Pit Bulls Are Not the Problem

Breed-specific legislation (BSL) targets Pit Bulls more often than any other breed. However, in cases of dog aggression and biting, the problem lies more often with the owner than the animal.

Responsible ownership is important with any dog. For any breed this includes regular exercise for your pet, proper socialization and training at an early age, observing leash laws, proper supervision and confinement, and getting you dog spayed or neutered. Without this any breed can become an aggressive or unfriendly animal, not just Pit Bulls.

It is also important to understand that Pit Bulls, like many other breeds, are large, strong dogs. If provoked to aggression, they can hurt someone. This is true of any large breed, but because of the perception and social stigma attached to Pit Bulls, it is necessary with them more than anyone else. If a Pit Bull is provoked to aggression, compared to a Labrador or a large Hound, the blame will be put on the breed. With another kind of dog, blame would be placed with the individual animal or the owner, where it belongs.

Owners of all dogs, especially Pit Bulls, need to understand the impact their actions have on the temperament of their animal. Without proper socialization at a young age, a dog can be fearful of people and other animals. For puppies, play with other dogs is a learning experience. They learn how hard is too hard to bite, and how to be friendly towards other dogs. Dogs also need plenty of exercise. Without it, they can become bored and have pent-up energy that can lead to undesirable behaviors. A lack of exercise can also lead a dog to escape and roam, which is frequently when a dog gets into trouble.