October is National PitBull Awareness Month And National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, so there’s no better time to shine a light on this often misunderstood breed. Here are a few things you might want to know about the “breed” which makes up 15-30% of all shelter dogs (the number is hard to pin down for reasons we’ll get into). Check the following facts, then visit your local rescue. You are bound to find a smiling pittie who would love to come home with you.
Pit bulls don’t really exist
Well, they do, but not officially. “Pit bull” covers more than a specific breed, although some organizations register “American Pitbull Terriers” as a single breed. It is more generally accepted as a general term that encompasses American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Bull Terriers, and more or less any mixed breed that resembles any of the three. If you see a compact, muscular dog with a giant grin, chances are he was referred to as a pit bull by most people. This is why it is difficult to agree on the statistics of pit bulls. It is likely, however, that more pit bulls and pit bull mixes populate shelters than any officially recognized breed.
They are not excessively aggressive
The American Temperament Test Society (ATTS) rates American Staffordshire terriers, Staffordshire bull terriers, and bull terriers at over 85% on their breed temperament tests, meaning each of these pit bullish breeds passes the test at least 85% of the time. According to the ATTS, “The test simulates a casual walk in a park or neighborhood where one encounters everyday life situations. During this walk, the dog experiences visual, auditory and tactile stimuli. Neutral, friendly and threatening situations are encountered, involving the dog’s ability to distinguish non-threatening situations from those calling for vigilant and protective reactions. Dogs are evaluated on negative and positive reactions to each scenario.
The fact is, any dog can be aggressive if placed in stressful or violent situations. Pit bull breeds are no different. The difference is that, if they get into a fight, pit bulls can cause considerable damage to other dogs and/or people due to their incredible jaw strength. It’s a widely held myth that pit bull breeds have “locking” jaws, but the reality is that they really are very strong and very tenacious. They often refuse to let go because they feel like they are protecting themselves or others.
Dogs fight; it just happens if the circumstances allow it. A big part of the reason pit bull breeds get a bad rap is that when they’re upset enough to fight, they’re built to win the fight.
They need exercise
According to the American Kennel Club, these three breeds of bullies are all considered “energetic.” They were bred to be sporting dogs after all and benefit greatly from moderate to vigorous daily activity. Like any energetic dog, he needs to expend that energy in some way, and if he doesn’t get the exercise he needs, he can be destructive. But wear them regularly? Snuggly sweethearts the rest of the time.
More importantly, they want to exercise with You. They are incredibly social and loyal dogs who want to be part of a family. They will practically work forever if you run with them.
However, you must stay on a leash
Should a pit bull be leashed when outside the comfortable confines of his own home? Yes. But the same can be said for all other breeds of dogs. You can’t control the environment, other dogs, potentially threatening people, wildlife, or other things that might put your loyal pittie in a threatening situation, but you can control your dog.
Check your local regulations
Some places have completely banned pit bulls. Some places have stricter leash laws than others. Before adopting a pit bull breed, check your local ordinances. They are usually in place at the county or city level, as opposed to state or federal, and can vary wildly from city to city. Dogsbite.org has a comprehensive list of all breed-specific prescriptions. Make sure you know what your residence has in place!
Do your research
Again, this applies to any dog you might adopt, but it’s especially important considering the bad reputation pit bulls have with some people. Before adopting a dog, make sure you understand their personal history. A dog that has been abused, suffers from social anxiety, does not get along with other pets, is not good with children, or has other emotional or behavioral problems should never be placed in a triggering situation. It’s impossible to know everything that can cause a negative reaction in a dog, but most shelters can give you some insight into what they’ve seen in a particular dog.
You make a friend for life
Pit bull breeds are intensely loyal, affectionate, clumsy, eager to please, and playful. While some may not like other pets (check with your shelter), most of the time they love their people and enjoy meeting new people. they are just people dogs. They crave attention and cuddles and will often accept it from anyone (so bullies may not be the best watchdogs). If you adopt a Pit Bull breed, you are adopting a dog that will be by your side (literally) for life.
Every dog, regardless of breed, needs the right kind of care, the right kind of socialization, and trust in their owner to understand what they need to get along in the world. In this regard, pit bull breeds are no different from any other.
They just smile more.
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