Tuesday, February 10, 2009

We are NOT getting a Pit Bull

Please stop saying I am adopting a Pit Bull! The dog we are considering is an American Staffordshire Terrier mix. He falls into the general category of bull-type dogs that includes American Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Boxers, Bull Mastiffs, Boston Terriers, Bull Terriers (Spuds Makenzie), French Bulldogs and, yes, American Pit Bull Terriers. We have done our research on the breed and this particular dog. Overall, the breed is a loving, loyal, affectionate family dog. This dog is very well socialized with people and other dogs and has never had a biting incident. We are also not naive, first time dog owners. This dog will be taken to obedience class which our children will attend and, as with any dog, he will not be left alone with children - ours or anyone else's. Our children will understand and live by the rules we have regarding taking care of, playing with and disciplining the dog. All dogs have the potential to "snap" and maul a person or another animal, but responsible, loving ownership has been shown to minimize this considerably. Come on, this dog only has three legs and just wants a good home - don't we get credit for that. I am including the link to a blog post that makes a case for the misplaced dislike of these dogs. The kids meet him tonight and we will see how the visit goes. I have realistic expectations that we will keep him, but we have continued to point out to the kids there are some deal breakers, surprisingly, they understand and agree. 

For the last time - we are not getting a Pit Bull - and so what if we were!

2 comments:

Charisa said...

He's a good looking 3-leg dog! Good luck w/ the marathon / tri training! I love how I always think I might drowned when I return to masters after a hiatus!

Prindi said...

pit bull lover!!!!!