Pit Bulls: Mean or Misunderstood?

An Interview: Mary Harwelik, Professional Dog Trainer, Founder of 'The REAL Pit Bull'

By Susan, published Apr 11, 2007
Published Content: 32  Total Views: 37,627  Favorited By: 11 CPs
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Interviewer to Ms. Harwelik:

I am looking for information about the temperament and personality of Pit Bulls. A recent event in our home town has sparked my interest in this information because a friend of mine is being threatened with having to find a new home for his Pit Bull or move out of the county.

I simply want to give the citizens in our area an educated view of Pit Bulls, as I believe that the media puts a negative spin on these beautiful animals.

I've looked through your web site, and have found it very helpful. Thank you again for your help.

**********************

1. Please give your name, your affiliation with Pit Bulls, and state whether I have your permission to quote you in my article.

My name is Mary Harwelik. I am the founder of The REAL Pit Bull (www.realpitbull.com), have been involved with Pit Bulls for close to 15 years, and am a professional dog trainer who specializes in the breed (www.peaceablecanines.com). You have my permission to quote me.

2. How would you describe the average temperament of a Pit Bull?

Eager to interact in a friendly manner with humans. Stable, tolerant. Adaptable. May be aggressive towards other dogs/animals.

3. What determines the temperament and personality of a Pit Bull?

Just as with people and other breeds, genetics and life experiences determine temperament/personality.

4. Are Pit Bulls family dogs? Why?

Pit Bulls can make excellent family dogs.They are stable, human-friendly dogs, not prone to aggression towards people, are active, loyal, affectionate, and tolerant. Because of their strength and high energy level, they may be unsuitable for homes with very young children, and due to animal-directed aggression, may be best as the only companion animal.

5. Do you think society has an accurate view of Pit Bulls?

No, I do not. The public's vision of the Pit Bull is skewed because largely their information comes from inaccurate media sources.

6. Do you think that Pit Bulls are naturally mean or vicious animals? Why?

Mary Harwelik, Professional Dog Trainer, Founder of 'The REAL Pit Bull'
Date of Interview: March 27, 2007

Visit www.realpitbull.com for more information about these beautiful animals.

Credit: Mary Harwelik

Copyright: The REAL Pit Bull

Comments
Showing Comments 1 - 7 of 7
 
 
I have a nine year old pit bull. People should read about the breed and be responsible pet owners from the moment they get their dog. The dog should be well socialized and any negative behaviors should be corrected. I love my dog, he is a great dog. I believe the media blows up anything negative that they can find. I hope more people will open their minds and hearts to pit bulls, mixed breeds, and all animals. Human beings create negative situations not dogs or a specific breed. Be a responsible pet owner and you will have a great dog no matter what the breed.

Posted on 07/06/2008 at 4:07:43 PM

 
i dont think all pitbulls are mean, but any dog can turn on you.

Posted on 06/19/2008 at 9:06:58 AM

 
write pitbulls aint that way unless u make them that way an they is write about something pitbulls aremean some an the only rason y w people dont like pitbulls cause they scaryed an they like them small dog i like pits i have three now wat pitbulls can be nice an who do they think they are pitbulls are wait they be saying pits are not good kids thats a lie they love kids they are the best dog you can have kids around i believe i been around pits all my life an they the best an any body got a probulay talk to me cause thats wrong how they do pits

Posted on 05/06/2008 at 10:05:18 AM

 
write pitbulls aint that way unless u make them that way an they is write about something pitbulls aremean some an the only rason y w people dont like pitbulls cause they scaryed an they like them small dog i like pits i have three now wat pitbulls can be nice an who do they think they are pitbulls are wait they be saying pits are not good kids thats a lie they love kids they are the best dog you can have kids around i believe i been around pits all my life an they the best an any body got a probulay talk to me cause thats wrong how they do pits

Posted on 05/06/2008 at 10:05:10 AM

 
My brother has a Pittbull, her name is Rosie. She is just the sweetest thing. She could be the mascott for the Daycare were my sister works.

Posted on 12/21/2007 at 7:12:23 AM

 
My brother has a Pittbull, her name is Rosie. She is just the sweetest thing. She could be the mascott for the Daycare were my sister works.

Posted on 12/21/2007 at 7:12:01 AM

 
My brother has a Pittbull, her name is rosie. She is just the sweetest thing. She could be the mascott for the Daycare were my sister works.

Posted on 12/21/2007 at 7:12:15 AM

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