Did you know that every October, we recognize National Pit Bull Awareness Month? This month is to fight false stereotypes against pit bulls, educate people about them, celebrate them as loving companions, and to promote adoption or fostering these sweet pups. In honor of all the pit bulls worldwide, we’ve put together interesting facts and debunked misconceptions about the loyal pups!
National Pit Bull Awareness Month (NPBAM) was originally founded as National Pit Bull Awareness Day by Jodi Preis in 2007. Preis was apart of a Tennesse-based rescue group called Bless the Bullys. In 2011, the day expanded into a full month-long observance due to immense popularity and appreciation.
There are many different kinds of pit bulls; the term ‘pit bull’ is more of an umbrella term for all of the different mixes. For example, there’s an American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and the American Bully. In the past, pit bulls have served as loyal family pets, farm workers, therapy dogs, and even have worked as American war heroes. Pit bulls usually stand between 17 to 21 inches tall, weigh between 30 and 70 pounds, and have a lifespan of 12 to 16 years.
Unfortunately, as lovable and sweet as they can be, there are some stigmas and misconceptions about them. You might have heard that they are aggressive dogs. Aggressiveness is not a specific trait of the breed. In fact, organizations such as the Best Friends Animal Society note that pit bulls frequently pass standard temperament tests at higher rates than other family dog breeds. Or you might have heard that their breed increases the likelihood of a dog bite. This is not true. The American Veterinary Medicine Association states that individual history, socialization, training, and owner behavior are all factors that can determine bite risk, as opposed to simply judging based off breeds. There’s also the stereotypical belief that “pit bulls have a locking jaw.” There is no physical or anatomical mechanism that exists that allows any dog breed to lock its jaw. Their jaw structure is actually identical to that of other breeds, according to the Humane Society. Due to these stereotypes, pit bulls wait three times longer to get adopted.
We hope you’ve learned something new about this lovable, loyal breed! Remember to never judge a dog based on their breed. Every pup has their own story and personality. It’s about the way you treat them. Happy National Pit Bull Awareness Month to all who celebrate!