Alaska Animal Advocates
Contributed by Angie Lewis
Everyone has a strong opinion about Pit Bulls. People either love them passionately or despise them, mostly because of fear. The term Pitbull refers to a dog that is descended from Bulldogs and Terriers. Some people bred these dogs to use as fighting dogs, encouraging aggression. Even these dogs were showing aggression to other dogs, not people. These dogs were trained to hold on to large animals such as bulls, bears or other large animals. When this practice was no longer popular these dogs were trained to fight with other dogs. As a result of random breeding, these dogs have a wide range of behaviors. With positive early experiences, Pitbulls can be loving, Family dogs. In fact, Pit Bulls were known as the American Family Dog. Any dogs that have not been properly socialized can become very aggressive.
Statistics show that Pit Bulls do not bite people any more than other dogs do. The problem here is that their bites are much more serious than other dogs’. Sadly, this has resulted in Pit Bull bans in various cities across the country. As with other general, broad sweeping laws, there are a great deal of unfair practices or laws regarding Pits. Breed specific legislation is unfair and doesn’t address the individuality found in dogs. Often, the kinds of strategies dealing with Pit Bulls are the very strategies that help to isolate the dogs from people – the exact thing that encourages negative behavior characteristics.
In terms of health – Pit Bulls often have problems with their skin, such as allergies, tumors, and even skin cancer. Pit Bulls can have knee problems, because of their high activity levels. Hip Dysplasia is often a problem for Pitties. These dogs can also have problems with their thyroids. This can be exhibited by gaining weight and having trouble walking.
Another stereotype about Pit Bulls is that they cannot get along with cats or other small animals, presumably because they are seen as prey. In fact, as long as these dogs have enough parental guidance and know how to accept parental guidance and input there should be no problem.