IS THAT A PIT BULL? Ive been asked that so many times now, by dog owners and non-owners alike! At first blush it might seem like an easy answer, but as Ive come to discover myself, since adopting Willa and doing lots of research on the topic - well the answer is not as cut and dried as some may think. So I thought Id put up a few notes here on the subject The short answer to the above question is that unless you can provide a proven pedigree history from a recognized APBT (American Pit Bull Terrier) line, and as sanctioned by such as the AKC or UKC, then no you do not have an APBT. But that is a very narrow, clinical interpretation. The term pit bull has been applied to so many different breeds, mixes, and even descriptions (i.e. blue nose, red nose etc) of dogs, that the meaning has become understandably blurred. The number of bully breeds is quite extensive, and includes Staffordshire Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, American Bullies (Bully Pits), various bull dog breeds, Bull Terriers, even Mastiffs, etc. or any breed/mix of these types to give the generic look regarding square head and muscular body shape that a lot of people automatically equate to pit bull. Most experts agree that today’s pit bull is a short-coated dog characterized by a wide skull, powerful jaws and a muscular, stocky body. But there is great variation in the pit bull’s appearance. Typically 35 to 65 pounds, some weigh as little as 25 pounds, while others tip the scales at 80 pounds or more. Some have bulkier frames and colossal skulls; others have leaner, more muscular bodies. All are strong and athletic, but not really a big dog if its closer to what a true APBT should be. The American Bully which can indeed be very large (pit bulls on steroids), is the newest interpretation of the breed, but now also has its own breed recognition standard as established by various kennel clubs. All are strong and athletic. Pit bulls enjoy a variety of activities, including agility, disc dog competitions, flyball, freestyle competition obedience, and weight-pulling. This broad brush though unfortunately plays into the hands of BSL proponents whereby they can group a large number of many different breeds of dogs into one type - pit bull, and thereby more easily skew any stats they wish to espouse as a negative reflection on the type, and in turn play up that negativity to the public in general. So any documented (or not) attacks, or incidents of any kind committed by any of the numerous aforementioned breeds gets lumped into one boogey-man headliner: pit bull attacks. Pit bulls have been around since the 1800s, and were originally breed from bulldogs and terriers to work livestock, hunt game, and as companion animals. Its only much later they were turned to the fighting life that mars their image today. Because of that reputation as tough dogs, pit bulls often end up in the hands of irresponsible owners. They suffer the highest rates of abuse, the lowest rates of adoption and are euthanized more than any other group of dogs. When it comes to temperament, pit bulls routinely pass the American Temperament Test (ATT) with flying colours. The ATT has tested tens of thousands of dogs since the 70s, measuring friendliness, confidence and sociability. Pit bull breeds score in the same range as shepherds, border collies, boxers and golden retrievers. These dogs were origionally developed as working dogs and companion animals and when given the chance, thats still what they excel at. Pit bulls arent vicious dogs. They’re not ferocious beasts to be feared and reviled. But they have teeth and the potential to use them, just like any other dog, so like any dog responsible ownership is key. Their powerful bodies and persistent nature make them formidable animals. As such, they should be treated with care and respect. They require a great deal of exercise, proper training and responsible management. Along with their strength and spirit comes an inspiring zest for life and an ardent affinity for people. Beneath the brawn, they are faithful, fun-loving, and very affectionate companions. So, is that a pitbull? That there is Willa, and shes a dog and shes my best friend...a rose by any other name....
Posted on: Mon, 24 Mar 2014 13:37:18 +0000
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