We've all read the "statistics" and seen the charts online that claim "Pit Bulls" to be significantly more aggressive than other dog breeds. What isn't very clear with these charts/statistics is the validity or depth of the information gathered.
First, as we explain on this site, there is no such breed as a "Pit Bull". "Pit Bull", used properly, is a term for four different breeds (see more). When a chart compares "Pit Bulls" against other breeds, they are not only lumping those four separate breeds of dog into a single column, but most charts/statistics will also include ANY dog who has the appearance of a "Pit Bull" OR who has ANY amount of "Pit Bull" DNA, in a single category. (So for example, a mixed breed dog with 20% American Staffordshire Terrier DNA would be deemed a "Pit Bull" for the sake of many studies/charts/statistics, as would a number of otherwise unrelated breeds and mixes). In fact, studies will often lump 30+ breeds under the single heading of "Pit Bull".
Charts and statistics also include only reported incidents. So, while "Pit Bull" aggression is most certainly going to make the headlines and be included anywhere it can get public attention, a vicious chihuahua attack is likely to miss the evening news, or to be found on a list of aggressive attacks.
Similarly, it is far more likely that a "Pit Bull" bite (Let's be clear: ALL dog breeds can, and do, bite) may require attention, while a Chihuahua bite does not; this in no way reflecting the level of AGGRESSION of the individual animal (how 'mean' they are), but simply their physical CAPACITY.
Further, we can't ignore one very real piece of information: "Pit Bulls" are abused, neglected, and bred/forced into dog fighting overwhelmingly more often than any other breed (see more). Fighting dogs are beaten, starved, caged/chained, and tortured to heighten their aggression. Dog fighting rings are regularly discovered, but not before significant damage can be done. These same dogs are included in the headlines, charts, and statistics, but rarely do such statistics address/consider the traumas such dogs have endured.
As with everything, media sensationalizes stories about "Pit Bulls" and sticks with what works. Our society loves to be shocked. Unfortunately, misrepresentation of statistics, biased headlines, and base-level charts continue to stir debate, promote misinformation, and damage an already damaged group of breeds (see more). **Note the next time you read a story about a dog attack that any "Pit Bull" aggression stories will generally include "Pit Bull" in the headline, but stories of aggression by other breeds will often just say "Dog" in the headline.
These elements also lead to ineffective and severely discriminatory laws (Breed Specific Legislation, or BSL), and result in a disproportionate percentage of "Pit Bulls" in shelters or without homes. A great deal of those dogs are ultimately euthanized (see more). Once again, charts and statistics make direct comparisons, but they unfortunately do not account for the effects of the fear, anxiety, and physical and societal abuse that these animals suffer.
Temperament studies show that "Pit Bulls" are naturally some of the sweetest, most gentle, and most loyal of ALL of the breeds (see more). So, it is important that we consider each of the above factors above when reviewing any relevant "statistics" if we hope to fairly and compassionately address bully breeds.
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