What exactly is an American Blue Pit Bull Terrier?

By Jason J. Row

After reading a few web sites on the subject, I learned that an American Blue Pit Bull Terrier (ABPBT) is quite simply one with a “blue” coat and nose. They can range anywhere from a light gray to deep charcoal, almost black color. Also, ABPBT’s have grayish nose leather rather than the more common black nose. Blue Pit Bulls ARE NOT a separate breed or a distinct bloodline of the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT).

What causes the blue-gray color is a dilution of the color black.  The genetic make-up of a blue dog contains a recessive trait that causes the color pigmentation to gather around the middle of the hair shaft, thus leaving the tips colorless.  What we see with our eyes is the light to dark gray that is commonly called blue.

You may remember, from freshman biology class, that in order for a recessive trait, like blue eyes in humans, to be expressed in the offspring, BOTH parents must carry the gene for the recessive trait.  (If anyone knows where Mrs. Lobby, my highschool biology teacher, is, PLEASE TELL HER TO READ THIS!! I WAS PAYING ATTENTION 🙂 ) If you add to that, the alleles that influence coat and skin color and color patterns are found in several places along the canine genome, you then can truly understand how tricky producing a particular color can be.

Breeders who specialize in ABPBT’s, in order to ensure the production of blue pups, must necessarily limit themselves to a very small gene pool. It’s not uncommon for breeders to use dogs from the same families over and over in repeated breedings to bring the recessive traits to the fore. This practice, when overdone, is associated with both health and behavioral problems. Please contact Taylor Blue’s Kennel for more information on theirs and other kennels breeding practices.

The most common health problems associated with ABPBT’s are dermatological diseases including alopecia, hot spots and mange. These conditions are very treatable and over time, completely resolved if your canine inherits it.

According to The Encyclopedia of the American Pit Bull Terrier, “the cells that create pigmentation interact closely with the neurological and immune systems.” The article suggests that this may explain why dogs with recessive coloration, like the ABPBT, seem more susceptible to neurological conditions and immune disorders.

All breeds of canines have genetic “issues”. I was warned to not get a Dalmatian because they are prone to deafness. At age 7, my Dalmatian, Pixel, has shown no signs of this, however, she still does not listen to me. My point – get the American Blue Pit Bull Terrier if you are moved to do so. I took one look into Tiburon’s baby blue eyes and fell in love – despite his potential to develop skin issues he is a part of our family “in sickness and in health.” After not even a week of ownership he has wiggled his way into my wife’s, Pixel’s, Navajo’s and my heart forever.