What Do Pit Bulls Usually Die From? Common Health Risks Explained
Pit bulls are strong, loyal dogs. Many live long, healthy lives. But like all breeds, they face certain health problems as they age. Knowing what risks they face helps owners catch signs early and give the best care possible. This can add years to their lives and make those years better.
On this page, we’ll explain the most common reasons pit bulls pass away. We’ll go over major diseases, genetic problems, physical injuries, and ways to keep them moving and comfortable as they get older. If your dog struggles to walk, there are tools, like dog wheelchairs, that can help them stay active and happy.
How long do pit bulls live on average?
Most pit bulls live between 11 and 14 years. Many live even longer with good care. Like people, their lifespan depends on many things: diet, activity level, genetics, and regular vet care. Some dogs face health problems earlier in life, while others stay strong until old age.
Pit bulls are known for being tough, but their bodies can still wear down with time. Watching their weight, giving daily exercise, and staying ahead of health issues makes a big difference in how long and how well they live.
What is the most common cause of death in pit bulls?
The most common cause of death in pit bulls is cancer. As they get older, cancer becomes more likely. It can affect different parts of the body, including the skin, bones, or internal organs. Some cancers grow slowly and can be treated if caught early. Others move fast and are harder to manage.
Lumps, swelling, changes in appetite, bleeding, or sudden tiredness can all be signs something is wrong. If your pit bull shows any of these, it’s important to see a vet quickly. Regular checkups also help find issues before they become serious.
What other major health problems do pit bulls face?
Do pit bulls have joint problems?
Yes. Joint issues are very common, especially in their hips and knees. Hip dysplasia is one of the biggest concerns. It’s a condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit right. Over time, this causes pain, swelling, and trouble walking.
Knee injuries are another common problem. The most frequent is a torn ligament in the knee, which can happen during play or running. When one leg is hurt, the other leg has to work harder, which can cause more injury.
Dogs with joint problems may limp, avoid stairs, or have trouble getting up. When walking becomes painful, many dogs benefit from a wheelchair. A dog wheelchair supports their back or back legs so they can still move, play, and stay active without putting weight on their sore joints.
What skin issues are common in pit bulls?
Pit bulls often have sensitive skin. Allergies are very common. These can come from food, grass, dust, or even shampoos. They may scratch a lot, chew on their paws, or develop red patches or sores.
Their short coats also leave them more open to sunburn and other skin damage. They may develop rashes or even small tumors on the skin. Regular baths with a gentle shampoo, staying out of harsh sunlight, and treating allergies early help keep their skin healthy.
Are thyroid problems something to worry about?
Yes. Many pit bulls develop low thyroid levels, especially as they get older. This condition, called hypothyroidism, can slow them down. They may gain weight, lose hair, seem cold all the time, or act tired.
This problem is easy to diagnose with a blood test and usually treated with a daily pill. If your pit bull starts acting different or doesn’t lose weight with diet changes, it’s worth checking their thyroid levels.
Can pit bulls develop bloat?
They can. Bloat is a very dangerous condition that can happen suddenly. It causes the stomach to fill with gas and twist. This cuts off blood flow and can be deadly if not treated right away.
Signs of bloat include a swollen belly, pacing, drooling, or trying to vomit without success. If you see this, take your dog to the vet immediately. Feeding smaller meals and avoiding heavy exercise right after eating can lower the risk.
Do pit bulls have heart problems?
Some pit bulls are born with heart conditions or develop them over time. A common issue is a narrowing of the main artery that carries blood from the heart. This can cause fainting, trouble breathing, or sudden death in severe cases.
Regular checkups can help catch heart problems early. Vets can listen to their heartbeat and may use tests to track how well the heart is working.
Can pit bulls lose mobility as they age?
Yes. Like people, pit bulls may lose strength or balance as they get older. Some develop nerve issues that affect how they walk. Others may slow down due to joint pain or injury.
When a dog starts having trouble walking, it doesn’t mean their good days are over. Tools like a dog wheelchair give them back their freedom. Instead of dragging legs or struggling to get around, they can move comfortably and safely.
How do accidents and injuries impact their life span?
Pit bulls are active and playful. They love to run, jump, and wrestle. But this energy also puts them at risk for injury. They may jump from high places, twist a leg, or get into rough play with other dogs.
Serious injuries can shorten a dog’s life or cause long-term pain. Watching them closely, using leashes in unsafe areas, and keeping play under control helps prevent these accidents.
If an injury leads to long-term mobility loss, a dog wheelchair can change everything. It takes pressure off their body, prevents more damage, and lets them enjoy their usual activities with less risk.
How can owners help pit bulls live longer, healthier lives?
Here are key steps:
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Schedule regular veterinary visits.
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Watch for early signs: limping, lumps, coughing, poor coordination.
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Maintain healthy weight and proper nutrition.
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Provide moderate daily exercise.
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Protect skin: shade, monitor for allergies, groom often.
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When mobility weakens, use supportive measures. Wheelchairs from Walkin’ Pets are designed to help dogs stay mobile, confident, and active. Using a wheelchair is not about giving up, but about giving your dog a better life.
These steps make a real difference. When pit bulls stay active and pain-free, they not only live longer, they enjoy life more. Helping them move better, even with a wheelchair, can keep them playful and connected to the people they love.
Giving your pit bull their best life
Pit bulls don’t ask for much. They want to be with their people, play, and enjoy simple things. But as they age or deal with health problems, they rely on us to help them feel good.
Whether it’s spotting early signs of cancer, supporting their joints, or helping them walk again with a dog wheelchair, small steps go a long way. Even if their legs don’t work like before, their heart still wants to move, explore, and be by your side.
When you give them tools to stay active, you're giving them more time to enjoy the life they love with you.