Pit Bull Corner

Aggression to humans is a completely separate trait from aggression towards other dogs. Unless very poorly bred or trained to attack humans through abusive methods, Pit Bulls are by nature very good with people. A dog showing severe shyness or aggression towards humans may be genetically unstable.

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 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.

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. PAW does not recommend young, active dogs for families with young children. Mature dogs past four years of age are usually better for households with children.

Owner responsibility is required for anyone getting any dog. 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 are working to find caring, committed homes for companion animals, including Pit Bulls, and to educate people. Myths do harm to everyone. Knowing the truth helps us to manage our dogs and avoid problems.

Pit Bulls make wonderful, loving and very loyal companions for owners who do their homework and learn how to establish leadership using humane, positive techniques.

Before getting any dog, one should research thoroughly. Understanding breed characteristics and background are necessary for being a responsible owner.

Success in a multi-pet household depends on the individual animal, training and socialization, and constant supervision by the owner.

Many Pit Bulls interact well with many other dogs and sometimes other pets; so much depends on the individual dog’s temperament, training and early and ongoing socialization. However, owners must be aware that the trait of aggression towards dogs and other animals (not towards humans) was bred in, and cannot be reliably trained away. Love cannot change the genetic make-up of your dog.

Many dogs were bred with a specific purpose; herding breeds tend to display nipping behaviors and scent-hounds follow their noses. Pit Bulls were originally bred for work that included bull-baiting and dog fighting. It is not the “hate” of other dogs that drives some to fight, but an “urge” that has been bred into them.

Your dog may not feel compelled to fight with other animals, but carelessness can possibly lead to a sudden, serious fight. Even two dogs who have been friends for years may fight if something triggers an instinct. With any breed, a calm pup could show animal aggression in the future; a dog may not mature and show his true temperament until age three.

In addition, most terriers have a strong prey drive, and often regard cats, rabbits and squirrels as targets. It definitely helps to socialize dogs from the start with many types of animals and find positive outlets for their energy drive. Early and ongoing obedience training is essential as well. A dog who has been raised properly, socialized and trained will be easier to handle.

Benevolent leadership typically results in a dog who respects and obeys you. At the same time, you must always supervise your dog, and keep the environment free of things such as rawhide toys that can trigger a fight between dogs.

It is also important to channel your dog’s energy through exercise every day and to keep them mentally stimulated.

With any breed, owners need to be aware of unique behavioral, physical and mental characteristics. All dogs need responsible, active and caring owners. Pit Bulls are strong and energetic, so we recommend that owners take them to obedience classes as soon as they are up to date on shots.

Pit Bulls suffer from prejudice and misunderstanding, so ownership requires a willingness to consider your neighbors’ concerns and educate them. Never leave your dog alone in a yard or chained outdoors. Owners must protect their dogs from teasing, injury and theft.

• The best situation for many terriers is to be the only pet. The next best situation is to have a neutered male and a spayed female. Having two same-sex dogs, or two unneutered dogs, increases chances of dominance and territoriality problems.
• Don’t leave Pit Bulls unsupervised with other pets. When you leave the house, the dogs should be safely crated or in separate rooms. Never trust them not to fight with another dog.
• Monitor dogs while they play. Avoid rough play, and don’t let things escalate.
• Never leave out food, bones, toys, or anything that could trigger a fight between animals. Feed pets in separate places.
• ALWAYS have your dog on leash when you go on walks and whenever you’re not within a fully, securely fenced yard.
• Off-leash dog parks can be risky for any breed of dog, and we advise avoiding them. Remember, even if another dog starts the fight, your dog may finish it and get blamed.
• Your dog should always wear a strong, snugly fitted collar, to which is attached an ID tag listing your address and phone number. Good choices are leather or heavy-duty nylon collars. This will allow you to get a good grip on the dogs before or immediately after a fight erupts, so you can pull them apart as soon as the hold is broken.
• For details about stopping a fight between dogs, click here.