The American Pit Bull Terrier is a breed defined in the United States, although its origins are British. It was used as a fighting dog until the ban in 1976 and is currently considered a potentially dangerous breed in some countries.
However, is the Pit Bull really a dangerous breed? Although American pit bull terriers have a "scissor" type bite that could be disastrous for those who receive it, it is by no means true that it is an aggressive and/or dangerous dog by nature. Aggressiveness is directly related to the education and socialization of the dog, although lived experiences and genetics also influence it to a lesser extent.
Next, in this article on our site we will talk about the myth of the pit bull as a nanny dog, why this belief and much more. Keep reading!
What does pit bull mean?
The word "pit bull" literally means "pit and bull", due to the history of the ancestors of the American pit bull terrier as a fighting dog against the bull in the arena or pit. From then on, these dogs were introduced to the deplorable activity of canine fights and the term pit bull began to be generalized.
However, despite its past as a fighting dog, many studies show that there is no scientific basis that can link a dog's aggressiveness to its breed [1] and the fact is that the pit bull, without a doubt, is a dog that has excellent treatment with people. But then, how did the term "nanny dog" come about? To understand it, we must make a general review of the history of this noble dog.
The True Story of the American Pit Bull Terrier
It was in the United States, during the 19th century and the 20th century, that the pit bull began to be nicknamed "nanny dog". ". Why? Back then he was already a affectionate, happy and family-oriented dog, who was even sociable with strangers on certain occasions. The reason why this dog was left alone with the children is because it is a breed especially attached to the family, in addition to being very patient with the little ones
It should be noted that the American Pit Bull Terrier is a breed that, although it is especially friendly, can surprise us by getting the worst of it if it observes any type of aggression towards those it considers to be its relatives. However, it is the affectionate personality towards its owners that earned it the nickname of nanny dog and before it its predecessor, the staffordshire bull terrier.
In the United States the breed reached its maximum splendor thanks to the series "Little rascasls / Our gang", in which an exceptional actor, the dog " Petey the Pit, participated bull" (his real name was Lucenay Peter). During the series up to four "Peteys" were shown, as the original Petey was poisoned by criminals. The impact of this series and Pete was so great that soon every American child wanted a pitbull as a best friend.
This was one of the main reasons the pit bull is now nicknamed a nanny dog, but it should be noted that the breed was not developed for this purposeDespite its origins, the pit bull has shown over time that it is a unique, complete and versatile dog in all aspects.
So there are breeds of nanny dogs?
Although there are dog breeds that have a greater affinity and show a greater tolerance towards small children, using the term "nanny dog" is incorrect, since we are humanizing the dog, regardless of the breed to which it belongs, because we must remember that dogs are not babysitters and that they have a series of needs and behaviors typical of the species that must be respected.
Is a pit bull dangerous for children?
The American Pit Bull Terrier is considered the 5th most tolerant dog breed according to an investigation by the American Temperament Test Society that included more than 450 dog breeds.[2] It is one of the dogs that best relates to humans, just behind the golden retriever, the Labrador retriever, the staffordshire bull terrier and the pug or pug. He is also considered a protective and devoted dog with his own, an excellent playmateand a friend for life
Unfortunately, many associations and animal shelters are extremely affected by the bad image that has been generated about this faithful pet, causing animals to accumulate massively in dogs and shelters around the world. world. In addition, in Spain the possession of these dogs is only allowed to those who have a licencia and a civil liability insurance, in addition to keeping their animals muzzled and on a short leash, which does not facilitate their adoption at all.
Are you thinking of adopting a pit bull? Some reside in kennels for years, because nobody wants to waste time between licenses and paperwork, but you should know that they are very sweet and affectionate dogs that have the same right to be adopted, as well as a lot of love to offer.
Also discover everything about pitbull training on our site.
