10/17/2025
October is Pit Bull Awareness month 🐶
Pit Bulls are often one of the most misjudged dog breeds out there. Interestingly, "Pit Bull" is a broad term that encompasses several breeds, including the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Bulldog, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and English Bull Terrier. Additionally, there are mixed-breed dogs sharing similar traits that fall under this label.
This breed has gained popularity, especially in the Central Valley, but unfortunately, they are frequently overbred and subjected to harsh training for protection or even dog fighting. As a result, Pit Bulls have developed a negative reputation, often seen as aggressive or domineering. However, like any dog breed, their behavior largely depends on how they are raised. Just like German Shepherds or Golden Retrievers, there are many Pit Bulls that are gentle companions, therapy dogs (Helen Keller owned one!), or even service animals trained for specific tasks. They can also be loving, child-friendly pets that respond well to training.
Here are some fascinating facts about Pit Bulls that may change your perspective on this often-misunderstood breed:
Pit Bull Insights:
1. Both President Theodore Roosevelt and President Woodrow Wilson had Pit Bull Terriers as pets.
2. Pit Bulls have served valiantly as military mascots and soldiers, including a notable dog named Stubby, who spent 18 months in France during World War I. His bravery earned him the rank of Sergeant, and he was celebrated with a hero's parade upon his return.
3. Renowned Pit Bulls include Nipper, the RCA dog; the mascot for Buster Brown shoes; and Petey, the beloved dog from "The Little Rascals."
4. With their athletic build and agility, many Pit Bulls can easily scale fences.
5. Believe it or not, Pit Bulls can have musical talents! There was a grindcore band called Caninus that featured two Pit Bulls as lead vocalists, barking their lyrics.
6. Historically, Pit Bulls were trusted enough around children that they were often referred to as "nanny dogs."
7. Many Pit Bull puppies start life with adorably wrinkled foreheads, which they lose as they mature.
8. A test conducted by National Geographic in 2008 revealed that Pit Bulls had the lowest bite force compared to German Shepherds and Rottweilers. The myth that Pit Bulls have "lock jaws" is just that—a myth.
9. According to the American Temperament Test Society, Pit Bulls have an impressive 87% success rate in temperament tests conducted by trained handlers, ranking them 4th out of 122 breeds tested—making them among the most affectionate and least aggressive dogs.
10. Michael Vick owned 51 Pit Bulls when he was arrested for dog fighting. Since then, 30 of those dogs have been retrained and found loving homes, and four have become therapy animals.
11. VetStreet.com ranks the American Pit Bull Terrier as one of the top three favorite dog breeds across 28 states in the U.S., yet tragically, they are also the breed most frequently euthanized.
The last statistic is particularly disheartening, reflecting the ongoing challenges faced by Pit Bulls in the United States. We hope that by sharing these enlightening facts, your perception of this beloved breed has shifted to a more positive view. After all, they can make wonderful companions!
