Pitties Deserve Parties

Our sweet pitbulls often get overlooked for many reasons. Whether it’s fear over the breed's aggressiveness or worry about their strength, these pups find themselves in shelters more than most. It breaks our hearts to see our pups passed over time and again for reasons that may not be true. It’s time to set the record straight about pitbulls.

To start, a pitbull is actually a generic term associated with four different breeds. A dog classified as a pitbull could be an American Pit Bull Terrier, an American Staffordshire Terrier, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, or an American Bully. These dogs look relatively similar and are grouped in the pitbull category.

Are pitbulls inherently aggressive? The answer is no. When properly trained and socialized, pitbulls are actually loving and loyal dogs. However, that goes for most dogs. It is essential that dogs receive socialization within the first three months of their lives with both dogs and humans. Training is also a major factor in helping dogs become the best versions of themselves.

Often, these steps are either not taken or, worse, a dog is a victim of abuse or neglect. 90% of a dog’s aggression can be linked back to fear. Humans can relate to how fear plays with our mindset and makes us feel out of control in certain situations. For a dog, not understanding a situation, person, or dog, and being a prior victim of neglect or abuse, fuels the need to act aggressively. They are scared, and their first reaction is to snarl. It’s important to realize, this situation is true for any dog breed.

The American Temperament Test Society conducted temperament tests with multiple dog breeds. Pitbulls scored higher than many common family dogs, including Golden Retrievers and beagles. They found that a pitbull's natural temperament was playfulness, loyalty, and affection.

All dogs give warning signals when they are uncomfortable and afraid. Anything from a yawn to growling to snapping can occur. Again, these traits are associated with all breeds and not specific to pitbulls. It’s important that we, as owners, socialize, train, and understand how to nurture dogs to be a part of a loving family.

Our pitties are simply the cutest and some of the cuddliest dogs we have at the sanctuary. With all our dogs, we have to take extra care since they come from different backgrounds and levels of neglect and sometimes abuse. That said, several of the most neglected and abused dogs we have taken in were pitbulls, and they were incredibly gentle. Dogs like Nick and Scooter were mixed with pitbull breeds, and they are now loving members of families who gave them the chance they deserved.

If you are looking for a dog to adopt, we encourage you not to overlook the pitbulls. They might just be hanging out a window, smiling together, and waiting for a loving family. Or they are sharing a bed for an afternoon snooze or sitting patiently for a treat. Either way, these pups need love and deserve their forever, too.