A breed organisation is not just a “club” it is the guardian of a breed’s truth.
It exists to protect the identity, history, and integrity of a specific breed. That means ensuring the dogs are correctly identified, responsibly bred, and properly understood by the public.
In a country where dogs are so often mislabelled — especially “pit bull type” dogs — this role becomes critical.
A true breed organisation: Maintains the official breed standard
Organisations like the Pit Bull Federation of South Africa (PBFSA) don’t just represent dogs — they represent the truth behind the breed.
Because when there is no structure, no education, and no accountability…
Any dog becomes a “pit bull”
And the real breed pays the price
Understanding breed organisations is the first step toward protecting our dogs, our communities, and the truth.
Legal Disclaimer: The Pit Bull Federation of South Africa does not in any way condone animal cruelty or illegal activities. The information herewith shared are available in public domains and are shared for historical and educational purposes only.
The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) traces its origins to the old English Bulldog, a breed historically used for bull baiting. Initially bred for performance and working ability, the APBT’s ancestry can be traced back at least 150 years to England. During the late 18th and early 19th centuries, bull baiting was a popular sport, and dogs were specifically bred for their strength, tenacity, and skill in this brutal competition. These same dogs were also employed by hunters to take down large game and were used in butchers’ yards and farms to manage unruly cattle.
At the time, the term “bulldog” did not denote a specific breed but rather referred to a type of dog descended from mastiff-like ancestors, valued for their abilities in bull baiting. Over time, the APBT came to closely resemble these old working bulldogs, bred for function rather than appearance.
When bull baiting was outlawed in 1835, dog fighting emerged as its replacement, leading to the breed’s further refinement for these contests. Despite its name, the APBT did not originate in America but rather in England and Ireland. In the mid-19th century, these dogs were brought to the United States, where they evolved slightly from their European counterparts.
In America, APBTs were used not only for pit fighting but also as catch dogs for managing stray cattle and pigs, as well as family guardians. In 1898, Chauncy Bennet founded the United Kennel Club (UKC) specifically to register Pit Bull Terriers, as the American Kennel Club (AKC) refused to recognize them. Later, in 1909, Guy McCord established the American Dog Breeders Association (ADBA), which remains focused on the APBT today.
As dog fighting became less socially acceptable, the ADBA introduced conformation shows, where dogs are judged based on their physical attributes and resemblance to an ideal working specimen. While underground dog fighting still exists illegally, the breed has largely transitioned into roles as companion animals, sporting dogs, and working dogs.
The first two American Pit Bull Terriers were imported into South Africa in 1979 from Carver bloodlines in Texas, USA. Initially, all Pit Bulls in the country were registered with the American Dog Breeders Association (ADBA). By the mid-1980s, the breed’s population had grown to nearly 200 in South Africa.
In 1984, Chris Bekker founded the Pit Bull Club of South Africa and served as its first president. Eventually, the organization split into two separate entities: the Pit Bull Federation of South Africa (PBFSA) and the Pit Bull Union of South Africa. The PBFSA remained affiliated with the ADBA, adhering to its breed standards, show rules, and registration system.
The PBFSA played a key role in introducing American Pit Bull Terriers to the South African show circuit, organizing events such as Conformation, Weight Pull, High Jump, Long Hang, and Obedience. The first PBFSA show featured 30 ADBA-registered APBTs. Initially, the PBFSA had clubs in Elspark, Krugersdorp, and Secunda, where members competed against one another.
In 1996, Danie Erasmus became Chairman of the PBFSA. That September, he invited Amy Greenwood Birthord and her husband Joe, from the ADBA in the USA to educate South African Pit Bull enthusiasts and train show judges. During their visit, the ADBA conducted seminars on conformation and breeding for PBFSA members.
In 2000 and 2002, Jeanette Erasmus travelled to the USA for an in-depth study of the breed, learning from some of the most respected APBT breeders and handlers. In 2003 they invited the ADBA judge, Hank Greenwood, to judge the PBFSA National Championships in Olifantsfontein. Upon her return, from the US Jeanette and Danie Erasmus’ actively promoted the breed in South Africa, visiting schools and public events to showcase the Pit Bull as a family companion. They also established an obedience team to perform demonstrations at these events.
Starting as a small community with just 30 dogs at shows, the organization quickly grew, attracting 50 and eventually over 150 participants. Initially registered as a Pty Ltd, the PBFSA functioned as both a show organization and an educational initiative, with Demo Teams visiting schools and public events. However, as public interest in the breed surged, many inexperienced owners found themselves unable to properly care for their pets. This shift in circumstances led the PBFSA to refocus its mission.
In 2024, the PBFSA was officially registered as a Non-Profit Company, with a primary focus on promoting responsible ownership and educating the public about the American Pit Bull Terrier and other pit bull-type dogs. The PBFSA was appointed to the South African Department of Agriculture Task Team, working to develop short-, medium-, and long-term solutions to enhance safety for everyone living with pit bulls and pit bull-type dogs, aiming to reduce and prevent injuries and loss of life. The PBFSA continues its mission to promote and protect the American Pit Bull Terrier in South Africa.
At the Pit Bull Federation of South Africa, our mission is to champion the positive image, welfare, and responsible ownership of Pit Bull-type dogs through education, advocacy, and community support.
We are committed to fostering a deeper understanding of the breed by dispelling myths and stereotypes, and by showcasing the loyal, intelligent, and affectionate nature of these dogs. Through public education, we aim to correct misinformation and promote a culture of compassion and accountability toward Pit Bulls and all companion animals.
As an organisation, we are strongly opposed to all forms of animal abuse, with a zero-tolerance stance on dog fighting. We believe cruelty has no place in society, and we actively work to expose and combat the exploitation of dogs through advocacy, education, and collaboration with law enforcement and welfare partners.
We advocate for responsible ownership practices that include proper care, socialization, and training. We strongly encourage the spaying and neutering of all non-breeding animals as part of our ethical stance on population control and welfare. Breeding should be undertaken only by registered, reputable breeders who are committed to the preservation and protection of the breed’s integrity and well-being.
Through ongoing public education, partnerships with animal welfare organizations, community outreach, and firm opposition to breed-specific legislation, we work tirelessly to ensure that Pit Bull-type dogs are treated fairly, understood accurately, and given the chance to thrive as cherished members of society.
Together, we strive to build a South Africa where all dogs are valued for their character and treated with dignity—regardless of their breed.
PBFSA Membership – “Join the Movement! By becoming a member of the Pit Bull Federation of South Africa, you will be joining a vibrant community of passionate Pit Bull owners and advocates who are dedicated to promoting and protecting this incredible breed.
Fee Structure
Administration Fee
R 100.00 (Once-off)
Ordinary Member
R 400.00 (per Annum)
Life Member (Individuals Only)
R 3000.00 (Once-off)
Corporate Member (Companies Only)
R 5000.00 (per Annum)
Terms & Conditions *
The mission of the Pit Bull Federation South Africa is to promote responsible ownership and advocacy for Pit Bulls in South Africa. The organisation aims to achieve this mission through the following objectives:
Overall, the Pit Bull Federation of South Africa is committed to promoting the well-being and positive image of Pit Bulls in South Africa, and the advocating for responsible ownership practices and fair treatment of these beloved companion animals.
Registering your dog with PBFSA, is by your own choice, free of charge and strictly confidential.
The information is used to compile a database of dogs for research purposes of responsible owners, to distribute information and to have an open channel of communication. This will enable responsible owners to get relevant information from the PBFSA regarding pit bulls & mixes and their behaviour, training and social needs.
Follow the link to register your pit bull with the Pit Bull Federation of South Africa.
Please Note:
We require two photos – Front (head & chest) AND Sideways Standing – to identify your dog.
If your dog is registered with a Registration Body (ADBA, CanineSA, CBA or NDBC) please attach the registration papers as well.
Through responsible ownership, education, and advocacy, we’re building a safer future for pit bulls and the communities they’re part of.
Promoting Responsible Ownership. Protecting the Breed by Educating and Empowering Communities.
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