Myth #6: Pit bulls don’t get along with other pets
Truth: Just like humans, dogs can have people they are more comfortable and social with—and its not breed-specific. “Each dog is an individual, and their response to other animals will be dependent on their development and things such as their individual disposition, socialization, and previous experiences,” says Megan Stanley, owner of Dogma training and pet services. Her own pit bull, Duke, helps at her training facility to socialize puppies and dogs with limited social skills. “He is a wonderful mentor dog at helping fearful dogs gain confidence, exposing puppies to large dogs, and helping dogs gain social skills so they can integrate back with their human companions,” she explains. And at home, Duke lives in harmony with two dogs and a cat. Some species, however, dont make good roommates, like these pairs that probably shouldnt live together.
What dog group are pit bulls in?
There are four breeds that are commonly classified as the modern “pitbull-type” breeds by AKC/UKC breed standards – most are members of the Terrier Group of dog breeds. The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) is the tallest and most athletic of the four pitbull-type breeds.
Myth #9: Pit bulls are dangerous because they are on a BSL list
Truth: Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) is a term for laws that regulate or ban certain dog breeds to decrease dog attacks on humans and other animals. The ASPCA actually calls this breed discriminatory; the AKC, Humane Society, the American Bar Association, and many other organizations oppose BSL; and 18 states have legislation that prohibits it. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior says, “BSL is ineffective and can lead to a false sense of community safety as well as welfare concerns for dogs identified (often incorrectly) as belonging to specific breeds.” The false sense of security relates to people thinking a specific breed is safer over another breed, when all dogs are capable of biting. “BSL is the result of misunderstanding and prejudice against these blocky-headed dogs.” You might not be aware of these other weird dog laws in your state.
4 LIES TOLD ABOUT PITBULLS
If youve ever been lucky enough to love and be loved by a pit bull, then you know theyre a special breed. Recognized by their square faces, broad chests, and muscular builds, these dogs may look intimidating, but behind that facade, youll find theyre lovable, charming, and playful goofballs—and some of the most loyal and affectionate dogs around. However, as youre probably well aware, pit bulls arent always recognized for their family-friendly qualities. Theyre often thought of as aggressive, vicious, and untrainable, and chances are, youve heard more than a few concerning pit bull “facts.” Some cities have even banned the breed in an attempt to decrease the number of dog attacks.
While it is true that pit bulls have a violent past—their ancestors were bred to fight bears in British blood sports, and some of them are still used in illegal dog fights—that doesnt define them today. As any trainer will tell you, a dogs upbringing will determine its temperament far better than its breed, and many experts have gone to bat to protect these pups. Because of that, some cities have even reversed their pit bull bans. Denver, for example, repealed its ban in June 2021.