August 2008

There is no question that Pit Bulls are good looking animals.  But while they possess a certain noble look that many people find irresistible, their most distinguishing feature is in their personality. 

Almost all Pit Bulls share similar traits.  They all carry with them a legacy of physical as well as mental characteristics that were once essential for their ancestors’ survival.  Pit Bulls are exceptional dogs who need exceptional owners.  Whether their traits are considered positive aspects of the dog’s personality or an obstacle to the owner in creating a lasting bond, depends entirely on the owner. 

Below are four reasons why a Pit Bull may not be suitable to your needs in a pet dog.

1. A Pit Bull is a strong and very muscular dog.  He is also very energetic.  He will make a great pet if you want a dog that does not break easily.   You will also make a great match if you are the type of person who is always up for an adventure and would not mind a canine companion.  However, if you are not the active type and would rather have your ten year old walk your dog by himself, or if you are always busy with work and have no time to take your dog out for a stroll, then a Pit Bull is not for you.
2. A Pit Bull is a very intelligent and confident dog.  This works great if you know how to properly train your dog and you have figured out how to apply his wonderful play drive and sense of humor to guide his intellect.  But if you think that you can push your dog into obedience or if you expect him to hang onto everything you say, then a Pit Bull is not for you.
3. A Pit Bull is loyal and bonds deeply with his family.  This is great if you are also loyal to him, consider him as a permanent member of your family, and do not mind taking him along on family trips.  But if you consider having a Pit Bull as a temporary pet and then abandon him after a period of time or if you always leave your Pit Bull home alone, then having a Pit Bull will not work out for you.
4. A Pit Bull is perceived as a tough “macho” dog.  This is great if you live alone and want a dog that makes you feel safe and secure.  On the other hand, if you want a dog that is easily approachable and is welcomed by everyone, than a Pit Bull is not for you.

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Another common misconception about Pit Bulls is that they are unable to get along with children.  This misconception has brought many dedicated Pit Bull owners to get rid of their dogs when a new baby arrives home out of fear that their dog will harm the infant.  On the other hand, there are many Pit Bull owners who excitedly bring their baby home without a single drop of worry about the infant’s safety around their dog.  Neither response is accurate or reliable.  Although it is a fact that dogs can hurt babies, it is also true that they protect babies.  How you introduce your baby to your Pit Bull makes a huge difference on how well the dog will act around your baby.

Generally speaking, Pit bulls have always had a special connection with children.  They seem to enjoy being around kids and feel very protective of them.  In fact, the Pit Bull’s close relative, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is nicknamed “the nanny dog” in England because it has been known to act as a babysitter for the family children.  Many Pit Bulls have been known to save a child’s life.  Unfortunately, many Pit bulls have also been known to harm a child.  Some Pit Bulls may be suspicious of children.  This is because he may not understand what kids are or because they have had bad experiences with them.  When you introduce dogs and children, do it very carefully.  Advise your child to be gentle and offer your dog a treat.  Never allow young children to sit on the dog, pull his ears, hair, or tail.  Tell them not to run from the dog, scream sharply around him, stare at him, or hurt him.  Never allow your kids to pick on your Pit Bull.  Here are other things that you should keep in mind before you bring a baby and a Pit Bull together:

1. Before you introduce the baby to the Pit Bull, the dog should already be fully trained on how to “stay,” “sit,” and “lie down” on command.
2. Make sure that the Pit Bull is secured on his leash the first time that you introduce him to the baby.  You can muzzle the dog if you are still uncomfortable with the leash.  The problem with this is that you do not want him to associate muzzling with the baby.  The dog should already be familiar with the having the muzzle on before meeting the baby.
3. Keep the dog away from the baby during the baby’s first few days at home.  Let the dog get familiar with the smell and sound of the baby.  You need to be very careful during this time because some dogs may not comprehend that you have a new small human in the house and not a “prey animal”.
4. Have the dog sit and stay before you bring the baby to the room and then reward the dog for staying.  Move the baby closer to the dog while rewarding him for his good behavior.  Once you are secure about the dog’s comfort level, allow him to sniff the baby.  But remember, you should never leave the dog and baby alone together during the baby’s first few weeks at home. 

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