See ‘Hulk’ — The Biggest Pit Bull Ever Recorded

While many see pit bulls as aggressive and threatening, these dogs are usually very gentle and affectionate given the right breeding and training circumstances. Pit bulls are loved by owners across the world, and it’s easy to see why. These playful and joyous creatures bring a smile to everyone who encounters them. However, it is understandable why people might be skeptical of the breed at first. Many pit bulls are massive, formidable-looking dogs. Some pit bulls have weighed well over 150 pounds, gaining them national attention. Discover the pit bull that weighs just under 174 pounds!

Background on Pit Bulls

Pit bulls were first introduced as a breed in the 19^th century in the United Kingdom. They were originally used for hunting and managing livestock. However, pit bulls are now owned as pets in many homes across America and beyond. The pit bull’s official name is the American pit bull terrier or, simply put, the pit bull terrier.

The American Kennel Club does not recognize the pit bull as its breed but, rather, as a collection of several breeds that fall under the pit bull category. On the other hand, the United Kennel Club and the American Dog Breeders Association do recognize the pit bull as its own, distinct breed.

Many people began to breed and train this dog to fight against other dog breeds. Aggression against other breeds was emphasized while aggression against humans was discouraged. Unfortunately, dog fighting, now illegal in the United States, was a popular activity for many pit bulls, and some trainers encouraged a vicious attitude toward their dogs. This encouragement led to the aggression that many humans experience from pit bulls today.

Due to some pit bulls’ ferociousness, legislation has been passed to regulate the owning and breeding of this dog breed in many areas. In other cases, highly aggressive pit bulls have been euthanized so that humans are not attacked and seriously injured by these dogs. However, many have fought against these regulations and euthanized pit bulls. These people believe that the trainers are responsible for pit bull misbehavior, not the pit bulls themselves. In this way, responsible ownership, breeding, and training are highly encouraged for anyone who chooses to have a pit bull.

Types of Pit Bull Breeds

The term “pit bull” encompasses more than one dog breed. Four different pit bull breeds, aside from the American Pit Bull Terrier, stand out when discussing the pit bull to its fullest extent. Below are some prominent pit bull breeds that everyone should know about.

American Bully

The American bully is not nearly as old as the original American pit bull terrier. The American bully was introduced in the late 20^th century and recognized by the United Kennel Club in 2013. American bullies are broad but compact at the same time. They are also strong and muscular, making them an athletic breed. Bullies weigh between 65 and 85 pounds. They also measure between 13 and 20 inches in height. They have a wider head than the American pit bull terrier. Unlike aggressive pit bulls bred by irresponsible breeders, the American bully is known for its calm and affectionate attitude towards humans and other dog breeds. They also love to exercise and socialize.

American Staffordshire Terrier

The American Staffordshire terrier was developed in the 19^th century in England. This breed is larger than most other English bulldogs and terriers. The American Staffordshire terrier weighs between 50 and 80 pounds and has a height between 17 and 19 inches. The breed can have almost any coat color, and its coat may be patterned. While many pit bulls are used for dog fighting, the American Staffordshire terrier is a gentle breed for the most part. However, it may show aggression toward other dog breeds, and it is likely to capture prey. Overall, the American Staffordshire terrier is a great family dog, as it gets along well with humans and children. This breed loves to exercise and play.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Not to be confused with the American Staffordshire terrier, the Staffordshire bull terrier was developed in the 19^th century specifically for dog fighting. As dogfighting lost prominence, the Staffordshire bull terrier has made an incredible household pet. Staffordshire bull terriers measure between 14 and 16 inches in height and weigh between 24 and 38 pounds. These dogs are muscular and need plenty of exercise and playtime. The breed is very loyal to its owners and is an affectionate dog. Therefore, these terriers get along well in family settings and play well with children. This dog needs plenty of attention, though, as many terriers will experience separation anxiety if left alone for an extended period. Unfortunately, Staffordshire bull terriers typically do not play well with other dog breeds.

American Bulldog

The American bulldog derives from other English bulldog breeds. The breed was originally used for bull baiting, which is an activity involving dogs fighting bulls. They also were used as working dogs for agricultural purposes. The breed has a height between 20 and 28 inches and weighs between 60 and 120 pounds. The American bulldog is very loving and likes physical touch. American bulldogs are extremely loyal to their owners and families. However, this loyalty can cause them to become overprotective of their families. Therefore, proper training and socialization techniques are necessary to ensure that the American bulldog does not become hostile toward other dog breeds or humans.

The Biggest Pit Bull Ever Recorded

While most pit bull breeds weigh between 30 and 60 pounds, one famous pit bull weighs over 170 pounds! His name is “Hulk,” and he is a massive pit bull terrier crossbreed with a gentle heart. Unlike other aggressive pit bull breeds, Hulk is kind and affectionate. Despite his formidable size, Hulk shows attentive love to his family and his puppies. Something unique about Hulk’s litter is that they are worth approximately $500,000. Not only is Hulk massive in size, but he brings in massive amounts of money, too!

Hulk comes from Dark Dynasty K9s, a family-owned business nestled on 150 breathtaking acres in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.

Other Massive Pit Bulls

While Hulk remains the largest pit bull in the world, other huge pit bulls have made their claim to fame. One of these pit bulls is the son of Hulk, who weighs around 150 pounds. Below outline of some of the biggest pit bulls ever recorded.

King Kong

King Kong is the name of Hulk’s son, who weighs 150 pounds. This dog lives in New Hampshire and belongs to Hulk’s eight-puppy litter, which is worth $500,000. Despite his intimidating stature, King Kong is a gentle, kind dog like his father. King Kong gets along well with children and loves to play. King Kong serves a greater purpose, though, as his owners train him for protection services. The dog also made a debut on season three of the television show Dog Dynasty. Over 150 million people tuned in to watch King Kong on several social media platforms.

Ellis’ Kekoa

Ellis’ Kekoa is the name of a dog that weighs even more than Hulk’s son, King Kong. His owners report his weight to be much more than 150 pounds. Unlike King Kong, Ellis’ Kekoa is not a tranquil dog. She enjoys running, jumping, and playing with others. While she might not be a calm dog, Ellis’ Kekoa is sure to get everyone around her riled up.

Big Gemini Kennels

While this isn’t any single dog, Big Gemini Kennels has a reputation for breeding incredibly huge pit bulls and bullies for over a decade. Big Gemini Kennels is located in southern California and breeds dogs weighing between 150 and 170 pounds. Furthermore, Big Gemini Kennels breeds dogs whose quality rivals their size. Dogs bred at this location are known for being athletic, hardworking, gentle, and trainable.

Red Bear

Red Bear is an American bully breed that averages a weight between 163 and 175 pounds. While this breed is new to the dog scene, having been only introduced recently, the dog has already gained fame. However, the breed has yet to be recognized by any prominent kennel clubs or organizations. Nevertheless, many believe that the Red Bear is the largest pit bull breed on Earth.

For a closer look at Hulk, check out the video below!

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Sophia Tr/Shutterstock.com