American Pit Bull Terrier: History, Facts, Size, Habitat, Classification & Much More

By Emily Buono

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a remarkable and fascinating breed of dog. They have a rich history and numerous interesting facts that make them truly unique. In this blog post, we will explore their background, physical characteristics, preferred habitat, and classification.

The history of the American Pit Bull Terrier is deeply rooted in the United States. Originally bred for bull-baiting, they later became popular as farm dogs and family pets. Despite their tough and muscular appearance, these dogs are known for their affectionate and loyal nature, which has earned them the nickname of “nanny dogs” due to their gentle behavior around children.

In terms of size, American Pit Bull Terriers are considered medium to large dogs. They possess a solid and athletic build, with a height ranging from 17 to 19 inches at the shoulders. Their weight can vary between 30 to 60 pounds, depending on their gender and genetics. These strong dogs require ample exercise and a balanced diet to maintain their muscle mass.

The American Pit Bull Terrier is classified as a terrier breed. They are known for their intelligence, agility, and high energy levels. It is crucial to provide these dogs with proper training and socialization to ensure they grow up to be well-behaved and friendly members of the community. Despite their controversial reputation, when raised in a loving environment, these animals can make wonderful companions for the right owners.

So, join us as we delve deeper into the captivating world of the American Pit Bull Terrier, discovering the intriguing history, fascinating facts, notable size, preferred habitat, and unique classification of this extraordinary breed.

History of American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a breed of dog that has a long and interesting history. It is believed to have originated in the United Kingdom in the 19th century. Originally, these dogs were bred for bull and bear baiting, which were popular forms of entertainment back then. However, when these blood sports were banned in the 1830s, people began to use Pit Bulls for dog fighting. They were valued for their strength, agility, and loyalty.

In the early 20th century, the American Pit Bull Terrier gained popularity in the United States. They were seen as brave and fearless dogs, which made them appealing to many people. During this time, Pit Bulls were often used on farms as working dogs. They helped with herding livestock, guarding property, and even hunting small game. Their strong jaw muscles and determination made them excellent workers.

Unfortunately, the American Pit Bull Terrier has also received a lot of negative attention over the years. Some people believe that these dogs are inherently aggressive and dangerous. However, it is important to note that a dog’s behavior depends largely on how they are raised and treated by their owners. Pit Bulls can be friendly, loyal, and affectionate pets when they are given proper care and training. They have even been known to be good with children!

Despite their controversial reputation, many people continue to love and appreciate the American Pit Bull Terrier for the wonderful companions and working dogs that they are. With the right owners and environment, they can thrive and bring joy to people’s lives. It is important to judge each dog as an individual and not make assumptions based on their breed alone.

Importance of American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a special animal that deserves our attention and care. They are known for their loyalty, strength, and love for their families. It is important to understand that this breed is not inherently aggressive, but rather a product of its environment and upbringing. Pit Bulls can be loving and gentle companions if they are raised in a loving and responsible manner.

One reason why the American Pit Bull Terrier is important is because they can be wonderful family pets. They are very loyal and protective, making them great guardians for their loved ones. Their strength and agility also make them excellent working dogs, which is why they are often used in search and rescue, as well as therapy work. Their intelligence and desire to please their owners make them quick learners, making them excellent candidates for training and obedience.

Another reason why the American Pit Bull Terrier is important is because they have suffered from unfair stereotypes and prejudices. Many people believe that these dogs are naturally aggressive and dangerous, but this is simply not true. It is crucial for us to educate ourselves and others about this breed, in order to combat these misconceptions and promote responsible ownership. By giving Pit Bulls a chance, we can help change the negative perception that surrounds them and give them the love and care they deserve.

In conclusion, the American Pit Bull Terrier is a valuable and misunderstood breed. By providing them with a loving and responsible environment, they can thrive and become loyal and loving companions. It is important for us to spread knowledge and understanding about this breed, in order to break down unfair stereotypes and promote responsible ownership. Together, we can give these wonderful animals the future they deserve.

Amazing Facts About American Pit Bull Terrier

1. The American Pit Bull Terrier is a breed of dog that originated in the United States.
2. Despite their tough appearance, Pit Bulls are known to be affectionate and loving towards their human families.
3. They have a strong and muscular build with a short coat that comes in various colors, such as black, brown, or brindle.
4. Pit Bulls are known for their high energy levels and need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to remain happy and healthy.
5. They are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners, making them relatively easy to train.
6. Pit Bulls have a strong prey drive, which means they have a natural instinct to chase smaller animals. Therefore, early socialization with other pets is essential.
7. Contrary to popular belief, properly bred and socialized Pit Bulls can be friendly and well-behaved around people and other animals.
8. Pit Bulls are often used in therapy and assistance work due to their loyalty and gentle nature towards humans.
9. Like all dogs, proper socialization and training are vital to prevent any potential aggression or behavioral issues.
10. Pit Bulls have a strong jaw and should always be supervised when playing with chew toys to avoid any accidental damage.
11. They are generally good with children and can be a loyal and protective companion for families.
12. Due to their physical strength, Pit Bulls may require a sturdy leash and harness while being walked to ensure their safety.
13. Pit Bulls are banned or restricted in some areas due to misconceptions about their aggression, but breed-specific legislation is often seen as ineffective in reducing dog bite incidents.
14. Responsible ownership includes regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and proper nutrition to keep Pit Bulls healthy and happy.
15. The American Pit Bull Terrier, like any dog, deserves to be judged based on its individual behavior and not solely on its breed.

Can we keep American Pit Bull Terrier as our Pet?

American Pit Bull Terriers are a breed of dog that some people choose to keep as pets. These dogs are known for their strength, loyalty, and affection towards their owners. However, it is important to note that some places have laws or regulations regarding Pit Bulls due to their aggressive reputation. It is essential to consider these rules and ensure that you can provide the necessary care and attention these dogs require before deciding to keep one as a pet.

However, if we were to discuss the American Pit Bull Terriers’ extinction, it’s crucial to acknowledge that these dogs are not extinct. They are a living breed that, despite their challenges, continues to exist. Unfortunately, there are instances where certain breeds have become extinct due to various reasons such as changes in their natural habitat, diseases, or human activities. However, the American Pit Bull Terrier is not among them.

In conclusion, as long as laws and regulations permit, we can keep American Pit Bull Terriers as pets. They are still a living breed, and if one is considering keeping them, it is crucial to understand and adhere to the laws and provide a safe and loving environment for these dogs. It’s important to remember that responsible pet ownership entails proper training and socialization to ensure that these dogs can live happily and peacefully as part of a family.

Size of American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a medium-sized breed of dog that is known for its strong and muscular build. They typically weigh between 30 and 60 pounds (around 14 to 27 kilograms) and stand about 17 to 21 inches (around 43 to 53 centimeters) tall at the shoulder. However, their size can vary depending on factors such as genetics, diet, and exercise.

These dogs have a compact and solid body, with a broad chest and powerful limbs. Their heads are round and block-shaped, with strong jaws and a wide and deep muzzle. Their eyes are usually dark in color, and their ears can be natural or cropped.

Despite their strong and sturdy appearance, the American Pit Bull Terrier is actually quite agile and quick on its feet. This makes them an excellent choice for activities like agility training or obedience competitions. They are also known for their high energy levels, so regular exercise is important to keep them happy and healthy.

In summary, the American Pit Bull Terrier is a medium-sized dog with a muscular build, weighing between 30 and 60 pounds and standing 17 to 21 inches at the shoulder. They have a compact body, strong jaws, and can be quite agile despite their size. These dogs require regular exercise to maintain their health and happiness.

Habitat of American Pit Bull Terrier

The habitat of the American Pit Bull Terrier is not specific to any particular environment. These dogs can adapt and live comfortably in various habitat types, including urban areas, rural farmlands, and suburban neighborhoods. Wherever they live, they require a safe and secure space to run and play.

In urban areas, American Pit Bull Terriers can be found living in apartments or houses with fenced yards. They enjoy being close to their human companions, so living spaces with regular interaction and exercise are important. Regular walks and visits to the dog park can provide them with the exercise they need to stay healthy and happy.

In rural areas or on farmlands, American Pit Bull Terriers have more space to roam freely. They can make great companions for farmers, as they have a strong work ethic and excel at tasks like herding and guarding livestock. However, it is important to provide them with proper fencing to keep them from wandering too far.

In suburban neighborhoods, American Pit Bull Terriers need a securely fenced yard where they can play and explore. They thrive when given opportunities for exercise, mental stimulation, and socialization. Regular walks and playtime with their owners or other dogs can help to satisfy their need for activity.

Overall, the American Pit Bull Terrier can adapt to various habitats as long as they receive proper care, exercise, and attention from their human companions.

Evolution of American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a remarkable breed of dog that has a long and interesting history. Over time, this breed has gone through various changes and has evolved into the strong and athletic dog that we see today.

In the early years, the American Pit Bull Terrier was actually bred for bull-baiting and bear-baiting purposes. These dogs were known for their strength and courageous nature, as they were trained to fight with large animals. However, in the mid-19th century, these cruel activities were banned, and people started using these dogs for more companionable purposes.

As time went on, the American Pit Bull Terrier became popular as a farm dog. They were used to help with farming tasks such as herding livestock, guarding the property, and even hunting. Their intelligence and loyalty made them great working dogs. Later, people also started realizing their potential as lovable family pets and began training them to be well-behaved and friendly companions.

Today, the American Pit Bull Terrier is known for its friendly and loyal nature. They are often seen as loving family pets and can excel in various activities such as agility, obedience, and even therapy work. Despite their past, they have become well-loved and cherished by many people around the world.

In summary, the American Pit Bull Terrier has come a long way from their days of bull-baiting and bear-baiting. They have evolved to become versatile companions and working dogs, known for their strength, intelligence, and loving nature. Their journey showcases how with proper care and training, a breed can transform into something truly remarkable.

Classification of American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a breed of dog that belongs to the terrier group. It is a strong and muscular dog that was originally bred for working purposes, such as herding livestock and protecting property. These dogs are known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, as well as their determination and tenacity.

In terms of physical appearance, the American Pit Bull Terrier has a short coat that can come in a variety of colors, such as brindle, black, and white. They have a strong and muscular build, with a broad head and a powerful jaw. Their ears can be either cropped or left natural, and their tail is thick at the base and tapers to a point.

In terms of temperament, the American Pit Bull Terrier is known for being confident, courageous, and intelligent. They are generally friendly and good-natured towards people, but they can be wary of strangers. It is important to note that while this breed has a strong prey drive, proper socialization and training can help prevent aggressive behavior. It is also important for owners to provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and well-behaved.

Overall, the American Pit Bull Terrier is a strong and loyal breed that requires responsible ownership. With the right training and care, they can make loving and devoted companions. It is important for potential owners to research and understand the characteristics and needs of this breed before bringing one into their home.

Different Types of American Pit Bull Terrier

1. American Pit Bull Terriers are strong and energetic dogs, making them excellent companions for active individuals or families who enjoy outdoor activities like running or hiking. They require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

2. These dogs are known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners. They will often go to great lengths to protect and please their family members, making them excellent guard dogs and reliable companions.

3. American Pit Bull Terriers have a playful and affectionate nature. They love to be around people and enjoy receiving attention and affection. Their gentle and friendly demeanor makes them great companions for children.

4. These dogs are highly trainable and intelligent. With proper training and socialization, they can excel in various activities, such as obedience training, agility, and even therapy work. Their eagerness to please their owners makes them quick learners.

5. American Pit Bull Terriers have a high pain tolerance and are resilient, which enables them to withstand challenging physical activities. This attribute has made them popular in dog sports and competitions, such as weight pulling and dock diving.

6. Despite their strong appearance, American Pit Bull Terriers can be gentle and submissive when properly raised and socialized. They often get along well with other dogs and pets if introduced correctly and given early socialization.

7. These dogs have a strong prey drive, which means they may be prone to chasing small animals. It is essential to supervise them carefully around smaller pets to ensure everyone’s safety. Early training and positive reinforcement can help manage their prey drive effectively.

8. American Pit Bull Terriers have a short coat that is relatively low-maintenance. Regular brushing and occasional bathing are usually sufficient to keep their coat clean and healthy. However, they do shed moderately, so regular grooming can help keep shedding under control.

9. These dogs are generally healthy and have a long lifespan. However, like any breed, they may be prone to certain health conditions such as hip dysplasia or skin allergies. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy diet can help prevent or manage these issues.

10. American Pit Bull Terriers are known for their resilience and ability to overcome hardships. Despite the negative stereotypes surrounding them, many Pit Bulls have become therapy dogs and provide comfort and support to people in hospitals, nursing homes, and other therapeutic settings.

Geographical Presence of American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a type of dog that is found in many regions across the United States. These dogs are known for their strength and athleticism. They are often seen in cities, towns, and rural areas throughout the country. American Pit Bull Terriers are popular pets and are also seen in dog shows and competitions.

However, there are some regions where American Pit Bull Terriers are not as commonly found. One such region is the United Kingdom. In 1991, the UK introduced the Dangerous Dogs Act, which bans the ownership of certain breeds, including the Pit Bull Terrier. This means that American Pit Bull Terriers are not found in the UK as frequently as they are in other parts of the world.

Similarly, some countries, such as Australia and New Zealand, have strict importation laws and regulations that prohibit the entry of certain dog breeds, including American Pit Bull Terriers. These laws were put in place due to concerns about the breed’s temperament and potential aggression. As a result, American Pit Bull Terriers are not commonly found in these countries.

Overall, the American Pit Bull Terrier can be found in many regions across the United States, but they are not as commonly seen in some countries, like the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, due to various laws and regulations.

Diet of American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a strong and active animal, and their diet needs to match their energetic nature. It is important to provide them with a balanced and nutritious diet to help keep them healthy and strong.

A good diet for an American Pit Bull Terrier consists of high-quality dog food that is specifically designed for active breeds. This food is rich in protein, which is essential for their muscle development. It also contains all the necessary vitamins and minerals they need to stay healthy. It is important to choose a dog food that is free of any artificial additives and fillers, as these can be harmful to their digestive system.

In addition to dog food, it is also important to provide them with fresh water at all times. They need to stay hydrated, especially after physical activities. It is also good to include some fruits and vegetables in their diet, as these provide important vitamins and antioxidants. However, it is important to avoid giving them any foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, onions, and grapes.

In summary, a well-balanced diet is essential for the health and well-being of an American Pit Bull Terrier. They thrive on high-quality dog food that is packed with protein and free of artificial additives. Fresh water should always be available, and it is beneficial to include some fruits and vegetables in their diet. By providing them with the right diet, we can help them stay strong, active, and healthy.

Locomotion of American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a strong and active animal. It has a unique way of moving called locomotion. Locomotion is how an animal moves from one place to another.

When the American Pit Bull Terrier walks or runs, it uses all four of its legs. It puts one foot in front of the other, just like we do when we walk. But the Pit Bull’s movement is more powerful and fast. Its legs are muscular and help it move quickly. When it runs, its back legs push off the ground with force, propelling it forward. The American Pit Bull Terrier can also jump high in the air with its strong legs. It can chase after things or escape from danger using its agile and speedy locomotion.

In short, the American Pit Bull Terrier is an amazing animal with a fascinating way of moving. Its locomotion allows it to walk, run, and jump with strength and agility.

Social and Sexual Behaviour of American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is known for its friendly and sociable nature. These dogs enjoy being around people and are often very affectionate towards their human family members. They are usually eager to please and get along well with children, making them great family pets. Pit Bulls are also known to be loyal and loving towards their owners.

When it comes to socializing with other animals, the behavior of American Pit Bull Terriers can vary. Some Pit Bulls may get along well with other dogs and even with cats if they are introduced properly and given time to adjust. However, due to their strong prey drive, some Pit Bulls may not be suitable for households with small pets like birds or rabbits. It is important to introduce them to other animals gradually and under supervision to ensure everyone’s safety.

In terms of sexual behavior, Pit Bulls, like other dogs, go through mating cycles. Female Pit Bulls typically come into heat every six to eight months. During this time, they may become more affectionate, restless, and may attract attention from male dogs. Male Pit Bulls, on the other hand, may become more territorial and show signs of interest in finding a mate. It is important to be cautious during this time to prevent unwanted pregnancies and to ensure the safety of the dogs involved.

Reproduction and Lifecycle of American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a fascinating creature that goes through a unique process called reproduction, which allows them to create new puppies. This process starts when a male pit bull and a female pit bull mate. The male pit bull has special cells called sperm, which he releases during mating. These sperm cells travel through the female pit bull’s reproductive tract and try to find an egg cell. If one lucky sperm cell is successful, it combines with the egg cell to form a new life.

Once the sperm and egg cell join together, the female pit bull’s body goes through different stages to nurture and protect the developing puppies. The fertilized egg cell attaches to the lining of the female pit bull’s uterus, a special organ inside her body. Over the course of several weeks, the puppies grow inside their mother’s uterus. The mother pit bull takes extra precautions during this time to ensure her babies are safe, such as resting more, eating nutritious food, and avoiding any harm or stress.

After about two months, the puppies are ready to enter the world. The female pit bull’s body goes into labor, which means she starts having contractions that push the puppies out of her uterus and through her birth canal. This is a natural and sometimes challenging process for the mother, but she instinctively knows what to do. Once the puppies are born, they are completely dependent on their mother for warmth, milk, and protection. As they grow older, they develop and learn from their surroundings until they are ready to begin their own journey of life and reproduction.

Threats to American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a breed of dog that unfortunately faces many threats. One of the main threats is breed-specific legislation, also known as BSL. This means that some cities or countries have laws that ban or restrict owning Pit Bulls. This is not fair because it punishes all Pit Bulls for the actions of a few. Like humans, dogs should be judged as individuals rather than by their breed. BSL can lead to more dogs being abandoned or euthanized simply because of their breed.

Another threat to American Pit Bull Terriers is dog fighting. This cruel and illegal activity involves pitting dogs against each other in fights for gambling or entertainment purposes. Pit Bulls are often targeted for dog fighting because they are strong and tenacious. However, it is important to remember that dog fighting is not a reflection of the breed itself, but rather the cruel actions of humans. It is crucial to raise awareness about the negative consequences of dog fighting and to punish those involved in this illegal activity.

Lastly, negative stereotypes and misconceptions pose a threat to American Pit Bull Terriers. Some people believe that these dogs are inherently aggressive or dangerous. However, it is important to understand that a dog’s behavior depends on its upbringing, training, and environment. It is not fair to generalize an entire breed based on the actions of a few individuals. Education and responsible ownership can help break these stereotypes and protect the American Pit Bull Terrier from unjust discrimination.

In conclusion, threats to American Pit Bull Terriers include breed-specific legislation, dog fighting, and negative stereotypes. These threats often result in unfair treatment and harm to innocent dogs. It is important to advocate for fair laws, raise awareness about the cruelty of dog fighting, and work towards changing misconceptions about the breed. Every dog, regardless of its breed, deserves to be judged on its own merits rather than facing discrimination because of the few who have done wrong.

Population of American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a breed of dog that is very popular in the United States. It is estimated that there are around 4 million Pit Bulls in the country. These dogs are known for their strong and muscular build, as well as their loyalty and protective nature.

Unfortunately, there are some people who have mistreated and abused Pit Bulls, leading to a negative reputation for the breed. This has also resulted in certain cities and counties implementing breed-specific legislation, which restricts or bans ownership of Pit Bulls. Despite these challenges, there are still many responsible owners who have Pit Bulls as pets and care for them properly.

If the American Pit Bull Terrier were to become extinct, it would be a great loss to the dog-loving community. Extinction occurs when a species completely disappears from the Earth, and this can happen due to various reasons, such as habitat loss, hunting, or disease. It is important for us to remember that every animal has a role to play in our ecosystem, and it is our responsibility to protect and preserve their existence.

Conclusion

Overall, it is clear that the American Pit Bull Terrier is a remarkable animal with a rich history and fascinating characteristics. This dog breed has a diverse background, with roots in England and later in America, where it became highly regarded for its strength and versatility. Despite the misconceptions and controversies surrounding the breed, it is important to understand that each dog should be judged on an individual basis, rather than stereotyping the entire breed.

In terms of facts and figures, the American Pit Bull Terrier is a medium-sized dog with a muscular build and a short coat that comes in various colors. They are known for their intelligence, athleticism, and loyalty to their owners. These dogs require proper care and training to ensure their well-being and to prevent any aggressive behavior. While they can be excellent family pets when raised in a loving and caring environment, it is essential to remember that every dog has its own unique personality.

In conclusion, the American Pit Bull Terrier is an extraordinary animal that deserves to be understood and cared for properly. By learning about their history, facts, size, habitat, and classification, we can appreciate the unique qualities that make them special. It is essential to approach these animals with an open mind, allowing each individual dog to showcase their true nature and potential. By treating them with love, respect, and responsible ownership, we can help break stigmas and create a world where all animals, including the American Pit Bull Terrier, are appreciated and cherished.

Frequently Asked Questions about American Pit Bull Terrier (FAQ’s)

Q: What is the American Pit Bull Terrier?
A: The American Pit Bull Terrier is a breed of dog known for its muscular build, strength, and loyalty.

Q: Are American Pit Bull Terriers aggressive?
A: Like any other breed, temperament can vary, but American Pit Bull Terriers can be friendly and gentle if properly trained and socialized.

Q: Do American Pit Bull Terriers make good family pets?
A: American Pit Bull Terriers can make excellent family pets if raised and trained correctly. They are known to be good with children when socialized properly.

Q: Are American Pit Bull Terriers good with other animals?
A: It depends on the individual dog and their training. Proper socialization from a young age can help them get along with other animals, but they may have a high prey drive.

Q: What is the average size and weight of an American Pit Bull Terrier?
A: American Pit Bull Terriers typically weigh between 30 to 60 pounds and stand about 17 to 21 inches tall at the shoulder.

Q: What are the common health issues in American Pit Bull Terriers?
A: Some common health issues in American Pit Bull Terriers include hip dysplasia, allergies, parvovirus, and skin infections. Regular vet check-ups are important.

Q: How much exercise does an American Pit Bull Terrier need?
A: American Pit Bull Terriers are an energetic breed and need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are necessary.

Q: Are American Pit Bull Terriers easy to train?
A: American Pit Bull Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, which can make them fairly easy to train. However, consistent and positive reinforcement methods are crucial.

Q: Are American Pit Bull Terriers suitable for first-time dog owners?
A: American Pit Bull Terriers can be a good choice for first-time dog owners if they are committed to providing proper training, socialization, and exercise.

Q: Are American Pit Bull Terriers good guard dogs?
A: American Pit Bull Terriers have a protective nature and can make good guard dogs. However, proper training is necessary to ensure they differentiate between threat and non-threat situations.

Q: Do American Pit Bull Terriers require a lot of grooming?
A: American Pit Bull Terriers have a short coat that is fairly easy to maintain. Regular brushing and occasional baths are usually sufficient to keep their coat in good condition.

Q: How long do American Pit Bull Terriers typically live?
A: On average, American Pit Bull Terriers have a lifespan of about 12 to 15 years. Proper care, nutrition, and regular exercise can contribute to their longevity.

Q: Are American Pit Bull Terriers recognized by kennel clubs?
A: Yes, the American Pit Bull Terrier is recognized by several kennel clubs, including the United Kennel Club (UKC).

Q: Q: Can American Pit Bull Terriers be aggressive towards humans?
A: A: While any dog has the potential to be aggressive, American Pit Bull Terriers are not inherently aggressive towards humans. Responsible ownership and socialization are key to preventing aggression.

Q: Q: Are American Pit Bull Terriers prone to separation anxiety?
A: A: American Pit Bull Terriers can be prone to separation anxiety if not properly trained and conditioned to be independent. Early socialization and gradual training can help prevent this issue.

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