Pit Bull Puppy Training Tips

Pit bulls are plagued by myths that have given the breed a bad reputation. If you have a pit bull puppy, prepare yourself for the stares of people who believe the breed's history as a fighting dog means it is fearsome and aggressive. Contrary to this belief, pit bulls were historically were bred to be gentle with humans and generally are friendly dogs. They are energetic and stubborn, however, so if you want your pit bull to make a good impression, start training it from the moment you bring it home.

  1. Socialization

    • Socialization is absolutely essential for pit bulls, a term used to describe several terrier breeds. While it most accurately is applied to the American pit bull terrier and the American Staffordshire terrier, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, it also can refer to the bull terrier and the Staffordshire bull terrier. Because these dogs were required to be gentle with their handlers, pit bulls were bred to be friendly with humans. They also were bred to be aggressive to other dogs, a genetic tendency that promotes their bad reputation. Expose your pit bull puppy to as many different dogs, sights, smells, sounds, people and other animals as you possibly can. Make these meetings a positive experience by rewarding your puppy with treats and affection for remaining calm and docile. Socializing your pit pull puppy will help it grow into a calm and confident adult that knows how to handle new situations without aggression.

    Positive Reinforcement

    • Pit bulls don't respond well to heavy-hand training techniques. They can become afraid or insecure, traits that will lead to aggression. Avoid punishing your pit bull puppy for making mistakes, Instead, as you teach it rules and commands, praise it and reward it for doing the right thing. When you reward your pit bull for doing something right, you teach it what your expectations are so that it knows how to behave in the future. Make your training sessions a game so that your pit bull will enjoy learning. Pit bull puppies crave affection from humans, so stay upbeat during your training sessions and praise, pet and reward your dog.

    Crate Training

    • Crate training your pit bull puppy can help you potty train it more quickly. Pit bulls don't soil where they sleep, so keeping yours confined when you aren't home will help prevent messes. Purchase a crate that will be large enough for a fully grown, 65 lb. pit bull to move around in. It should be able to stand tall and turn around in the crate. Place treats inside and let your pit bull explore the crate. Don't use the crate as punishment -- it should be a safe place in which your pit bull can relax or cool off when it feels stressed. Don't disturb your pit bull puppy when it goes inside the crate. Giving it a special place will help it cope with stressful situations and prevent it from becoming fearful or aggressive.

    Exercise

    • Pit bulls are a large breed with energy to spare. Plan to take your pit bull puppy for at least two 20- to 30-minute walks each day. Make an effort to play with your pit bull several times a day as well. These outings and play dates help stimulate your pit bull's mind and provide an outlet for its energy and instinctive behaviors, such as chasing. A bored pit bull is more likely to get into trouble than a tired one. Avoid behavior problems such as destructive chewing by giving you pit bull puppy the exercise it needs.