Pit Bulls Aren’t Always “The Pits”

American Pit Bull Terriers are often misunderstood in our society. This needs to change!

Pit Bulls are unequal in comparison to other dogs because they exhibit more of every positive attribute a dog can have. They are known to have superior physical and mental characteristics that make them fantastic companions for responsible, active, and caring owners. For those without much experience, it can be tough to have one of these dogs. However, if someone is willing to put in the proper time and effort, they are responsive to training--and eager to please.

It does not take much to have a well behaved and obedient Pit Bull. Dogs of this breed are strong, loyal, courageous, energetic, agile, and powerful dogs. They remain playful all their life and need lots of exercise; they also have a great sense of humor and determination. Well-trained Pit Bulls have the ability to know when to stand down and when to protect; they are outstanding dogs and can become truly great companions.

It is unfortunate that some people have chosen to bring out the fighting instinct in the breed. Animal-aggression and people-aggression are two distinctly different traits. Pit Bulls have an animal-aggression but unless they have been trained to attack humans, they are, by nature, very good with people.

The Pit Bull Rescue Central website (PBRC) on breed information for Pit Bulls states:

“Like any other breed, pit bulls can develop behavior problems if poorly bred, mishandled, abused, unsocialized, etc., that could result in inappropriate aggression. Any large, strong, and powerful dog that attacks can do a lot of damage. This is why temperament evaluation is important when dealing with dogs of certain size and potential. Unlike the myth propagated by the media however, human aggression is NOT a problem specific to pit bulls. In fact, pit bulls tend to do better than average in temperament tests.”

All dogs from the SPCA have already been temperament tested and approved as family dogs. There are stories about the danger of Pit Bulls, but there are many other stories less publicized of these animals being protective, intelligent, and the sweetest dog an owner could ask for.

“In February 2007, a Pit Bull named “Chief” rescued his family of humans from a spitting cobra by dashing in front of the attacking snake and taking the deadly bite himself. Chief subdued the snake but died of the venom 30 minutes later.”

Michael Vick’s dog fighting operation of 2007 housed nearly 50 Pit Bulls. Only one of these dogs had to be euthanized because of aggression issues. Half were sent to the Best Friends Animal Society, a Utah animal sanctuary, and the others who were evaluated to be suitable candidates for adoption, went to various other groups. BAD RAP (Bay Area Doglovers Responsible About Pit Bulls) transported thirteen of these dogs to California to be placed in adoptive and foster homes. Visit BAD RAP for a detailed timeline of their progress.

There are many groups and individuals helping change the stereotype that Pit Bulls have received. It is difficult to fight against a force of humans training these dogs to fight, however, if Pit Bulls are found responsible and caring homes, they may yet become the best friend that man could ever hope for.

It was a Snowy Season

A beautiful well-behaved white Pit Bull came to the Peninsula SPCA in February of 2008. At 1 year old, she had pure white coloring and sad, dark eyes. She showed no aggression, just an unbridled love and curiosity.

After being in the shelter a few months, her behavior began to decline and as the shelter became more crowded, the decision was made to place her in foster care. There she was able to enjoy the company of a cat as well as the love of a new human friend. Snowy already knew a few basic commands and reverted back to being the well behaved dog she was before. Even though she was a dominant female by nature, Snowy was quick to listen, learn, and love and had a great time playing with her new friends.

After three weeks, Snowy came back to the shelter and was up for adoption once again. Soon enough, she became Zoe and the proud new adopted pup of an SPCA volunteer. She has received many toys and is learning basic commands, as well as making friends with other dogs in her new neighborhood. She gets plenty of exercise with her new family and couldn’t be happier!

Additional Resources:
For a More In-depth Overview of the Breed, Pit Bull Rescue Central
Training Advice From Many Pit Bull Owners, Pit Bull Rescue Central
Is A Pit Bull Right For You?, Pit Prints, Pit Bull Rescue/Rehabilitation
The Basic Myths Uncovered, Pit Bull Lovers.com
Pros & Cons of Owning a Pit Bull, Bay Area Dog Lovers Responsible Aout Pitbulls
Help Stop Dogfighting, HSUS.org