Pit Bull Facts and Myths

Pit Bull Myths and Facts - Inform Your Decision Before Declaring Your Position

Pit bull ownership has been a hotly debated topic in recent years. The pit bull, at one time bred for fighting, has consequently become notorious for vicious attacks, thus encouraging many cities and counties to elect and enforce breed-specific legislation (BSL) that essentially bans pit bulls. In response to these breed-specific laws, pit bull owners are speaking out, claiming biased media attention and irresponsible ownership is to blame for the public's negative view on this beloved family pet.

With one side decrying pit bulls as a dangerous, aggressive dog that has rightly earned its fearful stigma, and the other side claiming unfair bias toward pit bulls they perceive as loving animals, how can you determine your position in the debate?

1800PetMeds has researched the positions, politics and perspectives related to pit bulls and the pit bull debate, to shed some light on this hot-button topic. Some of the pit bull myths and facts in the infographic below may surprise you.

The pit bull debate can stir up strong opinions and emotions for both the advocates and the critics. The goal for 1800PetMeds is to present facts that help people develop an informed perspective about pit bulls. But regardless of the dog breed you own, from anything between Great Danes to Chihuahuas — including pit bulls — all dogs require proper care and treatment from their owners. In most cases, a dog that is properly trained, fostered and cared for can become a good-natured companion. However, pet owners must cater their caretaking methods to the distinct traits and characteristics each dog breed possesses. Proper handling can make all the difference in a pet's temperament and behavior.

Dog owners need to prepare for the responsibility that comes with training and caring for a dog, and preparations begin with owning the proper pet supplies. A few dog toys, for example, can direct a dog's energy toward something more constructive — and away from furniture or new shoes.

Other breed-appropriate pet supplies range from dog kennels, which give pets their own safe domain and a place to sleep, to breed-formulated dog food, which is vital for raising a healthy, happy dog.

While dogs need adequate exercise and a nutritious diet to maintain optimum health and a balanced temperament, it is also important to protect dogs from disease through proper vaccinations, medications and flea treatment for dogs.

A dog's breed can influence its innate behavior, but pet owners are ultimately responsible for providing proper care and raising well behaved dogs that can be embraced by communities around the country. While the facts about pit bulls may spark controversy, one undeniable fact dog owners can agree upon is they all love their dogs. And loved dogs are happy dogs about which we don't need to debate.