Breed Information Pages
It's all about bulldogs

The following pages are full of information on all your favorite breeds. We couldn't possibly include all the information there is to know about these wonderful dogs, so please also visit our Resources page for more great information. We highly recommend reading, The Truth About Pit Bulls page.

For Breed info on American Bulldogs, Bull Terriers, Neopolitan Mastiffs, English Mastiffs, Olde English Bulldogs, and Boxers visit this page.

Pit Bulls
Adapted with permission workingpitbull.com

A confident, happy breed.

The pit bull's work has always been control and mastery of other animals - not humans. A correct pit bull is more often than not submissive toward all humans, and adores children. A pit bull that snarls, lunges or growls at a non-threatening human is NOT typical of the breed, and to keep such a dog alive endangers people, pets and the image of the breed we love. Nothing could be more incorrect than for these people-loving dogs to be considered a vicious breed. A correct pit bull is NOT a good choice as a guard dog - only an unstable pit bull will react with aggression towards a non threatening stranger. A normal pit bull looks upon all people as friends unless their actions prove otherwise. This happy-go-lucky attitude is a result of their confidence.

What is a correct pit bull like? Happy, confident, devil-may-care, always ready for a romp, humble, cuddly, never dominant with those he loves, gentle with children, ever ready to test his mettle with other dogs, silly, playful and incredible rough and tumble when need be. When called upon, he has the ability to show a grit, resolve and courageous ferocity unmatched in any other animal. And that is why we love him.

Temperament

From his history as a hunter's gripping dog, butcher's bull-baiter and gambler's dog fighter, the pit bull has inherited a strong desire to test his mettle against other animals. Many pit bulls are friendly with other dogs, and many live with cats and livestock, but it is not unusual for some pit bulls to be intolerant of other dogs and animals. Despite the good intentioned advice of dog trainers who have little experience with bulldogs, or who fail to understand the dynamic nature of the breed, training and early socialization has only a minor effect on how dog aggressive a specific pit bull will become once it matures. Genetics play a much larger role.

Bottom line - if you chose to own a fighting dog breed, don't foolishly be surprised if the animal expresses aggression toward other dogs. Respect the animal's genetic history and treat it accordingly. You wouldn't be surprised if you bought a German shepherd and it was aggressive toward strangers, would you?

Confidence is the key word to bulldog temperament. A swaggering, happy-go-lucky type of confidence which makes him meet every person as friend unless proven otherwise. Not for him is the wary suspicion of the guardian breeds who view strangers as potential threats to their safety. The only thing "fierce" about his greeting of friend or stranger alike is the wagging of his tail. Will he guard his car or property? Sometimes, but best not to count on it. He sees the world as his friend. Will he protect his owner if that person is actually assaulted? The pit bull of sound temperament who does not rally under this circumstance is rare indeed. He loves children most of all - and a pleased, relaxed look crosses his face when they approach. He can be rough and tumble in his play, but if the kids are old enough to handle it, no better companion can be found.

Contrary to popular opinion the pit bull is not "hardheaded". He is sometimes made dull and unresponsive by means of a dull and unresponsive owner and life style, but even then he remains an extremely sensitive dog.

Bulldogs have a fierce desire to please those he respects. Generally those who consider this dog "hardheaded" know very little about the breed. They try to train pit bulls with force, and then are surprised when the animals shut down.

The bulldog is never a "dominant" dog needing to be shown 'who is boss'. Pit bulls have earned every advanced training title available, often with top honors.

What Can You Expect from a Pit Bull?

You can expect a medium sized, active, intelligent and faithful dog. You can expect a dog who will need hard daily exercise, EVERY DAY (rain or shine). You can expect a dog which will probably not get along well with other dogs, especially of the same sex. Do not buy a pit bull "to keep my other dog company". Many foolish people have come home to dead or injured dogs when they have left two pit bulls, or a pit bull and another breed together unattended. DO NOT leave dogs of any breed together unattended, no matter how well they seem to get along.

You can expect a well bred, stable and sound pit bull to not be much of an area guard dog. While some dogs may protect you if the need arises, it is NOT a breed trait to be defensive of your car or home. They love people, and are glad to see them. Most pit bulls greet strangers like long lost friends. If you want a snapping, snarling guard dog, don't get a pit bull.

Pit bulls are healthy dogs. They can easily live ten to fifteen years. Make sure you are ready for that kind of a commitment before you get one. The average age of a pit bull being "given away" is between 9 months and 18 months.

What can you expect from a pit bull? The best friend you ever had and a dog which stands far above other dogs - IF you are willing to understand what your dog needs and give it to him or her.

Breed Info Page 2

Information adapted with permission Thank you Workingpitbull.com

HOME | ABOUT | DOGS | ADOPTION | APPLICATION | BULLY BREED INFO | HOW TO HELP | LEGISLATION | CONTACT