GEORGE NEWS - Are all pit bulls monsters? NO. On the contrary, they can be amazing dogs as part of a family - IF handled correctly.
Read a previous article: The pit bull debate continues
To start with, pit bull puppies need to be socialised well during the critical period that ends when they're around 3 months old.
These dogs should be socialised more than other breeds.
They need to be among other dogs and people constantly, getting positive responses for acting appropriately.
Inappropriate behaviour then needs to be dealt with in a way that the dog will understand.
These dogs are intelligent and trainable, so positive, reinforced, scientifically based training will benefit them.
Harsh treatment and punishment might cause aggressive responses that should be prevented at all costs.
If you are too busy to take the puppy to socialisation classes, use a daycare, but make sure that the person running the daycare has had animal behaviour training.
This is so important, because such a person will pick up on bad behaviours and can advise the owner of possible problems.
Leaving these dogs in a backyard from day to day will cause the dogs frustration that one day might lead to aggression.
Do not allow small children to play with them unsupervised.
This actually applies to all dogs. ANY dog can bite.
"Normal" dogs like German shepherds will display body language that will warn you before an attack, like barking, snarling, growling etc, but in the case of dogs like the pit bull, there are fewer warning signs.
This is because the dogs were bred to fight, and people did not want long barking contests, but rather a quick "get down to business" response.
It is very hard to "read" these dogs if you are not experienced. What may look like play can quickly turn into something completely different.
As I said before, pit bulls are not monsters, but they definitely are not nanny dogs either.
Many people believe the nanny dog myth - and that can land them in trouble.
Owners need to make sure that these dogs cannot escape the yard while they (owners) are not at home.
It is true that not all pit bulls are aggressive, but even the most loving dog can react when put in certain situations.
We humans "created" these dogs by selective breeding and it is up to us to ensure that they are kept safe.
For more information feel free to mail me: George@rehabdogworks.com
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