What Are Pit Bulls Really Like?

The term pit bull is used to describe a number of breeds having similar physical characteristics. All of them have a muscular body, a short muzzle, athletic legs and a smooth coat. The Staffordshire terrier and American pit bull terrier are the most common breeds.

The pit bull has a reputation for literally going for the jugular. They have very powerful jaws and there is an unconfirmed story that they suffer from 'lock jaw.' There have been many instances when they have disemboweled other dogs in fights after the opponent has quit the fight. They can rip apart another animal in a matter if minutes. Pit Bulls have been banned in Ontario due to an increasing number of incidents where they have turned on people without provocation.

Pit bulls are used as pets and can be domesticated with proper training. They are great participants in dog shows due to their inherent athleticism and quick learning abilities.

Pit bulls have gotten a bad rep because of the way they have been trained.  A dog is what you make of it.  Pit bulls have been trained to be aggressive and to fight, so when you hear about a pit bull ring or a human being attacked, the automatic conclusion is that they are vicious.  

It's true that they have powerful jaws and won't let go once they lock onto something.  My sister and her family have two dogs, one of which is a pit bull.  She is a wimp and one of the most docile dogs I've ever encountered.  However, the other dog, a Boston Terrier, is an alpha female, and occasionally, she'll attack the pit bull.  When that happens the pit will defend herself and will lock her jaws onto the terrier, BUT (this is important), the pit will never start a fight.  She has never been the aggressor.  She will only defend herself.  

Train a dog to be aggressive, and it will be.  Treat it with cruelty, and it will be vicious.  Treat a dog kinldy and train it properly, and you get a good pet.  You decide.

Pit bulls are lovely loyal dogs and if brought up right will make lovely family pets they are a very strong breed so is probably not bets for a first dog but if you have a bit of experience with large breeds then go for it x