Last Updated on September 20, 2023
The American Pitbull Terrier is a misunderstood puppy. Although he has a poor reputation, it’s not his fault. The Golden Retriever is America’s most beloved canine friend. People, children, and media love the Golden Retriever.
But does that make the Golden Retriever the best family doggo? No! Both these dogs make great family pets. It’s up to you to decide which one best suits your lifestyle.
This guide will explain the differences and similarities of these two breeds. We will discuss everything from their past to how it affects their personalities and how they might behave as a family pet. You will also find out about their grooming routine (which can be a big difference) as well as their puppy price differences. They are actually more alike than you might think. Let’s find out!
Breed History
Breeding history is both fascinating and vital. It can reveal a lot about the purpose of a breed, which helps to explain their personality. It will also help you understand how the public perceives a Pitbull’s dog. Let’s take another look.
Pitbull
The American Pitbull Terrier, (APBT), is considered the original Pitbull breed. Pitbull refers to a group of four Pitbull-type breeds. When dog fighting was outlawed in America, fighting dogs from England were brought over to America.
Over time, the most powerful fighters were crossed to make even stronger dogs. These guys were called the APBT. Because of their history in dogfighting, some consider them dangerous. Dogfighting was banned in 1994. Breed lovers bred the most friendly and obedient Pitbulls in order to make them well-rounded dogs.
Slowly, humans have come back to love Pitbulls, thanks to education and famous Pitbulls like Petey of ‘The Little Rascals/Our Gang. He is an excellent choice for therapy and emotional support dogs. American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize Pitbull. He can still be registered with the United Kennel Club (UKC).
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever was designed and created in the 19th century across the pond in Scotland. Dudley Majoribanks was the first Lord Tweedmouth. He kept meticulous records about how he created the “perfect gun dog .’ Majoribanks”‘s Yellow Retriever. There were also some Bloodhounds and Irish Setters. Goldens are well-known for their gentle nature and can easily collect their quarry without causing any damage.
Golden Retrievers made their way over to America via Canada in the early 20th century. But their popularity shot up in the 1970s. This was mainly due to former President Gerald Ford’s pet Golden, named Liberty, who showed her lovely self off to the nation. The AKC recognizes them as one of the top 3 dog breeds in America. They are also highly sought-after for therapy and assistance work.
Appearance
These two dogs look different when it comes to overall appearance. Although the Pitbull is well-known for his intimidating looks and scary appearance, we think he’s adorable! The Golden Retrievers’ family-friendly nature is something that children and adults alike love.
The Pitbull is usually the smaller pup of the two breeds, and he weighs between 30 and 65 pounds. He typically measures between 17 and 21 inches tall, from paw to shoulder. He is a medium-sized to large dog. The Golden measures between 21.5 and 24 inches tall and weighs between 55 and 75 pounds. Making him a large-sized dog always.
The Pitbull is athletic and square due to his short hair. His long, thin tail is complemented by a strong gait. He is softer than Golden Retrievers. Although his coat hides his muscles and strength, he is much more powerful than he appears. The perfect gun dog, the Golden Retriever, is hardworking despite his beautiful appearance. The Golden has a thicker tail and plumper hair. He also has a slimmer face.
The Pitbull’s short, smooth coat is slightly stiff but not stiff. The Golden’s coat, which is medium in length, is much softer and silkier. Both have double-coats which help regulate their temperature. The golden retriever has one color, although it comes in many shades. It is, of course, gold. It ranges from deep reddish gold to very white and shimmery. Pitbull can be found in many colors. Merle is the only prohibited color in the Ring.
Temperament
The personalities of both breeds are more alike than they are. different. This surprise many people. Many people assume Pitbulls are just mean fighting machines, even though they have never met one. Both of these dogs make great family additions, as we mentioned earlier. It’s up to you to find the personality that suits your needs. The temperament of a dog’s personality is more important than its appearance.
Let us start by saying that these two guys are among the most loyal dogs around. Their lives are intertwined with us, and their breed purpose is dependent upon us. Even if you don’t have a Pitbull, Golden or other breed, you can be certain that they will develop a strong bond with you. Both Pitbulls and Pitbulls love children more than the Pitbull. He’s not called a “nanny dog” for nothing.
They are both easy to make friends with. They are not great guard dogs. If they’re in danger, the Pitbull will defend his family more than any other dog. The trustworthiness of Golden Retrievers is far greater and they are less likely to pick up on danger than the Pittie. Both dogs are able to sense human emotions. These dogs will give you the love and cuddles you need when you’re feeling low.
If you are feeling energetic and ready to have some fun, they will be too. Both dogs are high-energy and love to play. This is why children love them so much. They’re not couch potatoes, so they need active families that have the time to stimulate them and exercise. The Golden breed is likely to be the more calm of the two. Many families love his balanced nature. The Pitbull is likely to be seen sweeping the floors with his zoomies.
Exercise
Both dogs have similar exercise requirements. They are much more active than the average doggo. They don’t require as much exercise as a Husky or Kelpie. To be happy and healthy, they both require one-hour of exercise each day. They could continue for several hours, but they would rather relax or nap afterward.
While each dog is unique, Golden Retrievers tend to be the most active of the two breeds. He’s an ex-worker dog so he needs some stimulation. Both dogs need to have access to a variety of toys to keep them entertained and safe. Golden retrievers will play with just about any toy, but Pitbull toys should be a little more durable.
And if they don’t, they will become problematic and destructive. Don’t let the golden-haired angel fool you! If he chooses, he can be just like a Pittie.
Training
Both dogs are intelligent, biddable breeds that just want to please their master. These two characteristics make them both dreamboats for training. They are used frequently as therapy, assistance, search and rescue, and therapy dogs. This means you don’t have to be a professional dog trainer in order to successfully train them. You can train both breeds of dogs with a little bit of research and a lot of effort.
The positive reinforcement method. is the best training option for these two men. You reward them for good behavior and encourage them to do it again. It’s that easy! You must start training immediately and stay consistent. These two gentlemen are both well-behaved and lovely, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need to be taught the ropes.
socializing with your dog. is an important aspect of dog training Although it is easy, this process requires patience and consistency. Mixing your dog with other dogs, humans, children and people can help you to get the best out of them. They will learn new skills and be more confident in their new environment. This is especially important for the Pittie due to his history of dogfighting. And it can be an ongoing process to remind him to be polite.
As both breeds desire human companionship, as you may have realized by now. This could both experience separation anxiety. This is especially true if they are left alone as puppies. When they are puppies, be sure to only leave them alone for a short time. Get a crate and train them to use it. Even if they’re not anxious, it can help prevent future problems and give them their own space in your home.
Health
Both dogs are healthy. But the Pittie usually enjoys better health than the Golden, and he enjoys a long lifespan of 12 to 16 years. Compared to the Golden, who typically enjoys 10 to 12 years. Both are susceptible to inheritable diseases. If you’re considering adopting one of these dogs, it is wise to do your research.
The Pitbull is susceptible to a joint condition called Hip Dysplasia. It is very common in many breeds. It can cause mobility loss and increase the risk of hip dislocation. Problems with his sensitive skin are another concern. The Pitbull bloodline is known for skin conditions like ichthyosis and demodectic mange. Many suffer from skin reactions that can cause flare-ups.
Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are both common in Golden Retrievers. Good breeders will check for heart conditions, including subvalvular ortic stenosis. The Golden also suffers from various eye conditions, such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and pigmentary uveitis. Another rare condition is neuronal ceroid lipsofuscinoses, which is more common in Goldens then most other breeds. It is a central nervous system degenerative disease.
Finally, the Golden Retriever is the highest cancer rate of all dog breeds. Responsible breeders will screen dogs for cancer and never breed them. While you can’t prevent cancer, it is possible to work with reputable breeders.
Nutrition
The amount of food you give your Pitbull depends on his size, age, activity level, and what kind of kibble he is eating. A Pitbull will eat two to three cups of food per day. The larger Golden Retriever will consume three to four cups per day, while the Pitbulls will eat two to three times as much. To ensure your dog isn’t hungry, make sure you follow all the instructions.
Stick to high-quality kibble that provides a healthy diet with healthy omega fatty acid. These are vital for overall well-being, joint, heart, skin, and coat health. Both the Golden and the Pittie need these things.
Stick to a top-branded kibble suggested for the Golden Retriever, and a high-quality kibble recommended for the Pittie. Only difference is that the Golden Retriever will require a kibble made for large breeds.
Grooming
The Pitbull’s grooming schedule differs from the Golden Retriever’s. The Pittie’s grooming routine. is quite simple, as you might imagine. To remove dirt and dead hair, his coat needs to be brushed once per week. To keep him looking young, he needs to be brushed once a week. A simple bristle brush is the best tool for a Pittie. He is an average shedder, but his length and smaller size mean that his shedding is less noticeable.
A Golden Retriever’s coat is his best asset, and it is relatively high maintenance. He should be brushed two to three times per week throughout the year. He will need to be brushed during shedding seasons. Did you know that ‘blowing his hair’ is a term? This is what happens to the Golden. It literally blows off during the shedding season because he sheds so many. We hope you’re prepared.
Both the Pittie as well as the Golden should be bathed every two to three weeks. You can’t bathe them more often than that as it will cause irritation and damage to their natural oils. A natural shampoo for sensitive skin will be beneficial to the Pittie. And the Golden will much prefer a formula recommended for Golden Retrievers. Always use grooming products that are specifically designed for dogs when grooming your dog. Use toothpaste for their daily brushing!
Puppy Prices
The price of a Pittie pup from a reputable breeder usually starts at around $1,000. It is about the same as a Golden Retriever. However, Goldens are more expensive if they are bred from champion breeding lines. It depends on where you live, and which breeder you work for. Adoption is an option to purchasing a puppy, and the costs are usually lower.
Search for a experienced breeder who invites you to meet the pups in their natural environment. You can also obtain the necessary health certificates. Do not work with irresponsible breeders or, worse, puppy mills. While the initial price may be lower than expected, it is important to consider the future costs of behavioral or genetic problems.
Additionally, there are ongoing costs for owning a dog. You will need to set up your home so that your dog has all the necessary amenities. The Labrador is slightly bigger and has more health issues. The Pittie will likely need special insurance or fees to license under BSL laws. The overall cost of these two breeds is likely to be minimal.
Final Thoughts
The Pitbull and the Golden Retriever are very different. They are still beautiful, but they look very different. They are very similar in personality. Both make happy, healthy, and fun dogs for their families. It is important to choose the right family.
A Golden requires more care than the Pittie, but will likely be around longer. You can use all the information above to help you choose between the two breeds. We are confident that you won’t be disappointed with either breed.