WHAT ARE MY RESPONSIBILITIES AS A PIT BULL OWNER?

As a Pit Bull owner, you have certain responsibilities. Responsibility to your dog (to keep him/her out of trouble), responsibility to other dogs' and cats' owners (to keep their dogs and cats safe from your dog if he/she is dog/cat aggressive), and responsibility to the Pit Bull breed (to keep your dog from causing more negative headlines). You must also follow all the laws of your state and municipality in regard to Pit Bull ownership. Most of a dog's actions are instinctive. A dog will react to situations according to what his instincts tell him unless these instincts are overridden by the consistent training and socialization he needs to receive from his owner throughout his life. You need to attend obedience training with your dog and keep him/her under control at all times so he/she will be an ambassador for the breed.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AMERICAN PIT BULL TERRIERS AND AMERICAN STAFFORDSHIRE TERRIERS?

First, it is important to know that "Staffordshire Terrier" and "Pit Bull" are not official breeds but are instead common terms used to describe a certain type of dog. There are actually three breeds that can be easily confused. The correct designations are:

- The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) - Recognized by the ADBA and UKC

- The American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff or AST) - Recognized by the AKC

- The Staffordshire Bull Terrier (SBT) - Recognized by the AKC and UKC.

All three of these breeds are essentially the same dogs. but they have been bred for a different purpose and/or size standard since the mid 1930's. Some dogs are even duel-registered as APBTs and AmStaffs. For example, Petey from "The little Rascals" was among the first APBTs to be registered with the AKC as an AmStaff.

How can we tell the difference? We can't really. We can only try to guess the breed based on some very subtle factors that may differentiate them. Note that even experts can't always tell if a Pit Bull is an APBT, an AST, or a SBT.

The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT)

The APBT is bred for performance above everything else. The breeders usually focus on the working aspect of the breed. Therefore, many APBTs are bred primarily for their physical appearance and abilities. Some are also bred for the characteristic called gameness (described later in the FAQs).

Because performance is the most important trait, less consideration is given to conformation (this refers to how closely the dog matches a set physical standard for the breed). You may see APBTs weighing as little as 30 Lbs or as much as 100 Lbs. In general though, the APBTs are usually less than 70 Lbs.

APBTs are also bred for conformation, temperament, weight-pulling, obedience trials, therapy work, etc. The foundation of their bloodlines however, has most likely kept the physical and mental characteristics of the historical "pit dogs" with a lean and athletic body, agility, intensity, drive, etc.

The American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff)

The AmStaff (or AST) used to be the same dog as the APBT but was taken out of the pit in the mid 1930s. AKC opened its stud books to a few APBTs that fit a standard they had chosen, and came up with the name Staffordshire Terrier. Then, in the early 1970s the name was changed to American Staffordshire Terrier, to avoid any confusion with a breed called "Staffordshire Bull Terrier" (the "Spuds MacKenzie" dog) from England that was also recognized by the AKC.

AmStaffs are now primarily bred for conformation and temperament. They have a set height standard and usually weigh between 50-80 Lbs. They may be a little stockier than the APBT, but not always.

A red nosed AmStaff is very rare. Red noses are considered a fault with the AST breed and this physical trait has been bred out of most Amstaff lines. Red nose dogs are very common with the APBT breed though, which helps to differentiate both breeds. If the dog has a red nose, it is "probably" of APBT lineage - not an AmStaff.

Since AmStaffs share the same ancestors as the APBT (some are even dual-registered), ASTs and APBTs not only share the same look, they also have similar personalities. Dog-aggression is a potential trait in both breeds although not as strong and common in the AST as in the APBT. AmStaffs are very dominant dogs though, and just like the APBT they often have a threatening and intimidating look. That look and dominant attitude could trigger a hostile reaction from other dogs and result in a fight.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier (Stafford, Staffies, or SBT)

Staffies are a little less common in the U.S. but remain very popular in England. They also share the same ancestors as the APBT and AST. They are much smaller, though, about 15 to 40 Lbs max and their ears are rarely cropped. They are essentially bred for good disposition and conformation. They are often referred to as "nanny dogs" because they are excellent with children.

IF A PIT BULL'S EARS ARE CROPPED DOES THAT MEAN HE/SHE WAS FOUGHT? IS EAR-CROPPING PAINFUL FOR THE DOG/PUPPY?

Cropped ears are not an indicator of the dog's background. Some dogs bred for dog-fighting have cropped ears; some don't. Show dogs often have cropped ears, both with the APBT and the AST, but not always. Some dog fighters prefer cropped ears; some don't.

It is important to understand that there is no medical, physical, environmental, or cosmetic advantage for a Pit Bull to have the pinnas (the ear flaps) surgically altered. And, subjecting any dog to this extremely painful, disfiguring, and unnecessary surgical procedure (and the subsequent taping and bandaging that must be done after the surgery, and which adds to the dog's discomfort) amounts to animal cruelty and is indefensible. Many veterinarians refuse to perform this surgery and it is illegal in several countries.

WHAT IS "GAMENESS" AND DOES IT GUARANTEE A GOOD DISPOSITION TOWARD HUMANS?

Gameness is the strong will to never quit a task (in the case of some APBTs, a dog fight) despite pain and exhaustion. It is my belief that gameness does not guarantee good disposition, but does not rule it out either. People should not associate one with the other. These are two very different characteristics. Some game dogs may have good dispositions, some may not. Gameness may represent determination and courage, but doesn't assure stability, good disposition, or sound temperament.

IS A PIT BULL A GOOD CHOICE AS A GUARD DOG?

This is a common misconception. The only "guard dog" qualities of a Pit Bull are its formidable appearance and its name. Other than that, they are usually not very good at this job. Pit Bulls were not created to perform the task of protecting someone's home or property. In many cases Pit Bulls are just too friendly with people to be good at this. They may bark and "look" scary, but as soon as the intruder smiles at them, most Pit Bulls think they have made a new friend! In fact, Pit Bulls are very much at risk of being stolen. Due to their generally friendly and trusting nature, they are often led right out of their owners' yard and into a very bad situation.

Pit Bulls should not show aggression towards humans, and should NEVER be encouraged to attack strangers under any circumstances. With their looks alone, Pit Bulls will discourage most thieves from entering your property, provided they are not after the dog itself. Your Pit Bull should alert you if there is someone around your house, and will probably naturally defend you if you are personally in danger, but please, do not count on him/her to guard your house or property while you are away. In fact, you may want to get a good alarm system to protect your Pit Bull.

Remember, YOU are the leader! Your dog counts on you to protect him, not the other way around!!!!

ARE PIT BULLS GOOD WITH CHILDREN?

Most Pit Bulls are excellent with children. Since they were historically bred to perform in the pit, they have a high tolerance for pain, and in general will patiently endure the "abuse" young kids unintentionally dish out. However, like any dog, they must be supervised with kids at all times.

Pit Bulls are enthusiastic and strong, and can easily knock over an unsteady toddler with their wagging tails. They can be quite rambunctious until they mature, which is around 2-4 years of age. Pit Bulls should be taught to play gently, not jump on people, to sit and wait for a signal before going through doors, etc. Positive training methods work best.

Adding a juvenile Pit Bull to a home with toddlers or very young children may not be ideal since the dogs are very energetic at that age. You may want to consider adopting a mature Pit Bull instead, that has proven himself with children. It is possible to have a young dog with toddlers or infants, but you must be diligent with your supervision. Pit Bulls are also great playmates for older, respectful kids.

DO PIT BULLS HAVE A SPECIAL ENZYME THAT ALLOWS THEM TO LOCK THEIR JAWS?

This is a very common myth. Pit Bulls are just another member of the canine species and have the same jaw structure as any other dog. If they had a special enzyme or other physical mechanism that allowed them to lock their jaws, we would have to reclassify them as a different species. However, Pit Bulls do seem to have an above average amount of determination for things they are interested in. In fact, they were selectively bred to never give up. Their focus may be barking at squirrels, fetching rocks or sticks, but whatever they do, it's done with a great deal of enthusiasm. If they happen to grab onto something they don't want to release, it can be quite difficult to extract it from them.

In addition, in the heat of a fight, Pit Bulls tend to grab a hold on their opponent and shake as any canine would do with a normal prey. A breaking stick may be needed to break the hold. This may seem like a locking jaw effect, but it's only a strong determination to win the fight.

OUR NEIGHBOR BOUGHT A PIT BULL AND NOW WE ARE SCARED TO LET OUR KIDS PLAY OUTSIDE...ARE THESE DOGS REALLY MEAN AND VICIOUS LIKE THE MEDIA PORTRAYS THEM?

Most Pit Bulls are NOT human aggressive. In a large number of cases, when a Pit Bull attacks a human, it has been trained to be aggressive towards people, and was most likely abused and/or seriously deprived of socialization with humans. Those dogs are usually "owned" by uncaring and irresponsible owners who have them for the wrong reasons.

Any dog should be supervised around children, and Pit Bulls are no exception. They can be rambunctious and play with a lot of intensity. Pit bulls can be animal-aggressive, and should be controlled around other pets, but human-aggression is NOT a normal trait of the breed.

A dog should be evaluated on its own merits, not on its breed. Most veterinarians will tell you that Pit Bulls are very nice dogs, and not a danger in most cases. Owner responsibility, however, is a must with ANY large and powerful dog and all canines should be well-socialized from puppy-hood with adults and kids.

Pit Bulls face prejudice and misunderstanding from many people who do not understand them very well, so ownership requires a willingness to consider your neighbors' fears, and educate them about the dog. The most important thing to communicate to your neighbors is that you have a Pit Bull as a pet (a member of your family), and you give it lots of love and every opportunity to be around humans. No dog should be chained outside alone and without the chance to interact with humans.

***These FAQs are taken, in part, from PBRC.NET.***

So You Want an American Pit Bull Terrier?

You've made up your mind, it's the American Pit Bull Terrier you want as your companion. Are you ready for this breed? Read this article and then decide if you want to go ahead with your decision.

Does your lifestyle fit the American Pit Bull Terrier lifestyle?

These dogs are packed with energy from head to toe. Craving a good run like a champion athlete. Exercise is critical to a healthy, happy bulldog. High energy is their middle name and is a large part of their personalities. Play, work, and activity is something you must be able to give these dogs. If you're a couch potato you should find another breed to live with.

Do you have the security?

American Pit Bull Terriers are the Houdini of the canine world. Able to leap tall fences with a single bound, dig under them with amazing speed and stealth, and unlock gates that people would have trouble with. You should have 6' privacy fence, beware of dog signs, hot wiring at the top and bottom of the fence, out door housing that keeps them out of the sun (even if they live indoors), and supervision are required for these dogs. You can't leave them alone outside unsupervised because one of two things may happen: 1. They escape. 2. They're stolen.

Are you prepared for the scrutiny of neighbors and friends?

American Pit Bull Terriers are notorious. They have a bad name and the misinformed public is out to get them. It seems like every day another "Baby mauled by pit bull" story runs, diminishing your choice of breed. People will dislike you for your choice. Some may even try to hurt your dog. Others will direct comments at you, vulgar, hateful comments, and friends and family may also be in conflict with your choice. Be prepared for some rude behavior and protect your dog by teaching food refusal from strangers.

Can you train your dog?

There are two methods of training. One is to train your dog by showing it how to sit and lay down and then quitting. The other lasts forever. Real training is life long training that starts when the puppy arrives at your home and ends with death. Unless you're prepared to work with your dog 5-10-15 minutes per day, everyday, all week, every week, all year, every year, you may want to rethink your decision to get a Pit Bulldog. Actually, if you're not prepared to train your dog, you should rethink getting any dog. Training is a fact of life and must be done in order to prevent a lot of trouble down the road. If you can not control your dog, you don't need one.

Can you afford them?

Dog food, vet bills, training, leashes and collars, and dog houses all cost money. Money you may not have right now. A quality dog food can cost as much as $800 per year. Do you have this kind of extra money to spend on food? If not, wait until you do before you bring home that puppy.

Do you want a American Pit Bull Terrier to impress people?

If this is the case, stop! Do not, repeat, do not bring one home. You're doing yourself and the dog a great injustice. American Pit Bull Terriers are in demand because of their all around strength, agility, great looks, and mystic. Breeders are pumping puppies out like unleaded gasoline. Puppies are being neglected and bad breeding practices are producing unstable dogs. Beware before you make any final decisions. If I may point you in a different direction. Every day there are thousands of great bulldogs put down because no one will adopt them or they are deemed "unadoptable" by shelters.

Consider a Rescue Dog.

People who love this breed have created rescues for these dogs and hundreds of dogs are available for adoption. Rescues are a win-win-win way to go. You give a dog that would otherwise not have a home, a home. You give your money (which in most cases is a small adoption fee) to the rescue so they can continue their work, and you get an awesome dog that will 9 times out of 10 deliver more than any pure-bred dog could on their best day.

In closing, before you run out and buy a American Pit Bull Terrier, think about your options, make sure you have what it takes to provide and care for the dog, and take your time to find a dog that matches your desires.