Differences Between Male and Female Pit Bulls

American pit bull terriers, often referred to simply as pit bulls, are loyal, intelligent dogs that make great pets. Both male and female pit bulls, despite their fearsome reputation, are good with children and families. There are a few differences, besides the obvious anatomical ones, between male and female pit bulls.

  1. Size

    • According to the Daily Puppy, an online resource for dog owners, female pit bulls are usually smaller than males, weighing in at somewhere between 30 and 50 lbs. Males may reach weights upwards of 60 lbs. Female pit bulls generally have less muscle mass than males and tend to have longer backs.

    Aggression

    • According to the Daily Puppy, male pit bulls are more likely than females to be aggressive toward other dogs. Many times pit bulls will be more aggressive toward different breeds than toward other pit bulls. Both male and female pit bulls, though, are generally good and friendly with children. It is rare for male or female pit bulls to be aggressive toward humans, and dog-on-dog aggression can often be eliminated by neutering the aggressive dog.

    Marking Behavior

    • Male pit bulls, especially not-neutered males, will urinate frequently to mark their territory, according to Facts About Pit Bulls, an online source of information about the breed. This can happen inside or outside and may be reduced by neutering the male. Female pit bulls do not share this affinity for marking their territory. Non-neutered females will go into estrus, or heat, about twice a year and may have some vaginal discharge at this time.

    Bone Structure

    • Bone structure differs slightly between male and female pit bulls, an important factor if you are interested in entering your pit bull in shows. Both males and females will have the typical broad pit bull head, but females, according to The Daily Puppy, will have a slightly narrower head than males. Females will also usually have eyes spaced slightly wider apart than males.