located.Apply to adopt on our website: https://www.charmingpetrescue.org/adoptAll of our animals are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on shots.ALL of our animals are located in Boerne, TX, but transport after adoption is available to other states for a $300 fee for dogs or an additional fee varying by location for cats. If you are seeing our pets posted in your state, that's because you live near a transport stop, they are not currently at that location. Petfinder lists our pets as 'Out of Town' pets at other locations, and Adopt-a-Pet lists our location as a Transport stop. Those are currently the only options they offer to make this clear, so we put this description we've put at the bottom to explain it. You can read more about transport here: www.charmingpetrescue.org/transportWe understand transport is not an option for everyone, but we offer it at the cost we pay the transport company for those who wish to adopt from us.March 12, 2025, 6:56 am

Search for an American Pit Bull Terrier puppy or dog

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American Pit Bull Terrier shelters & rescues in Des Moines, Iowa

There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for American Pit Bull Terrier puppies in Des Moines, Iowa. Browse these American Pit Bull Terrier rescues and shelters below.

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

1.2 miles

Charming Pet Rescue - IA Transport Stop

Des Moines, IA 50309

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

2.7 miles

Animal Rescue League of Iowa Inc.

5452 NE 22nd St, Des Moines, IA 50313

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, farm animals, horses, rabbits, reptiles, small animals

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Rescue

6 miles

God's Dogs Rescue of TX for IA Transport Stop

Clive, IA 50325

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

6 miles

Polk County Humane Society (in Missouri) - Iowa Transport

11101 University Ave Ste B, Clive, IA 50325

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

6.8 miles

Forever Home Dog Rescue

Johnston, IA 50131

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

29.4 miles

Ames Animal Shelter

325 Billy Sunday Road, Ames, IA 50010

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, rabbits, reptiles, small animals

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Shelter

30.1 miles

Story County Animal Control & Shelter

975 West Lincoln Highway, Nevada, IA 50201

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, farm animals, horses, rabbits, reptiles, small animals

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Shelter

33.6 miles

Marion County Humane Society

1701 E Pleasant, Knoxville, IA 50138

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

34.2 miles

Boone Area Humane Society

228 W 16TH, Boone, IA 50036

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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Rescue

43.7 miles

Almost Home Animal Rescue - IA

Chariton, IA 50049

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Want to learn more about adopting an American Pit Bull Terrier puppy or dog?

We've got all the info you need on adopting and caring for an American Pit Bull Terrier puppy. Check out the links below for everything you ever wanted to know about American Pit Bull Terrier puppies and adults.

American Pit Bull Terrier basics

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Where do American Pit Bull Terriers come from? How many types of American Pit Bull Terriers are there? From the history of the breed to question about average height, weight and size, brush up on these basic facts about the American Pit Bull Terrier.

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