[quote1292252832=IndyGirl] I have not met this pup or her parents. All I have are pictures. I have to make a trip across state lines to meet her. I inquired about registration a few days ago and to date have not heard back – this concerns me. [/quote1292252832] This would concern me too. I consider it extremely risky to purchase/take a dog from someone long distance without knowing anything about the dog or its history. Especially when "Pits" are a dime a dozen. [quote]How do you know if they are modern or old school??[/quote] Lines, body type and temperament. Typically, big beefy examples are not "real" APBTs, but modern incantations. These are the hardest to identify a common temperament for. [quote] Pit bulls appear to have somewhat of a bad wrap with children and outsiders. [/quote] Undeserved. APBTs are one of the only breeds to be actively selected for human submission/friendliness. Bad breeding, bad training, and mishandling has caused these types of incidents. Typically, they are either bully crosses or misunderstood situations. Prey drive is the one thing you need to be aware of with an APBT. Scream and run, and you will be chased. [quote] In my online research I believe I read that AKC does not register pit bulls…is that true?[/quote] No. They did register the "breed" but did not like the name "Pit Bull," which caused one of the many splits in this breed from the registered American Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier. To date, the UKC and ADBA have closed their registries to any new dual/cross registered dogs (as APBTs in UKC or ADBA and as AST in AKC). This is a final sealing of the deal for the split. AKC did register and still does register APBTs as Am Staffs and if it wasn't of UKC and ADBA putting their foots down, they still would. [quote]My priorities: needs to be child friendly, a home guard dog,gets along with an old choc labrador retriever, loyal to owner & immediate family. And, one that does not shed very much is an enormous bonus. I appreciate your insight and time. [/quote] Child friendly, yes -do you mean guard or watch dog? Guard, no. Unpredictable depending on type. APBTs, no way. Am Staffs are more apt for any type of "man work" Lab, opposite sex is best, but dog aggression can be a factor loyalty, APBT, yes to anyone who walks in the door shedding, constant, but little hairs so not too noticeable. For what you want, sounds like you don't want a Pit. I would look to Am Staff breeders because of the consistency of type and temperament. You are taking a big gamble buying a Pit as a guard dog. Have you thought about other breeds as well?