Sometimes a client will brush off a particular behaviour exhibited by their dog with ‘well, that’s just what Jack Russell’s do isn’t it?’ Do we then just accept that collies chase cars, spaniels are mad and pit-bull types are dangerous? Hopefully not.
All dogs have personality traits which make them unique. Many studies have been undertaken to ascertain if certain breeds are more prone to specific behaviours, and it is now widely accepted that it is impossible to predict a dog’s behaviour based solely on their breed. Environment and early experiences have a significant impact on behaviour. Yes, there are breed dispositions that any trainer or behaviourist should consider, but breed-type should never be solely relied on as a behaviour indicator.
Of course, pit bull types can be dangerous – but so can every other breed of dog – I have worked with ‘aggressive’ Labradors, Chihuahuas, and Dalmatians amongst other dogs. I have worked with Staffordshire bull terriers and other ‘pit bull’ types who cannot be left alone or who are afraid of going out for a walk.
People sometimes get dogs without any consideration for their needs. Some people get Staffys or other pit-bull types to enhance their own status and personal image. Such dogs are often kept outside and chained up for most of the time. The combination of frustration, fear and punishment-based ‘training’ results in the disasters that we hear about all too often in the news; and the large numbers of pit-bull types in rescue centres.
Any dog raised responsibly can make a great companion and family dog including Pit-bulls and pit-bull types.