American Pit Bull Terrier: 9 Reasons to Love This Breed

When you hear the name American Pit Bull Terrier, what comes to mind? For many, this breed has gained a reputation clouded by misconceptions and unfair stereotypes. Yet, anyone who truly knows these dogs will tell you they are loving, loyal, and incredibly smart companions. The American Pit Bull Terrier is much more than just a strong and athletic dog—it’s a breed with a heart full of affection and a spirit eager to please. 

In this article, we’ll explore 10 wonderful reasons why so many people have fallen in love with the American Pit Bull Terrier. More importantly, we’ll clear up some common misunderstandings and show why this breed deserves appreciation and respect. Whether you’re a longtime dog lover or just curious about Pit Bulls, you’re about to discover what makes this breed truly special.

9 Reasons to Love This Breed

1. Loyal and Affectionate Companions

If you’re looking for a dog that will stick by your side through thick and thin, look no further than the American Pit Bull Terrier. These dogs are often misunderstood, but behind the tough exterior is a heart full of love, devotion, and playful energy. Let’s explore what makes Pit Bulls such special family members.

Always by Your Side: The “Velcro Dog”

Pit Bulls are often called “Velcro dogs.” Why? Because they love being close to their humans—all the time.

• Clingy in the Best Way: If you get up to grab a snack or walk into another room, your Pit Bull will likely be right behind you.
• Cuddle Champs: Many Pit Bulls think they’re lap dogs, no matter their size. They love climbing into your lap during movie nights or naps.
• Tuned In to Your Feelings: These dogs can sense your emotions. Feeling down? Your Pit Bull will be right there to comfort you.

Their strong attachment makes them ideal for people who want a constant companion. They don’t just like being near you—they need it.

Fierce Loyalty to Their People

One of the most beautiful traits of the American Pit Bull Terrier is their loyalty. They’re not just pets—they’re part of the team.

• Protective But Not Aggressive: They’re naturally protective of their families, but with the right training and care, they’re gentle and well-mannered.
• Built-in Best Friend: Whether you live alone or with a big family, a Pit Bull will quickly become your go-to buddy.
• Dependable in Every Way: Rain or shine, good day or bad—you can count on this dog’s love and loyalty.

Wonderful with Children

Despite their reputation in the media, many Pit Bulls are fantastic with kids. They’re often called “nanny dogs” because of their loving and gentle behavior toward children.

• Patient and Sweet: They can be incredibly gentle with little ones, putting up with hugs, tail pulls, and lots of energy.
• Playful Spirit: Their energy matches well with kids. They’ll happily play fetch in the yard or chase bubbles with your toddler.
• Protective Nature: Pit Bulls often take on a guardian-like role with children, always watching and staying close.

Of course, as with all dogs, it’s important to supervise playtime and teach children how to interact respectfully with pets.

More Than Meets the Eye

The American Pit Bull Terrier might have a tough reputation, but with love, structure, and proper care, they reveal their true nature—devoted, loving, and loyal family members.

If you’re ready to let a dog into your heart and home who will return your love tenfold, a Pit Bull could be the perfect match. All they need is the chance to show how sweet they really are.

2. American Pit Bull Terrier: The Athletic and Energetic Companion

If you’re looking for a dog that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the American Pit Bull Terrier might be the perfect match. Known for their strength, stamina, and zest for life, these dogs are more than just pets—they’re partners in adventure.

Full of Energy and Always Ready to Go

American Pit Bull Terriers are packed with energy. They thrive on activity and love being included in whatever you’re doing. Whether it’s a long walk, a run in the park, or a game of fetch, this breed is always excited to join in.

Here’s what makes them stand out:

• High Energy Levels: Pit Bulls need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Without it, they might become bored or restless.
• Daily Activity is a Must: A quick walk once a day won’t cut it. Think along the lines of a good run, playtime in the yard, or a solid hike.

Naturally Athletic and Agile

These dogs are built for movement. You’ll notice their muscle tone and agility even when they’re just walking around the house. They love a physical challenge and tend to excel in activities that require focus and stamina.

Athletic traits include:

• Strong muscles and great endurance
• Excellent coordination and balance
• Quick, responsive, and agile

Because of this, Pit Bulls do well in dog sports like agility, obedience, and flyball. They enjoy learning, especially when it comes with praise and treats.

A Perfect Fit for Active Lifestyles

If you’re someone who spends weekends outdoors or enjoys staying on the move, a Pit Bull may be your ideal sidekick.

Why they make great adventure buddies:

• Loves the Outdoors: Whether it’s hiking, camping, or a beach day, they’re all in.
• Loyal and People-Oriented: They’ll stick close and bond deeply during shared activities.
• Great Motivation: Their energy can inspire you to get outside and move more.

Pro Tip: Always bring water, a leash, and waste bags on outdoor adventures. And don’t forget to check the weather—Pit Bulls can overheat quickly in high temperatures due to their athletic build.

A Rewarding Relationship

While their athletic needs require commitment, the rewards are huge. Sharing an active life with a Pit Bull builds a strong bond. You’ll not only have a fit and happy pup—you’ll also gain a loving, loyal friend who’s always ready for your next big adventure.

3. Intelligent and Eager to Please

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a smart, affectionate, and loyal dog. Known for their strength and confidence, they also have a softer side—especially when it comes to pleasing their humans. These dogs are quick learners with a strong desire to obey and do well, making them great companions for those willing to invest time in training and bonding.

Smart and Quick to Learn

American Pit Bull Terriers are very intelligent. They pick up commands quickly and enjoy having a job to do. If you’re consistent with training, they’ll often surprise you with how fast they catch on.

Why they’re such good learners:

• Curious minds – They love figuring things out. Whether it’s a puzzle toy or a new trick, they enjoy the challenge.
• Focus around people – Since they’re people-oriented dogs, they love working with you and paying attention.
• Repetition works – They respond well to regular, short training sessions with a positive tone and rewards.

Want your Pittie to learn “sit,” “stay,” or even how to fetch your slippers? Chances are, they’ll be up for the task—and with tail-wagging excitement.

Eager to Please Their People

One of the best traits of the breed is how much they adore their owners. Their goal? Make you happy. That makes them wonderfully responsive to positive reinforcement.

How to bring out their best:

• Use treats, praise, and play as rewards.
• Keep training upbeat—you’ll enjoy this time together, and so will they.
• Be patient and consistent. They want to do the right thing—they just need your guidance.

This strong desire to please is what helps them build trust and bond deeply with their families.

Great at Dog Sports and Obedience

With the right training, Pit Bulls shine in activities like agility, obedience trials, and even search and rescue work. Their mix of brains, brawn, and heart helps them succeed in many roles.

Things Pit Bulls tend to excel in:

• Agility courses they can zip through quickly and accurately
• Obedience competitions thanks to their attentiveness and discipline
• Canine fitness or weight-pulling if you’re looking for something more physical
• Therapy dog work, for especially calm and people-loving dogs

They do best with structure and goals, which help keep both their minds and bodies active.

Tips for Training Success

Want to make the most of your training time? Here are some quick tips:

• Start early – Begin socialization and basic training as a puppy if possible.
• Keep sessions short and fun – 5-10 minutes a few times a day is ideal.
• Consistency matters – Stick with the same commands and routines.
• Stay calm and confident – Your mood helps guide theirs.

Remember, even with their smarts, they need your leadership and affection.

4. Distinctive Appearance and Coat Varieties

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a breed full of charm, strength, and personality. Known for their loyalty and loving nature, these dogs also have a strong and unique appearance that makes them stand out in any crowd. If you’re thinking about bringing one into your life—or already have—understanding their look and coat type will help you better care for your four-legged friend.

Strong and Striking Build

Pit Bulls have a solid, muscular frame that reflects their power and agility. Despite their strength, they’re medium-sized dogs, often weighing between 30 to 60 pounds.

Key Features:

• Muscular body: Well-defined muscles that show strength without bulk.
• Square-shaped head: Gives them a distinctive look with broad jaws and a confident expression.
• Deep chest: Provides balance and supports their agile movement.
• Strong neck: Helps carry their head with pride and supports their athleticism.
• Tail carriage: Medium length tail that tapers to a point and is usually held straight or down—not curled.

This body style isn’t just for looks—it’s built for endurance, speed, and play.

Coat Type and Color

One of the beautiful things about the American Pit Bull Terrier is their low-maintenance coat. It’s short, sleek, and close to the skin, giving them a shiny appearance without needing constant grooming.

Coat Highlights:

• Short and smooth: Their coat feels soft to the touch and is easy to care for.
• Low shedding: Great for pet parents who don’t want to deal with a lot of fur.
• Variety of colors: You’ll find Pit Bulls in almost every color—black, white, fawn, brindle, blue, red—but never merle (that pattern isn’t accepted in the breed standard).

Some dogs may also have unique markings or color patches, adding to their individual charm.

Easy to Care for, Hard Not to Love

Their appearance may suggest toughness, but most Pit Bulls are big softies at heart. That said, their active lifestyle means you’ll want to keep up with regular walks, a balanced diet, and the occasional brushing to keep their coat clean and shiny.

Tips for Coat Care:

• Brush once a week to remove dirt and loose hair.
• Bathe only when needed—too many baths can dry their skin.
• Keep an eye out for allergies or skin issues, which are common in short-haired breeds.

The American Pit Bull Terrier’s look may turn heads, but it’s their devoted and playful spirit that wins hearts. Whether you’re admiring their square-shaped head, that confident tail wag, or their smooth, colorful coat, this is a breed that leaves a lasting impression—inside and out.

5. A Loyal and Loving Family Companion

If you’re considering adding a dog to your family, the American Pit Bull Terrier might be on your list. Despite some common myths, these dogs can be incredibly loving, gentle, and great with children—when raised in a caring, well-structured environment.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes the American Pit Bull Terrier such a great family pet and how you can give them the best start.

Family-Friendly Temperament

The American Pit Bull Terrier is known for its loyalty, affection, and desire to please. With the right care and training, they often thrive in busy households full of love and energy.

Why families love them:

• Affectionate and loyal: A well-socialized Pit Bull Terrier bonds deeply with their family. They often see themselves more as a family member than a pet.
• Great with kids: These dogs are known for being gentle and tolerant, especially when raised with children. They enjoy playtime and will often act like loving protectors.
• Playful nature: Pit Bulls love to play, whether it’s a game of fetch or just romping around the yard. Their high energy level pairs well with active families.

Real-life example:
Many owners say their Pit Bull sleeps at their child’s feet every night or patiently puts up with dress-up games. Their calm and steady nature makes them one of the most misunderstood but rewarding dog companions.

Gentle and Patient with Children

Because of their strong build and playful spirit, some might assume Pit Bulls aren’t safe around kids. But that couldn’t be further from the truth—when properly trained and socialized, they are incredibly gentle, patient, and reliable.

Key traits with kids:

• Protective instinct: They often treat children like members of their “pack” and will stay close and alert.
• Tolerant temperament: Pit Bulls usually handle toddler energy and occasional pokes with calm patience.
• Soft-hearted: Under that muscular frame is often a dog that just wants a cuddle on the couch.

The Importance of Supervision and Early Socialization

As with any dog breed, bringing out the best in a Pit Bull takes effort. Early socialization and consistent supervision are key to raising a safe, happy pet.

Why early socialization matters:

• Helps your dog learn how to behave around other pets and people
• Reduces fear-based behaviors, like barking or snapping
• Builds trust and confidence from a young age

Tips for success:

• Start early: Introduce your puppy to a variety of people, animals, and environments.
• Use positive reinforcement: Reward good behavior with treats, praise, or play.
• Always supervise interactions: Especially with young children—dogs of any breed can react unpredictably when startled.
• Set clear boundaries: Teach both your dog and your kids how to respect each other’s space.

With love, guidance, and early training, the American Pit Bull Terrier can be a wonderful, devoted family dog. Their warm heart, goofy personality, and endless loyalty often turn skeptics into lifelong fans.

6. A Misunderstood Breed

Myths and Misconceptions

The American Pit Bull Terrier often gets a bad reputation. Many people see them as naturally aggressive or dangerous. The truth? Much of what you hear is based on myths, not facts. Here are some common misconceptions:

• They’re all aggressive: Not true! Pit Bulls are often loving and loyal family dogs.
• They can “lock” their jaws: This is a myth. Their jaws work just like any other breed’s.
• They’re not good with children: Many Pit Bulls are wonderful family pets and adore kids.

Media Bias and Public Perception

Media stories can play a big part in shaping how people feel about Pit Bulls. If a dog bite happens, it’s more likely to be reported if a Pit Bull is involved, even though many other breeds are responsible for bites. This creates an unfair image.

• Selective reporting can be misleading
• Photos and headlines often don’t tell the full story
• Most Pit Bulls live happy, peaceful lives with families

The Reality of Dog Aggression and Breed-Specific Laws

Aggression in dogs is not about breed; it’s about individual behavior and environment. Any dog can be aggressive if they’re scared, hurt, or not trained well.

• Breed-specific laws (BSL) often target Pit Bulls without solid evidence
• These laws don’t make communities safer
• Most experts believe it’s better to focus on owner responsibility rather than breed

Responsible Ownership and Training

Pit Bulls, like all dogs, thrive with kind and consistent care. Here’s how you can set your dog up for success:

• Start training early: Teach basic commands and reward good behavior.
• Socialize your dog: Let them meet new people and other dogs in safe settings.
• Be a patient leader: Kindness and patience go a long way.
• Exercise matters: Regular walks and play keep your Pit Bull happy and healthy.
• Regular vet visits: Keeping up with checkups helps spot health issues early.

A Loving Companion

The best-kept secret about the American Pit Bull Terrier? They’re affectionate, playful, and eager to please. With the right care, they make loyal companions for families, couples, and singles alike.

• “My Pit Bull greets me with a wagging tail every day and is always ready for a cuddle.”
• Many Pit Bull owners say their dogs are gentle giants who just want to be loved.

With love, training, and responsible ownership, the American Pit Bull Terrier can shine as a wonderful family pet. Don’t let myths or media hype shape your view—get to know the real dog behind the reputation.

6. American Pit Bull Terrier: The Importance of Socialization and Training

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a strong, intelligent, and loving dog known for its loyalty and energy. While they make wonderful companions, they do need the right training and socialization from an early age. With the right guidance, these dogs can grow up to be well-behaved, friendly family pets.

Let’s look at how early training and socialization can bring out the best in your Pit Bull.

Early Socialization Makes a Big Difference

From the moment you bring your Pit Bull puppy home, start exposing them to new people, places, and situations. This helps prevent fear and aggression down the road.

Why socialization matters:

• Builds confidence in different environments
• Helps them stay calm around other animals and people
• Reduces the risk of fearful or aggressive behavior later in life

Tips for early socialization:

• Invite friends or neighbors over to meet your puppy
• Take your dog on short car rides or walks in new neighborhoods
• Visit pet-friendly parks and stores
• Let them hear a variety of sounds (kids playing, vacuum, doorbells)

Always keep experiences positive and never force your dog into something that scares them. Use calm praise, treats, and gentle encouragement.

Obedience Training Is a Must

Pit Bulls are eager to learn, especially when training is fun and rewarding. Start obedience training early to lay a strong foundation for good behavior.

Focus on basic commands like:

• Sit
• Stay
• Come
• Leave it
• Heel

Training doesn’t have to be long or complicated. Short sessions (5–10 minutes) a few times a day work best, especially with puppies. Practice in different settings so they learn to listen no matter where you are.

Managing Dog Aggression

Pit Bulls can sometimes show aggression toward other dogs, especially if they weren’t socialized early or had bad past experiences. This doesn’t mean they’re bad dogs—it just means they need guidance and structure.

How to manage this behavior:

• Avoid dog parks if your Pit Bull seems anxious or overwhelmed
• Always use a sturdy leash and harness during walks
• Stay calm and confident—your dog feeds off your energy
• If your dog growls or stiffens around other dogs, calmly remove them from the situation

Work with a professional trainer if needed, especially one experienced with Pit Bull breeds. Aggression can be managed, but it takes consistency and patience.

Use Positive Reinforcement

This is one of the most effective ways to train any dog. Pit Bulls respond especially well to love, praise, and treats.

What positive reinforcement looks like:

• Reward good behavior immediately with a tasty treat or toy
• Use a happy tone of voice when they listen or behave well
• Ignore mild bad behavior and redirect to something better
• Be consistent—dogs learn best when they know what to expect

Avoid yelling, harsh corrections, or punishment. These approaches can damage trust and often make behavior worse.

7. A Loyal Companion with the Right Start

The American Pit Bull Terrier has the potential to be one of the most loyal and loving pets you’ll ever own. But like any powerful, energetic breed, they need clear guidance, early socialization, and fair training.

American Pit Bull Terrier: Health and Care Needs

Typical Lifespan and General Health

The American Pit Bull Terrier usually lives between 8 and 15 years, making them a loyal companion for many years. Like all breeds, they have a few health concerns owners should watch for:

• Hip dysplasia: This can cause stiffness or limping.
• Allergies: These dogs are prone to skin allergies and may need special shampoos or foods.
• Heart disease: Regular vet checkups help catch heart problems early.
• Thyroid issues: Watch for signs of weight gain or sluggishness.

Routine vet visits, a balanced diet, and daily care are the best ways to keep your Pit Bull healthy and happy.

Exercise Requirements

Pit Bulls are energetic and playful. They need daily exercise to stay fit and out of trouble. Here’s how you can meet their needs:

• Daily walks: Aim for at least 30-60 minutes of walking or running.
• Playtime: Tug-of-war, fetch, or agility games help keep their minds sharp.
• Socialization: Visits to the park or playdates with other friendly dogs help burn energy and improve manners.

If you skip exercise, Pit Bulls can get bored—and a bored dog may chew shoes or dig holes in your yard!

Sheltering from Extreme Weather

Pit Bulls have short coats, making them sensitive to both heat and cold:

• Hot weather: Provide lots of shade and fresh water. Limit exercise on very warm days to the cooler parts of the morning or evening.
• Cold weather: Give your dog a cozy bed indoors. Use a dog jacket if you go for winter walks to keep your Pit Bull warm.

Never leave any dog outside for long periods during extreme weather. Your Pit Bull will thank you for the comfort and care!

Caring for an American Pit Bull Terrier is rewarding. By focusing on their health, exercise, and comfort, you’ll enjoy many happy years with your loving companion.

8. American Pit Bull Terrier: A Loyal Companion for Any Lifestyle

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a loving, loyal, and often misunderstood breed. Known for their strength and energy, these dogs can thrive in a variety of living situations—as long as they get enough attention, mental stimulation, and exercise. Whether you live in the city or a house with a backyard, this breed could be the perfect fit for you.

Perfect for Suburban Life

If you live in a suburban home with a fenced yard, the American Pit Bull Terrier will feel right at home.

Why they suit the suburbs:

• Room to run: A secure backyard gives them space to burn off energy in a safe area.
• Quiet comfort: They’ll enjoy the calmer pace of suburbia while still being close to family action.
• Best with a daily routine: Morning walks, playtime in the yard, and evening snuggles are all they need to feel loved.

Just make sure your fencing is solid—these dogs are curious, strong, and can jump surprisingly high when excited!

Adapts Well to Urban Living

Believe it or not, Pit Bulls can do great in apartments or city homes too, as long as you’re an active and committed owner.

How they thrive in the city:

• Daily walks are key: Two long walks a day help them stay calm and happy indoors.
• Dog parks are a bonus: Many Pit Bulls enjoy playing with other dogs, but always supervise, especially in busy spaces.
• Elevator-friendly: They are usually comfortable in elevators, stairs, and city sidewalks once trained.

Urban life means more stimulation—sights, sounds, people—so a confident, socialized Pit Bull will love the hustle and bustle right by your side.

They Need More Than Just Exercise

Pit Bulls are smart. Like, really smart. And a bored Pit Bull is often a mischievous one.

Keep their mind busy with:

• Interactive toys: Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys are great.
• Training sessions: They love learning new tricks—and showing them off!
• Games like fetch or hide-and-seek: These keep both their body and brain active.

Training also builds a bond between you and your dog, strengthening trust and communication.

They Crave Companionship

These dogs are people-lovers. They do best in homes where they aren’t left alone for long periods.

Dogs with big hearts:

• Want to be near you: Whether you’re cooking dinner or watching TV, they’ll likely be at your side.
• Can suffer from separation anxiety: If left alone too often, they might bark, chew, or dig.
• Love being part of the family: Include them in daily activities whenever you can.

If you work long hours, consider a dog walker or doggy daycare to keep your Pit Bull happy and social.

9. Heroic and Courageous History of the American Pit Bull Terrier

If you love dogs with heart, you’ll be amazed by the American Pit Bull Terrier’s heroic past. This breed’s story is full of courage, loyalty, and moments where their bravery truly saved the day. Let’s take a closer look at how these dogs became the icons of courage they are today.

Breed Origins: From Hard Workers to Loyal Friends

The American Pit Bull Terrier was originally bred in the 19th century from bulldogs and terriers. These dogs were created for their strength and determination, helping farmers with daily chores and protecting livestock. Over time, their role evolved, but their grit never faded.

• Farm Helpers: Early pit bulls guarded livestock and helped with hunting tasks.
• Family Companions: Known for their strong bond with humans, they became trusted family pets.
• Versatile Workers: Their intelligence and drive made them popular as police and search dogs.

Heroic Roles: Service, Rescue, and More

Pit bulls have been recognized for their remarkable work in many different fields. Their bravery shines through in tough situations, often making the difference when it counts.

• Rescue Dogs: In World War I, a pit bull named Sergeant Stubby became a decorated hero, saving soldiers and cheering spirits on the front lines.
• Service Stars: Many pit bulls today work in search-and-rescue roles, using their keen noses and determination to find missing people.
• Hero at Home: There are countless stories of pit bulls alerting families to fires, shielding children, or helping during emergencies for their human loved ones.

Tenacity and Bravery: A Legacy of Awards

What sets the American Pit Bull Terrier apart is their fearless determination. They never give up, no matter the challenge.

• Decorated Heroes: Pit bulls have earned medals for acts of bravery in both war and peace.
• Rescue Success: Thanks to their strong work ethic, they excel in therapy, disaster relief, and as emotional support animals.
• Everyday Champions: Even as cherished pets, their instinct to protect and help shines through. Many owners can share stories of their quick-thinking pit bulls coming to the rescue.

Relatable Examples and Actionable Advice

It’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with this breed. If you have a pit bull or are thinking about bringing one home, remember:

• Celebrate Their Strength: Give your pit bull positive outlets like agility training, fetch, or tug-of-war.
• Fuel Their Curiosity: Mental games and regular exercise make use of their intelligence and tenacity.
• Socialize Early: Encourage friendly encounters with people and other pets to boost their confidence and happiness.
• Enjoy Daily Adventures: Whether it’s a long walk or a cuddle on the couch, pit bulls thrive on strong family bonds.

The American Pit Bull Terrier’s story is proof that true courage often comes with a wagging tail and a loving heart.

Conclusion: Why the American Pit Bull Terrier Can Be Your Best Friend

The American Pit Bull Terrier often gets a bad reputation, but for the right owner, this breed can be a loyal, loving, and fun companion. With the right care and mindset, Pit Bulls can shine as incredible family dogs.

Why Pit Bulls Make Great Pets

The American Pit Bull Terrier has a lot to offer:

• Loyal and loving: They form strong bonds and love being part of the family.
• Playful and fun: Always up for a game of fetch or a long walk in the park.
• Smart and eager to learn: Great at learning commands with positive training.
• Protective yet gentle: They make great watchdogs without being aggressive when raised well.

With proper training and socialization, these dogs are among the most affectionate breeds you’ll meet.

The Role of a Responsible Owner

Owning a Pit Bull means taking the job seriously. These dogs thrive with structure, attention, and love. As a responsible owner, it’s important to:

• Train early and consistently: Start obedience training while they’re young.
• Socialize with people and other animals: Introduce your dog to new environments and situations often.
• Stay active: Pit Bulls need daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.
• Provide love and patience: Like all dogs, they respond best to kindness and routine.

Remember, how your dog behaves depends largely on how you care for and raise them.

Think About Adoption

If you’ve got the time, energy, and love to give, the American Pit Bull Terrier might just be the perfect dog for you. Many amazing Pit Bulls are waiting in shelters for someone to give them a second chance.

• Visit your local shelter or rescue group
• Learn more about the breed before bringing one home
• Be ready to commit to your dog’s long-term well-being

Choosing to adopt a Pit Bull is more than bringing home a pet — it’s welcoming a loyal best friend who will stand by your side through thick and thin.

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