The National Pit Bull Awareness campaign is a nationwide effort to bring positive attention to the American Pit Bull Terrier and their responsible owners. To anyone who shares their life with a Pit Bull, the reason for having a national month of awareness for these misunderstood dogs is clear. Constant negative media attention and sensationalized hype that surrounds Pit Bulls have this breed in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. With all of the flack that Pit Bulls have received throughout the years, it's time to showcase just some of the many redeeming qualities of this extremely lovable breed.
It is true that any breed of dog (including mixed breed dogs) can inherit genetic issues. However, Pit Bulls are not prone to serious health issues that are often seen in other breeds. Diseases that most often occur in Pit Bulls include; demodectic mange, hip dysplasia, and patellar luxation, which are all not usually fatal. With that being said, these genetic issues are not seen in all, or even many, Pit Bulls.
Their short coat is very low maintenance and they can be bathed in very little time — not that they need to be bathed often. They do not need to be brushed (though most enjoy it) or get doggie haircuts, and their fur is not naturally odoriferous.
A Pit Bull will do almost anything their favorite people ask of them, just to hear their praise. These dogs crave our attention and approval and are very social with humans. This devotion to people has contributed heavily to the bad reputation of Pit Bulls because a bad person can use a Pit Bull’s eagerness to please to train the dog for nefarious or criminal purposes.
A Pit Bull will definitely motivate you to get daily exercise, whether you only want to walk around the block or train for a marathon. Pit Bulls also tend to excel at dog sports, like agility. However, Pit Bulls are not overly obsessive about exercise, as some breeds, so they are able to go with the flow for whatever their owner happens to be in the mood for that day.
When you adopt a Pit Bull, you have a friend for life, through thick and thin. Although many Pit Bulls are not good guard dogs because they just love people so much, they may intervene if someone threatens “their” humans.
Pit Bulls are a loyal, people-oriented breed that thrives as part of the family. They are affectionate with both adults and children. Keep in mind that all children should be taught how to interact with animals and should be supervised when playing with any animal.
Just like people, all dogs are distinct individuals, but Pit Bulls are usually bursting with personality and they love to make us laugh by clowning around. They are fun and playful, even as they get older.
And Pit Bulls do not discriminate against humans for any reason. Even if a Pit Bull does not like other dogs, they typically love humans and are happiest when they are with us. They remind us of this by wiggling happily and kissing us often!
Even the most athletic Pit Bull will also have a sedentary side and crave being hugged and pet. Adopt a Pit Bull and you will have a constant companion keeping you warm in bed, on the couch, or on your lap in your favorite chair. Did I mention that many Pit Bulls don’t realize that they are too big to be lap dogs? For this reason and because they are so trainable, Pit Bulls can be excellent therapy dogs!
Pit Bulls are great for your mental health. If you are having a bad day, one look at your Pit Bull’s huge smile and lolling tongue will surely make you smile. Not to mention, their zest for life is infectious. Truly, happiness is a Pit Bull smile!