Authored by: PBFSA
Abstract
The American Pit Bull Terrier, commonly referred to as the Pit Bull, is a breed of dog that has been the subject of controversy due to its reputation for aggression and violence. Despite this reputation, many advocates of the breed argue that these negative stereotypes are largely based on media sensationalism and the actions of irresponsible owners, rather than inherent
traits of the breed itself.
The Pit Bull is a muscular and athletic dog that was originally bred for bull-baiting and other blood sports, but has since been used for a wide variety of tasks including as a family pet, therapy dog, and even as a police or military working dog. They are known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, but also for their strong protective instincts and potential for dog aggression.
Due to their powerful build and energetic nature, Pit Bulls require a significant amount of exercise and training to be well-behaved pets.
While some countries and jurisdictions have enacted breed-specific legislation targeting Pit Bulls and other so-called “dangerous breeds,” many experts argue that this approach is ineffective and unfair, and that responsible ownership and education are the best ways to prevent dog bites and
promote public safety.
The History of the APBT
The American Pit Bull Terrier’s history can be traced back to England in the 19th century, where they were developed from the English Bulldog and various terrier breeds. Originally bred for bull-baiting and bear-baiting,
Pit Bulls were also used in ratting and dog fighting due to their strength, athleticism, and tenacity.
When these blood sports were banned in England in the mid-19th century, breeders turned their attention to developing the breed for other purposes, such as hunting, guarding, and as a loyal companion. The breed was brought to America in the late 19th century, where they quickly gained
popularity among working-class families for their versatility and loyalty.
During the early 20th century, the breed’s popularity grew even further, and became a symbol of American patriotism during World War I and World War II. In the 1980’s and 1990’s, however, Pit Bulls began to be associated with dog fighting, gangs, and other criminal activity, leading to a
rise in negative stereotypes and breed-specific legislation targeting the breed.
Despite these challenges, many advocates of the breed continue to promote responsible ownership and education to counteract these negative stereotypes and promote the Pit Bull’s reputation as a loyal, loving, and versatile breed. Today, the American Pit Bull Terrier remains a popular breed in America, South Africa and around the world, valued for their strength, agility, and loyalty.
Modern American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) Size and Description
Modern American Pit Bull Terriers are medium-sized dogs with a muscular and athletic build. They typically stand between 45 and 53 cm tall at the shoulder and weigh between 14 and 34kg.
The Pit Bull’s head is broad and wedge-shaped, with a short muzzle and strong jaws. Their ears can be natural or cropped (illegal in SA), and their eyes are round and dark. The breed’s coat is short and shiny, with a variety of accepted colours including black, fawn, brindle, red, and white.
While there is some variation in appearance between individual Pit Bulls, the breed is known for their powerful and agile physique, with a broad chest, muscular shoulders, and a lean, athletic build. They are energetic and highly active dogs that require plenty of exercise and stimulation to stay healthy and happy.
Overall, the modern American Pit Bull Terrier is a striking and impressive breed, with a distinctive look and a loyal, affectionate personality that endears them to many owners and fans of the breed.
Temperament APBT
The temperament of the American Pit Bull Terrier can vary depending on a variety of factors, including genetics, socialization, training, and individual personality. However, there are some general characteristics that are commonly associated with the breed.
Pit Bulls are known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, and they often form close bonds with their families. They are typically highly energetic and playful, and require plenty of exercise and stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
While Pit Bulls can be friendly towards people and other dogs, they also have a strong protective instinct and may be wary of strangers or unfamiliar animals. Proper socialization and training are important to help ensure that Pit Bulls are well-behaved and comfortable in a variety of
situations.
One stereotype that is often associated with Pit Bulls is their supposed tendency towards aggression or violence. However, aggression is technically a strategy that is used to resolve perceived conflict, and there, Pitbulls do not differ
from any other breed of dog. The significant difference between Pit Bulls and other types of dogs is that Pit Bulls disinhibit / react much faster to stimuli than most other dogs. While proper training and socialization can go a long way towards a happy, loving and loyal family companion, it is not a 100% safeguard against these dogs ever reacting in a way that could be dangerous, which means that owners of Pit Bulls need to know that their dogs require lifelong management to keep them (and other people/animals) safe.
Ultimately, the temperament of the American Pit Bull Terrier is shaped by a variety of factors, including their genetics, environment, and individual personality. With responsible ownership and care, Pit Bulls can be wonderful and rewarding companions.
The Lock Jaw Myth on the APBT
The “lock jaw” myth is a long-standing and widely circulated misconception about the American Pit Bull Terrier and other related breeds. According to this myth, Pit Bulls have an innate ability to “lock” their jaws, making it impossible for them to release their bite once they have clamped down on something.
However, this myth has been widely debunked by experts in the field of dog behavior and anatomy. There is no scientific evidence to suggest that Pit Bulls have a unique ability to lock their jaws or that their jaws are any stronger or more powerful than those of other breeds.
In fact, the structure of a Pit Bull’s jaw is no different from that of any other dog, with the same number and arrangement of muscles and bones. While Pit Bulls and other strong-jawed breeds may have a powerful bite
force, they do not possess any kind of “locking mechanism” that would prevent them from releasing their grip.
The “lock jaw” myth has contributed to the negative stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding the American Pit Bull Terrier, portraying them as inherently aggressive and dangerous. However, responsible ownership and proper training can help to dispel these myths and promote the breed’s true nature as loyal, loving, and affectionate companions.
APBTs in Shelters in SA
The American Pit Bull Terrier is a breed that is often overrepresented in animal shelters in South Africa and around the world. There are a few reasons for this.
Firstly, Pit Bulls are a popular breed, and many people acquire them without fully understanding the breed’s needs and characteristics. This can lead to challenges with behaviour and aggression, which can result in the dog being surrendered to a shelter.
Secondly, the negative stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding Pit Bulls can make it difficult for them to find homes. Many people are hesitant to adopt a Pit Bull because of fears about aggression or liability issues.
However, despite these challenges, many shelters and rescue organizations are working to promote the Pit Bull’s true nature as loyal,
affectionate, and trainable dogs. They provide training and socialization programs for the dogs, and work to educate the public about the breed’s positive qualities.
In addition, there are many Pit Bull advocates who are passionate about the breed and work to support rescue efforts and promote responsible ownership. They encourage people to adopt Pit Bulls from shelters and provide resources and support for those who already own them.
Ultimately, while the American Pit Bull Terrier may face some challenges in animal shelters in South Africa, there are many people who are working to support the breed and promote their positive qualities.
”Pet Bulls” In SA
It is important to note that there is no such breed as a “Pet Bull” – this term is likely a misunderstanding or misnomer for the
American Pit Bull Terrier or other related breeds, such as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
In South Africa, ownership of Pit Bulls and other “dangerous” breeds is regulated by law, and owners are required to comply with specific rules and regulations to ensure public safety. For example, in some areas, owners may be required to obtain a special permit, provide secure fencing or enclosures, and keep the dog on a leash or under control in public.
Despite the regulations surrounding Pit Bull ownership, many people in South Africa choose to keep these breeds as pets. It is important for owners to understand the breed’s specific needs and characteristics, and to take steps to ensure that the dog is well-behaved and safely managed at all times.
Additionally, it is important for Pit Bull owners to be responsible and considerate members of their community, taking steps to prevent incidents and promote positive attitudes towards the breed. This can include ensuring that the dog is properly secured when outside, avoiding confrontations with other dogs or people, and being a good ambassador for the breed by promoting responsible ownership and positive interactions with the public.
The Pit Bull Federation of South Africa (PBFSA)
The Pit Bull Federation of South Africa (PBFSA) is an organization that is dedicated to promoting responsible ownership and positive attitudes towards the American Pit Bull Terrier and other related breeds. The organization provides a variety of services and resources to Pit Bull owners,
breeders, and enthusiasts, including education and training programs, advocacy efforts, and events and competitions.
One of the main goals of the PBFSA is to counteract the negative stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding Pit Bulls, and to promote the breed’s true nature as loyal, affectionate, and trainable dogs.
The organization works to educate the public about responsible ownership and the
breed’s specific needs and characteristics, and encourages people to adopt Pit Bulls from shelters and rescue organizations.
In addition, the PBFSA promotes responsible breeding practices and works to ensure that Pit Bulls are bred and raised in a humane and ethical manner. The organization also provides resources and support for Pit Bull owners, including access to training and socialization programs, advice on health and nutrition, and assistance with legal issues and other challenges.
Ultimately, the Pit Bull Federation of South Africa is a valuable resource for Pit Bull owners and enthusiasts in South Africa, and plays an important role in promoting responsible ownership and positive attitudes towards this misunderstood breed.
APBTs in Society the APBT Stigma in SA
The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) has long been the subject of negative stereotypes and stigmatization, not only in South Africa but in many parts of the world. This stigma is largely based on misconceptions about the breed’s nature and history, as well as sensationalized media coverage of dog attacks and incidents involving Pit Bulls.
In South Africa, there are various factors that contribute to the stigma surrounding Pit Bulls. One of these is the prevalence of dogfighting, which is illegal but still occurs in some parts of the country. Pit Bulls are often associated with this activity, despite the fact that the vast majority of Pit Bulls are not used for dogfighting and are kept as pets or working dogs.
Another factor is the breed’s physical appearance, which can be intimidating to some people. This, combined with the negative media coverage of Pit Bull attacks, has led to a perception that Pit Bulls are inherently aggressive and dangerous.
However, many Pit Bull advocates and organizations in South Africa are working to counteract this stigma and promote a more positive view of the breed. These efforts include education and outreach programs, advocacy efforts, and events and competitions that showcase the breed’s positive qualities and abilities.
It is important to remember that breed alone is not a reliable predictor of a dog’s behaviour. While certain breeds may have certain tendencies or characteristics, a dog’s behavior is largely shaped by his upbringing, socialization, and training. With responsible ownership and proper
training, Pit Bulls can be loving, loyal, and well-behaved family pets. It is up to all of us to work towards a more positive and accurate view of this misunderstood breed.
Bad Press on ABPT in SA
Like in many other countries, the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) has received a lot of negative press in South Africa. The breed has been associated with a number of incidents and attacks, which have been widely publicized in the media.
Unfortunately, this type of coverage has often been sensationalized and misleading, and has contributed to the stigma and discrimination faced by Pit Bulls and their owners. In some cases, incidents involving other breeds of dogs have been misidentified as Pit Bull attacks, further perpetuating the negative stereotype.
It is important to remember that media coverage of dog attacks and incidents involving Pit Bulls can be biased and misleading, and that the vast majority of Pit Bulls are well-behaved and loving pets. It is also important to consider the context in which these incidents occur, including the dog’s upbringing and socialization, the behaviour of the humans involved, and any underlying medical or behavioural issues. Having a well socialized and trained Pit Bull as part of the family one must remember that they require life-long management to prevent incidents, because even socialized and trained dogs can be dangerous.
Despite the negative press, many Pit Bull advocates and organizations in South Africa are working to promote responsible ownership and positive attitudes towards the breed. These efforts include education and outreach programs, advocacy efforts, and events and competitions that showcase the breed’s positive qualities and abilities.
Ultimately, it is up to all of us to challenge negative stereotypes and promote a more accurate and positive view of this misunderstood breed. By working together, we can help to create a safer, more inclusive society for both dogs and humans.
Dog Fighting in SA
Dog fighting is a cruel and illegal activity that unfortunately still occurs in some parts of South Africa. The practice involves training dogs, usually Pit Bulls, to fight each other for the purpose of entertainment or gambling.
Dog fighting is a serious animal welfare issue, as the dogs involved are often subjected to extreme cruelty and suffering. They may be trained using abusive methods, kept in inadequate conditions, and forced to fight to the death or until they are severely injured.
In addition to the animal welfare concerns, dog fighting also has significant social and legal implications. The activity is illegal under South African law, and those involved can face criminal charges and significant penalties.
Fortunately, there are various organizations and initiatives in South Africa that are working to combat dog fighting and promote responsible dog ownership. These efforts include education and outreach programs, law enforcement training, and public awareness campaigns.
It is important to recognize that dog fighting is a complex issue with deep-rooted social and cultural factors. Addressing this issue will require a coordinated effort from law enforcement, animal welfare organizations, and the broader community. By working together, we can help to
put an end to this cruel and inhumane practice and promote a safer and more compassionate society for both animals and humans.
Pit Bulls as Positive Members of Society
Despite the negative stereotypes and misconceptions that surround them, Pit Bulls can make positive and valuable contributions to society. Here are a few examples:
- Therapy Dogs: Pit Bulls, can be trained as therapy dogs, providing comfort and support to people in hospitals, nursing homes, and other settings. Their gentle and affectionate nature can be particularly beneficial for patients with mental health issues or certain disabilities.
- Search and Rescue Dogs: Pit Bulls can be trained to work in search and rescue teams, helping to locate missing persons in disaster zones or other emergency situations. Their strong sense of smell and physical agility can make them valuable assets in these types of scenarios.
- Police and Military Dogs: Pit Bulls can be trained as police and military dogs, assisting law enforcement officers in their work. Their trainability, loyalty, and protective instincts make them well-suited for these types of roles. NOTE: this is a full-time commitment.
- Service Dogs: Pit Bulls can be trained as service dogs for people with disabilities, helping them to perform daily tasks and navigate the world with greater independence. Their strength and endurance can be particularly helpful for individuals who require physical support. Keep in mind that like all other breeds that are utilised as service and therapy dogs, each individual dog must first undergo an assessment for suitability!
- Sports and Activities: Pit Bulls can excel in a wide range of sports and activities, including agility, obedience, and more. These activities can provide a positive outlet for their energy and drive, and can also help to build strong bonds between Pit Bulls and their owners.
Overall, Pit Bulls have a lot to offer as positive members of society. With responsible ownership and proper training, they can be loving, loyal, and well-behaved pets and working dogs. It is up to all of us to challenge negative stereotypes and promote a more positive and accurate view of
this misunderstood breed.
The Promotion of Responsible APBT Ownership
Promoting responsible ownership is crucial for ensuring that American Pit Bull Terriers (APBTs) are well-behaved and safe members of society. Here are a few key ways that responsible ownership can be promoted:
- Education:
Education is key to promoting responsible ownership of APBTs. This includes providing information on the breed’s history, temperament, and specific care needs, as well as information on responsible breeding practices, socialization, and training. - Breed-Specific
Legislation: Breed-specific legislation, which targets specific breeds or types of dogs, is often not an effective way to promote responsible ownership. Instead, education and outreach efforts can be more effective at promoting responsible ownership and addressing the root causes of dog-related incidents. - Spay and Neuter Programs: Spaying and neutering can help to reduce the number of unwanted litters and can also have health benefits for dogs. Many animal welfare organizations offer low-cost spay and neuter programs for pet owners.
- Positive Reinforcement Training: Positive reinforcement training, which rewards good behaviour, can help to build a strong bond between dogs and their owners and can also encourage good behaviour in dogs.
- Encouraging Socialization: Encouraging
socialization and habituation: Socialization (teaching dogs how to interact appropriately with other living creatures) and habituation (teaching them to ignore irrelevant environmental stimuli) are vital life-skills for any dog to possess. These skills promote appropriate behaviour and can aid in the reduction of aggression. This can be particularly important for ABPTs, who, with their decreased arousal thresholds, can be quicker to react aggressively if provoked. - Licensing and Registration: Licensing and registration of dogs can help to promote responsible ownership by encouraging owners to comply with local laws and regulations, including vaccination requirements and leash laws.
Ultimately, promoting responsible ownership of APBTs requires a multi-faceted approach that includes education, outreach, and support for pet owners. By working together, we can help to ensure that these dogs are well-cared for, well-behaved, and safe members of society.
Attacks On Humans and Other Animals
It is important to note that any dog, regardless of breed, has the potential to exhibit aggressive behaviour. However, because of the negative stereotypes and misconceptions that surround them, American Pit Bull Terriers (APBTs) may be more likely to be reported in incidents involving aggression.
That being said, it is also important to acknowledge that APBTs have been involved in some high-profile attacks on humans and other animals. These incidents are often tragic and can have far-reaching consequences for the dogs involved, as well as for the victims and their families.
It is important to remember that in the vast majority of cases, aggressive behaviour in dogs is the result of environmental and/or genetic factors, rather than any inherent “dangerousness” in the breed. Factors such as improper socialization, neglect, abuse, or mistreatment can all contribute to aggressive behaviour in dogs. Being a responsible Pit Bull owner means there is always the additional consistent management of the dog.
To help prevent incidents of aggression involving APBTs, it is important to promote responsible ownership and to educate the public on how to interact safely with dogs. This includes teaching children how to approach and interact with dogs, avoiding situations that may make dogs feel threatened or scared, and properly training and socializing dogs from a young age.
It is also important for dog owners to be aware of their own dog’s behaviour and to take steps to prevent their dog from being placed in situations that may lead to aggression. This may include keeping dogs on a leash in public, properly containing dogs on private property, and seeking
professional help if a dog exhibits signs of aggressive behaviour.
Ultimately, preventing incidents of aggression involving APBTs (or any breed of dog) requires a multi-faceted approach that includes education, responsible ownership, and a commitment to treating all dogs as individuals, rather than as stereotypes or generalizations.
American Pit Bulls as Family Pets
American Pit Bull Terriers (APBTs) can make wonderful family pets when they are raised and trained responsibly. Like any dog breed, they have their own unique personality traits and care needs, and require an owner who is committed to providing them with proper care, training, and socialization.
When raised in a loving and caring environment, APBTs can be loyal, affectionate, and playful companions. They are often known for their high energy levels and love of play, and can be great with children when properly socialized and supervised.
However, it is important to remember that APBTs are also strong and powerful dogs, and
may require extra training and supervision to ensure that they do not unintentionally cause harm to children or other animals. It is important to remember that these dogs were bred to express certain parts of their predatory motor pattern strongly, and to keep in mind that those selection criteria are still active even in today’s Pit Bulls. This means that they are not a good match for homes with lots of excitement or with other pets, and if in a home with children, they must always be actively supervised to prevent accidents from happening that puts lives at risk.
To ensure that an APBT is a good fit for your family, it is important to research the breed thoroughly and to meet with individual dogs before making a decision. Look for a reputable breeder or rescue organization that can provide you with information on the dog’s temperament, history, and care needs.
Overall, American Pit Bull Terriers can make wonderful family pets when raised and trained responsibly. By providing them with the proper care and attention, they can thrive as loving and loyal companions for many years to come!
Dog and Animal Aggression
Like any dog breed, American Pit Bull Terriers (APBTs) have the potential to exhibit aggression towards other animals, including dogs. This aggression may be the result of genetics, lack of proper socialization and training, or other environmental factors.
To minimise dog and animal aggression in APBTs, it is important to provide them with proper socialization and training from a young age. This includes exposing them to a variety of people, animals, and situations in a positive and controlled manner.
In addition, it is important to supervise APBTs when they are interacting with other animals, especially if they have not been socialized with them before. It may also be necessary to use a leash or muzzle when walking an APBT in public to prevent them from accidentally harming another animal.
If an APBT exhibits aggression or any behaviour that is cause for concern towards other animals, it is important to seek professional help from a qualified behaviourist. They can help to identify the underlying cause of the aggression and develop a plan to address it.
It is important to remember that dog and animal aggression in APBTs (or any breed of dog) is not a result of inherent “dangerousness,” but rather a combination of genetic, environmental, and social factors. With proper training, socialization, and supervision, APBTs can be loving and gentle companions to both humans and other animals
Pit Bull Rescue and Rehabilitation in South Africa
Pit bull rescue in South Africa is carried out by various organizations and animal shelters dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming pit bulls in need. These organizations work tirelessly to provide care and shelter for abandoned, neglected, or abused pit bulls, and strive to
promote responsible ownership of the breed.
Rescue organization dedicated to pit bull rescue in South Africa is a registered non-profit organization that provides a sanctuary for rescued pit bulls, and works to find them permanent homes. Rescue organizations also provides education and outreach programs to promote responsible pit bull ownership and dispel myths about the breed.
The work of these organizations is vital to promoting responsible ownership of pit bulls and other bully breeds in South Africa, and providing these dogs with a second chance at a happy and healthy life. Through their dedication and hard work, they are making a positive difference in the lives of many pit bulls in need.
In closing, with proper care, training, and socialization, American Pit Bull Terriers can make wonderful and rewarding companions for the right families.
COAPE, the PBFSA and the South African Government’s Department of Agriculture are working together to provide education and safety measures to the general public. Read more about this task team here:
https://newsite.pbfsa.co.za/department-of-agriculture-land-reform-and-rural-development/
