Pit bull

Pit bulls are a group of dog types that share similar features and are thought to come from old bull and terrier dogs. In the United States, this group usually includes the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Bully, and sometimes the Bull Terrier, as well as mixed-breed dogs that look like them. In other places, such as the United Kingdom, the term "pit bull" often means just the American Pit Bull Terrier.

These dogs have a complicated history because they were once used in dog fighting, which is a harmful and illegal activity. Because of this past and stories in the news about bites, many people have strong feelings about them. Some believe that any bad behavior is because of how the dogs are treated by their owners, while others think the dogs may naturally have stronger instincts because of how they were bred.

Even though some studies say pit bulls are not more dangerous than other dogs, other reports show that they are involved in many serious bite incidents. Because of this, some insurance companies do not cover them, and many places have laws that limit or control their ownership. There are also groups that support pit bulls, promoting them as good family pets and working to change how people see them.

History

The term "pit bull" has been used since the early 1900s. These dogs are believed to come from the British bull-and-terrier, which were brought to North America in the 1870s. The bull-and-terrier was created in the United Kingdom in the early 1800s by mixing the strong Old English Bulldog with the quick Black and Tan Terrier.

In the 1890s, breeders tried to get their pit bull-type dogs recognized by the American Kennel Club, but were rejected because of the dogs' link to dog fighting. Later, in 1935, the American Kennel Club recognized them as Staffordshire Terriers. Despite laws against it, illegal dog fights with pit bull-type dogs have continued in the United States.

Identification

It can be important to know if a dog is a pit bull type for health or legal reasons. These dogs can have health issues, and many places have rules about them. Sometimes it is up to the owner to prove the dog is not a banned type.

There are different ways to find out a dog's breed. You can check registration papers or pedigree, test the dog's DNA, or look at the dog's traits. Some methods work for learning more about the dog, but not all are accepted by the law. For example, in France, only certain papers from a specific group are allowed to show a dog is not a banned type.

Two breeds, the American Staffordshire Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, can be registered with groups that keep records of dog breeds. Other types, like the American Pit Bull Terrier and the American Bully, are not registered this way but can be with other groups, such as the United Kennel Club.

Dog experts look at a dog's looks, like the head shape and body type, to decide if it might be a pit bull. Sometimes mixed-breed dogs are thought to be pit bulls just because of how they look. This can be tricky, and tests can help but are not always perfect.

Dog attack and death risk

See also: Dog bite and List of fatal dog attacks

Studies have shown that certain dog types, including pit bull–type dogs, are involved in a large number of serious bites and injuries in the United States. For example, between 1997 and 1998, these dogs were linked to over half of the deaths caused by dog bites. However, collecting accurate data can be difficult because not all incidents are reported, and sometimes the dog's breed is hard to determine.

Experts note that many factors can affect a dog's behavior, and breed alone is not the only reason for bites or injuries. Some studies suggest that pit bull–type dogs may be involved in more severe cases, but this could also be because these dogs are popular and sometimes kept in situations where they may face more risks.

In animal shelters

Pit bull–type dogs can be harder to adopt out of animal shelters. Sometimes workers may not label them correctly to help them find homes. These dogs also have higher rates of being returned or needing to stay in shelters longer. The reasons for this are not always clear and could involve both the dogs' behavior and how people see them.

Breed-specific legislation (pit bull bans)

Main article: Breed-specific legislation

Because of some serious incidents, many places have made laws that limit or ban certain dog types, including pit bull–type dogs. These laws exist in many areas around the world. However, studies have shown these laws often do not reduce the number of dog attacks. Some places have even passed laws against such bans, believing that better care and training for all dogs would be more helpful.

Commercial restrictions

Liability insurance

Dog owners in the United States can be held legally liable if their dog causes harm. This means the owner might have to pay for any injuries the dog causes. Usually, this happens if the owner was not careful with the dog or if they knew the dog might act badly. Some places have laws that say owners are always responsible for their dog's actions, no matter what.

Home insurance often helps pay for these costs, but some insurance companies have special rules for certain dog types. These rules can include higher prices for owners of some dogs, needing extra training for the dog, or even not allowing certain dogs at all.

Rental properties can also have rules about dogs. If a rental place knows there is an aggressive dog there and does not keep others safe, they can be responsible too. Because of this, many rental places do not allow certain dog types, including pit bull–type dogs.

In 2013, Farmers Insurance stopped covering bites from pit bulls, Rottweilers and wolf-dog hybrids in California. These types of dogs made up more than a quarter of their claims for dog bites.

Air carrier restrictions

The following table has a sampling of air carrier embargoes on pit bulls.

Notable pit bulls

Pit bulls have been known for their notable roles throughout history. Sallie Ann Jarrett was the mascot for the 11th Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment during the American Civil War. Another famous dog, Nipper, appeared in Francis Barraud’s 1898 painting His Master’s Voice. During World War I, Sergeant Stubby, a dog of disputed breed, served bravely with the 102nd Infantry, 26th (Yankee) Division. In movies, Pete the Pup from The Little Rascals was played by pit bull–type dogs. More recently, Star made headlines when she protected her owner and was involved in an incident that was filmed and shared widely. Daddy, a well-known dog of trainer Cesar Millan, was famous for his calm and gentle nature, especially when helping other dogs behave better.

As a symbol

Pit bulls have been seen as a sign of power or status. They are part of hip hop culture and have appeared in logos for companies like Brown Shoe Company and Lagunitas Brewing Company.

Unfortunately, some groups have used images of pit bulls in ways that are not appropriate. Certain racist groups have used pit bulls in their symbols. Pit bulls have also been used in past advertisements and logos, such as for the RCA and HMV companies. In 2005, some lawyers used a pit bull logo in an ad, but it was later ruled inappropriate by the Supreme Court of Florida.