October is National Pit Bull Awareness Month, and what better way to celebrate than by learning more about them?  Dozens of websites and organizations are dedicated to educating the public on pit bulls, but there are still  plenty of misconceptions abound.  BADRAP.org is an excellent source for pit bull information, adoption services and resources, and it’s based right here in the Bay area.  Below are the most common myths about pit bulls, listed in full on the BADRAP website:

 

Aren’t pit bulls mean and vicious?

No more vicious than golden retrievers, beagles or other popular dogs! In yearly tests of over 240 dog breeds by the American Temperament Testing Society (ATTS), pit bulls consistently achieve a passing rate that’s as good or better than the other most popular breeds.

In the ATTS test, a dog is put through a series of confrontational situations. Any sign of panic or unprovoked aggression leads to failure of the test. The achievement of pit bulls in this study disproves once and for all the old tired belief that pit bulls are inherently aggressive to people. Like any breed of dog, a healthy pit bull that is properly raised will reflect the good care his owners have invested in him.

 

Don’t pit bulls eventually turn on their owners?

No: Healthy pit bulls with stable temperaments are succeeding in countless homes across the continent. Dogs that bite people are typically troubled individuals, set up to fail by irresponsible and/or reckless owners who’ve ignored or disregarded the classic warning signs that come with nearly any dog bite. In general, biting dogs have been set up to fail by improper handling, abuse and/or damaged genetics.

 

Are pit bulls unpredictable around children?

Pit bulls have enjoyed a long history as favorite children’s companions and family pets. When well-socialized and properly raised, they’re the perfect breed to tolerate the rough-and-tumble play that kids can dish out.  Some dogs may not be suitable with young children because they could knock them down in their exuberance. Common sense dictates that children should be taught how to properly interact with dogs (of EVERY breed) and should never be left alone with a dog unsupervised.

 

Check out these great resources for more information on pit bulls:

 

Feel free to call the Campus Veterinary Clinic with any questions about your pit bull!