Pitbull: Are They Really Dangerous Dogs?
Pit bulls and other breeds with similar characteristics have earned a reputation as dangerous dogs. For this reason they have been included among the “potentially dangerous” breeds.
But what is true in this statement? Are pit bulls really dangerous? Let’s find out in this article if the fame of these dogs is really deserved or not.
Are pit bulls dangerous?
Even today the debate is open on whether pit bulls are more or less dangerous, and on how much their aggression depends on the nature of the breed or on the education they receive. But why has this dog earned a reputation as an aggressive animal?
Well, first of all because ever since this breed made its appearance it was immediately used for hunting and for betting. Activities that required aggressive education and which, after reflecting on the animal’s behavior, were most likely genetically transferred to the descendants.
However, this does not mean that all pit bulls have an aggressive nature by nature, although many people are convinced of this.
One thing is certain: a good number of pit bulls are being bred to become hunting or guard dogs, creating a vicious circle that continues to fuel the belief about these animals’ bad natures.
Scientific studies have shown that, without aggressive upbringing, the natural character of pit bulls is quiet and friendly, unlike, for example, chihuahuas, wild and neurotic, but which due to their small size are not perceived as a threat.
According to Everardo Becerra, a veterinarian at the UNAM Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, the owners of these dogs play a crucial role in the development of their character. And while pit bulls are naturally strong-tempered animals that can react abruptly to a threat, that doesn’t mean they are dangerous dogs.
Can pit bulls be prevented from becoming aggressive?
Yes, it is possible. Although many are convinced that their aggression is largely genetic, there are those who on the contrary think that, even if this were the case, these genes could be “deactivated” by treating these dogs with kindness from their childhood.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals argues that positive experiences can mean that although there are genes that affect dog aggression, they are never activated. Here is the exact comment:
«Positive experiences in the first years of the dog’s life, such as socialization, are considered decisive in preventing aggressive tendencies in dogs. Puppies tend to play and communicate with other dogs, people and species, having experiences that will remain etched in their minds for life. “
The company also claims that:
Pitbull dogs are more responsive to the emotions they perceive, but like all dogs, if handled correctly, they behave exactly like others. The breed does not determine the aggressiveness of a specimen, because every single specimen can have a different temperament ».
So what’s the secret? The key is to educate a dog so that he knows how to interact with other animals and people, and that he is aware of his role in the family unit.
We often hear about attacks on people and other dogs by pit bulls, but at the same time there are many specimens that live in a quiet and peaceful way with their owners, friendly and affectionate as much with the family as with those they do not know.
The important thing is therefore to educate them in the correct way, also resorting to a professional trainer if necessary.
Bottom line, are pit bulls genetically dangerous? There are those who are convinced and those who think the opposite. However, these dogs are no different from others: the disposition will differ from individual to individual. After all, it’s a bit like a lottery, don’t you think?
