Reply #74: "They can be stubborn, willful and of course, they're incredibly strong."

[lukasahero]

I get the point of your post, however, your assertion that Bullies are "not your average Lab or Golden Retriever" warranted some investigation on my part. FTR, I had a Lab (best dog of my life) and I know they can be stubborn, willful and strong. As ARE most of the (improperly trained) Golden Retrievers I know. (I've met a few well-trained Goldens but most people think they "just turn out that way" and don't put the time and effort required into training them.) All that said, the following quotes about Bullies and other dog personalities come courtesy of http://dogtime.com/dog-breeds.html

"The American Pit Bull Terrier is a companion and family dog. Originally bred to "bait" bulls, the breed evolved into all-around farm dogs, and later moved into the house to become "nanny dogs" because they were so gentle around children."

"These dogs love people and have no idea that their size is something of a deterrent to being a lap dog."

"The Bull Terrier was originally developed in the 19th century as a fighting dog and, later, a fashionable companion for gentlemen, but these days he's a family companion and show dog."

"Never one to take a backseat to anyone or anything, the Bull Terrier is a friendly, feisty extrovert who's always ready for a good time, and always happy to see you."

-- Akita (up to 130 lbs): "The Akita is a large and powerful dog with a noble and intimidating presence...The Akita does not back down from challenges and does not frighten easily...The Akita is a bold and willful dog, naturally wary of strangers but extremely loyal to his family...He tends to be aggressive toward other dogs...The naturally protective Akita has a propensity to become aggressive if allowed, or if he isn't raised properly..."

Rhodesian Ridgebacks (up to 85 lbs): "Because of their size, intelligence, and power, Rhodesian Ridgebacks aren't recommended for first-time or timid owners...he can still be aggressive toward strange animals outside the family, even if he's well socialized and trained...can be stubborn and strong willed

Coonhound (up to 100 lbs): "He can be headstrong and likes to have his own way..."

Weimaraner (up to 85 lbs): "The typical Weimaraner is...assertive, smart, restless, and willful...Aggression and shyness are temperament flaws that are seen in this breed."

Mastiff (up to 220 lbs): "...the Mastiff...can become shy, fearful, or aggressive if mishandled."

Chow Chow (up to 70 lbs): "This is, however, a highly territorial and protective breed...A Chow Chow must be extensively socialized--introduced to new people, dogs, and situations--as a puppy if he's going to be safe and relaxed as an adult."

Shar-Pei (up to 55 lbs): "...the Shar-Pei is also independent and strong willed... He is protective of his family...and will respond to threats. Because he once was used as a pit-fighting dog, he can be aggressive toward other canines."

Plott(hound) (up to 75 lbs): "...he's not only strong but fierce in the hunt...That can translate to dominant and aggressive behavior if he's not properly socialized..."

Please, owners of the above mentioned dogs, don't freak out. My point is, there are a lot of dogs that "CAN BE stubborn, willful and incredibly strong". EVERY dog, and especially large breeds, needs to be trained and socialized early. And all large breed dog can cause as much damage as any other.

Seriously, the people suggesting the "no bad dogs, only bad owners" rule is a false premise need to educate themselves. Banning pit bulls will not stop the problem as the "bad owners" just move on to exploit and abuse the protective/aggressive traits of the next breed du jour. There are other, better ways to resolve the problem that creates an aggressive dog but it's not as simple as banning the breed so people don't want to talk about it. America - land of "I want the easy way out".