- Pitbulls are eager to please.<\/strong><\/li>
- They\u2019re fairly low-maintenance animals.<\/strong><\/li>
- Pitbulls are loyal and protective.<\/strong><\/li>
- They\u2019re very affectionate.<\/strong><\/li>
- They\u2019re an active, energetic breed. <\/strong><\/li>
- Pitbulls make excellent service animals.<\/strong><\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n
As the owner of an American Bully, it saddens me that these gentle creatures have been on the receiving end of scrutiny and breed-specific legislation<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In this article, I\u2019ll delve deeper into six positive reasons why so many people favor this intelligent, gentle breed. Read on to learn more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Pitbulls Are Eager to Please<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"pitbull](\"https:\/\/pitbulltribe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/pitbull-puppy-with-a-harness-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAs most pitbull owners already know, the term \u201cpitbull\u201d is not a specific breed. It\u2019s a label that encompasses four different breeds (although far more dog breeds are mistaken for pitbulls<\/a>), including the American Staffordshire Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and the American Bully. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Occasionally, you may find the American Bulldog on this list.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Each of these breeds originates from the original bull-baiting breeds. After governments outlawed bull-baiting with the Cruelty to Animals Act of 1835<\/a>, many owners unfortunately switched to dogfighting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many bull-baiters and dogfighters chose this particular breed due to their eagerness to please. Unfortunately, the breed is so dedicated to their owners that they\u2019ll do nearly anything for their affections, even if it means fighting until the death. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
While some breeders encouraged aggression in the breed to make ferocious dogfighters, responsible breeders worked hard to breed the aggression out <\/em>of the original bull-baiting dogs. As such, they created family companions. This breeding led to the four pitbull-type breeds we see today, all of which are recognized by either the American Kennel Club or the United Kennel Club.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When selected from a reputable breeder, these four breeds exhibit gentle, affectionate behavior and are considered very easy to train.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Let\u2019s look at each of these breeds and what some organizations have to say about their temperaments:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- American Staffordshire Terrier<\/strong> – According to the American Kennel Club, the American Staffordshire Terrier is a highly trainable canine<\/a> when responsibly bred and socialized.
<\/li>- American Pit Bull Terrier <\/strong>– The United Kennel Club calls the American Pit Bull Terrier a dog that is \u201ceager to please<\/a> and brimming over with enthusiasm.\u201d
<\/li>- Staffordshire Bull Terrier<\/strong> – Described as \u201csweet-natured\u201d and \u201cpatient,\u201d the Staffordshire Bull Terrier received the highest rating on the AKC\u2019s<\/a> trainability scale.
<\/li>- American Bully<\/strong> – The American Bully has a stoic, intimidating demeanor, but they\u2019re gentle, friendly creatures<\/a> that make incredible companions. <\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The general misconception that pitbull-type breeds are inherently aggressive is absolutely false. Much of the negative press on pitbulls results from improperly socialized animals from irresponsible backyard breeders. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is why it\u2019s essential to find a reputable, responsible breeder that is careful to breed only positive traits in these canines.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
After all, it\u2019s the positive traits that make these dogs so popular.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. They\u2019re Fairly Low-Maintenance Animals<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/pitbulltribe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/happy-pitbull.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPitbull-type breeds have naturally short fur, so there\u2019s no need for excessive grooming. Not only does this save pitbull owners money, but it also increases the amount of time spent loving and cuddling with their pooch, as opposed to brushing or bathing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A quick daily brushing with a rubber or silicone-bristled brush is typically enough to remove any shedding (which is minor, by the way) and redistribute the natural oils throughout their fur for a sleek, shiny coat.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
I recommend the Fur Bliss Dog Brush<\/a>, available on Amazon, for its ability to stimulate circulation and nourish the skin. It can also remove fur from clothes, furniture, and upholstery!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As for baths, well, as long as your pitbull friend isn\u2019t visibly dirty or noticeably smelly, they don\u2019t really need one! In fact, it\u2019s not recommended to bathe a pitbull more than once a month to avoid upsetting the skin\u2019s natural balance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you do <\/em>bathe your furry friend, opt for a gentle wash, like the Burt\u2019s Bees Natural Tearless Dog Shampoo<\/a>. It contains all-natural ingredients to soothe and soften your dog\u2019s skin and coat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With that said, their short fur also means that they don\u2019t tolerate extreme temperatures \u2014 both hot and <\/em>cold. So, owners should never keep these dogs outdoors for long periods of time when the temperature is very high or very low. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
They\u2019d love nothing more than to be comfortable inside with their owner, snuggling on the couch or receiving praise for their training efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Pitbulls Are Loyal and Protective<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/pitbulltribe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/american-pitbull-guarding-house-1024x682.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDogs, in general, are known for their loyalty \u2014 but pitbull-type breeds are known for their loyalty and <\/em>willingness to protect their owners at all costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There\u2019s no shortage of stories in the media regarding these breeds and their dedication to their families. Below, I\u2019ll take a look at four different news stories about pitbull-type breeds protecting their owners, including children:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \u201cBuddy\u201d the Pitbull Protects a Lost Child <\/strong>– After a three-year-old wandered away from his home, his frantic mother called emergency services to report both him and the dog missing. While police scoured the area, a pitbull approached them<\/a> and led them to the child. Buddy, the pitbull, was very protective of the child, attempting to keep the strangers away, relenting only once he believed it to be safe.
<\/li>- \u201cSasha\u201d the Pitbull Saves Her Family From a House Fire <\/strong>– A young family lay sleeping in their home when a fire broke out next door. Their pitbull, Sasha, barked continuously to alert the family of the impending danger. As soon as the dog\u2019s owner opened the door, Sasha ran inside to the family\u2019s child, and the pitbull pulled the baby\u2019s diaper<\/a> to drag her outside. With good reason, this courageous canine was hailed a hero.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- \u201cZeus\u201d the Pitbull Dies After Saving a Boy From a Snake <\/strong>– An eleven-year-old boy was sent to check on his ten-year-old brother while playing outdoors in Florida. The older boy noticed the pitbull acting strangely. The dog, Zeus, was flinging his head back and forth with what looked like a rope in his mouth. Zeus then carried the \u201crope\u201d away from the boys \u2014 but the \u201crope\u201d was actually a poisonous coral snake<\/a>. Unfortunately, Zeus had been bitten multiple times and later died after saving the brothers.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- \u201cBaby Girl\u201d the Pitbull Protects a Boy from an Intruder <\/strong>– Baby Girl, a pitbull, was home alone with one of her owners, a nine-year-old boy when a masked intruder made his way into the residence. As the boy ran upstairs to get away from the burglars, Baby Girl ran down to confront them and subsequently scared them off<\/a>.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
It goes without saying that pitbull-type breeds have a loyalty that is unmatched. They\u2019re known to protect their owners and their \u201cpack\u201d (family) without a moment\u2019s hesitation, sometimes even putting themselves in harm\u2019s way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This undying loyalty and love are two of many ways that these breeds show their dedication to their masters, and it\u2019s one of the many reasons why so many people choose them as their forever friends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. They\u2019re Very Affectionate<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"man](\"https:\/\/pitbulltribe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/CUDDLING-PITBULL-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPitbull-type breeds have a strong, muscular build, solid stance, and an imposing demeanor \u2014 but they\u2019re actually polite, gentle animals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They\u2019re well-known for their affectionate nature and devotion to their families. They enjoy being close with their families, giving kisses, or just curling up at their feet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In fact, in the 1900s, people referred to pitbulls as \u201cnanny dogs\u201d<\/a> due to their patience and affinity for children. As such, they were considered the ideal family pet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Even so, it\u2019s recommended to find a responsible, reputable breeder and to have the dog properly trained and socialized from a young age \u2014 this goes for all <\/em>dogs. Regardless of their particular affection towards children, no adult should ever leave a child unsupervised with any <\/em>canine, regardless of breed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. They\u2019re an Active, Energetic Breed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"brown](\"https:\/\/pitbulltribe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/brown-short-coat-pitbull-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nActive families benefit from owning the energetic, enthusiastic pitbull. These dogs are incredibly active and need plenty of exercise to keep their minds and bodies stimulated, healthy, and happy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As the owner of an American Bully, I\u2019m fully aware of the intense physical needs of this breed. Their daily requirement for movement is rather high \u2014 and that need doesn\u2019t tend to lessen with age. They need daily <\/em>exercise \u2014 not \u201calmost\u201d every day, or once a week, but literally every single day<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Vigorous exercise is best, as these dogs are known to become mischievous once bored. Most destructive behavior in any <\/em>dog can be remedied with the proper amount of training and daily exercise. The old saying is true, \u201cA tired dog is a good dog.\u201d<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because of this, active people and families love <\/em>spending time with their rambunctious pitbull. If you need a dog that can keep up with you and your active lifestyle, then it may be time to consider one of the pitbull breeds!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here are some ways that you can satisfy your pitbulls need for exercise:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Running <\/strong>– Your beloved canine companion would love to run alongside you, whether you\u2019re jogging through a park or just running laps around your neighborhood.<\/li>
- Tug-o-War <\/strong>– Tugging games such as tug-o-war is a fun way to tap into your pitbull\u2019s natural instincts. The pulling of a strong rope helps burn off excess energy and mimics the hunt \u2014 it must take down the prey before eating. If your dog begins engaging in mouthy behaviors, consider toning down the intensity.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Walking <\/strong>– Walking may not sound like a good time for such an active dog, but if you switch it up every now and then, it can be like a new adventure each time. Travel down different streets, try different terrain, or regularly change the duration of your walks.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Frisbee<\/strong> – Have you ever seen a pitbull jump? These dogs have incredible agility and can jump to incredible heights and distances. Teaching your dog to play frisbee taps into those abilities, activates their prey drive in a safe, fun way, and satisfies their need for movement.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Pitbull-type breeds, as I\u2019ve mentioned, have an intense interest in physical activity, and <\/em>they have a high prey drive. It\u2019s very important to keep them leashed during daily exercise, especially in areas where there are other animals (i.e., dogs, cats, squirrels, rabbits, birds, etc.). This instinctual drive is present in most pitbull breeds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In addition, some pitbull-type breeds, particularly the American Pit Bull Terrier, show a general dislike or aloofness to other canines. This makes the need for a leash even more important. So, consider investing in a strong, retractable leash to give them a little more freedom while still maintaining control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Frisbee<\/strong> – Have you ever seen a pitbull jump? These dogs have incredible agility and can jump to incredible heights and distances. Teaching your dog to play frisbee taps into those abilities, activates their prey drive in a safe, fun way, and satisfies their need for movement.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Tug-o-War <\/strong>– Tugging games such as tug-o-war is a fun way to tap into your pitbull\u2019s natural instincts. The pulling of a strong rope helps burn off excess energy and mimics the hunt \u2014 it must take down the prey before eating. If your dog begins engaging in mouthy behaviors, consider toning down the intensity.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Running <\/strong>– Your beloved canine companion would love to run alongside you, whether you\u2019re jogging through a park or just running laps around your neighborhood.<\/li>
- \u201cBaby Girl\u201d the Pitbull Protects a Boy from an Intruder <\/strong>– Baby Girl, a pitbull, was home alone with one of her owners, a nine-year-old boy when a masked intruder made his way into the residence. As the boy ran upstairs to get away from the burglars, Baby Girl ran down to confront them and subsequently scared them off<\/a>.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- \u201cSasha\u201d the Pitbull Saves Her Family From a House Fire <\/strong>– A young family lay sleeping in their home when a fire broke out next door. Their pitbull, Sasha, barked continuously to alert the family of the impending danger. As soon as the dog\u2019s owner opened the door, Sasha ran inside to the family\u2019s child, and the pitbull pulled the baby\u2019s diaper<\/a> to drag her outside. With good reason, this courageous canine was hailed a hero.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- American Pit Bull Terrier <\/strong>– The United Kennel Club calls the American Pit Bull Terrier a dog that is \u201ceager to please<\/a> and brimming over with enthusiasm.\u201d
- They\u2019re fairly low-maintenance animals.<\/strong><\/li>