Recently, the media informed us of Montreal’s decision to ban “big-headed” breeds, such as American Pitbull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers and any form or mix of these breeds. The ban was not placed because of studies proving that these animals are aggressive, but because they were afraid of them. This means that thousands of adoptable animals are going to be killed because the public has been fed misinformation for decades. These animals were not born aggressive. They are molded by their owners, as is any animal. We raise them to be adult canines. We dictate their entire lives. Some people choose to fight their animals. Some people choose to shower them in love. The life of the dog is not dependent on that animal, it is dependent on us. Don’t let misinformation scare you from adopting a very loving new family member.
Contrary to popular belief, the Bully breeds aren’t the most (nor even close) to being the most aggressive breeds of dogs.
In fact, Dachshunds are the #1 aggressive dog breed. According to recent studies, scientists have found that Dachshunds are the most aggressive dog in the world. It has been proven and tested that every 5th Dachshund has bitten a stranger, and every 12th has bitten its owner. They are also very well known to not get along with children. Next on the list are Chihuahuas, Jack Russel Terriers, Pekinese and Shar Pei breeds.
Naturally, there are some negative characteristics to these breeds, as there are with any breed.
Do not own a Bully breed unless you plan on giving them all of your attention, and then a little more.
These breeds need a lot of human attention. They’re classified as “people pleasers” which I have found out myself over the last 5 months. My own American Pitbull Terrier/Labrador Mix, Bandit, seemingly craves all of my attention at all times. Unless he’s kenneled, he’s directly on my heels, walking all over me or sitting directly in front of me.
Be prepared to socialize them with people and other breeds.
Because Pits have an intense desire for our affection, they will do anything to keep us safe. Bully breeds are known to be protective of their owners. Notice I said protective, not aggressive. Bully breeds may bark at strangers unless they are taught not to do so. If you own a Pitbull, spend extra time teaching them right from wrong. They are very fast learners, so don’t be aggressive with them. Bully breed owners must be prepared to take time and fully train their animals. Training them is extremely important. Many people fear these animals, so you have to take extra precaution to teach the animal not to bark at, jump upon, or sit on another person.
They will chew on absolutely anything.
If you aren’t careful, your animal will probably chew up a lot of things. Including any string toys, water bottles, shoes, clothes, couches, their own beds, and carpet. If you allow this animal to be bored, it will entertain itself. So far, Bandit has eaten my glasses, two dog beds, several pairs of underwear, a shoe, multiple socks, a tennis ball, my laptop charger and a string chew toy. Your dog will likely eat things, so make sure you keep all important objects squared away. They are notoriously curious, and they will eat anything, even if you think they won’t. Bandit currently sleeps on a little pillow from our bed that he can’t tear into for some reason.
There is an overwhelming number of amazing qualities in these breeds.
For example, whenever Bandit gets in trouble, he immediately puts his front paws around my shoulders and lays his head down. No matter what he’s gotten into, I can’t stay mad. I didn’t even teach him how to hug, he just does it on his own.
They are very, very good with children.
They are very tolerant animals, and because of their love for people, they are ideal for playing. That being said, never leave any kind of animal alone with a child. When they are excited, they don’t realize that they could be playing too rough.
They don’t realize that they are too big to be lap dogs.
My puppy has no idea of his size. Being nearly 40 pounds, he still thinks he’s tiny. This may not be a plus for everyone, so don’t let your animal sit on other people unless they say it’s okay. However, I allow him to sit on me, walk on me and sleep on me. He has no idea what boundaries are. I don’t mind though, there’s nothing I love more than puppy cuddles.
Owners should also understand that not everyone will like or understand these breeds, and it’s extremely important to always keep an eye on them.
If someone threatens your animal in any way, take them seriously. Many people don’t care if the dog is nice or not. If they carry a fear that is unshakeable even by facts, they will lash out. Recently, the story of Tank, owned by Tiffany Ozz, which I will add a link for, surfaced on social media. Tank’s neighbors say that he is threatening. The man had enough time to go back inside, grab a gun, and come back out to shoot Tank. The owner of the Alpaca farm took aim at his head in order to kill him. After an examination, the medical professional said that Tank was shot in the back of the neck and the bullet exited through his face.
To me, this story is devastating. I do believe that Tank is alive and well, however; the fact that he had to endure a shooting by a cowardly man breaks my heart. Unfortunately, cases like this happen all too often, and it’s time that people really do research on these animals before they decide that they’re aggressive or hateful.
Pitbulls are sent to animal shelters more than any other breeds and are less likely to be adopted. Save a life, adopt your next best friend.
https://www.facebook.com/Tiffytoe/posts/10207099338024993?pnref=story
https://petolog.com/articles/most-aggressive-dogs
http://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/american-pit-bull-terrier#/slide/1
http://www.vrcpitbull.net/dog/training/pit-bull-facts/
