American Pit Bull Terriers - Facts, Myths, Information & Resources About "Pit Bulls" and Pit Bull Type Breeds
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Welcome to my American Pit Bull Terrier Lens!
I am a dog lover and enthusiast. I've owned dogs my entire life and have had many different breeds over the years ranging from small to large.
The picture is of my Pit Bull "Tank" who I rescued from a shelter about 6 years ago. He is one of the most loving, loyal and obedient dogs I've ever owned!
My passion for dogs extends to all breeds. However the dog breed I love the most and want to do as much good for as possible is the American Pit Bull Terrier and other "Pit Bull" type dogs.
Before I get too far, I first want to educate everyone (who doesn't already know) to the fact that there is no such thing as a "pit bull" dog breed.
Actually, there are many different breeds that people tend to lump together into one and refer to them as pit bulls. These bully breeds include: The American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Bulldog, and sometimes even the Bull Terrier, Boxer, Argentine Dogo, Presa Canario and a few others.
But for the purpose of making it easier to educate you about these amazing dogs, I will follow the crowd and mainly refer to them collectively as "Pit Bulls" (even though I am against lumping them all into one breed).
There are numerous myths and tons of controversy surrounding pit bulls and I intend to help show the world the truth behind these wonderful dogs, and give as much general information about them as I can. I would also like to get more of them rescued and into happy homes.
Here are more pit bull resources and pit bull information:
* Pit Bulls Revealed - The complete guide to owning and raising Pit Bull Terriers.
* Pit Bull Rescue Central - The Pit Bull Rescue Center website is a virtual shelter and resource for owners and caretakers of American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and pit bull mixes.
* The Real Pit Bull - Accurate, real world information on Pit Bulls. Breed basics and beyond.
* American Pit Bull Terrier Network - APBTN was started for one purpose and one purpose only: To draw more people into the breed events, to develop a new generation of modern breed ambassadors, and promote the positive aspects of this amazing breed.
* Pit Bull Myths - Some of the huge myths surrounding pit bulls and the facts behind them.
* Pit Bull Breed Profile - All sorts of good information about pit bulls.
* The Pit Bull Guide - This step-by-step guide will help you to have a happier, healthier, and better behaved pitbull!
* Dog Obedience Training Secrets - SitStayFetch is the easiest system to follow on the market today for learning how to train your dog and change its behavior!
* ASPCA - The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
* Adopt A Pitbull - Find a homeless Pit Bull in your area to adopt.
* Defender of Pit Bulls - The myspace page of a great pit bull defender. I like this guy because he tells it like it is. Only facts and truth.
* Terrier Breeds - A look at different breeds of terriers.
* Understand-A-Bull - Pit bulls and breed specific legislation (BSL).
* Helpful Dog Information - Dog breed information, dog training tips, dog care advice, and lots of other helpful dog information.
Remember that pit bulls are not inherently mean or aggressive towards humans. In a recent study conducted by the American Temperament Testing Society (ATTS), Pit Bulls received a passing score better than that of breeds who are considered "nice" such as Beagles and Golden Retrievers! This study proves the ignorant belief that pit bulls are inherently aggressive towards people is FALSE.
It is humans who make some pit bulls vicious. Bad owners, abuse, improper socialization, and irresponsible breeders are what make any dog, pit bull or not, a "bad" dog.
Do not confuse the unfortunate dogs who have horrible owners with the vast majority of properly loved Pit Bulls that remain solid in temperament, affectionate, trustworthy and friendly to their dying day!
Blame the people, not the dogs!!!!
Find the Pit Bull
See If You Can Find the Real American Pit Bull Terrier
It's a great way to show that most people really don't have a clue what an actual American Pit Bull Terrier is.
Give it a try: Find the Pit Bull.
Did you get it right the first time? How about the 5th time?
I am very knowledgeable about Pit Bulls and even I didn't get it on my first try.
If it took me two tries when I had all the time in the world to sit here and think about it... then imagine how hard it would be for the average person, or witness to a dog attack, to definitely say it was a Pit Bull that did it!
Looks can be deceiving and the mind is easily fooled. This is especially true during a dog attack! Most people admit that they only got a quick glance at the offender and that they were in shock at the time of the attack. Think about how reliable a witness that really is!
This is why Pit Bulls are so often identified in dog attacks when in reality it was a completely different breed of dog.
Don't put blame on a dog until you have the facts!
A Pit Bulls Poem
You made me what I am today, courage at its best.
You wanted me to know no fear, a cut above the rest.
Not only did I master that, I've thrown in loyalty, too.
Look past my eyes into my soul, you know I'd die for you.
I'll watch your kids, I'll watch your house.
Your praise will be my crown,
ask what you will-I'll do my best.
I'll even be your clown.
But some of you don't like me, I'm sure I don't know why.
The only thing I'm guilty of is courage, love, and try.
But still they want to see me go, they want my breed to end.
Will I see you sitting idly by? You, whom I call a friend?
You made me what I am today, you never saw me waiver.
I've done my best to keep you safe. Won't you please return the favor.
~ American Pit Bull Terrier ~
-Author Unknown
Top 10 Pit Bull Myths and the Truth Revealed - Part One
myths surrounding pit bulls and the truth behind them
There has been a lot of negative press and myths surrounding pit bulls in the past decade or so. In fact, there has been so much that it has lead to the banning of this breed of dog in many places.So, here are the top 10 pit bull myths and the truth about them:
Pit Bull Myth #1 - Pit Bulls Have Locking Jaws
This is absolutely not true. Expert examination has proven that the jaws of pit bulls are structurally and functionally the same as every other dog breed. There is no locking mechanism.
Pit Bull Myth #2 - Pit Bulls Can't Feel Pain
The nervous system of pit bulls is the same as all other dog breeds and they do feel pain. Throughout the early years of forming the breed the "gameness" trait was bred into them to tolerate pain and continue to complete their task. So they definitely can and do feel pain but they "tough it out" better than most other breeds.
Pit Bull Myth #3 - Pit Bulls Bite More Than Other Breeds
There are quite a few bog breeds (as many as 10) that are commony called pit bulls. So, just based on that alone, they are much more likely to be blamed for a dog attack than any other breed.
Plus, it is very difficult to get an accurate count in dog bite statistics but the statistics that are available do not show pit bulls as being number one in biting.
Also, you must take into account that bully breeds are very popular. Some estimates suggest they are the most popular of all dogs. It is logical that the breed representing the most dogs would represent the most bites.
Pit Bull Myth #4 - All Pit Bulls Do is Fight
Now this is just laughable! I'll bet you have seen at least one pit bull in your life; you've probably even seen many of them. Now, how many times have you seen one in a fight? My guess is you have never personally seen a Pit Bull in a fight.
It's true that Pit Bulls were originally bred for combat and are still illegally used for dog fighting today. However, just about every dog breed was bred for a specific task but you don't see them doing it all the time. Lab's were bred for hunting but that doesn't mean only hunters own them and it doesn't mean all they do is hunt!
Pit Bull Myth #5 - All Pit Bulls Are Mean
Saying all pit bulls are mean or vicious is just like stereotyping any group of humans. All people are different and so are all dogs. The truth is that Pit Bulls are one of the nicest and most loyal dog breeds there is. Yes, they can be trained to be mean just like any other dog breed can be but they are not inherently mean.
Top 10 Pit Bull Myths and the Truth Revealed - Part Two
more myths surrounding pit bulls and the truth behind them
There have been no studies to prove that Pit Bulls have a stronger bite than any other dog breed. How hard any dog bites completely depends on the situation they are in so there is no way to determine whether they are using their jaw power to capacity or not. It is assumed that the larger the breed of dog, the more biting power they have. There are over 500 breeds of dogs and experts agree that you cannot claim any one breed has the most PSI in their bite.
Pit Bull Myth #7 - The Brains of Pit Bulls Never Stop Growing
Some people untruthfully believe that the brain of pit bulls keeps growing and swells to a point where they go crazy. Before the pit bull craze came about this same myth was given to the Doberman Pinscher. This rumor was never true in Dobermans and now it's being pinned on Pit Bulls. It's just as false now as it was back then!
Pit Bull Myth #8 - Pit Bulls are Aggressive Toward Humans
When it comes to any dog breed, aggression towards other dogs and animals is completely different than aggression towards humans. In fact, many breeders today buy "guard dog" breeds to stop their Pit Bulls from being stolen in case of a burglary because they are not aggressive enough towards humans to protect themselves.
Pit Bull Myth #9 - Pit Bulls Should be Kept Away from Children
Anyone who is a true dog fancier and has any legitimate knowledge of dog breeds knows that Pit Bulls are typically great with kids. Historically Pit Bulls have been a favorite companion of children and tend to be drawn to the excitement and fun of kids. As long as they are socialized and trained properly, Pit Bulls are the perfect dog breed to withstand the rough play typically associated with children.
It is common sense to not leave any dog alone with children but Pit Bulls are certainly no worse with children than any other dog breed, they are better in many cases.
Pit Bull Myth #10 - Pit Bulls Will Always Kill Small Animals
Pretty much every breed of dog will go after cats and other small animals, and Pit Bulls are no different. But there are countless cases of Pit Bulls that show a low prey drive and can live with cats and other small animals without any problems. It all boils down to socialization and each individual dog. No breed is inherently better or worse in this case, it depends on each dog and many other factors.
American Pit Bull Terriers
Their love is like no other; their heart is pure as gold.
Yet while going on a friendly walk, they're faced with stares of cold.
They're so very close to human, in how they act and what they do.
Unless you've known their devoted love, it's impossible to explain to you.
They are greatly more MISUNDERSTOOD than any other breed.
We tend to punish this loyal dog, instead of mankind's deeds.
They are always and forever clowns, with a wish for center stage.
Yet while displaying this sense of humor, most people disengage.
They, oh, so want to make new friends, and run and jump and play.
yet when they happily approach, most people shy away.
Often I've seen children poke, or hop on for a ride.
And when I felt they might get mad, they've only beamed with pride.
I've seen these children yank and pull, with nary a reaction.
Yet media's not interested, unless they've put someone in traction.
They love to snuggle up real close, to give lots of loves and kisses.
Yet they suffer more than any, from unfair prejudices.
What animal do I speak of, whose love is so unique?
If you've truly known one, you know of whom I speak.
There is no creature on this earth who will ever make you merrier.
The animal I do speak of, it's the American Pit Bull Terrier.
Author: Patty Letawsky
When Dogs Attack... Don't Just Blame Pit Bulls!
A great page with lots of information about dog attacks.
Last night I found a page with quite a few links and a bunch of information about dog attacks. I definitely recommend reading it.Here's a little bit from the page:
Pitbulls are not the only breed of dog who attack people and other animals, yet cities and towns create laws specifically aimed at this breed. A local town here passed an ordinance this year due to ONE incident where a 6 yr old boy antagonized and teased a dog, and continued to do so after being repeatedly told to leave the dog alone by it's owners, until the point which the dog jumped the fence it was in, in it's OWN yard and attacked the kid. The dog was a German Shephard/Pitbull MIX...
Why is it that they created ordinances against Pitbulls and not Shephards? How do they know that the pitbull in him is what made him attack and not the shephard? Shephards have been bred to be human aggressive for protection and use as police dogs.
Why not create an ordinance saying that if your kid provokes a dog, the kid's parents get fined? I would vote for a politician who created THAT law!
I'm not writing this page to say that pit bulls don't bite, or that they are all sweet little puppies. They are large dogs, with a history of being bred for the wrong reasons, but so are many other breeds. If you own any breed of dog, educate yourself on how to train it the right way, socialize it with animals and people.
You can read the rest of the text and check out the links to information about pit bulls and dog attacks here.
Cesar Millan "The Dog Whisperer" on Pit Bulls
A great quote about pit bulls and some other pit bull facts from Cesar Millan
"My kids are around pit bulls every day. In the '70s they blamed Dobermans, in the '80s they blamed German Shepherds, in the '90s they blamed the Rottweiler. Now they blame the Pit Bull." - Cesar Millan (The Dog Whisperer)Pit bulls get a bad rap because of irresponsible owners. Many people consider the look or popularity of a breed before thinking about whether the dog works for their lifestyle. Please evaluate your lifestyle before taking on the responsibility of a pit bull.
More pit bull information from Cesar Millan - Famous Pit Bulls
Pit Bull Video
AN AMERICAN HERO
PitBullAdvocate101.com AMERICAN PIT BULL TERRIERS WHO HAVE FAUGHT TO PROTECT THIS COUNTRY... NYPD, FBI, 9/11, SERVICE DOGS, THERAPY DOGS...NOW FIGHT FOR THEIR LIVES!
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Great Books on Pit Bulls
American Pit Bull Terrier: A Comprehensive Guide to Owning and Caring for Your Dog (Kennel Club Dog Breed Series)
Amazon Price: $12.71 (as of 07/06/2009) 
American Pit Bull Terrier Handbook (Barron's Pet Handbooks)
Amazon Price: $10.39 (as of 07/06/2009)
Thirty Years with Fighting Dogs (Vintage Dog Books Breed Classic - American Pit Bull Terrier)
Amazon Price: $31.16 (as of 07/06/2009)
The American Pit Bull Terrier (Terra Nova Series)
Amazon Price: $15.56 (as of 07/06/2009)
A New Owner's Guide to the American Pit Bull Terriers (JG Dog)
Amazon Price: (as of 07/06/2009)
Photos of American Pit Bull Terriers and "Pit Bull" Type Dog Breeds
Sleepy Banjo
Sleepy Banjo at 4th...
My handsome dog
Dog
cookie?
The Mighty pitbull
A Puppy Named Sancho
A Puppy Named Sancho
Hippy dog
Pit Bull Lens - Reader Feedback
Frankster wrote...
Excellent lens full of vital information for the public about these misunderstood dogs. They are a indeed a beautiful breed. It's man who should be punished for training a dog to fight, whether it's a pit bull or a doberman. No dog deserves that life. Thank you for setting the record straight. Bear hugs, Frankster aka Bearmeister aka Cat-Woman
Posted February 20, 2009
jipock wrote...
I have a 3 year old, and I actually got a dog from a friend that told me it was part boxer part lab. I got it home and kept it for two days. It was by far the best little puppy I have ever had. It was so loving, and did really well with my daughter. I took it to the vet the second day that I had her and found out it wasn't boxer but pitbull and lab mix. I have to say that everyone started telling me that it was really bad. They gave me horror stories and scared me have to death. They even emailed me articles on kids dieing from pitbull attacks. Sorry to lump them together, but I am absolutely no expert on pitbulls. Anyway, I gave the dog back to my friend. I really wish that I wouldn't have listened to everyone. i truly believe that I could have raised that "dog" to be the best dog ever. This was truly a great article!
Posted February 09, 2009
