Pit Bulls. The name itself can cause a range of emotions depending on the individual. More often than not, the things that come to mind are very negative: aggressive, locking jaws, “most likely to turn on their owners,” untrainable. Thanks to terrible people like Michael Vick and those involved in the Auburn, Alabama Raid (367 dogs, mostly Pit Bulls, recovered), Pit Bulls are saddled with one of the worst PR (public relations) cases in history. But it wasn’t always like this: Pits used to be just normal, loved dogs.

For starters, “Pit Bull” isn’t even technically a breed. It’s more of a category. There are multiple breeds with similar characteristics that are all lumped together under the label Pit Bull. Such as the American Staffordshire Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, American Bulldog, and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. There dogs, just like German Shepherds and Labradors today, used to be entrusted with children and soldiers. In fact, they were considered “Nanny Dogs” by many, used in popular children’s shows like “Our Gang”, and one Pit named Stubby was awarded a Medal of Honor for “Bravery of the highest caliber”.

So how did Pit Bulls go from “Americas Dog” to the most feared dog breed in the country? The biggest change started with a July 1987 issues of Sports Illustrated which featured a front-page image of a chained, snarling Staffie. The article warned people of their “unpredictability”, and spread the myths of their “locking jaws” and “imperviousness to pain”. This sparked the current nationwide fear that now surrounds this beautiful, loveable breed.

So, what are some of these myths and what is the truth?

Locking Jaws: There is absolutely no evidence, anatomically or behavior, that would suggest Pit Bulls can lock their jaws. They have the same general jaw structure as most other breeds of dogs.

1600PSI Jaw Pressure: In a 2005 National Geographic study, it was found that the average dogs bite pressure was 320PSI. During the same study, a Rottweiler, German Shepherd, and a Pit Bull’s jaw pressure were tested with the sleeve bite test and the Pit Bull registered as the weakest out of the group. In addition, a Great White Shark’s bite pressure of around 600PSI.

All Pit Bulls are Dog Aggressive: While it’s true, any dog can become dog aggressive, it’s a myth that every single Pit Bull would be dog aggressive. In fact, many Pit Bulls, even those rescued from fighting rings, can be rehabilitated and homed with other dogs.

Dog Attacks are Mostly by Pit Bulls: Pit Bulls are not even on the Top 10 list of dog breeds with the most dog-on-human bites. Rather, they make the Top 10 list for dog breeds least likely to bite a human

Don’t believe these? Come see for yourself! Bloomsburg University’s Students Saving Shelter Animals club will be holding their annual Pit Bull Appreciation Day on Wednesday, May 3^rd from 12-4 on the SSC Patio! There will be T-shirts, Bracelets, Puppy Chow, Henna, A Smooch a Pooch Booth, and other goodies! And of course, the guest of honor, their very own Pit Bull Ambassador!

Come out to meet one of the most misunderstood dog breeds in the country, and decide for yourself if those kisses are worth the love of a nation!