Introduction
Have you ever seen the thin layer of skin connecting each two toes of your Pitbulls? Do you know what it is? Well, it is “the webbing”. Lots of people have affirmed that their Pitbulls have webbed feet and they enjoy swimming so much. But do all of the Pitbulls have webbed feet? Let’s find out!
What Is Webbed Feet?
Webbed feet are made up of toes and a thin skin which is called the membrane. The membrane has a function, that is to connect the toes, making the feet look exactly like duck feet. Feet with webbing allow the animal to paddle through the water quite easily.
Webbed feet are known as a common feature of ducks, swans, albatrosses and amphibious animals. In fact, some breeds of dogs do have webbed feet like ducks and most of them are standard dogs.
Dogs with webbed feet are believed to be very good at swimming and sinking so that they are loved by those who like water sports. Moreover, they can move easily in swampy terrain, so they are a good assistant for hunters.
Why Do Dogs Have Webbed Feet?
Interestingly, all kind of dog breeds used to have this feature. However, due to the evolution process, the membrane in dogs disappears because it’s no more necessary when they can adapt the mainland.
However, some dog breeds still retain this trait throughout the history. Until now, they are seen as a swimming expert and usually given several small duties like catching fish or chasing birds under the water.
Do Pitbulls Have Webbed Feet?
One thing you must know at first is that Pitbull dogs are a combination between many dog breeds like the hybrid of American Bulldog and Pitbull.They aren’t really a standard breed, except The American Pit Bull Terrier which is recognized as a purebred dog by the United Kennel Club and American Dog Breeders Association.
In overall, the majority of Pitbulls are non-webbed feet. There are some special cases that Pitbulls do have webbed feet, but the possibility is extremely low. The explanation for webbed feet in Pitbulls is quite easy: they have the gene of water dogs. Perhaps, their grandfather or grandmother belong to standard water dog.
In fact, sometimes dog owners misunderstand webbed feet with connective tissue. All species have connective tissue, including humans. So, if you see it on your dogs, don’t affirm that your dogs have webbed feet.
Is Having Webbed Feet Dangerous?
Having webbed feet is not a problem. However, if your dogs don’t belong to the webbed-feet breeds but they still have webbed feet, be careful because it can be a sign of having other health problems.
Cleft Palate
There’re several cases in which dogs have webbed feet accompanied by cleft palate. Dogs with this condition are diagnosed to have abnormalities in genetics. To normal dogs, their mouth’s roof must stick together which makes it have no blank space. However, to dogs have cleft palate, two sides of their mouth don’t link together. Instead, their toes which shouldn’t be fused, now fuse together.
Scoliosis
This is the condition in which your dog’s spine bend to another side. The most obvious sign of this condition is that dogs have difficulty in walking. One leg is stronger than others and they may be very sensitive in the back area.
If dogs with scoliosis aren’t be cured as soon as possible, they will suffer the pain and walk difficultly forever.
Which Dogs Belong To The Webbed-Feet Breeds?
Pitbulls are not the only webbed-feet dog. The following is some other breeds of webbed-feet dogs:
The Dachshund
Photo credit: Ekaterina Brusnika
Dachshunds are beloved by many people around the world due to their short, small, cute appearance. Although having webbing on their feet, their advantage is not swimming but digging. Their membrane plays an important role in moving the dirt out rapidly. In fact, in the past, they are used and trained to hunt, especially small preys like rabbits and squirrels. Like other breeds, there are hybrids those one of their parents is Dachshund, such as the Dachshund Husky Mix.
The Weimaraner
Photo credit: cely
Weimaraner is a name of a German dog breed which has a unique grey coat. Weimaraner is preferred commonly in Europe. Because of being good at swimming and very active, they are a good choice for being police dogs and rescue dogs. Besides, they are recommended to be raised by those who have an independent life.
Having webbed feet has made them a good choice for those who love water sports. Their webbed feet help them run and swim very fast under the water and other terrains.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Also called “Toller”, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever has a very thick coat which allows them to live in the cold environment. They are pretty active and strong. Due to their webbed feet, for more than hundreds of years, they are raised to help farmer take care of ducks. They also help hunters attract the waterflow into the shore for asking shoots.
The Otterhound
Otterhound is a relative to a rare British dog breed. They are considered rare as well. The name has told us all: Otterhound’s main hunting target is otters. They have a very strong sense of smell, which helps them find otters and shelters easily. But if you want to raise one, it’s not easy because they are listed as a vulnerable dog breed, which means they can be extinct.
Conclusion
Now, you’ve got the answer for the question “Do Pitbulls have webbed feet?”. You shouldn’t surprise if your guess isn’t right. Pitbulls can’t have webbed feet. If they do, you should take him to the vet to be checked for a clear answer. They may be a descendant of a water dog breed or they’re getting health problems.
If you have any questions, please leave them below. We will answer them as soon as possible. Thank you for reading and have a nice day!
