Do Pitbulls Make Good Pets?
Many myths and misconceptions surround the American Pitbull Terrier, probably more so than any other dog breed. Unfortunately, the Pitbull’s future has been irreparably harmed by people who choose to train this naturally affectionate, people-pleasing dog to fight. Hyped-up media coverage of Pitbull attacks, often with factually inaccurate reporting, adds to the breed’s bad reputation and results in public paranoia.
But aren’t Pitbulls vicious people haters?
No more vicious than beagles and golden retrievers! In a study of 122 dog breeds by the American Temperament Testing Society, Pitbulls achieved a passing rate of 83.9%. Beagles scored 78.2% and golden retrievers, 83.2%. If you want to see how other breeds scored, go to the Testing Society’s website, ATTS.org.
In the ATT test, a dog is put through a series of confrontational situations, and any sign of panic or aggression leads to failure of the test. The high scoring of Pitbulls in this study disproves the widely held believe that this breed is inherently mean and aggressive to people.
What you can expect from a Pitbull puppy
The Pitbull is good-natured, amusing, eager to please and very loyal. When properly trained and thoroughly socialized, Pitbulls make loving family companions who will happily put up with rough child’s play. Like any breed of dog, a healthy Pitbull puppy that is raised correctly will remain devoted, trustworthy and friendly to their death.
The Pitbull can be willful and needs a firm hand. They are highly protective of the family and property. They do have natural aggressive tendencies toward other dogs and animals, but are generally okay with family pets if raised with them from puppyhood and properly socialized.
Physical characteristics of a Pitbull
The Pitbull is muscular and stocky yet agile, and extremely strong for his size. When full grown, a Pitbull puppy will be approximately 18-22 inches tall and on average, weigh between 35-55 pounds. They can be expected to live to around 12 years of age.
The Pitbull puppy has a smooth, short-haired coat that is easy to groom by brushing regularly, and bathing as necessary. Rubbing the pup’s coat with a towel or piece of chamois will make it especially shiny.
Pitbull pups are very active indoors but do okay in an apartment provided they get enough outdoor exercise (Pitbulls should be leashed in public to avoid fighting with other dogs, though).
The breed’s tenacity and accompanying strength are unmatched in the canine world. Pitbulls excel in canine tasks such as herding, guarding, hunting, policing, cart pulling and more.
Where to find a Pitbull puppy to adopt
If you are certain the Pitbull breed is right for your family, and you’re ready to start looking for a pup to adopt, you have several options. You can search your local newspaper’s classified ads, or go online to find private party ads and websites devoted to placing dogs in loving homes.
However, the best way to ensure that the Pitbull puppy you bring home is healthy, properly socialized and has a good temperament, is to purchase from a reputable breeder. You can find a breeder by asking for referrals from friends or your vet, or attend a dog show. Many reputable Pitbull breeders also maintain their own websites.
Choosing a Pitbull puppy
If there’s more than one Pitbull puppy available for you to choose from, look for one that is curious, alert and playful, and not fearful of you. Select one who shows that he’s interested in making friends, but isn’t so exuberant that he’s out of control.
Supplies you will need for your new puppy
Before you adopt your puppy, here are just a few of the many things he will need in his brand new home:
�· Food and water bowls
�· Dog bed and blankets
�· Grooming supplies (brush, shampoo, toenail clippers, towel)
�· Puppy crate for training
�· Flea and tick supplies
�· Collar, leashes, training aids
�· Good quality puppy food and treats
