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If you are thinking about adding a canine companion to your family - pit bull or otherwise - I have
one very important word for you... RESEARCH!
Adopting the right
dog for you. Every year, thousands of dogs (not only pit bulls) 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.
Pit Bull Ownership 101
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. 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, I have
found through my personal experience in rescue, that many pit bulls tend to have some level of dog aggression
- that level can vary from insignificant to severe. I cannot stress enough, however, that I
do not like blanket statments that sweep all members of a particular group into one category, and it would be unfair and
inaccurate to assert that ALL pit bulls are dog aggressive.
As a sensible alternative to categorizing an entire breed, dog owners need to know, understand
and/or be "in tune with" THEIR individual 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!
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. Pit Bulls thrive on human companionship. They are friendly, silly, happy dogs and typically never meet a stranger.
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.
Dog Aggression
Dog-on-dog aggression is a common issue with pit bulls.
In fact, it is a common issue with all TERRIER breeds, in general. I encourage you to research any terrier breed - including
the tiny Yorkshire Terrier - and you will discover the majority of terriers tend to be "scrappy" with other dogs. Owners must recognize and accept this fact or they will not be able to
provide competent ownership and have fun with their dogs. As stated above - KNOW YOUR DOG.
There are those who argue that because pit bulls were
bred to fight other dogs a hundred years ago, they will fight any animal that they come in contact with. This is
absurd. While it is true that pit bulls were selectively bred to fight other dogs a century ago, that in itself
does not determine the disposition of individual dogs with other dogs. Just as certain specific traits were
selectively bred into pit bulls a hundred years ago, responsible breeders have been and continue to selectively breed those
traits OUT OF pit bulls. I encourage you to read the research I have done on Nature v. Nurture for a firmer understanding on the impact of a dog's environment as well as its genetics work TOGETHER in forming a
dog's temperament and disposition.
Proponets of pit bull bans argue that because pit bulls were once
bred to fight other dogs, they are "dangerous" animals and, therefore, not acceptable pets or even domestic animals.
Current scientific research renders that train of thought as outdated. The latest research indicates that environment
plays an even more significant role than genetics in dog behavior. In essence, breed ban proponets play the
genetics card selectively. They want you to believe that pit bull were bred to fight, ergo, they are vicious.
However, they conveniently leave out the fact that pit bulls have always, from the beginning, been bred to be EXCEEDINGLY
human friendly.
In addition, the dog fighting argument fails because there is
a 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. There is a distinct difference between animal
aggression and human aggression, and the two should never be confused. 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."
With respect to dogs that tend to be dog-aggressive, a higher level
of responsibility on the part of the dog owner is necessary. You need to recognize what upsets or aggitates your
dog and remove your dog from those situations and/or don't put your dog in situations where those circumstances are likely
to occur. You have the ability to control your dog's environment and keep him safe, secure and happy.
Finally, 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.
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.
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