National Pit Bull Awareness Day

October 28, 2023 is national pit bull awareness day. Pit Bull’s are given a bad rap in society. The fact is they are not born vicious or dangerous but made that way by their owners. This breed is actually very friendly and sociable.

Here are some facts about this breed. “ Pit Bull” is not the official breed name in fact that is an umbrella name for 3 AKC breeds: Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and American Pit Bull Terrier. In fact, only the United States calls this breed Pit Bulls which is believed to be descended from bulls and terriers.

It is a myth that they having “ locking jaws”. In fact, they have a weaker bite force than a German Shepherd and Rottweiler. Here are some bite force facts:

Cane Corso: 700 PSI

Rottweiler: 328 PSI

German Shepherd: 238 PSI

American Staffordshire: 235 PSI

According to The American Temperament Test Society, this breed is ranked #2 behind the Golden Retriever for the most tolerant breeds. According to Embark this is most common breed found in DNA tested dogs.

It was not until the 1970’s that this breed started getting a bad reputation. Dog blood sports started gaining the attention of the law enforcement. Thus, making the public more aware which led to unfair conclusions of this breed.

During World War II they used this breed for posters to promote the war. In fact, the most decorated dog to serve ever was Sergeant Stubby, the American Staffordshire  he even earned purple heart.

As of January 2023, there are 21 states which this breed ranks #1. They are  New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Hampshire, Vermont, New Mexico, Arkansas, Kansas, Nebraska, Alaska, Oregon, Utah, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, and Montana.

Even though this breed has been successful service and therapy dogs, they remained banned in Denver, Colorado until January 2021.

Our Lambeau is 25.5% American Pit Bull Terrier. I could not have asked for a goofier fun-loving dog who adores people. I have walked and cared for this breed many times. In the end this breed just wants to be loved and adored.

Have a Barktastic week. Remember to give your furry family members lots of attention you are their entire world. ~Charley