When do Pitbulls start to fill out?

The case of the Pit Bull is definitely much more complex than that of other breeds. The media has too often shown them in an unflattering light; if I’d had such a dog by my side, I would have avoided showing off that "tenacity" side of its character through photos that remind the vast majority of people that these dogs were used as such in rough areas and on council estates. I have a friend who still remembers the time when people would find cats and pigeons hanging from trees in the neighbourhood first thing in the morning. At night, youths would use them so their dogs could tear them apart while hanging there. I imagine if she saw a Pit doing the same on a simple tyre, it would probably remind her of those days, and that certainly doesn't help with the rehabilitation of the breed's image. That’s just the opinion I wanted to share.

Besides, you have proof that a Pit’s tenacity can be expressed in ways other than through that specific exercise...

As for the "police dog" side of the Malinois, I have a fairly firm point of view. My girl should have been a security dog; her mindset from a very young age has been geared towards protection. For professional and personal reasons, unfortunately, I was never able to work her. As a result, I have a ticking time bomb at home. The behaviourist has certainly helped minimise her aggression, but this breed isn't meant to be a couch potato or a pet, except for a few rare cases. I find that we tend (humans in general, not "us" personally) to prioritise looks over the obvious characteristics of certain breeds. The Malinois is fashionable right now, but if they aren't stimulated intelligently or don't work, they are ticking time bombs that can prove disastrous—you only have to look at the number of them being abandoned at shelters...

The same goes for the Border Collie. unless you’re sporty or have them working with livestock, there's no point hoping to make a lazy lap dog out of one. I wasn't saying we should avoid stimulating a dog's primary instincts when it can be done intelligently and without damaging the breed's public image, especially if it’s already suffered enough.

A working dog working is normal. A dog intended for companionship should be chosen accordingly. When a dog comes from a breed that has been over-hyped in a negative way, we should try to break the prejudices and avoid adding fuel to the fire publicly.

And if someone decides to get a breed focused on hunting or guarding, that's fine for them to express their instinct, but you have to take responsibility for the consequences if you aren't prepared to put the effort in. And indeed, we can find other activities for them, but not ones that could be detrimental to others or to the dog's reputation.

It’s no big deal if we don’t agree on the subject! 😁

@Wiegehts35, once again, I respect everyone’s core beliefs, I just don’t quite get it. So, if I follow your logic—and please correct me if I’m wrong—a Malinois loves to work, so should we stop them just because it creates a stereotypical image of a 'police dog'? It’s the same for German Shepherds. Or take Border Collies that love herding; am I to understand that people who do sheepdog trials are encouraging a dog's "bad" traits?

I’m trying to understand, and I’d like to explain my perspective. As I’ve mentioned, Ulthia is a therapy dog. She’s obviously been trained for her role, but that’s exactly what it is—a job. It’s not just a fun activity where she can switch off; she’s working.

When we get home, she loves playing with her rope toy. I can’t see myself saying no to her, given that she’s been working non-stop with me all day.

I believe there’s a time and a place for everything. A Beagle is bred for hunting, so why not train them in tracking or scent work in specific spots? With proper training and a solid foundation of trust, a dog will understand that there are appropriate places for certain things and others that aren't. Mastiff-types are breeds whose faults are also their strengths. Yes, they’re stubborn and tenacious, but give them a task and they’ll put that same tenacity into doing exactly what you’ve asked of them.

In my view, training, understanding, and respect should be the priority. With those in place, you can ask almost anything of a dog. That’s why I say any dog can be dangerous if they aren’t under control—which is unfortunately the case for many pooches.

It’s not just about playing tug-of-war to keep the dog busy; that’s not the point. But surely refusing to do it because you can’t control your animal is a sign that something went wrong in their training? And I’m not attacking you personally—over-protectiveness, as you know, is a behavioural issue that needs to be managed, which is exactly what you’re doing and I’ve never criticised that. As for a Husky’s prey drive, that can be managed and redirected. I agree with redirecting a dog's energy into a more suitable environment, but I don't see how a rope toy or a bit of wood isn't suitable...

It’s just the mainstream media jumping on Staffies or Pitties to create a sensation, and people follow like sheep. I’m not anti-social, I’m just anti-conformist, to be precise. And no, I don’t see myself depriving my dog of an activity she loves, especially since she—like any dog should—has been taught how to settle, bite inhibition, and respect for everyone.

It's a pleasure to exchange views. Have a lovely day and hugs to everyone (and no, I’m not being sarcastic, I genuinely wish you a good day—this isn’t a provocation 😊).

Just like any other dog, I’m not denying that, but a bite is still a bite. Any dog in the wrong hands is dangerous. Well, that’s just my opinion anyway. I respect yours.

Goodnight

There’s no denying that a Pit Bull’s jaws do far more damage than a Coton de Tulear’s! That’s why it’s so important that they aren't owned by just anyone, and especially not by irresponsible young people...

@Jazz17 I totally get it, but the dog isn't the one at fault in your story – it’s the youngsters. The humans are the ones responsible, yet they aren't the ones wearing muzzles. It makes you wonder who the most dangerous animal on the planet really is... But I do understand why you're scared.

@Sarah Lailalli I can’t even imagine the hassle that must be. Over here in Belgium, it’s much easier to manage with fewer restrictions, and strangely enough, we don’t have any more attacks or bites from Staffies or Pitts. So what’s the point of those famous licences, other than – excuse my French – making life a nightmare for owners?

@Sarah Lailalli I completely agree with you; bully breeds are gentle, hard-working, and kind dogs. In fact, mine is such a "bloodthirsty monster" that she actually does therapy work; we work with kids (and as far as I know, she hasn’t eaten a single one yet! XD). I even know some that work with disabled people, but you never hear about that, do you? No, but if a Pitty so much as dares to look a bit nervous, people start screaming for them to be put down... To me, it’s just judging a book by its cover.

And my question is: would people react the same way if it wasn't a powerful breed on the end of the lead being reactive, but a little Coton de Tulear? (Don’t laugh, I’ve met some right nasty ones!) I understand that given their jaw strength, owners need to be extra vigilant, but to be honest, that should apply to any dog.

Have a lovely night, everyone!