Being a first-time dog parent can be quite a difficult task, especially, if you are bringing a Pit Bull at home.
I am sure you must be excited to bring that bundle of joy (fur) at home and can’t wait for that to happen. Let me tell you, it isn’t as easy as you think.
Caring for a dog is no less than taking care of a kid. So, as soon-to-be-parents read tips about taking care of a child for the first time, similarly, soon-to-be-dog parents must read this article to find out what is it like to own a Pit Bull for the first time.
Things you need to know before owning a Pit Bull for the first time
There are certain things you must be aware of if you are owning a Pit Bull for the first time. Even if you have been a dog parent before, you should still read this because a Pit Bull is not like any other dog breed.
Owing to their large size, strength, aggression, temperament, some State governments do not allow Pit Bull as pets in domestic households.
If you are allowed to keep a Pit Bull, there might be imposed restrictions. Go through the following points to prepare yourself for being a first-time Pit Bull owner.
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Types of pitbull and know which one are you going to get?
There are different types of dogs that are known as Pit Bulls. They are not a particular breed of dogs rather a mixed breed of Bulldog and Terrier.
There are mainly four types of dogs that are known as the Pit Bulls, namely, American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and the American Bully.
Pit Bulls were originally farm dogs but have started being adopted in households. The American Pit Bull Terrier is around 17-19 inches tall and weighs 25-30 kgs.
The best part of having an American Pit Bull Terrier at home is the friendliness, loyalty, and warmth it makes you feel.
Not only adults, but American Pit Bull Terriers are also extremely gentle and loving towards children. Unlike the popular notion, the American Pit Bull Terrier remains calm and happy.
The American Staffordshire Terrier also has an average height and weight similar to that of the American Pit Bull Terrier.
A Staffordshire Pit Bull is large, heavy, and bulky. They were primarily used for dogfighting events but were later engaged in farm work.
Later due to their loyal, calm, friendly demeanor, the American Staffordshires were adopted as pets in domestic households.
Even though these Pit Bulls have a liking towards humans, they cannot stand other animals and may get aggressive if you have other pets at home.
Due to their high energy levels, these Pit Bulls may have a tendency to destroy objects. They need a strong owner who can control and tame them.
The American Pit Bully is a mixed breed of the American Pit Bull Terrier and other breeds. Both American Pit Bully and the Pit Bull Terrier are confused as the same breed.
However, the Bully is shorter and has a broader face than the American Pit Bull Terrier. When it comes to temperament, the American Pit Bully is a mix of the American Pit Bull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier.
He is loyal, confident, friendly, and loves socializing. American Bully also has a liking towards children and are extremely possessive of their owners and comes with unique tactics to please their owner.
A Staffordshire Bull Terrier is smaller in comparison to the other breeds of Pit Bull. However, similar to the other Pit Bulls, they are also loving and compassionate towards humans, especially, children.
As much as the love they give, they want it in return too. They are constantly seeking their owner’s attention and may not adjust well with other pets at your home. They are also extremely energetic and might give you a hard time cleaning up after them.
Contrary to what people believe, Pit Bulls are extremely generous, kind, loyal, and loving towards their owners and family.
Some of them might demand extra attention too and may be difficult to tame. Also, the constant energy and need to socialize may drain you.
Therefore, before you choose the right kind of Pit Bull for you, read the above-mentioned characteristics of different types of Pit Bulls and decide which one may be best suited in your home.
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Does your state/country even support owning a Pit Bull?
Another crucial factor to think about before you decide to get a Pit Bull is to fact check whether your country or state allows you to keep a Pit Bull at home.
Most of the State Legislations have banned Pit Bulls from being kept as pet dogs at home. The Dangerous Dogs Act, 1991 in the UK does not allow people to own a Pit Bull due to its aggressive nature and several attacks on humans.
Today, Pit Bulls are banned in 12 countries around the world, namely, Brazil, Denmark, Belgium, Poland, New Zealand, Canada, France, Finland, Poland, and Puerto Rico province in the UK. A lot of neighborhoods also do not allow the residents to own a Pit Bull.
Your dog may not be allowed in parks or on the streets.
So before you make up your mind to adopt a Pit Bull, be sure to check whether you are legally permitted to bring a Pit Bull at home and whether your neighbors and friends are comfortable with the idea of a Pit Bull at your home.
How is their temperament, behavior & nature?
Pit Bulls are generally considered loving dogs. They are calm, friendly, and happy. Pit Bulls love socializing and are gentle with children.
Also, they have an independent nature, are loyal and obedient, and may be possessive about their owner. You would not want to leave your Pit Bull alone for more than a couple of hours.
However, they can take great care of adults as well as human babies and may act as one of the best service dogs. Pit Bulls are playful and courageous.
However, their large and bulky frame scares off people. They can also be stubborn at times and may get aggressive on certain occasions. You should be strong and confident enough to raise a Pit Bull and cope up with all their antics.
How is their energy level?
Pit Bulls are always high on energy. You will hardly ever find them lazying around the house. Pit Bull breeds are some of the most active dog breeds and will always keep you on your toes, literally.
These sweet bundles of high energy need a lot of exercises and physical activities to release all their pent-up energy.
They will constantly ask you to play and might unintentionally hurt you due to their large size and bulky body.
If you do not allow your Pit Bull to step out of the house or in the open to utilize his energy, he may also cause destruction inside the house.
They are always actively involved in doing some activity and will keep you and themselves engaged at all times. However, you do not have to worry about their energy. You will never have to face a dull day with your Pit Bull by your side.
Do they get along with other pets?
Pit Bulls are friendly with humans but the same cannot be said for animals. Your Pit Bull might not react well with your other pets at home.
Pit Bulls are independent dogs are also quite possessive of their owners and households. They get aggressive on seeing other pets in your home and will not get along with them.
If you are thinking of getting a Pit Bull home, make sure that you do not have any pets at home. If you already have an aggressive dog at home and you get a Pit Bull, both your pets might get into constant fights resulting in hurting each other or other damage.
Also, if you have a small shy pet at home, there are chances that your Pit Bull might not get along with him and hurt or scare him off due to large and bulky body.
Also, your other pets will not necessarily be able to match the same level of energy as your Pit Bull. A Pit Bull puppy can still adjust to a multiple pets household but when he grows up, there are low chances of getting along with other pets at home.
How dangerous they are for your family/neighbor?
Pit Bulls are friendly dogs. They love socializing. It is often said that Pit Bulls are usually so happy that may even gel up with strangers.
This is the reason that a lot of people do not consider Pit Bulls as great watchdogs. Your family or neighbors may be scared of the Pit Bull due to its large size but they are safe with your dog.
Pit Bulls are not dangerous for family and neighbors. They are extremely fond of children and other human beings.
A Pit Bull will leave no chance to play with your family, friends, and neighbors. They are high energy levels and may get excited about seeing new people and may sometimes unintentionally hurt them but they are not potentially dangerous or aggressive towards your family members or your neighbors. Pit bulls are loyal dogs and will be protective of your family members.
Are they easy to train?
Pit Bulls are smart and intelligent dogs. They are easy to train. Their love for their owner and will to please makes it easier to train them.
Pit Bulls are quick learners and will adapt to the environment and the training that you provide them. It is easier to train Pit Bull puppies rather than adult Pit Bulls.
They have the qualities of a leader and look up to their owner. However, you must be careful while training a Pit Bull.
Despite being obedient and loyal, they have a sense of independence too and may not take being trained well. If they are not trained properly, they might become aggressive and develop destructive tendencies.
If you do not have much experience with dogs, you can always find a professional dog trainer for your Pit Bull.
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Should I get a pitbull?
Yes, a dog-lover or a willing-to-be pet owner should give Pitbull puppies a chance and bring them home. The time has come to debunk the myth and break the stereotypes related to Pitbulls. They are not dangerous, and you can smoothly curb their aggression through proper training.
They indeed have a violent side in their character, but which pup does not have that? Still, in the case of a trained and socialized Pitbull, you get to see loads of respect, warmth, and caring for its owner.
The violent past has shaped the mentality and temperament of Pitbulls.
So, if you guide and discipline them from a young age, chances are they will grow up as one of the kindest dogs ever.
Pitbulls, in the wrong hands, can grow up dangerous and wild.
But, if they get appropriate care and attention, they will express gratitude and love probably every moment. Also, all the kisses, cuddles, and love Pitbulls offer will make you feel precious.
FAQ
Are Pitbulls good for first-time owners?
While Pit Bulls are friendly and happy dogs, they can also be a handful. It is not advisable for first-time dog owners to get a Pit Bull. You should get some experience with another breed of dog before you get a Pit Bull.
Is it safe to own a Pit Bull?
Yes, it is safe to own a Pit Bull. They are thought of as dangerous and aggressive dogs but that is not entirely true. You will have to give them proper training
Do Pit bulls need a lot of attention?
Pit Bulls are really fond of socializing and need a lot of human attention. You shouldn’t leave a Pit Bull alone for more than a few hours.
Are male or female Pit Bulls more aggressive?
Pit Bull male dogs are known to be more aggressive than female Pit Bulls.
Do pit bulls overheat easily?
Pit Bulls do not have thick fur that makes them prone to heat and can overheat easily due to their high energy levels.
Conclusion
There is a lot of misinformation about Pit Bulls. They are considered to be dangerous, aggressive, and are known to attack humankind.
This is why many countries have banned Pit Bulls from being adopted as domestic dogs. Therefore, before you think of owning a Pit Bull, confirm whether your country’s laws allow you to do so.
Next, choose which type of Pit Bull do you want to choose out of the four kinds mentioned above. Pit Bulls are loving, friendly, and loyal dogs that will keep your family and friends entertained.
Hi There, AJ Oren here. I am the founder of this amazing pet blog & a passionate writer who loves helping pet owners to learn more about their pets through my articles. I am also the content manager of this blog. I have experience in pet training and behavior, sheltering, and currently working for a veterinary clinic.