Ten Reasons to Love a Pit Bull

They may be tagged as aggressive fighters by the media, but pit bulls are quite the opposite. Pit bulls were once called the "nanny dog" for their natural propensity to love and care for humans, particularly children. Pit bull is a category of dog that includes the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire terrier and Staffordshire Bull Terrier breeds. Pit bulls exhibit a number of positive traits, making them an ideal pet for responsible dog lovers. If you are looking for an endearing and lively companion, a pit bull is sure to provide you with years of adoration and playfulness.

  1. Eager to Please

    • Pit bull terriers are eager to please their owners with appropriate behavior and following commands. They enjoy being rewarded with treats and positive reinforcement, and respond to structure.

    Loving

    • Pit bulls exhibit an inherent love for humans and are particularly affectionate toward children and owners. Pits love to lick and give kisses and relish belly-rubs.

    Cuddle Buddies

    • Pit bulls enjoy cuddling in close proximity to people and act like lap dogs, lying or sitting on owners without recognizing their size and weight. Pits are at ease in their owners' care and can be lulled to sleep within moments.

    Energetic

    • Pit bull terriers have an inherent joy for life. They are full of energy and enjoy daily activities such as long walks, running, fetching and tugging toys. This breed makes an excellent companion for outdoor enthusiasts.

    Friendly

    • Pit bulls are outgoing dogs who get excited to greet new people and owners, particularly at the door. They enjoy being petted and acknowledged, even by strangers, and tend to become fast friends with people.

    Loyal

    • Pit bulls are loyal to their owners, standing or sitting near their sides and following owner cues. Their loyalty includes a protective quality that gives them a heightened awareness, when around other dogs, of conflict that may pose a threat to their owners.

    Intelligent

    • Pit bulls are smart and determined. They are quick to learn and train. For this reason, pit bulls are often trained as search and rescue, narcotics detection, therapy and educational dogs.

    Confident

    • Pit bulls exude confidence in exploring their surroundings, playing and meeting new people. They are self-assured and do not typically show shy or withdrawn behavior. Their confident nature means they do not back down from challenges, which owners should be aware of when introducing pits to other dogs.

    Easy to Groom

    • Pit bulls have short and shiny hair that requires occasional brushing with a bristle brush. These dogs only need baths when necessary, and their coats air-dry quickly.

    Healthy

    • Pit bulls are typically healthy dogs, with strong, agile bodies and healthy organs. Annual examinations are recommended for pit bulls, as with all breeds. Pit bulls may show symptoms of environmental allergies or hip dysplasia during elderly years.