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Understanding the Pit Bull Type
The following information is for anyone interested in acquiring a Pit Bull, those who already own one, or anyone simply wanting to understand these incredible dogs a little better.
This page highlights the most notable traits of Pit Bull–type dogs, including their potential for dog aggression. You’ll learn that while Pit Bulls make excellent family companions in the right hands and environment, they require intelligent, responsible, and dedicated ownership. Unfortunately, too many people acquire these dogs for the wrong reasons or with little understanding of the breed’s inherent traits. It’s crucial that every potential Pit Bull owner understands the selective breeding that shaped this breed and the inherited characteristics that come with it.
This information applies to owners of any “Pit Bull–type” dog — including the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Pit mixes.
Remember, little is often known about the background of rescue dogs. Some may come from game-bred lines, some from show stock, some might be AmStaffs, and others may simply resemble APBTs but have mixed heritage. Unless you have a pedigree in hand, it’s best to follow the general guidelines below.
The Nature of the Pit Bull
Pit Bulls are wonderful animals that deserve the chance to live happy, fulfilling lives like any other dog. But it’s important to remember — Pit Bulls are not just any other dog. They are a little more of everything a dog can be.
They possess remarkable physical and mental strength, making them ideal partners for responsible, active, and caring owners. However, these same powerful traits can make them challenging for inexperienced owners or those unfamiliar with the breed.
The good news? Pit Bulls are highly intelligent, eager to please, and incredibly trainable. Enrolling them in obedience classes is strongly recommended. A well-trained Pit Bull becomes an ambassador for the breed — helping to combat the prejudice and misconceptions that surround them.
Temperament and Lifestyle
Pit Bulls are adaptable and can thrive even in urban environments, provided they receive enough exercise and mental stimulation. Many are easygoing couch potatoes at home, though they can be rambunctious until maturity — which can take two to three years.
They remain playful and full of humor throughout their lives, often making their owners laugh with their antics. Pit Bulls are strong, agile, driven, and incredibly determined. Whatever they set their mind to — whether escaping a fence, chewing a couch, or showering you with affection — they give it their all.
Above all, Pit Bulls are people lovers. They crave human attention and are known for being affectionate cuddlers who think they’re lap dogs. Their devotion to people is one of their defining traits.
A well-bred Pit Bull is typically friendly and enthusiastic toward friends and even strangers, sometimes leading new owners to worry their dog is “too friendly” to be protective. But with proper training, the Pit Bull proves to be a multi-talented companion — excelling in obedience, agility, weight pulling, and even therapy work.
Temperament and Misconceptions
Human aggression, severe shyness, and instability are not traits found or accepted in the true Pit Bull breed. Dogs exhibiting these behaviors are poor representatives and should not be placed in adoptive homes.
Like any breed, Pit Bulls can develop behavioral issues if they are mishandled, abused, poorly bred, or unsocialized. Any large, strong breed can cause harm if aggression occurs, which is why temperament evaluation and responsible handling are critical.
Despite media myths, Pit Bulls consistently score above average on temperament tests. According to the American Temperament Test Society, as of March 2001, the American Pit Bull Terrier had a passing rate of 82.3%, ranking among the top five most stable breeds in North America.
Understanding the Breed’s Origins
To understand a Pit Bull, you must understand its purpose. Humans have created specialized breeds by selectively emphasizing desired traits — and the Pit Bull is no exception.
Originally, the American Pit Bull Terrier served as a butcher’s right hand, helping control bulls when equipment wasn’t available. Over time, these traits evolved into bull- and bear-baiting, and later, unfortunately, dog fighting.
Just as Labradors were bred to retrieve or Border Collies to herd, the APBT was bred for combat. Even dogs not recently bred from fighting lines may still carry the instinctive drive that once defined their ancestors. Denying this reality is both naive and unsafe.
This doesn’t mean every Pit Bull will display aggression toward other dogs — but owners must recognize that dog aggression and human aggression are not the same thing. These dogs can be loving, loyal, and trustworthy with people while still requiring careful management around other animals.
Managing Dog Dynamics
In multi-dog households, vigilance is key. Fights can erupt suddenly and with little to no warning. Pit Bulls may coexist peacefully for years, then suddenly clash — often silently, as the breed typically doesn’t bark or growl during altercations.
Afterward, they may act as if nothing happened, even licking each other’s wounds. But make no mistake — they will likely fight again and get better at it.
It’s not always hatred or dominance that triggers a fight, but rather an instinctual drive bred into them over generations. Pit Bulls are incredibly intense and determined, and when conflict arises, they fight with full commitment.
Even if a Pit Bull didn’t start the confrontation, it will likely finish it — and, unfairly, it’s almost always the one blamed. Responsible owners understand this and take precautions to prevent conflicts.
Some Pit Bulls coexist perfectly with other pets and never show aggression. However, it’s unwise to assume this will always be the case. Common sense, supervision, and management are essential to keep your dog — and the breed’s reputation — safe.
Every negative incident involving a Pit Bull fuels prejudice and jeopardizes our right to own these amazing dogs. It’s up to us to keep our Pit Bulls out of trouble.
Final Thoughts
Never confuse animal aggression with human aggression — they are two entirely different traits. Unless they’ve been irresponsibly bred or intentionally trained to attack humans, Pit Bulls are naturally friendly, loyal, and people-oriented.
In fact, most Pit Bulls are too people-focused to make effective guard dogs.
Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but we ask only that you approach this breed with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Understand what these dogs were bred for, what they’ve endured, and what they need to thrive.
Before acquiring one of these powerful, intelligent, and deeply loyal dogs — whether from us or elsewhere — do your research and make your decision wisely.
Sincerely,
Jay @ Bulletproof Pitbulls