Pit Bulls: Pros & Cons

The name pit bull can refer to one of three dog breeds: American pit bull terrier, American Staffordshire terrier and Staffordshire bull terrier. For more than a century, pit bulls have been used as guard dogs, hunting dogs, police dogs, companion dogs and therapy dogs. On the other hand, because of an increasing amount of attacks, pit bulls also have gained a bad reputation for being vicious.

  1. Loyal Pets

    • Pit bulls are generally loyal pets to own. Once they form a bond with a person, they are faithful, almost to a point of overprotecting. In recent cases, pit bulls are used as companion dogs and therapy dogs to aid victims of cancer and other chronic diseases. Pit bulls often crave human contact and are not afraid to show affection.

    Friendly Toward People

    • As affectionate creatures, pit bulls are often friendly toward humans, even strangers. They enjoy meeting new people and often express this by showering strangers with kisses and an invitation to play. They often seek opportunities to cuddle into a lap or wrestle. This makes pit bulls an excellent choice as a family dog; however, they are often useless as a guard dog if not properly trained.

    Energetic and Athletic

    • Pit bulls are energetic creatures that require plenty of exercise. Pit bulls are among the most athletic breeds. Their bodies are designed for endurance, strength and physical agility. Pit bulls are easily capable of keeping up with you if you are looking for a jogging partner. These animals are easy to entertain. Simply pull out a rope, a ball or a flying disc and your pit bull can play for hours.

    Aggressive Toward Animals

    • While pit bulls are generally friendly towards humans, they are often overly aggressive toward other animals. Pit bulls are not pack animals. For hundreds of years, pit bulls have been bred to fight. This has created an aggressive trait that is present in most dogs. This doesn't mean that a pit bull will always display aggression toward other animals; however, it does require extra precautions.

    Requires Lots of Attention

    • Pit bulls cannot be left alone for long periods. They are capable of taking care of themselves, but if left alone they can be destructive. Pit bulls require daily exercise and social interaction. If they don't get this exercise from their owners, they usually find it themselves. This means tearing up furniture, digging up the yard and exploring the neighborhood. You never want your pit bull wandering the neighborhood unsupervised.

    Overwhelming Strength

    • Pit bulls are bred for strength. Mix this quality with a desire for attention, and this creates an animal that can be rambunctious. Even when playing, pit bulls can be a danger to those around them, especially little kids. They are efficient escape artists capable of breaking leashes, chains, collars and cables. Strong command skills and leadership are recommended for pit bull owners.