Are Pitbulls a Safe Family Dog?

The Pit Bull is an excellent family dog, and one of the most affectionate, loyal, cuddly and friendly breeds you can have. When raised in a loving home, they can make an ideal pet for children. According to the American Canine Temperament Test Society,

pitbulls

have one of the most stable temperaments of all purebreds, just like Golden Retrievers. However, they must be taught how to behave with strangers or you risk having problems with neighbors, animal control, or other authorities because they are afraid of your dog.

All this stigma surrounding the breed has also led many pit bulls to be held in shelters across the United States, and many of the dogs to be euthanized. Owning a Pitbull or any other dog also means proper veterinary care, daily exercise and proper training. The term “pit” in Pitbull comes from ratting, since rats were placed in a pit so they couldn't escape. Before the start of the Civil War, immigrants from the British Isles brought Pitbulls to the United States. Pitbulls were bred from old English bulldogs who gained popularity in a cruel sport called “bull bait”.You can have a great time with a Pitbull playing flyball, running and frolicking outdoors, and even splashing in a lake because they love to swim.

Kids can enjoy taking a family Pitbull for long walks, running with him in the yard, and just frolicking and having fun. A survey by the United States Veterinary Medical Association found that collies and toy breeds were more likely to bite than pit bulls. It's unfortunate that many people have stereotyped Pitbull-type dogs, such as the American Staffordshire Terrier, as a more ferocious and dangerous dog than other breeds. Distinguishing one breed from another is no easy task, and even experts sometimes can't determine if a Pitbull is an APBT, AST, or SBT. Sure, they can be as problematic as any other dog breed, but pitbulls can also be just as loving and loyal. With proper training and socialization when young, they can make wonderful companions for children.

It's never OK to make a general statement about a particular dog breed, like what is commonly done with pitbulls.