Despite being total sweethearts, pit bulls tend to get a bad rap. As a pit bull owner myself, I have heard a lot of myths about pit bulls both online and in comments said to me in person regarding my own dogs.

Usually, I try to end the conversation because it is too tiring to explain time and again why those facts aren't true. (Especially to strangers in passing.) So, I would like to address a few of the myths I've heard most.

1. Pit bulls are believed to be more aggressive and mean than other dog breeds

In reality, pit bulls are no more vicious than other breeds such as the golden retriever. In yearly tests performed by the American Temperament Testing Society, pit bulls consistently achieve a passing rate that is as good or better than most popular breeds at 87.4%.

2. Pit bulls have locking jaws

This is false. Pit bulls have the same jaw structure as other dogs. There have been no studies or evidence to back up this claim, however, Dr. Brisbin states, "The few studies which have been conducted of the structure of the skulls, mandibles, and teeth of pit bulls show that, in proportion to their size, their jaw structure and thus its inferred functional morphology, is no different than that of any breed of dog."

3. Pit bulls are dangerous to children

Pit bulls were actually considered nanny dogs for the first 114 years of its recognition by the United Kennel Club because they are loyal, stable, and good with children. In fact, the United Kennel Club does not recommend pit bulls as guard dogs because they are too friendly with strangers.

4. It is dangerous to rescue a pit bull

Rescues will often have information on the pit bull such as any medical problems, whether they're good with other dogs/cats, whether they're good with children, and more. Many rescues/shelters will not adopt dogs showing signs of aggression or extreme shyness of humans. Rescuing any dog of any breed can always be a risk, but if you get as much information as possible, and properly introduce the whole family (including other animals), it should prevent any future problems. That way if there is a problem, or you find out there is a history of aggression in the dog, you can make the informed decision of whether or not to adopt the new pal into your family.

5. Pit bulls are dangerous to other dogs

Pit bulls are just regular dogs and how they react to both people and other dogs depends on how you raise them and socialize them. Pit bulls are not inherently dangerous to other dogs, however, it is always important to evaluate how your dog responds to other animals regardless of breed. If your dog shows signs of dog-on-dog aggression, it is very important not to leave them alone with other animals for their safety. However, this is a trait that can be found in all dog breeds not just pit bulls.