Post by RealPitBull on Feb 17, 2015 14:23:09 GMT -5
I know how great Pit Bulls are; how sweet and soft and cuddly. They are for some - definitely for me - the perfect dog. There are so many in need of homes and I know all you want to do is bring in one of these poor souls and nurture him or her back to optimal physical and mental health. Who could blame you? Those eyes, that soft wrinkled forehead, that incessantly wagging tail.
There is one issue that I implore you to stop and think about before you make the leap into Pit Bull parenthood. This is an issue that has caused many Pit Bulls to lose their homes; to send Pit Bull parents into panic mode; and cause havoc in the home and neighborhood. This issue is dog-directed aggression in Pit Bulls.
It's not a sin of the breed, and it's not blasphemy to say it - Pit Bulls are prone to developing dog-directed (interdog) aggression. And it can be potentially serious. And it is something you NEED to be aware of, understand, and capable of handling before deciding if Pit Bull parenting is for you.
Learn about multi-dog management; learn why it's best to avoid dog parks; utilize a leash always; never leave dogs unattended with each other or other animals; understand what could trigger a fight; understand and commit to vigilance and management as keys to harmony in the home; and don't be surprised when your Pit Bull occasionally, sometimes, or even all the times doesn't get along with other dogs.
If you find yourself considering a Pit Bull for your home, or are already stuck in a situation with a dog that is causing strife among the other canines in the family, here are some quick-reading articles that you may find useful:
www.realpitbull.com/pitsnpets.html
www.realpitbull.com/harmony.html
ppgworldservices.com/2014/09/29/the-best-laid-plans-adding-a-new-dog-to-the-fold/
After you are done researching, you may decide the breed is not for you, and that is ok! Better finding it out now then after you bring one home. If you are currently experiencing behavior issues, there is help. Don't give up on your dog just yet.
Have questions, need resources, support, or behavior help? - ask me! training@realpitbull.com or realpitbull@gmail.com or post here on the forum.
There is one issue that I implore you to stop and think about before you make the leap into Pit Bull parenthood. This is an issue that has caused many Pit Bulls to lose their homes; to send Pit Bull parents into panic mode; and cause havoc in the home and neighborhood. This issue is dog-directed aggression in Pit Bulls.
It's not a sin of the breed, and it's not blasphemy to say it - Pit Bulls are prone to developing dog-directed (interdog) aggression. And it can be potentially serious. And it is something you NEED to be aware of, understand, and capable of handling before deciding if Pit Bull parenting is for you.
Learn about multi-dog management; learn why it's best to avoid dog parks; utilize a leash always; never leave dogs unattended with each other or other animals; understand what could trigger a fight; understand and commit to vigilance and management as keys to harmony in the home; and don't be surprised when your Pit Bull occasionally, sometimes, or even all the times doesn't get along with other dogs.
If you find yourself considering a Pit Bull for your home, or are already stuck in a situation with a dog that is causing strife among the other canines in the family, here are some quick-reading articles that you may find useful:
www.realpitbull.com/pitsnpets.html
www.realpitbull.com/harmony.html
ppgworldservices.com/2014/09/29/the-best-laid-plans-adding-a-new-dog-to-the-fold/
After you are done researching, you may decide the breed is not for you, and that is ok! Better finding it out now then after you bring one home. If you are currently experiencing behavior issues, there is help. Don't give up on your dog just yet.
Have questions, need resources, support, or behavior help? - ask me! training@realpitbull.com or realpitbull@gmail.com or post here on the forum.