Written by Miranda Holmes
One of the canine breeds with the least amount of knowledge is the pit bull. In reality, the Pit Bull is a cross of the American Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
Approximately one million Pit Bull-type dogs are put down each year in the United States, out of an estimated 18 million total, according to the World Animal Foundation. Additionally, they point out that Pit Bulls are among the most abused dog breeds worldwide, accounting for 14.8% of all shelter dogs in the US.
The cruel pastime of bull baiting, in which two dogs would battle and attempt to disable one another by biting the other around the head, is said to have contributed to the breed’s rise to dread in the 1600s, according to the Best Friends Animal Society. Bulls are good family pets, and it’s forbidden to bait them these days.
Back in the 1980s, pitties were among the most popular family dogs, but careless dog owners gave them a reputation for being violent and deadly.
The idea that Pit Bulls are inherently violent is untrue.According to the Humane Society, a dog’s aggression is a result of their living environment rather than a trait of their breed. Many pit bulls are adopted into loving homes each year and end up being valuable members of their households, despite the common misconception that they are inhospitable.
The Witchitan claims that pit bulls are taught to be aggressive. Fighting dogs are happy puppies at birth. They are taught to fight and be aggressive. These canines can become hostile against both people and other dogs if they are not managed by humans properly.
Another element is the dog’s breeding. The behavioral characteristics of many Pitt Bulls are not taken into account during breeding. Offspring may develop unpredictable temperaments as a result. The ASPCA states that every dog, regardless of breed, should be assessed and treated as an individual.
Pit bulls are disliked by many, although some people like them. Due to their popularity, pitties are becoming overbred, and breeders are not focusing enough on each dog’s unique characteristics to avoid reproducing unwanted qualities that make people dread them.
As previously indicated, the breed was originally created for bull baiting and was renowned for its power, endurance, and stubbornness. The characteristics began to change after bull baiting was outlawed because they were being bred for display and companionship. Because of their kind yet protective nature, the breed is especially renowned for getting along well with children, according to The Wounded Paw Project. They are occasionally referred to as nanny dogs.
Pit bull stereotypes are typically untrue. Pit Bulls are protective, loving, and compassionate dogs that genuinely care about their owners. It doesn’t follow that all dogs would be aggressive just because some careless individuals made theirs.
Pit Bulls would still be adored and not feared if individuals took the time to educate themselves about the breed and take good care of their dog. This would prevent more Pit Bulls from ending up in shelters and fewer from being put down due to their hostility.
Miranda Holmes, a resident of Susquehanna Township, attends Dauphin County Tech.
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