I have one word for you...RESEARCH Adopting the right dog for you:  Every year, thousands of dogs (not only bullys) end up in shelters and are euthanized because their owners didn't take the time to investigate the particular breed they "thought" they wanted.  Please don't add to the already staggering statistics.  Taking the time to research a breed will give you an idea if that particular breed is right for you.  Every breed has certain typical characteristics and quirks - find out before you adopt if those are things you are willing to adapt to your lifestyle.  Also remember that just like people, no dog is perfect.           * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * First and foremost, pit bull ownership requires a great deal of owner responsibility.  Because the media and the public thrive on sensationalized pit bull narratives, its imperative that pit bull owners become breed advocates and model responsible ownership practices in their communities.  The more you know about the breed, the better breed advocate you will be.  Quite simply, pit bull owners across the country are under fire.  We must be responsible owners in order to help overcome the public's negative views of the breed brought about by the irresponsible and careless owners.   Quite frankly, the rules of responsible pit bull ownership are no different than that of any other dog.  Unfortunately, because our dogs are the targets of fear, hate and discrimination, we must take it up a notch.  The words "pit bull," when used in this paragraph, can be - and should be - easily exchangable with the word "dog."  There is no such thing as being too responsible when it comes to your pit bull... NEVER allow your pit bull to roam freely, ALWAYS walk your pit bull on a leash, ALWAYS supervise your pit bull with other animals, NEVER keep your pit bull chained or tethered for extended periods of time or without your supervision (an unattended pit bull is a prime target for theft), and as with any dog, ALWAYS supervise children with dogs.  The typical pit bull is a unique and wonderful animal. They offer incredible companionship, are amazingly athletic and have a terrific sense of humor. There is truly no other breed like them!   Pit bulls are not the breed for everyone...  but then again, the same can be said of any breed.  Pit bulls demand owners that not only understand the challenges of the breed, but who are committed to negotiating these challenges on a daily basis.  Many of those challenges come in the form of discrimination and bias from society.  Because of this, not only are pit bulls categorized in a derogatory manner, but their owners are as well.  Many believe that bull breeds are inclined to dog aggression - I am one of those people.  It is extremely important to note, however, that many breeds of dogs can be dog aggressive.  Obviously, every dog is different and every dog has a distinct personality - a dog's temperament is the result of its socialization and upbringing.  That being said, however, it is important to remember that pit bulls were originally bred to fight other dogs.  I have found through my personal experience in rescue that many pit bulls tend to have some level of dog aggression, and that level can vary from insignificant to severe.  As a sensible alternative to categorizing the entire breed, dog owners should know, understand and/or be "in tune with" THEIR dog's temperament and personality.  If you know your dog doesn't particularly care for other dogs, do not take place your dog in situations where he might find himself in trouble.  As the dog owner, you are in control and you are charged with making the appropirate decisions that impact your dog.  It all boils down simple common sense!         Even more important is the distinction between dog aggression and human aggression.  The simple fact that a dog displays aggression toward another dog does not mean it will display aggression toward a human.  Unprovoked aggressive acts or behaviors towards humans from any dog - regardless of breed is unacceptable. When speaking of pit bulls specifically, in my own personal opinion, you will not find a more friendly, loving or affectionate breed out there.  One common saying about pit bulls is that they "never meet a stranger."  I personally believe that owners need to understand the fighting heritage of the pit bull.  This is by no means to glorify what I feel is a cruel and heartless history, but understanding the breed and its history is critical to successly raising and living with your pit bull.  Some form of aggression towards other dogs is common and, as with any other trait, there are varying degrees of aggression.  Pit bulls reach adolescence between the ages of 8 and 14 months of age, and at that time, their demeanor with other dogs can change. It is not uncommon for an adult pit bull to be quarrelsome toward other dogs. To expect him to be otherwise is unfair to the dog, to yourself and to the community in which you live. Dog aggression, handled responsibly, is not something which should stop you from enjoying many activities and sports with your pit bull.  We would all like to think that our dog is the "exception to the rule," but do you really want to find out the hard way that he or she is not?  As I initially stated, pit bull ownership is no different from that of any other dog.  Quite simply, dog ownership is a responsibility, and all dogs - regardless of breed - require responsible owners.  Sadly, it is when people don't follow the rules of responsible dog ownership, it is pit bull owners who suffer the greatest consequences. Therefore, I encourage all bull breed owners to be advocates for the breed, as well as role models for other dog owners.  By doing so, pit bulls can once again become an American icon in society.

Temperament One very important characteristic of the Pit Bull dogs, is their amazing love of people. Human aggression, severe shyness, and instability are not traits typically found and accepted in the Pit Bull breed. Unlike the myth propagated by the media though, human aggression is not a trait associated with the Pit Bull breed. In fact, Pit Bulls tend to do better than average in temperament tests. Unlike the myth propagated by the media though, human aggression is not a problem specific to the Pit Bull breed. Dog Aggression Humans have created very specialized dogs through emphasizing desired traits and eliminating unwanted ones. It is no different with the Pit Bull breed - 'selectively' bred for hundreds of years to fight other dogs. Certain specific traits were selectively bred into the dogs and are now part of the breed's character. It's like the digging instinct of many Terriers, the compulsion to run in Greyhounds, etc. We don't condone or glorify it, but dog-aggression is common with Pit Bull type dogs. Owners must recognize and accept this fact or they won’t be able to provide competent ownership and have fun with their dogs. It is not necessarily a hate of other dogs that will cause Pit Bulls to fight, but rather an "urge" to do so that has been bred into the breed for many generations. Pit Bull owners must be aware of the remarkable fighting abilities of this breed and always keep in mind that Pit Bulls have the potential to inflict serious injuries to other animals. Pit Bulls can and do interact peacefully with other dogs and animals. Individual dog temperament, early training and socializing, all play an important role in whether or not a Pit Bull is capable of getting along with other animals. Many people successfully keep multiple Pit Bulls and other pets in the same household. Success is based on careful supervision, proper management and training, and the individual animals involved. In closing, please remember that animal-aggression and people-aggression should NEVER be confused, as they are two different traits. The Truth about Pit Bulls Pit Bulls are not the stereotypical devil dog put forth in media myths. They are companion animals who have enhanced the lives of many through their devoted people-loving natures, positively channeled physical prowess, bravery, and intelligence. Pit Bulls have served key roles in search-and-rescue efforts, excel in agility training, and work nationwide as therapy and service dogs. Famous Pit Bulls include Petey in "Our Gang/Little Rascals" film series and an American poster mascot during WWI. Pit Bulls have great physical and mental characteristics that make them excellent partners for responsible, active, and caring owners. These same outstanding qualities can also make them a little difficult to handle for people who don't have a lot of experience with dog ownership. Obedience Classes are strongly recommended for this breed. A well behaved and obedient Pit Bull will be a wonderful companion, and a great ambassador for an often misunderstood breed. Pit Bulls are very adaptable and will even do well in urban living, provided they have enough exercise or other positive outlets for their energy. Pit Bulls are strong, energetic, agile, and powerful dogs. They are also very resourceful and driven. "Determination" is one of their most notable traits… Whether it is escaping an inadequately fenced yard to go explore the neighborhood, or destroying your new couch when left home alone, or climbing into your lap to shower you with kisses! They just don't give up easily. Most Pit Bulls are very good with children. However, any dog must be supervised with children at all times. Like other active dogs, they need substantial daily exercise -- and depend on their owners to teach them good manners, such as not jumping.  Owner responsibility is required for anyone getting any dog. Pit Bulls strive to take on the behaviors that their guardians instill in them, and their behavior is reflective of the care, training and socialization practices (or lack thereof) used by their owners. It is essential for owners to socialize and train their dogs so they are well-behaved with people of all ages and in public situations. .

We can judge the heart of man by his treatment of animals. Immanuel Kant