Red Nose Pitbull: Your Complete Guide

Stocky, medium-sized, and energetic, the red nose pitbull is a unique type of American pitbull terrier characterized by its red or copper coat and matching colored nose. Red nose pitbulls are often misunderstood due to the complicated historical background of the pitbull dog breed, though they are rising in popularity in today’s world.

Red nose pitbulls are loyal, independent, and affectionate dogs, and they are a good choice of breed for individuals that are experienced with dog handling and prepared to deal with the potential controversy of owning a pitbull. If you’re thinking of adding this breed to your family, our complete guide will give you all of the information you need to know about adopting and caring for a red nose pitbull.

Quick Look at the Red Nose Pitbull

Below is a quick glance at this special breed in terms of its physical characteristics, lifespan, temperament, and grooming needs.

What Is the History of Red Nose Pitbulls?

Red nose pitbulls are a specific bloodline of what is now known as the American pitbull terrier. This breed originated in England after English terriers and bulldogs were crossbred in the mid-1800s. The resulting breed was referred to as bull terriers, and this line of dogs eventually developed into the Old Family Red Nose breed of dogs, with Old Family referring to the original English line of dogs this breed owes its genetics too. What we know today as the red nose pitbull was brought to the United States by Irish immigrants around the middle of the 20th century.

Initially, red nose pitbulls were used as hunting and fighting dogs, and they were bred for their strength and stockiness. Over the years, the pitbull breed earned the name of ‘nanny dog,’ as they were shown to be quite affectionate and protective over the children they lived around.

Today, the red nose pitbull and all other types of pitbulls still live under the controversy of having a reputation for being a fighting dog. Opinions on this lovable breed are changing, but there is still a long way to go, as many individuals operating illegal dog fighting events still elect to use pitbulls and pitbull mixes within their rings. However, many organizations are dedicated to the preservation of this unique breed, educating others about pitbulls, and to putting a stop to dog fighting throughout the nation.

What Do Red Nose Pitbulls Look Like?

True to their name, red nose pitbulls have a red or copper-colored nose, along with a short, smooth coat of fine fur that matches. Their fur may appear in a range of reddish or brown-red and copper colors, and some red nose pitbulls might have patches of cream or white around their chest area. The eyes of a red nose pitbull are typically golden or amber.

What Size Is a Red Nose Pitbull?

Red nose pitbulls are considered medium-sized dog, and they average around 30 to 70 pounds. Red nose pitbulls stand between 17 and 22 inches tall, and male dogs tend to weigh more and be larger overall than female dogs of this breed.

What Is a Red Nose Pitbulls Coat Type and Length?

Red nose pitbulls have a short and smooth coat of fur, and their fur tends to be on the finer side. Their coats typically shed twice a year, and these dogs are quite soft and velvety to the touch.

What Is a Red Nose Pitbulls Temperament?

Red nose pitbulls are known for being independent, confident, and loyal to their owners. They are incredibly protective over their families, which makes them great watchdogs and a good choice for acting as a guard dog. Red nose pitbulls are generally easygoing, and they love to spend time with their families throughout the day – they love both cuddling up with their owners on the couch and spending time outside exercising and playing.

In general, red nose pitbulls are energetic. They love to run around, and because they are medium-sized dogs, they need quite a bit of exercise to stay happy. Some pitbulls may be a bit stubborn, and others might have a high prey drive, which means that an experienced hand and basic obedience training go a long way with this dog breed to keep them well-mannered and behaved both inside and outside the home.

Are Red Nose Pitbulls Good With Kids?

Red nose pitbulls are generally good with kids, and they have historically earned themselves the name of ‘nanny dog’ due to how watchful and protective they are over their children. However, young children who don’t know how to interact with animals or children who play too rough with a pitbull aren’t a good fit, especially if your red nose pitbull has behavioral issues or is in the process of training basic obedience.

Are Red Nose Pitbulls Good With Other Animals?

Red nose pitbulls might be good with other animals, typically when they are brought up alongside another cat or a dog. Because this breed is protective, they might find themselves acting aggressively toward other animals that are introduced into the home, resulting in behaviors such as barking and growling.

And, due to their history as a hunting dog, red nose pitbulls have a higher prey drive than some other dogs. This means that they may chase smaller animals and cats, especially if not properly trained to resist the urge to chase.

Are Red Nose Pitbulls Aggressive?

Red nose pitbulls have a controversial history due to their use as fighting dogs, though this dog isn’t particularly aggressive by nature. Red nose pitbulls, and other types of pitbulls, are intelligent and easily trained. Because they are strong, they can be taught to fight if the wrong people end up adopting this dog.

Your red nose pitbull may have a stronger prey drive or be more territorial, behaviors which result in food aggression, snapping, or growling. However, proper obedience and manners training, experienced dog handling, and behavioral modifications can help curb any unwanted behaviors in your red nose pitbull.

Do Red Nose Pitbulls Bark?

Red nose pitbulls bark around an average amount, and their barks may be loud from time to time. They are not known for being particularly vocal, and they typically only bark a lot if they believe someone or something is a threat to them or their families. If your red nose pitbull is engaging in lots of unnecessary barking, they may be trained out of their excessively vocal nature.

Are Red Nose Pitbulls Affectionate?

Red nose pitbulls are surprisingly affectionate, and they love to cuddle and spend time with their owners. This loyal, loving dog enjoys being cozy, and once they’ve gotten all their energy out for the day, you can expect them to be found next to you on the couch or snoozing in their bed. If your red nose pitbull is socialized properly, they will easily warm up to strangers and play with other dogs they meet outdoors.

Are Red Nose Pitbulls Intelligent?

Red nose pitbulls are considered above average in terms of intelligence, and they love to learn new things. Spending time training your red nose pitbull is great to help them develop public manners, and it helps to keep your dog mentally stimulated. This breed is likely able to learn complex tasks, and they are curious and alert about the world around them.

Are Red Nose Pitbulls Energetic?

Red nose pitbulls are energetic, and they need to be walked a minimum of twice a day for at least 20 to 30 minutes. This medium-sized dog loves to run and play, and they will need approximately an hour of dedicated playtime each day. Not only does ample exercise help keep your dog healthy, but it helps to prevent health issues and behavioral problems that occur due to boredom or lack of stimulation.

Are Red Nose Pitbulls Easy to Train?

It’s fairly easy to train a red nose pitbull, as these dogs are intelligent and confident. They enjoy learning new things, and the opportunity to spend time learning with their owners will be met with excitement. You can train a red nose pitbull with complex tasks, and they might even be able to complete agility training depending on their general size and energy levels.

Are Red Nose Pitbulls Good Watchdogs?

Red nose pitbulls make good watchdogs and guard dogs, as they are alert and protective over their owners. They are brave and independent, and they will alert their owners with loud barks if they notice something that appears to be a threat. Red nose pitbulls can be quite frightening to intruders or strangers who mean harm, and because of this, they can make exceptionally good watchdogs.

Are Red Nose Pitbulls Good Service Dogs?

Red nose pitbulls may be able to complete service dog tasks, as they are very dedicated to their owners and enjoy learning new things. Depending on their specific size, they may be suitable for mobility or guidance support, and they can be trained as medical alert or psychiatric service dogs. Red nose pitbulls are fairly strong, so they will likely be able to open and close doors, retrieve items, and interrupt any negative behaviors an individual needs assistance with.

Many individuals also find that red nose pitbulls make good emotional support animals, as they love spending time with their owners and are happy to cuddle up on the couch or offer the support that their owner needs.

How to Care for a Red Nose Pitbull?

Red nose pitbulls require ample exercise, attention, and proper nutritional and medical care to live their best life alongside you. You can expect to walk your red nose pitbull at least twice a day and spend around an hour playing with them each day; when left alone, your red nose pitbull should have interactive toys that they can utilize to keep them stimulated and out of trouble.

You should give your red nose pitbull their own space in your home with a bed and other essentials. Proper training will help your red nose pitbull behave in public and curb any unwanted behaviors, such as chasing small animals and being destructive or too rowdy indoors. Make sure that you introduce your red nose pitbull to other pets around your home slowly and always monitor interactions to ensure both animals remain happy and unharmed.

Try not to leave your red nose pitbull alone for more than six to eight hours a day, as they do get lonely, and they might suffer from separation anxiety.

Do You Need to Groom a Red Nose Pitbull?

Red nose pitbulls are relatively low-maintenance dogs, and they don’t need to be groomed that often. Brushing every so often, baths when they’re dirty, and regular nail trims are good for keeping your dog looking and feeling their best. You may want to take them to a professional groomer once or twice a year for a spruce-up and spa day.

Do Red Nose Pitbulls Shed?

Red nose pitbulls aren’t huge shedders, and they will shed about an average amount. Red nose pitbulls typically shed their coat twice a year, during seasonal changes. You may find more fur than usual around your home during this shedding season.

What Health Problems Do Red Nose Pitbulls Have?

Red nose pitbulls are generally a healthy breed, though they are prone to allergies and skin conditions. Excessive itching, hot spots, and other irritation might be the result of environmental or food allergies, which is why it’s important to take your dog to the vet if you notice them itching or acting uncomfortable.

Red nose pitbulls are also prone to joint pain, eye diseases, and hip dysplasia. Regular veterinary visits, a healthy diet, and a healthy daily routine are essential for preventing any health issues and catching problems your dog may have before they become serious.

How Long Do Red Nose Pitbulls Live?

On average, red nose pitbulls have a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Proper care and ensuring your dog has regular veterinary visits are essential for giving your red nose pitbull the longest, healthiest, and happiest life possible.

What Should a Red Nose Pitbull Eat?

Red nose pitbulls should eat between one and a half to two cups of high-quality wet or dry food per day, depending on the specific size of your dog and the caloric content of the food. You will also need to take into account any special diet that your dog needs to be on, in addition to any health issues your dog has. Work with your veterinarian if you have any questions about what to feed your red nose pitbull.

Is a Red Nose Pitbull the Right Dog for Me?

Red nose pitbulls are unique, loving, and confident dog, and many individuals love the high energy and loyal nature of this breed. A red nose pitbull might be the right dog for you if you have experience handling dogs, if you’re prepared to undertake the prejudice that might come with adopting a pitbull, and if you’re able to dedicate the amount of time needed to properly train your dog to avoid any behavioral issues from developing.

Red nose pitbulls do best in homes where they aren’t left alone for long hours and where all members of the family know how to properly interact with them, avoiding young children and rough play. When given the right environment to thrive, the red nose pitbull is an affectionate, friendly, and loving dog that’s the perfect addition to an active lifestyle.