How to Capture a Stray Pit Bull

Pit bulls are not a breed of dog, but a general description of the American Pit Bull, American Staffordshire, and Staffordshire Bull terriers. These dogs are very athletic, strong and smart. Though pit bulls have a reputation for aggression--having been bred historically to fight--they have also been called "The Nanny Dog" and "The Children's Nursemaid" because of their gentle, protective behavior toward children, according to Pit Bull Rescue Central.



If you attempt to capture a stray pit bull, you need to exercise extreme caution and common sense because you don't know which side of the dog has been nurtured: the nanny side or the fighting side. You should also understand the basics of canine body language before you approach any stray; and use your body to communicate that you are not a threat.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog treat or food
  • Leash or strong rope
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Instructions

    • 1

      Stay a safe distance from the dog and assess the situation. Look to see if he appears injured, scared or aggressive. If he's calm and relaxed, his tail will be relaxed and down, and possibly wagging; his head comfortably high; his ears will be perked up, but not forward; his mouth will be relaxed, possibly open, with his tongue visible; and his eyes "soft."

      If he seems calm and non-threatening, go forward with the capture. Keeping your body at a slight angle to the dog, approach slowly, talk quietly, and do not stare him in the eyes. Stop near him, kneeling or squatting, and let him come to you. Do not hover over the dog, which he might see as an aggressive, dominating posture.

      If the dog feels threatened and defensive, look for his tail to be tucked; hair along his back raised; ears laid back; body lowered; mouth, possibly open with the lips pulled back; eyes fearful. Dogs in an offensive pose may have a stiffly erect tail; raised hair along the back; ears forward; mouth closed and, possibly, lips pulled back; eyes "hard"; and are standing tall. This stance is an indicator of an aggressive dog, likely to attack; do not approach him, but back away slowly, being sure not to make eye contact. Call animal control if he shows any signs of aggression.

    • 2

      Make a collar/leash combination from a piece of thick rope, or slide one end of a leash through the fastener to create a collar/leash combination if the dog is not wearing a collar. If the dog is wearing a collar, prepare to tie the rope to it or attach the leash to it.

    • 3

      Grab some dog treats or food to use as a lure and reward.

    • 4

      Talk softly and slowly approach the dog. Do not make any sudden movements or loud sounds that might scare him. If he shows signs of aggression slowly back away and call the professionals. If he appears docile and calm, continue your approach.

    • 5

      Set the loop of the leash or rope on the ground. Place a treat in the center of the loop. As the dog lowers his head to eat the food, gently slide the loop up and over his head until it rests securely around his neck.