Should You Take in a Pit Bull Rescue?

Adopting a pit bull with an unknown history can be a risk, but each dog should be judged on its own merits by their current personality and behavior. While it is true that many pit bull rescues have been horribly abused, neglected, or forced to fight, they still love people more than anything and can become loving family pets. Responsible rescues and dog shelters will evaluate dog behavior before putting a dog up for adoption, and offer only those pit bulls that display the proper temperament toward humans for adoption.

Many assume that it’s best to adopt a puppy from a pit bull shelter, instead of an adult dog. However, since adult dogs are mature, their personality has already developed and you can see whether your pit bull is dominant or submissive with people, and whether they are aggressive with other dogs. Dog aggression is a trait that does not develop in some dogs until they are fully mature, so it is possible that the cute little puppy you adopt now can become an aggressive dog later in life.

Before you take in a pit bull rescue, you should understand the federal, state, and local laws pertaining to these pets. Make sure that pit breeds are not banned in your area, and that your homeowner’s association allows you to own a pit bull. Another thing to consider is your insurance policy: some homeowners or rental insurance policies prohibit pit bull ownership. Do your research and ask around at your local pit bull shelter, since they may be able to help you acquire this information.

How to Know If a Dog Is Right for You

When looking for the right dog for your family, it’s important to make the perfect match. First, consider the dog’s activity level. If you’re a person who loves to be active, then a more active dog will be a great match for you. However, if you’re more of a couch potato, you should choose a dog with a mellower personality.

In addition to asking about how active a dog is, find out if the dog is affectionate. Ask questions about the dog’s personality, so you can get the best match.

If you have young children, an adult dog may be a better choice than a puppy, as raising children and a puppy at the same time can be overwhelming. If you have kids, bring them to the shelter to meet the dog and see how the dog reacts around them. If your children are overly energetic, look for an energetic dog to match their activity level.

To learn more about pit bulls, go to All About Pit Bull Breeds.