American Pit Bull Terriers Banned

Awesome.

I've known pitbulls that have never show any aggression towards anyone without any training also, you don't have to train pitbulls to not kill, you need to train them TO kill. Showing them love and affection is all it takes to keep them, and any dog (with exceptions), from mauling or attacking anyone.

If that is true then why do so many Pit Bulls who have been owned by Families for years suddenly go on a rage and attack people? My friends dad has two Pit Bulls and he's had them for years, but they constantly fight each other.

I don't want you to get me wrong, though. I don't want you think that I think that all pit bulls are bad animals lol. I do believe, however, that a majority of them are messed up in the head. And I think it's not natural. It would make sense for an Animal that has been bred for years to to fight and kill to eventually get it imprinted in there genetic code.

Originally posted by BackFire
If parents are just leaving their children home alone with a dog that they haven't trained properly, then clearly the parents are to blame. Blaming the dog for stupid people making stupid decisions is a copout, like blaming video games/movies for violence.

And again, these are the minority of pitbulls that do these types of things. You hear about them because when they do attack, they can do massive damage, but most pitbulls that are cared for and loved and treated properly are perfectly fine. Shouldn't punish the whole because there's a few bad apples.

"Many" pitbulls do not go off, unless by many you mean a small amount. A minority may do that, all breeds can do that.

So you're comfortable using a foolish and exagerated stereotype to punish a whole group of animals? Even the ones that are perfectly decent? That's worrying.

You know, you're right.

Come to think of it, I also see a lot of black people committing crimes in movies.

In fact, looking at statistics, more crimes are committed by black people than other races.

Cool, let's ban them too, yeah? Sounds good.

Man, i love you so much right now...

Originally posted by Robtard
Actually, there is... you have a dog bite down on a measuring device, that will give you a fairly accurate measurement. Also, studying the muscular structure of an animals jaw, neck and head muscles will also paint a fairly accurate account of bite strength.

Is 2000 too high? Maybe it is, regardless, pits have a stronger bite than other breeds. You don't have to be a zoologist to know this either. Compare the musculature of a pits head and neck to another dog; you'll see a large difference in muscle mass and density.

However, this test is inaccurate, as the device within the bite sleeve measures the pressure at the point of impact, which is dictated by the size and weight of the dog and not its jaw capabilities. There is no definite way to determine the force of a dog' s bite.

Originally posted by Robtard

Like I said, 40%+ of dog related deaths are pit caused. Why? One reason is, they have the tools to kill a human with greater ease than other dogs.

Originally posted by Blax_Hydralisk
If that is true then why do so many Pit Bulls who have been owned by Families for years suddenly go on a rage and attack people? My friends dad has two Pit Bulls and he's had them for years, but they constantly fight each other.

I don't want you to get me wrong, though. I don't want you think that I think that all pit bulls are bad animals lol. I do believe, however, that a majority of them are messed up in the head. And I think it's not natural. It would make sense for an Animal that has been bred for years to to fight and kill to eventually get it imprinted in there genetic code.

Pits are one of the most easy to train pets. People who buy a pit as a first time owner are the ones whos pets go nuts at some time. ALL Pit breeders will stress to you when buying a pup that once the animal has its shots that it NEEDS to have Obedience training. As an owner its YOUR responsibility to make sure you take ever step as a pit owner to ensure your dog WILL let go at a command and that you are ALWAYS aware of you pits state . If a dog is agitated towards something, do not put the animal in a situation where its not comfortable or Hyper. Pits have been known to attack out of hyperness. These dogs have a bad wrap and a poor back ground, Thus its your job as an owner to take ever percaution to ensure your pits safety and thos around you.

Might I also add, Pits are huge bedhogs. Watch out! Youre covers are next to be stolen by these babys!

The Breed's Original Purpose
Humans have created specialized dogs through emphasizing desired traits and eliminating unwanted ones. It is no different with the pit bull type dogs. The American Pit Bull Terrier has been "selectively" bred for hundreds of years to fight other dogs. This is the sad "work" these dogs were created for. In the same way that Labradors were bred to retrieve birds, APBTs were bred to face other dogs in mortal combat. Even in dogs that are not recently bred from fighting lines, the urge to fight can arise at any time. Not to strongly emphasize this fact would be negligent.

That said, we can't blame specialized breeds for behaving as they were bred to. Specific traits were bred into the dogs and are now part of the breed's character. It's like the digging instinct of many Terriers, the herding behavior in Shelties, the compulsion to run in Greyhounds, etc. Your Pointer may have never spent a day on a real hunt, but he may still point and flush birds as his ancestors did.

It's a mistake to think that the fighting gene can be trained or loved out of a dog, or that early socialization will guarantee your pit bull will always get along with other animals. There are precautions to take when owning pit bulls, especially in a multiple-dog environment. Unfortunately these precautions are often viewed as acceptance for the sport of pit-fighting when nothing could be further from the truth. Knowing how to avoid a fight, as well as how to break it up if, despite all efforts one strikes, is proof of smart and responsible pit bull ownership.

Never trust a pit bull not to fight...
It is not a hate of other dogs that causes pit bulls to fight, but rather an "urge" to do so that has been bred into the dogs for many generations. Pit bulls may fight over hierarchic status, but external stimulus or excitement can also trigger a fight. Remember that any canine can fight, but pit bulls were bred specifically for their drive, intensity, and determination to win.

Pit bull owners must be aware of the remarkable fighting abilities these dogs posses and always keep in mind that pit bulls have the potential to inflict serious injury to other animals. A pit bull may not even be the one starting a conflict, but he has the genetics to finish it. Remember that pit bulls are almost always blamed no matter who initiated the hostilities, and often end up paying the price...as does the owner!

That said, some pit bulls get along great with other pets and may live happily with other dogs without incident. We just can't assume that this is true for all of them, or take for granted that pit bulls getting along with other pets today will do so tomorrow. Pit bull owners must have common sense and make sure they don't set their dogs up for failure by putting them in inappropriate situations.

Every negative incident involving a pit bull adds to their reputation and jeopardizes our right to own these great dogs. Keep your pit bull out of trouble!

Please remember that animal-aggression and people-aggression are two distinct traits and should never be confused. Unless they have been very poorly bred and/or specifically "trained" to attack humans (often by undesirable individuals through abusive methods), pit bulls are, by nature, very good with people. They are, in fact, one of the most loving, loyal, friendly and dedicated companions one can have.

Basic Breed Overview
Pit bulls are wonderful animals that deserve a chance to have a good life like any other dog. However, it's important to remember that pit bulls are not just any other dog - They are a little more of everything a dog can be.

Pit bulls have superior physical and mental characteristics that make them excellent partners for responsible, active, and caring owners. On the other hand, these same outstanding qualities can make them a little difficult to handle for people who don't have a lot of experience with dog ownership, or for those who don't understand the breed very well. Luckily, pit bulls are very responsive to training and eager to please. It is therefore strongly recommended to take them to obedience classes as soon as they are up to date with their shots. (Pit bulls are prone to parvovirus, so it is important that they receive all their vaccinations before coming into contact with other dogs or going places that other dogs frequent.) A well behaved and obedient pit bull will be a great ambassador for the breed and help fight prejudice and misconception.

Pit bulls are very adaptable and will even do well in urban living provided they have enough exercise or other positive outlets for their energy. Many pit bulls are easygoing couch-potatoes but can also be somewhat rambunctious until they mature. Maturity can come pretty late with this breed (2 to 3 years old in some cases). Pit bulls remain playful all their life and have a great sense of humor. Real clowns at heart, these dogs will make you laugh like no other.

Pit bulls are strong, energetic, agile, and powerful dogs. They are also very resourceful and driven. Determination is one of their most notable traits. Whatever they set out to do, they put their heart and soul into it...Whether it is escaping an inadequately fenced yard to go explore the neighborhood, destroying your new couch when left home alone, or climbing into your lap to shower you with kisses! They just don't give up easily.

Stahlkuppe (1995) writes, "The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT), or the AmStaff, is certainly not the right pet for everyone. Being a powerful dog, it will require sufficient and adequate control. Some prospective elderly owners or children, will not be able to supply that control... A first-time dog owner, in the minds of many experienced dog breeders, should not buy an APBT or an AmStaff! An insecure person who wants only an aggressive dog to bolster some personal human inadequacy should never become an owner of one of these dogs. An uncaring or negligent person should not buy an AmStaff or an APBT (or any other dog for that matter)."

Another very important characteristic of pit bull dogs is their amazing love of people. Many people are surprised by the loving personality of these dogs the first time they meet one. Pit bull dogs are indeed remarkably affectionate and truly enjoy human attention. They are wonderful cuddlers, and nothing beats a belly rub. In fact, most pit bulls think they are lap dogs!

Dunbar (1999) writes: "Today, a properly bred pit bull is so exuberantly happy upon meeting her owner's friends (or even friendly strangers) that new owners sometimes worry that their dog is too sweet and fun-loving to protect their home and family... A multi-talented companion, the well-trained pit bull is suited for a variety of exciting activities. He excels at obedience, agility and weight-pulling competitions, events which showcase intelligence, trainability and strength. In addition, the pit bull's pleasant nature makes him an ideal candidate for therapy work with people."

Human aggression, severe shyness, and instability are not traits typically found and accepted in the APBT breed. Dogs with these traits are not good representatives of the breed and should not be placed into adoptive homes.

Like any other breed, pit bulls can develop behavior problems if poorly bred, mishandled, abused, unsocialized, etc., that could result in inappropriate aggression. Any large, strong, and powerful dog that attacks can do a lot of damage. This is why temperament evaluation is important when dealing with dogs of certain size and potential.

Unlike the myth propagated by the media however, human aggression is NOT a problem specific to pit bulls. In fact, pit bulls tend to do better than average in temperament tests.

The American Temperament Test Society provides temperament testing around the country for dog breeds, and gives a passing score for the entire breed based on the percentage of passed over failed within total number of the particular breed tested. As of December 2003, the American Pit Bull Terrier has a current passing rate of 83.9%, and the American Staffordshire Terrier passes at 83.2%. In comparison, The Golden Retriever passing rate is 83.2%.

Pit bull type dogs are wonderful, loving, and very loyal companions. It is important however, to understand the breed's nature, to provide a structured environment, and to establish a positive leadership role. In order to do so, pit bull owners must understand the original purpose of the breed, and respect its limits and potential.

I hate the ban, they did it here in Colorado and it is total ****ing bullsh*t. The figures and stats they use to come up with the “most vicious” breed is so skewed it is not even funny, there are so many breeds that have just as many or more attacks then Pittbulls. The idea that these dogs were breed to kill is BS as well, all most every breed of hunting dog was breed to kill.

Old post

Originally posted by Da Pittman
Here is an email that was sent out to CSU vet students when the ban happened here in Colorado.

"This type of breed specific legislation has been attempted in other cities. Statistically, these laws do NOT decrease the number of dog bites or attacks reported annually. Keep in mind that a Pomeranian killed an infant in 2000 and a jack Russell severely mauled a child in 2003.The concept of “dangerous breeds” stemmed from a CDC report looking at the number of fatal dog attacks between the 1979 to 1996 (http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/00047723.htm). Breeds associated with high fatal attack numbers included pit bulls (highest), rotties, Dobies, huskies, st. Bernard’s, etc. These were compared based on number of attacks alone, rather than the prevalence of attacks.

By way of example: If you had 1000 pit bulls in a city and 3 fatal attacks, but 100 cocker spaniels and 2 attacks, the pit bull would still be listed ahead of the cocker in terms of “Likeliness to attack.” However, statistically, the cocker would be the more aggressive of the two. The population of a certain breed of dog obviously greatly influences the number of bites reported. Now that Rottweilers are gaining in popularity, they are surpassing pit bulls in number of attacks. Furthermore, the CDC data only represents fatal attacks and does nothing to identify the breeds associated with much more common nonfatal, but often disfiguring, bites.

The CDC itself says, “Additional strategies to encourage responsible pet ownership and reduce dog bites include regulatory measures (e.g., licensing, neutering, and registration programs and programs to control unrestrained animals) and legislation (7). “Dangerous” dog laws focus on dogs of any breed that have exhibited harmful behavior (e.g., unprovoked attacks on persons or animals) and place primary responsibility for a dog’s behavior on the owner. Because a dog’s tendency to bite depends on other factors in addition to genetics (e.g., medical and behavioral health, early experience, socialization and training, and victim behavior), such laws might be more effective than breed-specific legislation (7). These prevention strategies require further evaluation.” (http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5226a1.htm)
It is vital to educate the public on responsible dog ownership and to take a hard-line with truly aggressive dogs. However, this breed specific legislation wastes tax dollars without addressing the problem. Please take a moment to sign the petition.

Thanks for your time,
Liz Gray
Elizabeth Gray, MS
Colorado State University PVM 2006
"

Originally posted by Blax_Hydralisk
Obviously, the best plan is to simply let the dogs maul kids. Actually f*ck it. Kids should just be outlawed. That way we can still keep our proven to be mentally screwed up dogs!

I'd actually rather have dogs on a plane sitting next to me, or in a cinema, or a restaurant, than a child. Most dogs know when to "stay", shut up when they're fed and pretty much do as they're told and love you unconditionally if you raise them right.

Yeah, I'm going with dogs.

Why do we need kids? Oh, the continuation of the human race.

Yeah, still going with dogs.

-AC

Originally posted by Alpha Centauri
I'd actually rather have dogs on a plane sitting next to me, or in a cinema, or a restaurant, than a child. Most dogs know when to "stay", shut up when they're fed and pretty much do as they're told and love you unconditionally if you raise them right.

Yeah, I'm going with dogs.

Why do we need kids? Oh, the continuation of the human race.

Yeah, still going with dogs.

-AC

Originally posted by Alpha Centauri
I'd actually rather have dogs on a plane sitting next to me, or in a cinema, or a restaurant, than a child. Most dogs know when to "stay", shut up when they're fed and pretty much do as they're told and love you unconditionally if you raise them right.

Yeah, I'm going with dogs.

Why do we need kids? Oh, the continuation of the human race.

Yeah, still going with dogs.

-AC

You bad-ass, you.

I own a pit bull. His name is Walter. I also have a three year old little girl who loves this puppy, and vice versa. Anyone who says that pit bulls are dangerous dogs by nature is a ****ing douchebag. All the owner has to do is love their dog like any other animal and socialize their pet around other humans and animals alike.

I have never seen an animal so devoted to a child like Walter is to my daughter, and he's only 4 months old. Pit Bulls are wonderful pets, even if they are dumb. 😛

Originally posted by Rogue Jedi
but is there a chance a child will latch on and rip out your throat?

No, but there's a chance it'll annoy me to the point I'll want my throat ripped out and be spared the worse fate.

-AC

Originally posted by Storm
Actually, I read that a large percentage of the strength of a dog' s bite would come from the rear legs, and by immobilizing the rear portion of the dog’ s body, you can take away that percentage of that bite from the dog.

Roughly one third. The causes most certainly must be the dog' s "blood thirst", and can' t possibly be the owner' s proper training, or lack thereof. With socialization, training and a kind hand, American Pit Bull Terriers usually are great companions.

If anything then, the measurements are underrated then.

"40%+" is roughly one-half. I'm certain bad owners, novice owners or owners who outright train the dogs to attack are a cause, yet there are cases were the loved family dog snapped for no apparent reason.

Regardless, my stating the percentage of dog deaths being pit related was not to show that "all pits will kill", which is bogus, because all pits do not snap and kill. It was to show how much more potential for harming people these dogs have over other dogs. Like the difference between a .22 hand gun (a Golden Retriever) and a .50 hand gun (Pitbull), both can harm/kill, but one has far greater potential when they do.

Originally posted by Impediment

I own a pit bull. His name is Walter. I also have a three year old little girl who loves this puppy, and vice versa. Anyone who says that pit bulls are dangerous dogs by nature is a ****ing douchebag. All the owner has to do is love their dog like any other animal and socialize their pet around other humans and animals alike.

I have never seen an animal so devoted to a child like Walter is to my daughter, and he's only 4 months old. Pit Bulls are wonderful pets, even if they are dumb. 😛

Originally posted by Impediment
[BI own a pit bull. His name is Walter. I also have a three year old little girl who loves this puppy, and vice versa. Anyone who says that pit bulls are dangerous dogs by nature is a ****ing douchebag. All the owner has to do is love their dog like any other animal and socialize their pet around other humans and animals alike.

I have never seen an animal so devoted to a child like Walter is to my daughter, and he's only 4 months old. Pit Bulls are wonderful pets, even if they are dumb. 😛 [/B]

Beautiful dog... Puppies are not vicious, regardless of breed, so your point is moot.

I'm sure you're a responsible owner and you'll raise the dog to be kind; would you trust the dog to be alone with your daughter in a few years though?

Originally posted by Robtard
If anything then, the measurements are underrated then.

"40%+" is roughly one-half. I'm certain bad owners, novice owners or owners who outright train the dogs to attack are a cause, yet there are cases were the loved family dog snapped for no apparent reason.

Regardless, my stating the percentage of dog deaths being pit related was not to show that "all pits will kill", which is bogus, because all pits do not snap and kill. It was to show how much more potential for harming people these dogs have over other dogs. Like the difference between a .22 hand gun (a Golden Retriever) and a .50 hand gun (Pitbull), both can harm/kill, but one has far greater potential when they do.

If the netire thing was just a simple case of owners not properly training there dogs then why is it that it is pitbulls in particular that make up the majority of unprovoked attacks? Why is it that these dogs make up the majority, when the majority of these dogs who turn on there own families HAVEN'T been trained to kill, and have been loved and affectionate for years.

Originally posted by Blax_Hydralisk
If the netire thing was just a simple case of owners not properly training there dogs then why is it that it is pitbulls in particular that make up the majority of unprovoked attacks? Why is it that these dogs make up the majority, when the majority of these dogs who turn on there own families HAVEN'T been trained to kill, and have been loved and affectionate for years.

Because any dog can randomly snap. Any dog, of any breed, owned by anyone.

But what are people going to hear more about? A Golden Retriever snapping and biting someone, or a pit bull?

The pit, because they already have an ill-deserved bad reputation and it'll get attention.

Originally posted by Blax_Hydralisk
If the netire thing was just a simple case of owners not properly training there dogs then why is it that it is pitbulls in particular that make up the majority of unprovoked attacks? Why is it that these dogs make up the majority, when the majority of these dogs who turn on there own families HAVEN'T been trained to kill, and have been loved and affectionate for years.