The Pitbull: The Misunderstood Breed

I love pitbulls. What most people do not understand that how you raise them determines a lot of how they will socialize with us. Don't get me wrong every breed can have what we would call an aggressive dog. Unfortunately, some dogs because of how they were bred can end up being aggressive and bite. These dogs are called alpha dogs and end up being destroyed in most cases. My intentions for writing this article is to explain the characteristics of the pitbull and how to raise him.

The pitbull is very intelligent and loving. They get a bad rap for a lot of the bad press they receive. First thing to know is pitbulls were not bred to be watch dogs. Pitbulls would most likely lick the hand of a burglar and lead him to your valuables. They are very loving and form a strong bond with their owners.

Pitbulls do not like being left outside alone. No do they enjoy being outside in the cold. They have short hair and prefer to crawl under the covers with you. Pitbulls that are left outside for long periods can become despondent, depressed, and aggressive. Owners who treat their dogs this way can do great harm to this breed.

Pitbulls need socialization not just with us but with other dogs. They need to learn as a puppy to socialize with other dogs. This a great part of the pitbulls development. My pitbull gets along with dogs and cats. As a puppy we made sure he was receiving socialization not just from us but from other pets.

Pitbulls demand attention from you and if you don't spend time with him everyday than he cannot develop into that well rounded dog you expect him to be. If you cannot give time to your dog than please don't own a pitbull. You will do disservice to him if you cannot give the love and attention that he needs.

Pitbulls are escape artists so make sure if you put him outside that you have adequate fencing. It would also be a good idea to make sure you properly ID your dog just in case he gets out and gets picked up by the dog officer. You wouldn't want your pitbull being destroyed cause he was not properly identified.

Pitbulls are athletic and agile. They love playing and fetching. They are good at catching balls, Frisbees, etc. They love to show off their athletic prowess. When it comes to play avoid games like tug-of-war and some chew toys. I prefer using the Kong with a little peanut butter inside. All dogs love peanut butter and they will chew on the Kong for quite some time. Pitbulls like to chew so make sure you make a distinction in what you will allow them to chew. Dogs need guidelines when it comes to chew toys. If you want to keep your best athletic shoes don't give your old pair to chew on. He doesn't know the difference.

Pitbulls love traveling and going places. They love riding in the car and they want to sit in the front seat where the action is. Its important for you to socialize your dog as a puppy so when he is older he knows how to act in public. This includes leash training and obedience training as well.

If you spend time with your pitbull and give him the love and training he needs he most likely won't get a bad rap like so many others have.