Pitbulls are often misunderstood dogs, but the facts are clear: they have a reputation for being aggressive and violent. According to the article, Pitbulls were originally bred for bloodsports such as bull-baiting and dog-fighting.
Their muscular build and strong jaws make them a formidable opponent, but this is also a result of their breeding history. Pitbulls were designed to be powerful and athletic.
However, their physical characteristics are not the only reason why Pitbulls are considered a danger. The article highlights that Pitbulls are responsible for a disproportionate number of dog bites and attacks.
Check this out: Pitbulls Good Hunting Dogs
Pitbull Safety Concerns
Pit bulls are responsible for killing most of the children who get killed by a dog, despite making up less than 6% of all dogs in the USA.
Their strong jaws can exert 242 pounds per square inch, making their bites incredibly powerful.
Pit bulls often bite and do not let go, which can lead to serious injury.
Their unpredictability is a major concern, as some may behave perfectly for their entire life until one incident, where they attack.
In the 10 years from 2009 to 2018, pit bulls killed or maimed 3,569 people in the USA and Canada.
Studies have shown that pit bull attacks are associated with higher median Injury Severity Scale scores, a higher number of hospital admissions, higher hospital charges, and a higher risk of death.
Pit bulls are responsible for killing 80% of all Americans who are killed by dogs.
Their history associated with dogfighting has shaped their breeding and behavior, leading to characteristics that may contribute to aggression, such as a strong prey drive and determination during attacks.
Pit bulls have inflicted a higher prevalence of injuries than all other breeds of dogs, and the majority of studies report that pit bulls inflict the most severe injuries, requiring a higher number of operative interventions.
Here are some key statistics on pit bull attacks:
- Fatal and disfiguring attacks by pit bulls have risen 830% since 2007.
- Pit bulls are responsible for killing 283 Americans in a 13-year period from 2005 to 2017.
- In the 10 years from 2009 to 2018, pit bulls killed or maimed 3,569 people in the USA and Canada.
Misconceptions and Controversy
The Pitbull breed has been unfairly maligned due to irresponsible ownership and sensationalized media coverage.
One common misconception is that Pitbulls are inherently aggressive, but the data suggests otherwise. According to our research, only 1.5% of Pitbulls are involved in fatal dog attacks.
The breed's strong physical build and athletic ability have led to their use in dog fighting, which has contributed to their negative reputation.
In fact, the American Temperament Test Society has found that 86.8% of Pitbulls pass the temperament test, which is higher than many other popular breeds.
Many experts argue that the breed's popularity among irresponsible owners is the root of the problem, not the breed itself.
Suggestion: Can Pitbulls Be outside Dogs?
General Information
Pitbulls are often misunderstood, but one thing's for sure: they're a popular breed. They were originally bred in England to drive livestock and have since become a favorite among many dog owners.
Their short coats require minimal grooming, making them a great choice for busy people.
Pitbulls are generally a healthy breed, but they can be prone to certain health issues like hip dysplasia and heart problems.
They're known for their intelligence and athleticism, which makes them a great fit for active families.
Pitbulls are often stereotyped as aggressive, but the truth is they're just as likely to be friendly and outgoing as any other breed.
Recommended read: Pitbulls Good Apartment Dogs
Responsible Ownership Prevents Aggression
Proper training is key to preventing aggression in dogs. It's essential to start obedience training early, using positive reinforcement and focusing on socialization.
Socialization is crucial for dogs of any breed. Expose your dog to various people, animals, and environments from puppyhood in a controlled manner.
Exercise is also vital for preventing aggression. Provide sufficient physical and mental stimulation to keep your dog happy and engaged.
Bored dogs are more likely to become problematic, so make sure to give your dog plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Supervision is critical when interacting with your dog. Don't leave dogs unsupervised with children or other animals they don't know well.
Check this out: Pittbull Training
Here are some key aspects of responsible ownership:
- Training: Start obedience training early, using positive reinforcement and focusing on socialization.
- Socialization: Expose your dog to various people, animals, and environments from puppyhood in a controlled manner.
- Exercise: Provide sufficient physical and mental stimulation.
- Supervision: Don't leave dogs unsupervised with children or other animals they don't know well.
Every dog is an individual, and with proper training and socialization, they can become loving and well-adjusted companions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the top 10 dangerous dogs?
The top 10 most potentially hazardous dog breeds include Alaskan Malamutes, Chow Chows, Dalmatians, Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, Great Danes, Pit Bull Terriers, and Rottweilers, among others. These breeds have strong instincts and physical capabilities that may pose risks if not properly trained and handled.
Sources
- Staffordshire Bull Terriers (britannica.com)
- American Staffordshire Terriers (britannica.com)
- American Pit Bull Terriers (britannica.com)
- American Pit Bull Terrier (britannica.com)
- American Bully (britannica.com)
- DogsBite.org’s (dogsbite.org)
- Detailed Discussion of Dog Fighting (animallaw.info)
- https://today.yougov.com/news/2014/07/24/poll-results-pit-bull (yougov.com)
- Poll Results: Pit Bulls (yougov.com)
- Breed Survey (animals24-7.org)
- Breed Survey (animals24-7.org)
- http://blog.dogsbite.org/2009/07/pit-bulls-lead-bite-counts-across-us.html (dogsbite.org)
- Pit Bulls Lead “Bite” Counts Across U.S. Cities and Counties (dogsbite.org)
- http://www.dogsbite.org/dog-bite-statistics-fatalities-2015.php (dogsbite.org)
- Dog Attack Deaths & Maimings, U.S. & Canada, 1982-2018 (animals24-7.org)
- 2017 U.S. Dog Bite Fatalities (dogsbite.org)
- 12-Year U.S. Dog Bite Fatality Chart (dogsbite.org)
- https://www.dogsbite.org/dog-bite-statistics-studies-level-1-trauma-table-2011-present.php (dogsbite.org)
- http://journals.lww.com/annalsofsurgery/Abstract/2011/04000/Mortality,_Mauling,_and_Maiming_by_Vicious_Dogs.23.aspx (lww.com)
- 2018 Dog Bite Fatalities (dogsbite.org)
- ‘Pit Bull Roulette’ killed 38,000 other animals in 2017 (animals24-7.org)
- https://www.animals24-7.org/2020/01/13/record-pit-bull-attacks-on-other-animals-in-2019-pro-football/ (animals24-7.org)
- http://safetybeforebulldogs.blogspot.com/2014/03/collection-of-home-invasion-pit-bull.html (safetybeforebulldogs.blogspot.com)
- http://www.animals24-7.org/2016/01/04/record-33-fatal-pit-bull-attacks-459-disfigurements-in-2015/ (animals24-7.org)
- https://www.animals24-7.org/2018/12/16/educate-yourself-pit-bulls-in-schools-run-amok/ (animals24-7.org)
- http://www.animals24-7.org/2016/01/04/record-33-fatal-pit-bull-attacks-459-disfigurements-in-2015/) (animals24-7.org)
- Top Dangerous Dog Breeds (lilawyer.com)
- American Animal Hospital Association (aaha.org)
- Top 10 Most Aggressive Dog Breeds - Spot Pet Insurance (spotpet.com)
Featured Images: pexels.com