Every dog can become aggressive as a result of poor upbringing or training by its owner. But only some dogs, most often pit bulls among them, are—unjustly—considered murderous beasts. Such a description is particularly unfair. Pit bulls love working with people and have an exceptional protective instinct. Because they are more resistant to pain, they will also endure, without batting an eyelid, a child putting a finger into their eye.
So why do these friendly dogs have such a bad reputation? Bolesławianin Grzegorz, owner of Hektor (an American pit bull terrier), believes it stems from a lack of knowledge about the breed and the terrible press these dogs receive.
– In sensationalist newspapers or news reports, these dogs are mentioned only when they bite someone – says Grzegorz. – No details are provided (for example, whether the dog was provoked), no causes are sought (a bad owner, poor treatment of the animal), and no statistics are cited (in the Netherlands, Labradors, considered gentle, rank high in bite statistics). The subject always gets an ominous headline: Killer dog attacks or mauls! The pit bull’s appearance certainly affects people. A massive head and agile body made entirely of muscle. Their appearance commands respect in many people, and even more often causes sheer fear.
Owners of dogs considered dangerous go through an ordeal trying to explain to those around them and to strangers that their dog will not kill or attack anyone without reason. On internet forums and in private conversations, they recount unpleasant experiences they have had in dealings with prejudiced people. Afraid of the dog, people themselves react aggressively. The family of a pregnant owner frightened her by saying that after the baby was born, she would have to get rid of the four-legged animal because it would harm the infant. On the street, men shout that they will let themselves be bitten if only the dangerous animal is put down. Seeing a pit bull held on a leash, a terrified passer-by began shouting:
– I’ll kill your dog!
Although the dog was not aggressive—it was merely wagging its tail and barking because it could not run up and greet the stranger.
– In Bolesławiec and the county, there were no bites or attacks last year by dogs considered dangerous breeds – says Adriana Szajwaj, spokeswoman for the Bolesławiec police.
In countries that keep statistics on dog attacks on people, it has been observed that they are not common. In the United States, between a dozen and twenty bites are recorded annually. According to American research, 70% are aggression caused by poor upbringing and inadequate training by the owner.
Staffordshire bull terriers—as they are correctly called—are truly active dogs. This should be known before deciding to buy one of this breed. Grzegorz chose a pit bull because he is a young, athletic man who enjoys exercise.
– I like exercise, I’m active, and I needed a companion. A dog that would work with me. Pit bulls also show their feelings strongly and are very devoted. Hektor is lively and cheerful – Grzegorz explains.
Eight-month-old Hektor, lying at his owner’s feet and responding to his name with a long, tender look into his eyes, is truly very friendly. The only thing that may threaten us in his presence is… being licked to death.
Special competitions have been created for these strong, active dogs that enjoy physical exertion, allowing them to use their energy in a controlled way. At competitions, one can admire their agility and endurance. Competitions are held around the world and in Poland in the following disciplines:
- Weight Pulling
A discipline in which a dog pulls a loaded cart within a specified time - Tug of War
A discipline in which two dogs or two female dogs of similar weight pull a rope. The dog that holds the rope the longest and wrests it from its opponent wins - Spring Pole
A discipline in which the dog jumps up and grabs with its teeth a rope suspended at a certain height, then hangs on for as long as possible using only its jaws - High Jump
A discipline in which the dog grabs a suspended tug toy and hangs from it by its jaws for about five seconds. The height is gradually increased. The dog that grabs the tug toy at the greatest height wins.
Owners who breed dogs considered dangerous share their breeding experiences on internet forums, as well as the difficulties they face in making people understand that their dogs are just as loyal as other breeds and mixed-breed dogs. Responsible owners understand the problem and that people are afraid of dogs. They make sure their pets always wear muzzles and keep them on leashes when walking among people. Municipal guards in Bolesławiec remind residents that dogs must be muzzled and kept on a leash in the city. Large dogs in particular must be supervised by their owners. Although they are usually gentle, their sheer size can knock over a child or stroller and give people a serious fright. According to reports, however, small domestic mongrels are the ones that bite most often. What people complain about are dogs running unattended around the city. No one reported a pit bull attack in the past year. Despite this, these dogs’ bad reputation continues to persist in society.
(information by Grażyna Hanaf)
