We all know the stereotypes of pit bulls -- "aggressive, dangerous dogs." As we prepare to move, we have faced the "no aggressive breed" laws commonly referred to as Breed Selection Laws (BSL). It discriminates against pit bull breeds, rottweilers, dobermans, German shepherds, chows, and bull terriers. The law deems these breeds as too aggressive to be kept, and forces owners to re-home fur babies or denies their housing applications. Instead of automatically denying a dog, why not give them a chance? The American Kennel Club (AKC) provides a Canine Good Citizen test, if any dog can pass this test then they should be allowed everywhere. If it's not okay to discriminate against people, what justifies discriminating against dog breeds? Here is what it's like to own one of the best dogs ever.
Constant cuddles, whether you like it or not.
People always say that dogs are in tune with human emotions, but I have never had a dog as sensitive as my pittie. If you are seen with an kind of sadness showing, all 90 pounds of puppy is in your lap. Or even if you aren't sad, if the lap is open, then he is in it. We tried not letting him on the furniture but we gave in quickly when we realized that cuddles are the best (even if they are crushing your ribs).
You will always have a body guard.
Loyalty runs deep in the pit bull bloodline; once the dog loves you then they will never stop. From the time we brought him home as a puppy, he never left our side. We were told by so many people that he needed a new home when my son was born. People went as far as to say we were endangering my son's life, threats that Child Protective Services should be called. We knew better though, these two have been inseparable from the time they met. I will never fear for my son as long as this big ole boy is around.
Smiles for days!
I have owned just about every breed you can think of from chihuahuas to rottweilers; pit bulls are by far the most smiley and happy bread of all. You can give him an empty water bottle and he will act like he won the dog lottery. It's hard to have a bad day when you come home to be greeted by a smiley face followed by some sloppy kisses.
They are the epitome of a gentle soul.
In our home we always have a menagerie of animals. Cats, rabbits, chickens, pigs, and even a goat at one point. I have yet to meet an animal that our pit bull didn't get along with. He's earned the nickname of "ranch hand" as he follows me from animal to animal, filling food and cleaning cages. I will admit that I was nervous at first -- he doesn't always realize how big he is. It truly is an amazing science that he is able to adjust according to each animal is he around. He can go from running laps with our greyhound to calmly laying next to a 3 pound rabbit.
Of course every dog is different. A poodle can attempt to rip your face off just as easy as any "aggressive breed." ALWAYS make sure you ask to pet any animal before you do so. The next time you go to the shelter, don't be so quick to pass over the pit bulls and pit bull mixes. You might just adopt the best damn dog on this planet like we did.
