They’re all aggressive, dangerous, mean, and vicious. This is not true. In fact temperament tests show that Pit Bulls normally pass at percentage rate higher then that of the other dog breeds. If a dog shows any negative signs when unprovoked they fail the test.
If they’re animal aggressive towards other animals that means that they’ll automatically be aggressive towards humans. Again not true. Like mentioned above this is not typical with the APBT. The reason they may show aggression towards smaller animals is because the breed was originally bred to control smaller animal populations. Aggression toward humans is not a normal trait. If one shows these signs it’s often a result of bad breeding or poor ownership. In many of these cases one that shows aggression and can not be trained to do otherwise will and should be euthanized. Not only for everyone’s safety but the dog’s as well.
There’s a couple other common misconceptions of the pit such as they have such power in their jaws that they lock. Also they have a higher power pressure then other breeds. This has not been proven to be correct. Often this is assumed because the breed is very strong willed and determined. If it does feel the need to protect for whatever reason it’s said that they will hang on until their very last breath. This does not mean that their power is anymore superior.
Another myth that is also shared by the Doberman and other game dogs is that they have brains that swell and never stop growing. Then causing the dog to go crazy. This theory is not true. The only time a pit bull’s brain would swell would be the results from a serious injury. Like with any animal if it’s brain outgrew it’s head it would die.
If it was never trained to fight it’s safe with other animals. This is not always true. As mentioned earlier they were historically bred to take down animals. A dog that’s had early constant socialization may not be a threat. However, genetics can often play a part. Like the Lab they have a late maturity. Sometimes you’ll find that a dog that was friendly with others when he or she was younger suddenly is not as it matures. Spaying and neutering often helps this. Other ways to avoid this kind of situation is never leave dogs unattended. Remember to start their socializing at a young age and continue it as they grow. Other simple things that may help prevent triggering a dog fight or issue: keep any toys, food bowls, or other “prized items” picked up. This will help prevent stress. Remember even best buddies can fight. Even dogs that have grown up together can decide they suddenly don’t want to deal with each other. Often after that first serious fight their relationship is never the same. Preventing that from happening is key to keeping peace. When you can’t be with your dog(s) be sure to keep them safe. This can be achieved by keeping them in separate rooms, crates, kennels, or a safe area outside. This should be done whether it’s a multi dog house or they share their home with other animals.
They make great guard dogs. This is usually untrue. Being a very friendly social dog towards humans it’s typically not in their nature to act as a “guard dog.” That old saying they’ll lick you to death comes to mind.
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