The Pit Stop

Pit Stop

The American Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Terrier and other "pit bull" breeds or mixes are possibly one of the
most misunderstood breeds of dog. Though they were once the #1 family dog in the United States, the cruel
sport of dog fighting, and media sensation that follows it, has created the perception that "pit bulls" are
unpredictable and vicious by nature. The fact is, these dogs are loving, loyal and affectionate animals that
are smart and eager to please. Below is more information on the breed, along with rescources for those who
already own, or are considering adopting, a "pit bull".

Breed Traits and Characteristics

Pit Bulls are loyal, smart, affectionate, strong, energetic and tenacious. Contrary to their reputation, it is
extremely rare for a pit bull to be human aggressive. Even those bred and raised as fighting dogs, had to be
trustworthy when their owner reached into the pit in the middle of a fight to retrieve their dog. Studies have
shown that those who have bitten humans had little to no socialization, and were most often kept and raised in
cruel and inhumane conditions. When rated by the American Temperament Testing Association, Pit Bulls scored
higher than both border collies and golden retrievers.

History of the Breed

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was created in England centuries ago by crossing the English Bulldog with various
Terrier breeds. The goal was to create a dog that had the tenacity and prey drive of a Terrier, with the
strength, courage and willfullness of Bulldog. The intent was to design the perfect dog for bull and bear baiting:
A dog that would not give up, and that would loyally and wholeheartedly undertake whatever task assigned to
them by their master - even if they were maimed by the much larger animals in the process.

Over time, British society began to shun bull and bear baiting as a cruelty inflicted upon these dogs and other
uses for the dogs took hold. Though dog fighting cropped up for a period in England, Staffordshire Bull Terriers
quickly became revered for their extreme affection and loyalty to their family and have since been referred to
as "nanny dogs" because of their nurturing demeanor towards children.

The Stafforshire Bull Terrier came to the United States in the 1800s and eventually became the American
Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier. In the beginning, this breed was used as ranch dogs,
family dogs and even military mascots. In fact, the breed was so respected for their loyalty, bravery and
determination that they were chosen to represent America in WWII posters. The first decorated canine war
hero was a pit bull named Sgt Stubby.

It was not until the 80s and 90s, when the cruel sport of dog fighting took hold that this breed's reputation
began to suffer. Bred and raised by unscrupulous owners who sought to torture and exploit their loving dogs for
entertainment and profit, pit bulls soon gained a reputation in the media as vicious dogs that will fight to the
death. Sadly, the public began to believe the myths and today the pit bull is the number one target of
detrimental "breed specific legislation".

What often gets this breed into trouble is their high energy and tenacious prey
drive. Uneducated owners can unwittingly create behavioral problems by not
providing adequate exercise, stimulation and structure for their pit bulls. The dogs
were designed by humans to have incredible strength and energy, and a strong
determination to do their job. Without a positive and proper outlet, this energy
and willfullness is what can lead to aggression towards other dogs and/or
unmanageable behavior.

It is extremely important that owners of Pit Bulls educate themselves about the
breed and provide for their specific needs. With positive socialization, adequate
exercise and a loving and structured home, Pit Bulls make wonderful family dogs.
You'd be at a loss to find a more affectionate or loyal companion.