Some people have trained pit bulls for their aggression and strength. This often exacerbates the aggression of this dog breed to an extent that is not natural. When trained and cared for properly, pit bulls are no more aggressive than any other dog breed.
Pitbulls can be great family dogs and will protect young children and other family members. They are highly intelligent, playful, and energetic. Dogs are a human’s best friend, and pit bulls are no exception.
There is often negativity toward pit bulls in mainstream media, but there is a side to this breed that you should know about to understand whether or not they truly are ‘dangerous’ dogs.
What Is a Pit Bull?
The term ‘pit bull’ refers to a few different breeds of dogs.
Breeds such as:
- Staffordshire bull terrier
- American Staffordshire terrier
- American Bulldog
- American bully
- American Pit Bull terrier
Are all categorized under the ‘pit bull’ term. There are notable differences between these breeds, but the one thing they all share is DNA from the English bulldog and the English terrier.
The pit bull was developed as a cross between the classic English terrier and the English bulldog. The aim was to create a dog with the brute strength of a bulldog combined with the nimble athleticism of the terrier. The resulting pitbull is a powerful animal in terms of its physical abilities.
Are Pit Bulls Dangerous?
When you see a pit bull with its muscular physique and large jaw, it’s easy to think that this animal will only want to attack and bite. In reality, pit bulls have a very playful nature.
People who have owned or worked with pit bulls will tell you they are happy dogs that often do silly things. It’s pretty funny to see an animal with the physical abilities of a full-grown pit bull behave like it was a labrador puppy. It’s as if they are unaware of their physique.
This playfulness is also one of the issues concerning pit bulls. When they are playing, they underestimate how big and powerful they are. They can easily injure other animals or their humans.
When they get carried away in fun and games, it’s hard for them to contain their excitement, like any other dog, and it can result in all kinds of problems.
The fact that they are big, strong dogs does make them more dangerous than other breeds. Injury can occur because of their ability to attack someone or another animal intentionally or because of casual injuries during play and daily life.
Pit Bulls and Other Pets
Pitbulls can be more on edge with other pets and dogs around. Pit bulls don’t get along with other animals as well as other dogs. They are often warier when other dogs are around, especially dogs of different breeds, and even the smallest thing can trigger them.
A pit bull is not the best choice if you are looking for a dog that will easily integrate with your existing dogs or other pets. This is not to say that they can’t be taught to coexist, but this training needs to happen early.
If you are introducing more dogs to your home where you already have a full-grown pitbull or getting an adult pitbull to be part of your family, this can be challenging.
It’s not that pit bulls are overly aggressive toward other dogs or animals; it’s just in their nature not to be very ‘friendly’ toward other animals. They see themselves as head of the pack and in charge of the situation. When other dogs and animals aren’t behaving in a way that the pitbull likes, it is likely to cause some friction.
Pitbulls have been bred to be work dogs. They are derived from dog breeds that were also work dogs and used extensively for hunting and herding. This element of being in control of other animals in the environment is part of their DNA and not very easy to change.
Pit Bulls as Family Dogs
How suitable a dog is for a family environment and as a domestic pet boils down to the environment it is in, as well as the kind of training and education it gets from its guardians and owners.
Even a breed like a labrador which is generally regarded as being a friendly breed and perfect for families can turn into a vicious dog if it grows up in a harsh environment and doesn’t receive the kind of disciplinary training needed to become a healthy part of the family unit.
Pitbulls are brilliant dogs which means they are highly trainable. They are also excellent observers, have great personalities, and have a deep love and affection for their close group, humans or animals.
These are all excellent traits to have in a family dog. However, a pitbull is not recommended if it is your first time owning a dog.
These are powerful animals and can be physically challenging for the average person. They can be challenging to train as they require lots of repetition and constant practice to stay sharp.
Being a large and powerful breed, these animals don’t do well in small areas or apartments. They need plenty of space to roam about and be themselves.
They also need a guardian or a family to give them enough attention during the day, such as going out for walks or just doing activities at home. Keeping your pit bull’s mind occupied and giving its body enough stimulation to discharge all its energy is the best strategy for owning a big pit bull.
Pit Bulls with Children
Pitbulls are very friendly and caring, and they are excellent observers. They are constantly monitoring their environment and have a natural gift for dealing with other animals around them, including humans.
These dogs are gentle with children, and they understand that children are no threat to them. However, given the size of these animals and how they can easily get startled, it can be risky to have them around children.
They make excellent guard dogs and watchdogs for families that need that kind of protection, but this is not a dog that you should mindlessly integrate with young children.
Pitbulls love attention and activity. Children can give pit bulls endless playtime and the activity this dog breed enjoys. With the proper socialization and training, pit bulls can be great company for children, but you should always remain vigilant.
Final Thoughts
Contrary to popular belief, pit bulls aren’t a naturally more dangerous breed than any other. However, pit bulls with a difficult history and those that haven’t been trained and socialized properly can be challenging to deal with.
This breed is undoubtedly more suited to a dog owner with experience and the knowledge to train a large dog properly. While they make excellent family dogs and guard dogs, you need to understand the specific needs of this dog breed for them to be truly safe for your home, family, and community.
