Pit bull is a name commonly used for dogs that are usually some mixture of bulldog and terrier. Breeds sometimes called pit bull include the American pit bull terrier, American Staffordshire terrier, bull terrier, and Staffordshire bull terrier. People sometimes misuse the name to mean any short-haired, medium-sized dog with a square head. For example, certain mixed breeds with Rottweiler or mastiff parents are called pit bulls. The name pit bull comes from England. Long ago in England, the dogs were forced to fight bulls or even bears in pits. People placed bets on the outcome. Pit bulls are still used in illegal dogfights where people gamble on the winners.
Pit bulls have a reputation for being aggressive and likely to attack strangers. This reputation results in part from sensational descriptions of dog attacks in news reports, music, and movies. Studies have shown that it is the treatment and handling of a dog—and not the dog’s breed—that play a significant role in deadly dog attacks. However, pit bulls do occasionally attack and even kill people. Some communities have passed laws regulating or even banning the ownership of pit bulls. Other communities require pit bull owners to carry liability insurance.
Not all pit bulls are dangerous. Experts agree that the most dangerous pit bulls are those whose owners abuse the dogs to make them more aggressive. A carefully reared and socialized pit bull may be a pleasant, safe pet.
