National Pit Bull Awareness Month
Updated: September 24, 2024"The month of October is National Pit Bull Awareness Month."
National Pit Bull Awareness Month
The month of October is known to be the National Pit Bull Awareness Month. This is a major hoorah for Pit Bull dogs parents because it strives to bring education and positive awareness around the common misconceptions Pit Bulls.
National Pit Bull Awareness Day was created in 2007 by Jodi Preis, of Bless the Bullys, to honor her first Pit Bull, Tiffin. She wanted there to be a day people could learn about the true nature of Pit Bulls, in hopes of erasing years of unfair, negative stereotypes.
Tagged to be one of the most dangerous dog breeds in the world, Pit Bulls are banned in many places around the world. They are often portrayed as aggressive dogs. Instead of accepting these stereotypes, it's important to learn more about the breed before making these judgements.
Pit Bulls are amazing dogs. Here are some great ways you can celebrate National Pitbull Awareness Month (even if you don't own a Pit Bull).
What Makes Pit Bulls Amazing Dogs: Facts
Pit Bull is a term commonly used to refer to dogs with boxy heads and muscular bodies, but a "Pit Bull" is not actually a breed.
Some common dogs that might be labeled a Pit Bull are the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Bull Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Dogue de Bordeaux, Japanese Tosa, Bulldog.
Although these dogs may look similar, there are some strong differences between the breeds.
Not so great guard dogs. Despite their reputation as "aggressive dogs", many "Pit Bull" breeds do not make great guard dogs. Pit Bulls tend to befriend people easily, and may consider an intruder a friend.
American Staffordshire Terriers, for example, are known to be very loving towards their family. Awwwww!
People-pleasers. Many Pit Bull breeds love to please people, especially their pet parents! They are enthusiastic and tend to do anything in exchange for praise.
Pit Bulls are also attention-seekers and are very faithful to people they fully trust.
Mental health advocate. Pit Bulls have a bubbly personality and an infectious, beautiful smile. They can be great stress-relievers and will definitely help make you smile!
Some Misconceptions About Pit Bulls
Nanny Dogs. Many have heard that Pit Bulls were historically recognized to be "nanny dogs." According to AnimalWised, there is very little evidence to suggest this is true. However, that does not necessarily mean that they are bad with children!
Keep in mind the generic term of Pit Bull leads to multiple breeds, each with a different personality and temperament. No matter the breed, children should be supervised around dogs.
Pit Bulls Are Not a Breed. One of the biggest misconceptions about Pit Bulls is the breed itself (or lack of breed).
As mentioned, many dogs are identified as "Pit Bulls" based on looks. Pit Bulls are not a breed recognized by the American Kennel Club.
No Fighting Instincts. As unfortunate as it is, some Pit Bull breeds were indeed bred for fighting according to ASPCA. Because of this, some can be prone to aggression or reactivity towards other animals. This is not to say that every "Pit Bull" will be aggressive. Not at all!
While a dog's genetics can make them predisposed to behaviors, it does not guarantee it! Both genetics and environment are known to contribute to temperaments and behavior.
Celebrating National Pit Bull Awareness Month
Here are some of the best ways you can celebrate:
Post it. Use your social media accounts to post true information and facts about Pit Bull types of dogs. It's a good idea to tear down negative stereotypes and let other people know how amazing these dogs can be!
Play with a Pit Bull. Pit Bulls are everywhere– your local shelter, rescue organizations, or maybe even your friend’s house! Play with them and form your own opinions of their nature.
Teach. Educate your family, friends, and fellow pet parents on how to treat Pit Bulls with wariness and kindness. As with any dog, make sure they know to always ask before approaching. It is also important to understand all dogs have different boundaries- and different triggers for anxiety and sudden mood changes. Some bully breeds are known to have a tendency to be reactive. This does not necessarily mean they are aggressive or mean dogs, but sometimes they will not want to encounter new pets or people on walks.
Volunteer at a Pit Bull Rescue Shelter. One of the noblest things you can do to celebrate National Pit Bull Awareness Month is volunteering at a rescue shelter. If you are not able to volunteer, you can foster a Pit Bull while the dog waits for his forever home or even donate pet supplies like toys, dog food, crates, snuffle mats, chew toys, Pawtect® Pads, along with other things your local shelter asks for.
Be Open-Minded. A person with an open mind does not judge so easily. This is how you should be with Pit Bulls. Because of the negative things shown about Pit Bulls, people have generalized Pit Bulls to be bad, dangerous dogs. Help promote open-mindedness by being an example yourself. Part of this is being understanding of people's fear and being a positive example.
Keep Calm and Hug a Pit Bull. Pit Bulls are one of the most misunderstood dogs in the world, potentially because they are multiple breeds lumped together. Know the specific characteristics of the breed before judging. Of course, always ask the pet parent before hugging any dog.
Before bringing any dog into your home, it is extremely important to do the proper breed research. Because there are so many breeds under the "Pit Bull" term, you may find a drastic difference in energy levels, prey drive, motivation, and even size based on the "pit bull" breed you are choosing. If you are rescuing a dog from the shelter, you will have the opportunity to get to know them on a personal level from the staff.
In celebrating National Pit Bull Awareness Week, let pet parents know that you support them in making the world a lovelier, safer and more accepting place for their dogs.
This is a great opportunity for pet parents, breed clubs, animal shelters, rescue organizations to highlight the breed's wonderful characteristics
"Because of the negative things shown about Pit Bulls, people have generalized Pit Bulls to be bad, dangerous dogs."
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Micka Virtudazo is a full-time content creator at Pet Parents® who lives with thirteen adorable American Bullies and a Shih Tzu-Maltese mix named Gretel. She especially enjoys writing how-to articles as she feels through this she can connect to other pet parents on a more personal level.
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