MYTH: All Pit Bulls are mean and vicious.
It is reported on temperament tests conducted by the American Temperament Test Society that Pit Bulls had a passing rate of 82% or better -- compared to only 77% of the general dog population.
These temperament tests consist of putting a dog through a series of unexpected situations, some involving strangers.
Any signs of unprovoked aggression or panic in these situations result in failure of the test. The achievement of Pit Bulls in this study disproves that they are inherently aggressive to people. (Please visit ATTS.org)
MYTH: A Pit Bull that shows aggression towards an animal will go for people next.
"Many working breeds have antipathy towards other animals - coonhounds go mad at the sight of a raccoon, foxhounds will not hesitate to tear a dog-like fox to shreds, greyhounds live to chase and maul rabbits and even dog-like coyotes. Even the ever-friendly beagle will slaughter a rabbit, given the chance.
And yet the greyhound, coon and foxhound and beagle are among the friendliest of breeds towards humans. And it is the same with the pit bulldog. His work through the years has been control of other animals - never humans. A correct pit bull is more often than not submissive toward all humans, and adores children.
A pit bull that snarls, lunges or growls at non-threatening humans is NOT typical of the breed." (Written by Diane Jessup)
Pit bulls that do show aggressive behavior towards humans are not typical of the breed and should be humanely euthanized.
MYTH: American Pit Bull Terriers lock their jaws.
Dr. Brisbin: "The few studies which have been conducted of the structure of the skulls, mandibles and teeth of pit bulls show that, in proportion to their size, their jaw structure and thus its inferred functional morphology, is no different than that of any breed of dog.
There is absolutely no evidence for the existence of any kind of "locking mechanism" unique to the structure of the jaw and/or teeth of the American Pit Bull Terrier.
Commenting on this post first... the religion one... looks interesting, but it's 7:30am, and I need at least 4 green teas before I can attempt to read bible exerpts lol. I love (LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE) dogs. I have always thought (because of societal influence of course) that pit bulls were more dangerous. Thanks for this, you can never deny the facts. ;) May I also say, the name pit bull just sounds awful!? What is the origin of this name? Why was it chosen. Please... do research I can't force myself to do lol.
ReplyDeleteBull
ReplyDeleteThe "bull" part of the "pit bull" name comes from the fact that these breeds of dogs were often used for both bear and bull baiting. In some parts of the world, they still are. Baiting refers to the act of tying up an animal, and having it taunted by some exterior force. In this case, the pit bulls would be trained to torment either the bull or bear.
Clearly, this is an extremely cruel and sad answer to the question regarding the origin of the name "pit bull." These animals are taught to despise each other. Furthermore, the situation could quickly become dangerous. The dog has the advantage since the larger animal is tied up; however, if that animal becomes untied, it may quickly go after the dog. This situation is very cruel for both animals, because they are being treated as objects, and not as living creatures.
Pit
The term "pit" is much more difficult to define in terms of dogs, and a lack of information exists regarding the nature of this term. However, the most likely reason for this word is that these dogs were "pitted" against other types of animals or other dogs.
hm. very clear. lol. I also come back here JUST to look at the picture of Rex. yeah I named him. So what.
ReplyDeleteYou have noooo idea how much criticism I've taken because Manny is a pitbull and you know first hand how sweet my dogs are! You know the movie, julie and julia.. where this girl trys to go through a cook book in so many days.. and writes a blog about it? Well, she started off.. the same way you are.. with only a few readers but she gained publicity and before you knew it .. her voice was being heard and god damn it.. I hope the same for you! I hope many people read about the blog you just wrote!!!
ReplyDelete