Are Pit Bulls More Dangerous Than Other Dogs?
Many people are afraid of dogs because they think that they will be bitten without reason. Some dogs are ill tempered and may be inclined to bite, but there are some breeds that are generally believed to be more dangerous than other dogs. One breed that has been given a particularly bad reputation for being dangerously aggressive is the pit bull.
Before discussing pit bulls specifically, it is important to remember that any breed of dog has the potential to be dangerous. Every year, 4.5 million people are bit by dogs and, of those cases, over 800,000 require medical attention. In 2006, more than 31,000 people were required to have reconstructive surgery as the result of a severe dog bite.
The dog commonly known as a pit bull is a cross between a bulldog and a working terrier. These dogs were originally bred for a variety of purposes, including pit fighting. Today, the term pit bull is generally applied to three similar but distinct breeds of dog; the American Staffordshire terrier, Staffordshire bull terrier and American pit bull terrier. Although a breeder would be able to tell the difference between the breeds on sight, the average person would not be likely to be able to distinguish between them.
There is research to suggest that these dogs are, in fact, more dangerous than other dogs. A 1993 study showed that only one percent of registered dogs were pit bulls but they accounted for four percent of all dog bites. In 2000, a study showed that thirty-two percent of fatal dog attacks over the past twenty years had been from this dog breed. A staggering ninety-four percent of pit bull attacks on children are unprovoked as opposed to the forty-three percent from other breeds.
Although there is evidence to suggest that pit bulls are more aggressive and dangerous than other dogs, they have been portrayed in the media to be much worse than they are. It is true that they are powerful dogs with strong jaws. However, many claims have been made in the media that are simply false, such as them having locking jaws or that they can bite through chain link fence.
There is evidence to suggest that pit bulls may be more inclined to attack than other breeds of dog, but that does not mean that they cannot make good pets. They have been known to make wonderful, protective guard dogs for families and to love the people they are protecting. With any breed of dog, it is a good idea to simply be cautious, especially where children are concerned.
