First off, there is no such thing as a "pit bull"

There are many misconceptions when it comes to the dogs many people know as "pit bulls". The first and probably most misconstrued thing about a "pit bull" is its breed. The "pit bull" is in fact a generic term used loosely and with no proper definition. DNA testing and much research has concluded that these dogs known as "pit bulls" are in fact a bunch of mixes of different dogs. The breed itself is not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), however the most closely related breed that is recognized by the AKC is the American Staffordshire Terrier. Often, someone who is referring to a "pit bull" is referring to a dog who has some American Staffordshire Terrier mixed in to its DNA. This is why calling a "pit bull" 'inherently dangerous' is not only false and misleading, but can’t be true as a "pit bull" is made up of so many combinations of dogs that they couldn’t possibly all have the same inherent traits.

 

History

"Pit bulls" came to North America from England where they first originated in the 1800s. The dogs known as 'Staffie Bulls' were a noble breed of dog to own. During this time, their nickname the 'nanny dog', grew from their loyalty and ability to protect children. Like the Cocker Spaniel or many Labrador type dogs, the "pit bull" was bred for certain characteristics so they could have traits in order to hunt or bait bulls. Bulldogs were widely used for bull baiting however many breeders wanted a dog with more advanced characteristics in order to bait bulls or bears. Therefore, breeders mixed a bulldog with another kind of terrier, thus resulting in a "pit bull". These mixed breed dogs were usually lighter, more agile, and smaller at 25-30 pounds. They could bait bulls much better than a hefty bulldog. Bull and bear baiting was eventually deemed an illegal sport as many saw it inhumane. These mixed dogs are known as the early descendants of the "pit bull."

 

"Pit Bulls" Today

The shape, size, and look of "pit bulls" today continues to vary as more people breed different types of dogs together. And due to myths and negative media about them, people aren't willing to give them a home. Unfortunately, this means there is no shortage of "pit bull" type dogs in shelters around the country. This is exacerbated by the overpopulation of "pit bull" type dogs in impoverished areas. And sadly, it gets worse. "Pit bulls" are also the most abused dog in the United States (HSUS, 2012). Many feel they can make money from breeding or fighting these dogs, but because there is an overpopulation issue the dogs wind up in shelters and are often euthanized due to lack of space. That's why it is so important to adopt from shelters or foster these dogs in need. Awareness and spreading the truth is also a key contributor to helping these dogs. 

 

Contray to many myths, "pit bull" type dogs are loyal, loving, smart, athletic, and have a variety of different interests. Their loyalty is why they are taken advantage of and used for fighting - they will do anything to please their owner. Because they are mixed with other dog breeds their energy levels and interests can range from lazy couch potato to a high energy runner or swimmer. Like any dog, it is important to assess your needs as an adoptive family. Just like a "pit bull,"  a Poodle or Labrador might not be the best fit for your home for various reasons. It is best to write down what you are looking for in a dog and then search based on your needs. Whatever you do, don't judge a dog by its look. You won't ever know what kind of dog it is unless you get an official DNA test, and even then you might be surprised by what you find!