Don Mayfield is widely regarded as one of the most influential pitbull breeders, conditioners, and competitors in the history of the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) and the global game dog community. Known for his unmatched expertise in pitbull conditioning, APBT keep preparation, and the development of legendary game dog bloodlines, Don Mayfield left a legacy that continues to shape the way game bred Pit Bulls are bred, trained, and conditioned today.

From his early years in the gamedog world to his rise as a master strategist in PitBull conditioning, Don Mayfield worked with some of the most iconic American Pit Bull Terriers of all time, including Tombstone, Bullyson Jr., Butcher Boy, and Samson. His participation in historic events such as the 1973 Southwest Pit Bull Convention on the , one of the largest gatherings of APBT GAME DOG enthusiasts in history, cemented his reputation as a dogman of exceptional skill and discipline.

Influences and Collaborations with PITBULL Legends

Mayfield learned from and collaborated with some of the most respected names in American Pit Bull Terrier History, including:

• Earl Tudor – A foundational figure in the development of gameness in the American Pit Bull Terrier.

• George Saddler – Renowned for his knowledge of gamedog bloodline management and breeding strategies.

• Frank Fitzwater – Known for his expertise in selecting and conditioning pitbull dogs.

• Maurice Carver – A legendary breeder whose game dogs influenced countless APBT bloodlines.

• Bobby Hall, Don Maloney, Pat Perry, Jim Stinson – Prominent dogmen who shared the sporting arena with Mayfield in some of the most memorable pit matches of the era.

These relationships gave Don Mayfield access to elite game dog bloodlines, allowing him to refine his breeding program and pitbull conditioning methods to produce dogs with exceptional gameness, endurance, and mental focus.

The Don Mayfield Conditioning Method

The Don Mayfield conditioning system often referred to simply as the Mayfield Keep, is considered one of the most effective and detailed pitbull game dog conditioning programs ever developed. His philosophy, summed up in the motto “To Win You Do It Better!”, emphasized that every detail matters in preparing a game-bred Pit Bull for peak performance.

Key elements of Don Mayfield’s APBT keep included:

• Pitbull cat mill conditioning and pitbull treadmill conditioning using a 57-foot free-turning Jenny mill to simulate the natural movement of predators and improve respiratory recovery.

• Precise dog hydration and diet control to optimize weight, stamina, and recovery.

• Targeted supplementation on dogs with red meat, wheat germ, liver tablets, and vitamins to enhance strength and endurance.

• Salt cycling and red blood cell optimization for maximum oxygen efficiency.

• Mental conditioning through coon jug work, eye-contact drills, and simulated pit focus exercises.

• Foot care and grooming with linseed oil, alum, and baby oil to protect the pads during intense training.

• Final week protocol involving crate rest, weight manipulation, and humidity control to ensure the dog reached its absolute peak on match day.

Don Mayfield rejected shortcuts and drug dependency, arguing that true American Pit Bull Terrier conditioning success came from hard work, precision, and respect for the dog’s natural abilities.

Achievements and Legacy

With a pitbull dogfighting career win rate exceeding 85%, Don Mayfield proved his pitbull conditioning philosophy in some of the toughest matches ever staged, often under extreme conditions like the sweltering heat of the Deep South. His game dogs were known for their gameness, durability, and ability to recover quickly traits that became hallmarks of the Mayfield bloodline.

Beyond his personal success, Mayfield’s influence reshaped the game dog world. His APBT keep methods are still studied, adapted, and applied by pitbull breeders, trainers, and historians who value the preservation of the working Pit Bull and its legendary gameness.

Cultural and Historical Impact

Don Mayfield’s name remains synonymous with excellence in pitbull conditioning, APBT keep, and gamedog conditioning. His respect for the American Pit Bull Terrier as a working breed, his meticulous attention to detail, and his commitment to continuous improvement have made him a lasting icon in the history of the game-bred Pit Bull.

At APBT Info, we preserve and share the history of Don Mayfield so that future generations can understand his role in shaping the American Pit Bull Terrier and the culture of the game dog a legacy built on discipline, knowledge, and an unshakable belief in doing it better.

Don Mayfield – Legendary American Pit Bull Terrier Breeder, Game Dog Conditioner, and Master of the APBT Keep