What You Need to Know About the Pit Bull Temperament

If you’re thinking about getting a pit bull, it is imperative that you understand pit bull temperament.

Pit bulls were created by crossing bulldogs and terriers. Early breeders were trying to combine the mad bravery of the terrier with the strength of the bulldog. Apparently, they succeeded because the pit bull rapidly grew to be one of the most popular breeds involved in dog fighting – a practice that is now outlawed in the U.S.

A strong determination is one of the most fearsome pit bull temperament traits. Combine that unyielding determination with his enormous strength and powerful jaws and you’ll see why a pit bull often is dreaded. Some people believe that a pit bull’s jaws actually lock to prevent it from never letting go, but this is not the case. It is simply his strength and his undying determination that drives the pit bull. He is a superb fighting machine and a serious confrontation can be fatal for the opponent. This is one of the reasons many people believe that pit bulls should be banned. This is a debate that will no doubt continue for many years to come.

While pit bulls are famous for being vicious fighting dogs, and the media has been known to sensationalize stories of pit bull attacks, that characterization is not true. Unfortunately, shelters are overrun with pit bulls and certain cities like Denver and Miami have even banned the breed. While the name “pit bull” can fill us with fear, that fear is often unfounded. The breed is not about aggression toward humans. The pit bull is a friendly and stable breed. A well-bred pit bull who lives in a loving home is a loyal, loving pet.

The pit bull temperament is not vicious. Instead, it is clownish, loving and loyal. A pit bull loves his family and wants to be a part of everything they do. The protective and fearless pit bull has a playful and friendly nature and it has a strong desire to please people.

This active and athletic dog is a good companion for those who love to run or bicycle. The breed also loves to swim and retrieve. The pit bull is an athletic dog that needs a significant amount of daily exercise. The pit bull needs more exercise than the average dog. Without exercise, the pit bull will get bored and destructive.

What Are Common Characteristics of the Pit Bull Temperament?

Separation anxiety is a big part of the pit bull temperament. It is very important that pit bulls get enough exercise throughout the day and that they have enough activities to keep them busy while they are left alone. Otherwise, they will become destructive. Some pit bulls need to be crate trained well into adulthood to keep them and your home safe when they are left alone.

While pit bulls love people, they are not so crazy about other animals. Animal aggression is a very common part of the pit bull temperament. Some pit bulls are so aggressive that it is not safe to keep another pet in the house. Because of their fighting history, even if they are raised alongside cats or other dogs there is no guarantee that they won’t go after them one day. Pit bulls have a very tenacious and determined personality and even the easiest going pit bull won’t back down from a challenge. Even if he doesn’t start the fight, a pit bull will finish it. Along with dog-directed aggression, the pit bull is known for its high prey drive towards cats, rabbits, birds and other such animals.

A pit bull is bred to be an alpha dog. It is crucial that you keep him in his place. There must be absolutely no doubt that you are the “alpha”. Training should begin at an early age.

It’s never a good idea to isolate a pit bull. They need plenty of socialization from an early age so they can be accepting of new people and new situations. If he is not properly socialized, a pit bull may become wary, which can lead to problems.

In general, a pit bull is a happy and easy going animal as long as they come from a reputable breeder and have plenty of love and good parental supervision.

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