Breed Info
Then and Now…
Developed in the 1800s, pit bulls were originally used for bull baiting in Great Britain. This blood-sport, in which dogs were pitted against bulls, was wildly popular and matches were regularly held for public entertainment. In 1835, a law was passed that banned bull baiting but the demand for such civilized events persisted and dog fighting gained in popularity. Instead of pitting dogs against larger animals, the dogs were fought against each other, a much quieter and more easily hidden event (and you could bring the kids!). As dog fighting developed, becoming a “sport” with its own rules and regulations, dogs were bred for aggression with other dogs and gameness (the definition and interpretation of which is highly contested, so we’ll leave you to do your own research). Additionally, because handlers and referees often had to pick up dogs mid-fight, a strong bite inhibition toward humans was also developed.
As people migrated to the US, they brought their dogs and sport of choice with them. Pit bulls known for their keen intellect and fierce loyalty quickly became the poster dog for the US and gained popularity among families. They were used to garner support for World War I and were owned by many including Teddy Roosevelt and Helen Keller.
While pit bulls continue to be loved by many, a dark cloud has formed over the breed. Because of their tenacity, loyalty, and undoubtedly impressive appearance, pit bulls became the dog of choice in low income, crime ridden areas. Dog fighting became less organized and increasingly assimilated into gang culture. Dogs were encouraged to be human aggressive and were often used as tools of intimidation within the community. Pit bulls have now become a commodity, breeding and selling without regard to temperament is an easy business. The supply of available dogs quickly outweighed demand and pit bulls have become throw away pets in many communities. The media, also, has exploited the pit bull, reporting only negative stories about them, often exaggerating or misrepresenting the facts and adding to the negative stigma surrounding this amazing breed.
Proper Pit Bull Temperament
There is a lot of talk among pit bull circles regarding proper temperament or “soundness”. Because of the huge overpopulation crisis and media blitz, it is of the utmost importance that pit bull owners, shelters, rescues, and breed supporters understand what constitutes a temperamentally sound pit bull. There is debate about whether some dogs are “born bad” or whether poor owners create them. We believe that it is a little of both.
A proper pit bull is just a happy go lucky dog. One who will greet strangers and children with enthusiasm and doesn’t display fear or shyness when faced with new situations. Pit bulls are playful, athletic dogs who enjoy games and exercise. They are eager to please their owners, making them easy to train. And if nothing else, pit bulls are social butterflies. They love meeting people and being the center of attention; they love being a part of a loving family.
What may be surprising to those who are unfamiliar with the breed is that a sound pit bull will never show aggression towards a human. A trait bred into them for many generations, pit bulls have a strong bite inhibition with humans. Even when in extreme pain or discomfort, sound pit bulls will not show aggression. Unprovoked aggression is a sure sign of a dangerous dog and should never be tolerated in a pit bull (or any dog for that matter). On the other end of the spectrum is dog aggression. Due to the breed’s longstanding fighting history, dog aggression is not a sign of a mentally unstable pit bull. In fact, most pit bulls will display dog aggression to one degree or another, though many do not. Dog aggression and human aggression are completely separate things and should be considered as such. Despite this, because today’s world is so dog friendly and dog aggressive pit bulls can pose a threat to other dogs, most shelters and rescues choose not to adopt out such dogs, saving those few precious homes for pit bulls that get along with everyone and everything.
A Little Bit About Dog Parks
Yes, we know, in today’s modern fast paced world, dog parks are a gift from above. While we at BAD Dogs understand the attraction dog parks offer, we are not proponents of using them. Dog parks are often hotbeds of activity where stressed dog owners allow their untrained pets to play inappropriately while they chat on their cell phones. Plus, you never know who’s got what in one of those places! Instead, we recommend utilizing small playgroups, where you are familiar with the other owners and dogs. Remember, any dog can start a scuffle, but it’s almost always the pit bull who’ll get the blame.