Pit Bullying

Pit Bulls strike the fear in people. Shelters are overrun with them. Cities are striking legislation that are banning people from owning these dogs. The mainstream media highlights stories about Pit Bull attacks regularly. They are famous for being vicious fighting dogs. The irony is that a well trained Pit Bull living in a loving, caring environment is completely the opposite of the "killer" dog that is sensationalized in the mainstream media.

Pit Bulls like their canine predecessors German Shepherds, Doberman's and Rottweiler's are this generation's dog breed that has a huge stigma of being "vicious". If you take you the time to research this "breed" you will find that the term "Pit Bull" is a generic classification and falls under Terrier. This group specifically includes the American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Terriers and Pit mixes. They are described as happy as docile, intelligent, make excellent guardians, wonderful family pets and willing to please. The big thing to consider if you want a Pit is that they NEED to be exercised regularly and extensively or they will let you know. 

From what I have discovered these dogs need to be properly trained. It requires a commitment from their owners of taking time to socialize them. They can be naturally agressive towards other animals but that trait can be eliminated if socializing is continued throughout their lifetime. Socializing them as a puppy helps them be accepting of new people and new situations otherwise they will become fearful which will lead to problems in adulthood. It's true in the wrong hands Pit Bulls can be vicious but in the right hands they can be as some owners describe them as a baby in a dog's body. They LOVE being with people and want to be included in family activities: car rides, neighborhood strolls or just a romp in the park. 

Every story about a Pit Bull attack continues to vilify this majestic breed. People really need to dig deeper into these stories and analyze what is happening. In MOST cases it's the owner NOT the dog. Set up a dog for success not failure. I am not casting aspersions on anyone that is attacked but let's not forget the dog often is the forgotten casualty. They are usually victims of circumstances, bad training, lack of common sense, poor living conditions and overbreeding. This is true for ANY breed of dog. We have to realize that although they are domesticated, they are Still animals. We have to educate ourselves and others to be respectful of their body language and signs they are giving us. Let's stop bullying Pits and start doing our part by being responsible pet owners. Dogs lives are at stake.