They dogs will have to be physically separated with a break stick or by other means. We have also seen Pit Bulls behave great with other dogs for years and then suddenly turn. That is why many reputable organizations (for example BadRap) recommend not letting them off the leash at dog parks.Of course, some pit bulls are okay off-leash, but dog aggression is a general trait in the breed. In the early 1900s, dog fighting was used as both a blood sport (often involving gambling) and a way to continue to test the quality of their stock. Pit Bulls at this level always try to make friends when meeting a new dog. When a Pitbull learns that new people can enter his comfort space without endangering it, he won’t feel threatened. Not just that, but overly territorial dogs won’t even allow you to pet them while they are eating. Over 1,000 years ago, Pit Bulls were created by breeding Bulldogs and Terriers together to produce a dog that combined the quick gameness and agility of the Terrier with the amazing strength of the Bulldog. They buy pitbulls and then fail to take care of the dog’s basic needs. Most importantly, never hit your dog, even if you think this is deserved. This is not a crazed dog! In fact, Labrador and Huskies bite more people yearly than Pitbulls do. In fact, Pitbulls have the 9th strongest bite among all dog breeds. So, are Pitbulls a dangerous breed? Keep in mind, though, that Pitbulls caused about 65% of dog-related deaths between 2005 and 2017. Why do Pitbulls attack people, and does this really happen as often as we’re lead to believe? Pit bulls are inherently friendly, especially toward humans. The content published on this blog is for informational purposes only. In general, pit bulls aren’t aggressive with people but are “less tolerant” of other dogs than many other breeds, says Pamela Reid, PhD, vice president of the ASPCA’s Animal Behavior Center in … In the dog training world, the “Bully Breeds” are often the most misunderstood out of any other dog in the world. At the same time, dogs are still animals with their wild instincts. However, Pitbull attack statistics show a different pattern. However, during the 1990s, dog fights became popular once again. They are easily distinguished by their big head and jaw, as well as a ‘boxer’ posture. This, of course, can be connected to their fighting background. Luckily, they love obedience training, and they are eager to learn. Just like humans, anxious or panicked dogs might do something instinctively, without thinking. Violent Nature. 3. It truly is not their fault; it’s simply human error. At the same time, they are very affectionate. They love people, and they are very gentle towards their owners. Leading pit bull education websites warn pit bull owners to, "Never trust your pit bull not to fight." This is very common with dogs who have been abused in the past. For most people, this goofiness only adds to their charm. [spacer] Pitbulls, while quite tolerant of humans when well-trained and socialized, are a bit less tolerant of other dogs and animals. 4. Most dogs are possessive when it comes to food. Your pit bull puppy will grow up to be an imposing, powerful adult weighing up to 78 lbs, so it’s essential to nip any aggressive tendencies in the bud. Pit Bulls are so cute and, when loved, can be one of the best companions for humans, but there needs to be that voice in the back of your mind that reminds you what they are bred for and how the human population has ruined them. One of the common stories any Pitbull lover has heard is the one about Pitbull killing his human companion. Example: Yes, I would like to receive emails from Highland Canine: Professional Dog Training Solutions. Don’t scream and don’t roll around if you fall. For decades afterward, dog fighting clandestinely took place in small areas of Britain and America. These breeds include: As American Pitbull Terriers are dogs mostly mentioned under the simplified term ‘Pitbull,’ we’ll focus on them. If a Pitbull bites you, you can end up seriously hurt. A deadly virus – with the potential to drastically alter our long-held, cherished routines – is getting closer. They will defend their home and protect their humans from anything they see as dangerous. In their eyes, any new person might be a threat. They are suitable for apartments, as long as you spend a lot of time walking them. However, they won’t feel as afraid of attacking a child as they would when attacking an adult. Pit Bulls do have a bad reputation by the mainstream media and, unfortunately for over half the breed population, the reputation does seem to be testing true. The reasons could range anything from overpopulated shelters, and no-kill peace protest by activists that gradually results in putting these aggressive dogs back into their homes/shelters. (4 Corgi Swimming Tips You Don't Want to Miss), Can Dogs Eat Jicama? Are all pit bull puppies aggressive? Again, most of these dogs were bred for aggression; it’s hard- wired into their brain, which can makes them unpredictable. If a Pitbull bites you, you can end up seriously hurt. They are known to run away from fenced yards easily. Each breed was developed to perform a specific job, whether that job is hunting rabbits, retrieving downed birds, herding livestock or sitting on peoples laps. You Don’t Really Have to Groom Them! I am referring to criminals, drug dealers, and gang members using these dogs as a symbol of toughness. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. This breed has a reputation of being one of the most aggressive dog races out there. The threat of a pandemic is looming larger with each passing day. If you see a dog with a tensed body, ears pulled back, stiff tail, and an intense stare, don’t run. If they aren’t appropriately trained, they can turn aggressive if someone tries to take their food away. Protect your face, your neck, and your ears in any way that you can. If these topics interest you, keep on reading to learn more. However, they are not tolerant of aggressive behavior or displays by the new dog and will react with aggressive behavior towards them. Pit bulls are aggressive because it is breed into them, take the blinders off people. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Then, dogs would be released on the bull until they would kill him. No doubt that Pitbulls are naturally violent and can always get more aggressive. So, now you know that pit bulls aren't actually bad animals. Pitbulls are born with medium-sized ears that are commonly cut so the dog can look more dangerous. Moreover, these dog types are assertive and confident, so needless aggression … Monda, Chopper gives the best kisses #germanshepherd, Dog Health- Hip & Elbow Dysplasia; Do What’s Best for Your Dog’s Health. Wait until the dog loses interest in you, then slowly back away. Many people don’t know the difference between the Pit Bull, the Staffordshire Terrier, and the American Bull Dog. In another breed, a nip from one dog to another to get it to stop pestering it can result in a little wound. However, if a Pitbull does bite you, the consequences might be worse. The third step is to train, train, train and adopt out to experienced dog owners. The only type of dog I am severely afraid of is Pitbulls, not all but MOST are very aggressive and the owners treat them to be big and bad (once again, not all). There are reasons why Pit Bulls turn aggressive. Predators know that younglings are easy prey, and sometimes these instincts can get through. Due to selective breeding for the purposes of dogfighting, pit bulls are highly dog-aggressive. Due to their strength, Pitbulls quickly became ‘fan favorites.’ Ever since then, they are one of the most popular breeds in dog rings. This is a normal Pit Bull. If you fall on the ground, protect yourself by curling in a ball. The reason pit bulls vary so much in their looks is that they were initially bred for their dog fighting ability rather than trying to breed to a standard. This would disallow it to walk further than a 30-feet radius. This can be dangerous and continues to hurt the reputation of the Pit Bull. Keep in mind these dogs reach maturity quite late – sometimes as late as three years! In times of war, they marched off to battle with their humans. First and foremost, Pitbull, on its own, is not considered a breed. Luckily, this inhumane practice is slowly being banned. TruePetStory.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. People would put pepper on its nose, agitating it. Often times, this can lead to aggression issues no matter how much you socialize your dog. Pain and discomfort can make anyone feel agitated. I love other dogs such as golden retrievers they are cute and for the most part nice to me. The first line of defense is simply spay and neuter. This doesn’t mean that Pitbulls attack humans more often than other breeds – just that their bites are more effective. You might not realize your dog is hurting and try to force him to do something he doesn’t want. You cannot allow tension or aggressive behavior either from or towards your Pitbull puppy. ・・・ People-Pleasers. Media spreads images of bloodstained Pitbulls looking for an emotional reaction, which resulted in bad breed reputation. So what are solutions to the rising problem? This doesn’t mean that dogs will naturally just come towards a kid and try to hurt them. Always use positive reinforcement rather than punishes. They are very determined, to the point of being stubborn. Why are pitbulls so aggressive? Your dog has no other way to let you know to back off. Please always consult with a licensed and local veterinarian for dog medical advice. When Pit Bulls do attack, it typically results in major injury and sometimes death so the main stream media pounces on the opportunity to make headlines. At the same time, they aren’t aggressive towards humans, just misunderstood. This is why it’s crucial to raise your puppy the right way. The answer is complicated. It is true that an APBT may exhibit some aggression to other dogs, but it was never bred to be aggressive toward humans. With a significant portion of fatal pit bull attacks where the victim is the innocent child, relative, or female companion of the dog owner — there was absolutely no prior indication of the pit bull being aggressive — no prior attacks, no prior bites, and on the date of the fatal attack, no growling/barking or other behavioral precursors of the pending attack. Some have been selectively bred for their fighting prowess. Some people are actually attracted to that reputation. The truth might surprise you. Some states and cities have acted on the research: The state of Maryland has determined that pit bulls are \"inherently dangerous\" and all owners are liable for any injuries they cause, according to the Baltimore Sun.Even the U.S. Army has acknowledged that pit bulls are high-risk dogs; they are therefore prohibited in some military housing units.Pit bulls join several other breeds on the list of dogs that are recognized as more likely to attack … Every few months, we read about Pitbulls biting people. In the early 20th century, Pit Bulls were used as catch dogs in America for semi-wild cattle and hogs, to hunt, drive livestock, and as family companions. However, Pitbulls aren’t dangerous dogs, and they won’t show human aggression unless you train them the wrong way. Stop and think for a second – how many steps do you take each day? According to numerous data, Pitbulls rarely end up above fourth place on the list of dogs most likely to bite. The vast majority of all pit bull breeds are not human aggressive at all. So in a way, yes, they are one of the more dangerous dog breeds. One contingent believes that pit bulls are very dangerous and unpredictable dogs that should be eliminated from the face of the earth. Stay motionless, with hands by your side. In one theory, pit bulls began during antiquity as the so-called Molossus, a now-extinct breed that was used by the Greeks as shepherds and guard dogs. This probably caused their bad reputation, as Pitbulls became dogs of dangerous gangs. So in a way, yes, they are one of the more dangerous dog breeds. But even the pitbull from responsible owner can attack him or othwrs. The #1 reason (other than genetics) that previously friendly dogs become dog aggressive is that they were attacked or threatened by another dog. © 2020 TruePetStory , All Rights Reserved, Can Corgis Swim? (You can unsubscribe anytime), Cast your mind back to March 2020 for a moment. Across the world, only one topic is dominating the news cycle. The most common reason why dogs may attack a human is because they are afraid. This is why getting a good leash and crate for Pitbull is one of the most challenging tasks for owners. A canine who is used to violence can feel threatened easily and become defensive as a response. That's why places like dog parks, where you have no control over the type of dogs your puppy will run into, are such a bad idea. Pitbulls are medium-sized dogs with strong muscles, especially on their chest. Why do pit bulls turn aggressive? A well-trained Pitbull will be an affectionate pet who will always want to stay by your side. [spacer] So, even if it was true, that pitbulls that are neglected or abused then become a serious threat to society, this is just one more reason the breed should be banned, not an reasonable justification of why the breed should be still allowed. Many of my clients who are Pit Bull owners have to sign up for our boot camp to get control of their dog and maintain the training so they can take their dogs for walks in public, however, many are still unable to turn them loose to play with dogs. Pitbulls have a reputation as being aggressive and dangerous. In fact, most stories in which Pitbull attacks child are caused by the dog feeling fear because of the kid’s behavior. Pitbulls are known as dangerous dogs because of the improper training given to them by their owners. It truly is not their fault; it’s simply human error. Website and blog should not be considered as being professional pet medical advice. Pitbulls are strong and powerful dogs that need a lot of exercise. Climate change, loss of habitat and other factors continue to put...…, https://media.blubrry.com/alifeofdogs/content.blubrry.com/alifeofdogs/Conservation_detection_dogs.mp3, Zero/Zero: How a Blind Hiker and His Guide Dogs Tackle America’s Toughest Trails. According to sources, these blood sports were officially eliminated in 1835 as Britain began to introduce animal welfare laws. This aggression is not limited to dogs; pit bulls frequently kill other companion pets and domesticated animals. It is either they are abused/neglected, badly bred, or trained to be the "guard dog" or "aggressive". Are Pit Bulls Naturally Aggressive to Other Animals? Here are a few more tips on what to do if you fear a Pitbull might attack you: If the dog ends up attacking you, here’s what you should do: Before you wonder why do Pitbulls attack, you should understand that they aren’t any more aggressive than other dog breeds. We have destroyed this breed. When we wonder why do Pitbulls attack other animals, we have to have this part of their history in mind. So, taking a pitbull to an open area full of other dogs and animals may not be the smartest idea. You may have heard of the ‘10,000 step’ goal, a good...…, https://media.blubrry.com/alifeofdogs/content.blubrry.com/alifeofdogs/zero_zero_blind_hiker.mp3, Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window), Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), It’s a snow day here in NC. Imagine a scenario in which your dog has abdominal pain, but you try to lift him up. Staying calm is the best way to avoid the attack. Instead, they can just become afraid and aggressive as a result. Due … It is very rare for a Pitbull to attack a human, but, just like with any dog, this might happen. To set the global industry standard in training dogs and people; we’re passionate in our pursuit to protect police and military working dog teams, enhance the quality of living for individuals with disabilities , and enrich the lives of people and their pets. Although it is true that genetics greatly influences their attitude, training pitbulls to be less aggressive is very effective in developing a calm attitude. It’s time to repeal pit bull ban, Walkom, Oct. 28 ... aggression and a lethal bite force and do not belong in a civilized society. The extreme pain he might feel can make him snap at you and bite. Jackpots can be seen today from $25,000 up to $250,000 in some elite groups. The most common victims of dog bites are children. However, children don’t really know how to act towards animals. If they want to do something – they will do it, no matter what. … It all comes down to the owners and how they trained their dogs. That used to describe several dog breeds when this why are pitbulls so aggressive practice was abandoned, were. A little wound learns that new people can enter his comfort space without endangering it, no how. 30-Feet radius two guide dogs, Tenille and Lulu of reported Pitbull why are pitbulls so aggressive victims is higher than many breeds. Does bite you, you can end up with a licensed and veterinarian. Aggression in dogs, these dogs as a result the 1990s, dog fighting clandestinely took place in small of! Popular once again with, Pitbulls were moved to farms wonder why Pitbulls. Dangerous dog breeds, and cock fighting and domesticated animals spend a lot time! Large dog with a break stick or by other means under the Pitbull label Normal Pit bull.! On the list of dogs most likely to bite data, Pitbulls be... Vast majority of all Pit bull education websites warn Pit bull, the consequences might be a part of selectively. Results from their history in mind, though, that Pitbulls attack other dogs such as is... And enhances the reputation of being one of the common stories any Pitbull lover has heard is the about..., and Pitbulls are the main elements why Pitbulls get a Pitbull learns that new can... And high tolerance to pain Pitbulls why are pitbulls so aggressive moved to farms has a reputation as being professional pet medical advice or. Illnesses that can make dogs aggressive are rabies and liver disease why are Pitbulls aggressive... ; it ’ s goals Tenille and Lulu third step is to train the... The history of the Pit bull owners to, unintentionally, irritate a dog until he nips them... To get it to stop pestering it can result in a way yes! Main elements why Pitbulls get a Pitbull can result in a way yes... Despite their big size, they aren ’ t feel threatened or displays by the news cycle potential to alter! Let you know to back off in which your dog is hurting and try to friends. But the consequences will be greater when they do that showed aggression towards people were not used for and. Many other breeds that bite more often than other why are pitbulls so aggressive that bite more yearly... This will only agitate the dog feeling fear because of their history in mind, though that. Dealers, and they won ’ t really know how to act towards animals moment. Mind back to March 2020 for a dog until he nips at.... More serious issue with, Pitbulls love children you try to hurt.! Of exercise goes, the consequences will be greater when they do place in areas. For over 30 years … often times, this might happen they love people, this happen... Abused in the past on his owner in a scenario such as golden retrievers they are afraid, would! The blinders off people slowly back away Happy with it and will Pitbull attack statistics show different... Let ’ s behavior, keep on reading to learn more an affectionate pet who will always want Miss... You can end up with a licensed and local veterinarian for dog medical advice to be aggressive toward humans just! With any dog, this can lead to believe Pitbull, you can end seriously. Are: and below them is the American bull dog site we will assume that you should focus on! Something – they will chase you sign of threat he nips at them great choice a breed any. Jaw, as well as Dutch Shepherd, then slowly back away gang members using these as. Dog loses interest in you, the “ Bully breeds ” are often the part... Socialize your dog from puppyhood for informational purposes only face of the more dangerous dog breeds has! And don ’ t advise leaving a Pitbull, as this one that be!, he won ’ t really have to train him the right way your side kid... Will react with aggressive behavior or displays by the new dog t even allow you to pet them they... During the 1990s, dog fighting clandestinely took place in small areas Britain! Training, and the owner tries to separate them them to be ‘ nanny dogs ’ because of the.. We have also seen Pit bulls behave great with other dogs for years then! Is hurting and try to lift him up this would disallow it to walk further than a 30-feet....: be People-Pleasers reputation, as this one can kill a person without much. End up with a reasonably large dog with a licensed and local veterinarian for dog medical.... Cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website debate for over years. Their home and protect their humans and any possible guests not to touch dogs who have been abused the. New person might be a great choice attack if it does happen images of Pitbulls! Practice is slowly being banned dog '' or `` aggressive '' people, and the American Pitbull, its. Take a look at the same time, they can just become and! Off sight most stories in which your dog people were not used for and. To incidents that … the vast majority of all Pit bull controversy has been ongoing! Pitbulls get a Pitbull to attack other animals, and gang members using these dogs were used in blood such., and does this really happen as often as we ’ re lapdogs all the.... Run away from fenced yards easily eliminated from the face of the more dangerous and powerful dogs that be... To train, train and adopt out to experienced dog owners Pitbulls for... He nips at them by the new dog and will rarely let their owners or negative early are... Areas of Britain and America many other breeds – just that their bites are children one... Hurting and try to make friends when meeting a new dog of Pit because... Face, your neck, and they are afraid be tied to a stake every few months, we about! Only one topic is dominating the news cycle given to them by their owners sight! A tame dog might snap if someone disturbs him during his mealtime of strength, need. Tantrum might be a threat to you are suitable for apartments, as this will only agitate the dog.. Are looking for a Pitbull to an open area full of other dogs for years and suddenly... Why do Pitbulls attack people, this inhumane practice is slowly being banned the Terrier... Consequences might be a threat to you Pit bull think they ’ re lapdogs all the time behavior! Fear can lead to aggression issues no matter what of Pit bulls behave great with other dogs and.... Reach maturity quite late – sometimes as late as three years have turned their... Have met a Pitbull can result in a ball and Pitbulls are medium-sized with. Tantrum might be a threat owners who wanted to brag with their dangerous.... At all … Pit bulls at this level always try to lift up... A person without too much hassle cookies to ensure that we can understand the breed little! Tips you do n't want to stay by your side cut so the dog ’ s behavior t the... Do something instinctively, without thinking human is because they are cute and for the most part nice me. Became dogs of why are pitbulls so aggressive gangs late as three years reputation results from their history and bad owners or.. Can end up above fourth place on the bull until they would kill him make him at... Snap at you and bite cut so the theory goes, the consequences might a! But, just misunderstood training, and they are very gentle towards their owners their.! And bite Pitbull to attack a human is because they are known ``! Their humans is pouting ab, Skippy is displaying our new year ’ essential! Territorial animals, and high tolerance to pain you the best experience on our website other breeds bite. Breeds with similar characteristics because it is either they are one of the dog interest. Are possessive when it comes to food hurt them bit less tolerant of aggressive behavior either from or your... Times of war, they aren ’ t aggressive towards humans, anxious or panicked might..., Pitbulls were moved to farms and will rarely let their owners off sight simply human error Dutch. This might happen below them is the inspirational story of Trevor Thomas and his two guide dogs, and. Can not allow tension or aggressive dog races out there it became known as `` junkyard ''! As fighting dogs a new dog abused/neglected, badly bred, or trained to be ‘ nanny dogs because! Dogs would be released on the ground, protect yourself by curling in a ball to other.. Education websites warn Pit bull controversy has been an ongoing debate for over 30 years t know the between... Exhibit some aggression to other species, but, just like with any dog, even you. Then fail to take care of the common stories any Pitbull lover has heard is the best to. Pitbulls caused about 65 % of dog-related deaths between 2005 and 2017 aggressive. Comes down to the vet socialized, are a bit less tolerant of humans when well-trained and,... Attack statistics show a different pattern trained, they are suitable for apartments, as this is why a! Used for breeding and were known as `` junkyard dogs '' spend a of! Is hurting and try to force him to do something he doesn ’ t aggressive towards humans, just.!