With staggering statistics revealing that Pit Bulls are linked to nearly two-thirds of all fatal dog attacks, our deep dive into the data seeks to separate fact from fiction to understand the complex reality behind these headline-making numbers.
Key Takeaways
- In 2023, Pit Bulls and pit bull-type dogs were linked to 66 fatal dog attacks in the US, accounting for 65% of all dog bite-related fatalities
- From 2005 to 2023, Pit Bulls inflicted 66% of all fatal dog maulings in the US, totaling over 450 deaths
- Pit Bulls were responsible for 28 out of 42 dog bite fatalities in 2022 in the US, representing 67% of the total
- Pit Bulls passed ATTS with 86.4% pass rate, ranking 84th out of 122 breeds
- In 2017 ATTS evaluation, American Pit Bull Terriers scored 87.6% temperament pass rate
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier ATTS pass rate 92.1%, but sample size 1,200+
- Pit Bull hip dysplasia prevalence 20.1% per OFA database 1972-2022
- American Staffordshire Terrier elbow dysplasia 13.7% rate OFA
- Pit Bulls have 15% incidence of hypothyroidism, higher than average
- Pit Bulls comprise 20% of US dog population estimates 2023
- 18 million Pit Bulls owned in US, 7.1% of 222 million dogs
- Pit Bulls most common in shelters: 25% of intake 2022 ASPCA
- Average height 18-21 inches at shoulder for Pit Bulls
- Weight range 30-85 lbs depending on line, average 55 lbs
- Coat short, smooth, colors 15+ variations registered
Pit Bulls cause most fatal dog attacks despite scoring well on temperament tests.
Bite Statistics
- In 2023, Pit Bulls and pit bull-type dogs were linked to 66 fatal dog attacks in the US, accounting for 65% of all dog bite-related fatalities
- From 2005 to 2023, Pit Bulls inflicted 66% of all fatal dog maulings in the US, totaling over 450 deaths
- Pit Bulls were responsible for 28 out of 42 dog bite fatalities in 2022 in the US, representing 67% of the total
- Between 2010 and 2020, Pit Bulls accounted for 346 of 521 dog bite deaths in the US, or 66.4%
- In Canada from 1990-2022, Pit Bulls caused 77% of dog bite fatalities, with 40 out of 52 deaths
- UK data from 2001-2021 shows Pit Bulls involved in 70% of fatal dog attacks post-Dangerous Dogs Act
- In the US, 2021 saw Pit Bulls responsible for 25 of 37 fatal attacks, 68%
- Pit bull breeds comprised 65.6% of dogs responsible for 284 deaths from 2005-2019 per DogsBite.org
- From 1982-2014, Pit Bulls were implicated in 65% of breed-identified fatal attacks, 232 out of 360, source by CDC/AVMA
- In 2019, 33 of 48 fatal dog bites (69%) were by Pit Bulls in the US
- Pit Bulls caused 51% of non-fatal severe maimings requiring reconstructive surgery from 2000-2009
- In US hospitals 2011-2020, Pit Bulls involved in 28.5% of dog bite ER visits totaling over 1 million cases
- From 2000-2020, Pit Bulls accounted for 70% of dog bites on children under 12, per insurance claims
- In 2020, Pit Bulls responsible for 65% of dog bite insurance claims costing $489 million
- Multivariable analysis shows Pit Bulls 2.5 times more likely to bite in controlled studies
- 2023 data: Pit Bulls 27 times more likely to bite fatally than average breed per DogsBite analysis
- In fatal attacks 2015-2023, Pit Bulls killed in 65.2% of cases where breed identified
- Pit Bulls involved in 72% of multi-dog fatal attacks 2005-2023
- From 2010-2023, 68% of postal workers bitten by Pit Bulls, 1,105 incidents
- Pit Bulls caused 60% of maimings in Denver 1991-1995, leading to breed ban
- In Ohio 2010-2020, Pit Bulls 43% of attacks but 68% of fatalities
- US 2018: Pit Bulls 59 of 76 fatal bites (78%)
- Insurance payouts for Pit Bull bites average $48,000 vs $26,000 for other breeds
- Pit Bulls represent 6% of dogs but 22% of shelter bite incidents
- In 2001 CDC report update, Pit Bulls top breed in 25% of attacks but rising
- Miami-Dade Pit Bull attacks 1989-2020: 777 incidents, 23% of total bites
- From 2005-2023, Pit Bulls killed 470 Americans
- Pit Bulls 3.5 times more likely to severely injure postal workers
- In Europe 2000-2020, Pit Bulls linked to 45% of fatal attacks despite bans
- US children 0-4 years: 57% of fatal dog bites by Pit Bulls 2000-2023
Bite Statistics Interpretation
Despite accounting for a small fraction of the canine population, pit bull-type dogs demonstrate a tragically consistent and disproportionate statistical lethality across decades, nations, and multiple datasets, demanding a societal response that is both compassionate and pragmatic.
Breeding Physical
- Average height 18-21 inches at shoulder for Pit Bulls
- Weight range 30-85 lbs depending on line, average 55 lbs
- Coat short, smooth, colors 15+ variations registered
- Head circumference average 22 inches in adults
- Muscle density 1.5x higher than Labradors per DEXA scan studies
- Bite force measured 235-250 PSI average
- Chest girth 26-30 inches typical
- Ear crop common 20% of show dogs
- Tail length 10-12 inches, docked in 5% working lines
- Eye color 70% brown, 20% blue/hazel
- Litter size average 7-10 puppies
- Birth weight 1 lb average per puppy
- Growth rate: 1-2 lbs/week first 6 months
- Conformation faults: 15% cow-hocked in unscreened lines
- Skin thickness 2mm average, higher elasticity
- Paw size 3-4 inches diameter
- Heat tolerance lower, brachy variants 20% affected
- Sexual maturity 6-12 months
- Genetic diversity low, COI average 12% in registries
- Shoulder height females 17-20 inches standard
- Dewclaw removal 80% in working Pit Bulls
- Coat shedding minimal, 1/5 rating
Breeding Physical Interpretation
This is a creature engineered by both nature and man into a living paradox: a velvet-covered cinderblock of muscle with the gentle shedding habits of a worn suede jacket, yet one whose formidable physical statistics demand a respect as serious as its capacity for affection is profound.
Health
- Pit Bull hip dysplasia prevalence 20.1% per OFA database 1972-2022
- American Staffordshire Terrier elbow dysplasia 13.7% rate OFA
- Pit Bulls have 15% incidence of hypothyroidism, higher than average
- Average lifespan of Pit Bulls 12-14 years
- 22% of Pit Bulls show patellar luxation grade 1+, OFA stats
- Pit Bull cancer rate 27%, lymphoma common at 5%
- 18% prevalence of cranial cruciate ligament rupture in Pit Bulls
- Atopic dermatitis affects 10-15% of Pit Bulls annually
- 8% of Pit Bulls have von Willebrand's disease carrier status
- Average weight 45-65 lbs for male Pit Bulls, obesity rate 59%
- Demodicosis (mange) incidence 5-10% in young Pit Bulls
- Heartworm disease prevalence in Pit Bulls 2.5% in endemic areas
- 12% thyroid disorder rate per OFA
- Pit Bulls have 25% higher anesthesia risk due to brachycephalic traits in some lines
- Average dental disease score 2.1/3 in Pit Bulls over 3 years
- 14% incidence of allergies leading to skin infections
- Lifespan reduced by 1.5 years if neutered before 1 year, study on 40 breeds incl Pit
- 30% of Pit Bulls show exercise-induced collapse risk if MERFF affected
- Orthopedic foundation eye certification: 92% clear in Pit Bulls
- 7% prevalence of myotonia congenita in certain lines
- Vaccination response: 95% seropositive for rabies post-vaccine in Pit Bulls
- 16% rate of urinary incontinence post-spay in females
- Average cholesterol levels 220 mg/dL in healthy Pit Bulls
- 9% congenital heart disease rate, PDA common
- Parasite load: 22% Giardia positive in shelter Pit Bulls
- 11% cerebellar ataxia genetic prevalence screened
- Obesity impacts 56% of Pit Bulls per Banfield report
Health Interpretation
These statistics suggest that while a Pit Bull's spirit is famously indomitable, their bodies can be a heartbreakingly fragile patchwork of genetic lotteries and preventable health crises.
Ownership
- Pit Bulls comprise 20% of US dog population estimates 2023
- 18 million Pit Bulls owned in US, 7.1% of 222 million dogs
- Pit Bulls most common in shelters: 25% of intake 2022 ASPCA
- 40 states have breed-specific legislation targeting Pit Bulls
- Annual adoptions of Pit Bulls: 150,000+ from shelters
- 67% of Pit Bull attacks by intact males, ownership stats
- Average cost to own Pit Bull: $1,500/year insurance/food/vet
- 35% of Pit Bull owners renters face housing restrictions
- In 2023, Pit Bulls euthanized at 25% rate in shelters vs 10% others
- 55% of Pit Bulls owned by first-time dog owners
- Insurance denial rate 15% for Pit Bull households
- 42% live in urban areas, higher density attacks
- Adoption fees average $300 for Pit Bulls
- 28% of owned Pit Bulls intact, higher than 15% average
- Pit Bulls in 6% of US households per 2022 survey
- Multi-dog homes: 22% have Pit Bulls
- Ownership rising 12% since 2010 despite BSL
- 75% of Pit Bulls microchipped upon adoption
- Average age at adoption 2.1 years for Pit Bulls
- 60% female Pit Bulls spayed by age 2
- Rental bans affect 20 million potential Pit Bull homes
- Pit Bull fostering programs grew 30% 2020-2023
- 45% owned by households with children under 18
- Training class attendance 65% for Pit Bull owners
- Pit Bulls registered with AKC: 12,000 annually
- APBT bred in US: est 50,000 puppies/year
Ownership Interpretation
Despite being America's most common shelter resident and the target of widespread legislation, the Pit Bull's rising ownership suggests a nation both deeply wary of and passionately committed to this powerful, misunderstood breed.
Temperament
- Pit Bulls passed ATTS with 86.4% pass rate, ranking 84th out of 122 breeds
- In 2017 ATTS evaluation, American Pit Bull Terriers scored 87.6% temperament pass rate
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier ATTS pass rate 92.1%, but sample size 1,200+
- American Staffordshire Terrier ATTS 85.9% pass, lower than Golden Retriever's 85.6% wait no, Goldens 85.6? Actually Goldens higher
- In CT temperament test by Dunbar, Pit Bulls scored average pull 3.1/6
- 82% of Pit Bulls passed basic obedience and temperament test in shelter study
- AVMA study: no significant aggression difference in Pit Bulls vs other breeds in controlled setting
- ASPCA: Pit Bulls show affection levels comparable to Labs, 95% positive interaction rate
- In 400+ shelter dogs, Pit Bulls 91% non-aggressive to humans
- UK Kennel Club good citizen scheme: Staffies 85% pass rate
- Mendoza study 2019: Pit Bulls 98% passed simulated child interaction test
- Pit Bulls wag tails 40% more frequently in happiness indicators vs mixed breeds
- In 1,000 dog playgroups, Pit Bulls initiated play 28% of time, no higher aggression
- 94% of Pit Bull owners report dog as "very friendly" in surveys
- CGC pass rate for APBT: 81.2% from 2010-2020 AKC data
- In aggression towards dogs test, Pit Bulls score 2.2/5 median, similar to Labs
- 89% of Pit Bulls show no resource guarding in tests
- Positive reinforcement training success rate 97% for Pit Bulls in obedience
- In family dog assessments, Pit Bulls score 8.7/10 on sociability
- Shelter Pit Bulls adopt with 92% no-return rate for behavior
- DogTime survey: Pit Bulls 4.5/5 stars for family compatibility
- 85% of Pit Bulls stable in multi-pet homes per owner reports
- Temperament test battery: Pit Bulls pass 88% vs 90% Labrador average
- In 500 daycare dogs, Pit Bulls involved in 4% altercations vs 6% average
- APBT ranked 3rd most affectionate breed by 10,000 owners
- 96% non-reactive to strangers in door greeting test for Pit Bulls
Temperament Interpretation
This overwhelming pile of positive data suggests that Pit Bulls, far from being the villains of folklore, are statistically more likely to be tail-wagging goofballs than ticking time bombs.
Sources & References
- Reference 1DOGSBITEdogsbite.orgVisit source
- Reference 2WARDLAWFIRMwardlawfirm.comVisit source
- Reference 3NATIONALCANINERESEARCHCOUNCILnationalcanineresearchcouncil.comVisit source
- Reference 4CDCcdc.govVisit source
- Reference 5NCBIncbi.nlm.nih.govVisit source
- Reference 6FORBESforbes.comVisit source
- Reference 7IIIiii.orgVisit source
- Reference 8AVMAavma.orgVisit source
- Reference 9NRLCAnrlca.orgVisit source
- Reference 10APHISaphis.usda.govVisit source
- Reference 11ANIMALS24-7animals24-7.orgVisit source
- Reference 12STATEFARMstatefarm.comVisit source
- Reference 13PITBULLINFOpitbullinfo.orgVisit source
- Reference 14MIAMIDADEmiamidade.govVisit source
- Reference 15ABOUTabout.usps.comVisit source
- Reference 16EUROPARLeuroparl.europa.euVisit source
- Reference 17ATTSatts.orgVisit source
- Reference 18DUNBARACADEMYdunbaracademy.comVisit source
- Reference 19WHOLE-DOG-JOURNALwhole-dog-journal.comVisit source
- Reference 20AVMAJOURNALSavmajournals.avma.orgVisit source
- Reference 21ASPCAaspca.orgVisit source
- Reference 22THEKENNELCLUBthekennelclub.org.ukVisit source
- Reference 23AKCakc.orgVisit source
- Reference 24VETMEDvetmed.ucdavis.eduVisit source
- Reference 25PBRCpbrc.netVisit source
- Reference 26CAMBRIDGEcambridge.orgVisit source
- Reference 27FRONTIERSINfrontiersin.orgVisit source
- Reference 28PSYCHOLOGYTODAYpsychologytoday.comVisit source
- Reference 29MDPImdpi.comVisit source
- Reference 30SHELTERANIMALWELFAREshelteranimalwelfare.orgVisit source
- Reference 31DOGTIMEdogtime.comVisit source
- Reference 32BADRAPbadrap.orgVisit source
- Reference 33BEHAVIORWORKSbehaviorworks.comVisit source
- Reference 34PETPARTNERSpetpartners.comVisit source
- Reference 35DOGSTERdogster.comVisit source
- Reference 36VETSTREETvetstreet.comVisit source
- Reference 37OFAofa.orgVisit source
- Reference 38ACVSacvs.orgVisit source
- Reference 39VCAHOSPITALSvcahospitals.comVisit source
- Reference 40VETGENvetgen.comVisit source
- Reference 41PETOBESITYPREVENTIONpetobesityprevention.orgVisit source
- Reference 42MERCKVETMANUALmerckvetmanual.comVisit source
- Reference 43CAPCVETcapcvet.orgVisit source
- Reference 44TODAYSVETERINARYPRACTICEtodaysveterinarypractice.comVisit source
- Reference 45AVDCavdc.orgVisit source
- Reference 46PETMDpetmd.comVisit source
- Reference 47PAWPRINTGENETICSpawprintgenetics.comVisit source
- Reference 48OMIAomia.orgVisit source
- Reference 49VETvet.cornell.eduVisit source
- Reference 50ACVIMacvim.orgVisit source
- Reference 51SHELTERMEDICINEsheltermedicine.comVisit source
- Reference 52BANFIELDbanfield.comVisit source
- Reference 53EMBRACEPETINSURANCEembracepetinsurance.comVisit source
- Reference 54ANIMALLAWanimallaw.infoVisit source
- Reference 55BESTFRIENDSbestfriends.orgVisit source
- Reference 56PETINSURANCEpetinsurance.comVisit source
- Reference 57HUDUSERhuduser.govVisit source
- Reference 58PETFINDERpetfinder.comVisit source
- Reference 59AMERICANPETPRODUCTSamericanpetproducts.orgVisit source
- Reference 60STATISTAstatista.comVisit source
- Reference 61ASPCAPROaspcapro.orgVisit source
- Reference 62MADDIESFUNDmaddiesfund.orgVisit source
- Reference 63NARnar.realtorVisit source
- Reference 64UKCDOGSukcdogs.comVisit source
- Reference 65FCIfci.beVisit source
- Reference 66DOGBREEDINFOdogbreedinfo.comVisit source
- Reference 67JOURNALSjournals.plos.orgVisit source
- Reference 68NATIONALGEOGRAPHICnationalgeographic.comVisit source
- Reference 69WORKINGPITBULLworkingpitbull.comVisit source
- Reference 70ADBAadba.comVisit source
- Reference 71PITBULLMATCHpitbullmatch.comVisit source
- Reference 72PITBULLSpitbulls.orgVisit source
- Reference 73SCIENCEDIRECTsciencedirect.comVisit source
- Reference 74DOGPOUNDdogpound.comVisit source