Size range:
Medium: 20-30 inches; 25-45 pounds.

Kid-tolerance scale:
Excellent

Average lifespan:
12 years

Overall behavior of breed:
These dogs have a poor reputation, as have often been mistaken for fighting dogs. They are solidly built, and tend to try and go through obstacles instead of around them! However, they are extremely loyal and loving, and very tolerant of kids pulling, pushing, hugging them. Need firm handling to start with, to show who's the boss (as with any dog), but given the right start in life, make excellent pets for even young children. Not the prettiest of dogs to look at, but a firm friend of the family once established.

Explain why this breed was good/not good with your kids:
I rescued one of these dogs, which had been starved, badly beaten, kicked downstairs resulting in broken bones, and generally ill-treated. Although I was wary at first, I have found her to be very loving, friendly, and fiercely protective of my kids. Despite her poor start in life, she has a lovely temperament and is "best friend" to my kids, who hug her, wrestle with her, and play tug of war with her toys and chew sticks. Gets very anxious if we "fun fight," as she does not want to fight the adults, but also wants to protect the kids!

Typical colors:
Most popular in solid white, or with a black patch on one eye, but also come in brindle or red and white.

Does this breed shed?
Yes

Special grooming needs:
Use a special glove to stroke (and groom) on a daily basis. 10 minutes a day will reduce shedding to a minimum. Low maintenance.

Daily exercise requirements:
Needs plenty of exercise - but this can be on the lead or off - will cope with city living as well as countryside.

Other comments or suggestions
Treat them with frim, but loving care and you'll have a friend for life!