My Pitbull is not a dangerous dog. She is a beautiful, lovable dog. Furthermore, most other Pitbulls I have ever seen are also gentle and friendly but there are some problems with people who keep them without providing proper training.
While it is true that Pitbulls are commonly considered to be aggressive and dangerous, some people are actually attracted to that reputation. They purchase or adopt pitbulls and wrongfully encourage aggressive behavior. In addition, other owners fail to care for their dog’s basic needs, and the dog becomes a problem, further enhancing their reputation as an aggressive and dangerous dog.
Importance of Training
Pitbulls need exercise, attention, and training. They, like most dogs, are not meant to be left alone or chained up for endless hours. They need interaction, play, training, and lots of exercises.
There are breeds of dogs who take to obedience training with downright enthusiasm, think golden retrievers, for instance. However, any kind of terrier is a more difficult proposition. They are more likely to take a command as a suggestion. And a terrier, of any kind, who is chasing something is extremely hard to call off.
The dog breeds that are bred to chase things have a focus so strong they have difficulty responding to anything once involved in a chase.
A small dog or child who runs away from a Pitbull, or any dog with an instinct to chase prey, risks triggering that hunter drive. Training and control are paramount and must be constantly reinforced.
Crate training is also something to consider when adopting a Pitbull or any other kind of dog. Check out my article on Crate Training your Pitbull for Safety & Peace-of-Mind.
Dangerous Dog Breeds
Pit bulls and other dog breeds are known for having a reputation for being aggressive. The breed’s poor reputation does not make every pit bull or large dog dangerous, but if you are looking at getting a dog and want a Pitbull, Rottweiler, or German Sheppard, you should be mindful of these statistics.
The “Warriors for Justice” website has updated information on dog attack & biting statistics.
Do you know anyone with a chihuahua, a dachshund, or a Yorkshire terrier? These breeds are also known as biters but you don’t read a lot about chihuahua or dachshund attacks in the news, do you? That’s because they are unlikely to maim or kill someone when they snap.
Regardless of how lovable a dog is, it can be dangerous. Pitbull attacks make the news if they kill or maim someone, hence their reputation. Yes, they are appealing dogs in many ways but remember they are solid and powerful dogs with instincts that can get them into trouble.
Technically Not A Pitbull
Today there are at least five breeds of dogs that are commonly misidentified and lumped into the category of Pitbull:
- English Bull Terrier
- American Bulldog
- Boxer
- American Staffordshire Terrier
“Pitbulls” are not recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
I believe my dog is an American Staffordshire Terrier. In any case, it’s best to get ahold of fears and love them for the great dogs they actually are. Here is an article I wrote on helping friends or neighbors get over their fear of Pitbulls: how-to-help-neighbors-overcome-the-fear-of-your-pit-bull/
Be A Good Pet Parent
I have never seen a Pitbull that frightened me, but I sure have seen pitbulls that I felt sorry for because they were poorly treated and/or neglected.
Sadly, Pitbulls are often owned by the last people who should have any dog. If you decide to adopt a Pitbull or any dog for that matter, please practice being a good pet parent!
7 Tips On Being A Good Pet Parent
- Going for walks and providing exercise
- Research the breed.
- Keep them up to date on their vaccinations.
- Be attentive at dog parks.
- Clean up after their messes.
- Don’t leave them alone too often.
- Buy safe toys for them
- Use a properly sized crate
Here is the crate we use. It’s a portable, Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, great for puppies indoors or outdoors, Perfect Travel Dog Crate
See every kind of dog crate on Amazon!
