Pitbull UK Dog Breed Beyond Breed Specific Legislation

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Posted Oct 11, 2024

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Low Angle Shot of an Adorable Pitbull
Credit: pexels.com, Low Angle Shot of an Adorable Pitbull

Beyond Breed Specific Legislation, the Pitbull UK dog breed has a rich history and diverse characteristics.

Pitbulls originated in England in the 19th century as a cross between the Old English Bulldog and the Old English Terrier.

Their friendly, outgoing personalities have made them a popular choice as family pets.

In the UK, Pitbulls are often mistakenly associated with aggression due to breed-specific legislation, but this is not necessarily true.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Pitbulls Good Apartment Dogs

History and Origins

The Pitbull UK Dog has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century.

In 1860, the first Pitbull was brought to England by English dog fanciers who had traveled to the United States. They were impressed by the breed's strength, agility, and loyalty.

The breed quickly gained popularity in England, particularly among working-class families who valued the Pitbull's ability to guard their homes and families.

The first breed standard for the Pitbull was established in 1895 by the United Kennel Club (UKC), which described the breed as a muscular dog with a short, smooth coat.

The Pitbull was initially bred for its strength and agility, but it was also valued for its gentle and affectionate nature, making it a popular family pet.

Banning and Regulations

Credit: youtube.com, What dogs are banned in the UK? | What to do if you own one

Dogs suspected of being a banned type, such as Pit bull terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, or Fila Braziliero, can be seized by the police.

The police will hold the dog in kennels while assessing whether it's a banned type.

If you have a banned dog, the police or local dog warden can take it, even if it isn't acting dangerously or there hasn't been a complaint.

A police or council dog expert will determine what type of dog you have and whether it's a danger to the public.

The police may need permission from a court to seize a banned dog in a private place, but not in a public place.

Here are the possible outcomes for a seized banned dog:

  • Released
  • Kept in kennels while the police (or council) apply to a court

If the dog is kept in kennels, the owner will be charged kennel fees.

Consequences of Banning

If you have a banned dog, the consequences can be severe. The police or local dog warden can take your dog, even if it isn't acting dangerously or there hasn't been a complaint.

Credit: youtube.com, Was the Banning a Huge Mistake?

If your dog is seized, it will be held in kennels while the police or council applies to a court. You'll be charged kennel fees for the duration of its time in custody, and you won't be allowed to visit your dog while you wait for the court's decision.

Dogs suspected of being a banned type will be seized by the police and held in kennels for assessment. This process can be stressful for dogs, and many find it difficult to cope with.

The police may need permission from a court to seize your dog, unless it's in a public place. If it's in a private place, they must get a warrant. If they already have a warrant for something else, they can seize your dog.

Here are the possible outcomes for your dog:

  • Released
  • Kept in kennels while the police (or council) apply to a court

The police or council dog expert will judge what type of dog you have and whether it is (or could be) a danger to the public. This decision will determine the outcome for your dog.

Beyond BSL

Credit: youtube.com, The Future of Dog Breeds BSL and Ban Debate: American XL Bully Ban #americanbullyxl #bsl

Beyond BSL, we need a more effective approach to public safety. This approach should tackle dog-related issues regardless of breed or type and focus on behaviour, not breed.

A three-pronged approach is needed, as we believe, to better protect public safety. This includes effective legislation and enforcement to tackle dog-related issues.

Interventions including education are crucial to focus on safe behaviour around dogs. This education can help prevent dog bites and other safety issues.

A better understanding of why dogs bite is also essential. By understanding the reasons behind dog bites, we can develop more effective solutions to prevent them.

Here's a breakdown of the three-pronged approach:

  • Effective legislation and enforcement to tackle dog-related issues
  • Interventions including education to focus on safe behaviour around dogs
  • A better understanding of why dogs bite

Breed Characteristics and Behavior

Pit bull-type dogs are known for their muscular, stocky builds with deep chests and large, square heads. They're determined dogs that won't give up easily, whether it's learning a new trick or digging a hole.

Pit bulls usually love people, including strangers, and crave attention, which makes training and socialization from a young age crucial. This helps them handle their size and strength, preventing them from pulling hard on a leash or jumping up on people to greet them.

In my experience, Pit bull types are often placid, calm, and easy to handle, even in stressful circumstances. They're able to carry out basic commands, making them a pleasure to work with.

Expand your knowledge: American Xl Bully Dog Uk

Breed Characteristics

Credit: youtube.com, Breeding for Specific Traits

Pit bull-type dogs are typically muscular and stocky with deep chests and large, square heads. They're notoriously determined dogs that won't give up easily when given a task.

They usually love people, including strangers, and crave attention. This can make them a great companion for families and individuals who enjoy spending time with their dogs.

Their size and strength can be difficult to handle if they're not properly trained and socialized from a young age. This is why early training and socialization are crucial for pit bulls.

Pit bulls are intelligent and highly trainable, making them a great choice for first-time dog owners and experienced trainers alike.

Bull Terrier Court Assessments

Bull Terriers are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them a great breed for families with children.

They are often described as " Velcro dogs" because of their tendency to stick close to their owners.

Their friendly and outgoing personalities have earned them a reputation as excellent therapy dogs.

Credit: youtube.com, Bull Terriers (Bullies) Dog Breed Profile

Bull Terriers are not typically aggressive, but they can be wary of strangers.

They have a strong prey drive and may not be suitable for homes with small pets.

Their short coats require minimal grooming, but they do need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Bull Terriers are generally quiet dogs, but they can be prone to barking if they sense something unusual.

They are highly intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement training.

Their short stature and sturdy build make them well-suited for apartment living.

Bull Terriers are generally good with other pets, but as with any breed, socialization is key.

They can be prone to health issues such as deafness and heart problems, so regular veterinary check-ups are essential.

Breed Characteristics and Behavior

Pit bull terriers are intelligent and athletic, making them a joy to train and be around. In my own experience, I've found them to be engaging and willing to please.

Their original breeding purpose was for fighting, which means they can be prone to aggression towards other dogs. However, this doesn't make them inherently aggressive, as any breed can be developed to be a danger if not properly trained and socialized.

Credit: youtube.com, 9 Weird Dog Behaviors Explained

A balanced set of rules, socialization, and training are essential for any dog, including pit bulls. Without these, they can become a danger to the public and other animals.

Aggressive behavior in dogs is influenced by factors such as breeding, rearing, and life experiences, not just their breed. In fact, research shows that breed isn't a reliable way to predict aggression.

Pit bulls are not more prone to aggression than other breeds, and their reputation as aggressive dogs is often unfair. In reality, they are capable of being loving and loyal companions if given the right care and attention.

Dogs, including pit bulls, require a sense of balance and security in their lives to thrive. This means providing a safe and secure environment, as well as meeting their emotional needs on a daily basis.

A dog that suddenly snaps or bites without warning is often a sign that something is amiss, such as a lack of socialization or training. In the case of pit bulls, it's also possible that underlying health problems may be contributing to the behavior.

Expand your knowledge: Training Tips for Pit Bulls

XL Bullies

Credit: youtube.com, American Bully Dogs 101; Everything You Should Know

The XL Bully is a unique breed that has some specific rules surrounding its ownership. Owners of XL Bullies have until the end of January 2024 to apply for a certificate of exemption.

It will be illegal to own an XL Bully without one as of the 1st of February 2024.

Take a look at this: An American Bully Dog

Safety and Training

A well-balanced and well-trained Pit bull is less likely to attack its owner, but fear-based training can increase the likelihood of an attack.

Pit bulls are highly trainable due to their intelligence and desire to please, making them a great breed for new and experienced trainers alike.

Early socialisation is crucial for any dog, but especially for Pit bulls, to ensure they grow into well-balanced adult dogs.

To keep a Pit bull safe and happy, owners must be willing to put in the time and effort to train and socialise them properly.

Some Can Return Home

Some dogs can return home under strict conditions, but it's a complex situation.

Selective Focus Photo of Pitbull
Credit: pexels.com, Selective Focus Photo of Pitbull

Banned breeds can be lawfully kept if their owners are considered fit and proper.

However, these dogs must meet strict conditions for the rest of their lives, which can negatively impact their welfare.

Being muzzled and on-lead whenever in public is just one example of these conditions.

Sadly, not all dogs get to return home to their owners, despite their owners meeting the necessary conditions.

Bulls and Owner Safety

Pit bulls are not naturally aggressive, and an attack is a rare occurrence if their needs are being met. This is especially true for well-balanced and well-trained Pit bulls.

In the wrong hands, however, Pit bulls can be developed to display aggressive traits or behaviours, especially towards other dogs. This is due to their original breeding for fighting.

Early and thorough socialisation, including exposure to other dogs, is crucial for creating a well-balanced Pit bull. This will pay dividends in the long run.

Their willingness to please and work for food makes Pit bulls highly trainable, even for new trainers.

UK Law and Enforcement

Credit: youtube.com, UK dangerous dog act 1991 enforcement - pitbull seizure

In the UK, the law surrounding pitbulls and other breeds is quite strict. The banned breeds in the UK are Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, and Fila Brasileiro.

It's also against the law to sell, abandon, give away, or breed from a banned dog. If you're caught doing any of these, you could face serious consequences.

If you're an owner of an XL Bully, you need to be aware of the new law. As of February 1, 2024, it will be illegal to own an XL Bully without a certificate of exemption. You have until the end of January 2024 to apply for one.

Here are the banned breeds in the UK:

  • Pit Bull Terrier
  • Japanese Tosa
  • Dogo Argentino
  • Fila Brasileiro

Difficult to Enforce

The UK's plan to ban American Bully XLs is facing a significant hurdle: enforcement. Over 35,000 dogs in the UK are already registered for American XL bully exemptions, which will make it difficult for authorities to track and confiscate the banned dogs.

If this caught your attention, see: Names for Male Dogs Uk

Pitbull Playing in Snow with Tennis Ball
Credit: pexels.com, Pitbull Playing in Snow with Tennis Ball

The new ban was prompted by a tragic incident in which two American Bully XLs attacked and killed a 52-year-old man. Members of the public were unable to intervene and stop the attack, highlighting the danger posed by these dogs.

The police chief from the UK's National Police Chiefs' Council has expressed concerns about the logistical challenges of enforcing the ban, including the need for increased kennel space ahead of court rulings on whether the dogs should be euthanized.

Discretion When Seizing

Discretion when seizing dogs can be a complex issue. A police officer has a degree of discretion in such cases.

The decision to seize a dog is based on the dog's history, the severity of its aggressive behaviour towards a person, and if the dog was aggressive towards a child. In my experience, large dogs of bull breed types stand a greater chance of being seized than smaller breeds.

A Man Walking with Pitbull
Credit: pexels.com, A Man Walking with Pitbull

The dog will always be seized if the attending officer or DLO believes the dog to be 'of type', meaning a Pit bull type. Different forces have different criteria on whether they will seize a dog or not.

The severity of the dog's aggressive behaviour is a key factor in deciding whether to seize the dog. If the dog has a history of aggressive behaviour, it's more likely to be seized.

The location of the aggressive behaviour is also considered, with both in and out of the home being considered public places under the Dangerous Dogs Act.

For your interest: Pit Bulls Behavior

Bull Terriers in UK Law

In the UK, Pit Bull Terriers are one of the four breeds that are banned.

These breeds include Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, and Fila Brasileiro.

It's against the law to sell a banned dog, abandon a banned dog, give away a banned dog, or breed from a banned dog.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you bring a pitbull into England?

No, pitbulls are banned from importation into the UK. Check our website for more information on UK pet import regulations

What do they call pitbulls in the UK?

In the UK, pit bull-type dogs are often referred to as American pit bull terriers or other variations, distinct from Staffordshire bull terriers. These names are used to distinguish them from other breeds, despite being part of the same family.

What is the Dangerous Dogs Act in the UK?

The Dangerous Dogs Act in the UK prohibits certain breeds and types of dogs, as well as those that are dangerously out of control in public or private areas. It also allows for the seizure of such dogs under the law.

Why is pitbull banned in 12 countries?

Pitbulls are banned in 12 countries due to concerns over public safety and the breed's perceived risk of dog attacks. This ban is largely fueled by negative media portrayal and a desire to protect the public from potential harm.

Why did the UK ban bully breeds?

The UK did not ban bully breeds, but rather pledged to ban American Bully XLs in response to a fatal attack by two of the dogs. The incident highlighted concerns about public safety and the need for stricter regulations on certain breeds.

Willard Barrows

Senior Writer

Willard Barrows is a creative and versatile writer with a passion for storytelling. His writing style is characterized by vivid descriptions, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes. With a background in English literature, Willard has honed his craft through extensive reading and writing.

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