Pit Bull- Nanny Dog or A Nasty Bully

In Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens, we have Bullseye, the dog of Bill Sykes. Bullseye is a bull terrier violent of nature but highly loyal to his villainous master. So much so that he jumps into the river behind his dead master. There is a moral here, for Bullseye was a predecessor to a pit bull.

A Pit Bull is a variant breed of bull terriers. But the word pit bull infamously conjures up the image of a ferocious dog whose sole ambition is in maim and decimation. For a dog who gained fame as a ‘Nanny Dog,’ this is most unfair. Instead, they’re loyal and benign towards their guardians. The moniker, “America’s Dog,” has been bestowed on them, most favored American. Pit Bull is the common name for an uncommon dog descended from terriers and bulldogs. Sturdy of build and tenacious nature, they took the fancy of cheap gangsters and the drug culture, symbolizing violence or pseudo machoism. A Breed-specific law is in place to ban or regulate certain dog breeds to counter dog bite incidents on other animals or human beings.

Origin and Characteristics of A Pit Bull

The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) is a classic purebred breed that found its way from the British Isles in and around 1860. The result of breeding original stock Old English Terriers and Old English Bulldogs resulted in a breed with the gameness of a terrier combined with the athleticism and strength of a bulldog. This new breed was named ‘Bull and Terrier dogs. They became popular quickly and soon put to blood sports such as bear-baiting and bull-baiting. In 1835, animal welfare laws put an official ban on blood sports. But with spectators developing a taste for the cruel joke, pit Bull and Terriers against each other. It was easier and easier to organize these jousts. The United Kennel Club and The American Dog Breeders Association also took them in with open arms in America. However, their vocation in America remained the same; to dogfight. This dogfighting was lessened by and by and outlawed.

The American Pit Bull Terrier is medium-sized with a glossy coat, smooth and stiff to touch. Eyes are round or almond-shaped. The mature male weighs 25 kilos of well-defined musculature and is 21″ tall, with a thick tail narrowing to a point. Ears are small to medium, half prick or rose, set high but laid far back on the head, safer from dog bites. The color is solid, red-black, and buckskin being the most common. The tuxedo is black from head to toe, a white patch on the chest and chin (shirt front), and on some or all the feet (spats).

There are three different strains in the American Pit Bull Terrier. The bloodline of the Colby dogs is considered one of the foundations of the APBT breed, started by John Pritchard Colby, who acquired the best fighting Bull and Terriers from Ireland and England. Coby’s Pincher was a notable dog of Colby’s bloodline. The old Family Red Nose is another bloodline originating in Ireland and immigrants brought to the United States. These dogs are unique for their red noses and high spiritedness. The third strain was the Jeep; Crenshaw’s Jeep, a highly valued fighting dog bred by James Crenshaw in 1976. 

Common Misconceptions About Pit Bulls

Myth 1- A Pit Bull is a dog breed.

‘Pitbull’ is a generic term and not a breed. They stand for an admixture of dogs such as the Dogo Argentino, American Staffordshire Terrier, Blue Blood Bulldog, and hundreds of others. The name pitbull signifies an identical aspect to the American Pit Bull Terrier. The term pit bull is how a dog looks and not a breed, and hence a more significant degree of blame is imposed on them unfairly. Groups advocating animal rights to battle brutality and apprehensions use the collective term pit bull to protect breeds of similar build and ‘bully’ appearance from unfair victimization.

Myth 2- A Pit Bull is born to fight.

Nothing could be further from the truth. Pit bulls were not certainly born to rip into other dogs or other animals. It is akin to saying they are tigers by birth, meaning a genetic trait of a natural, wild animal. It is a human who by various nefarious, inhumane training methods encompassing ill-treatment, solitary confinement, starvation, and so on, twists the dog’s will and temperament into a mean, vicious animal. All this for the allure of lucre. They are forced into the ring, and in many cases fight to death. If wounded and unable to go on, they are shot, electrocuted or killed heinously.

Myth 3- A Pit bull is naturally violent and very dangerous.

Another lie. Any violence or aggression in any dog is an example of lousy training, irresponsible rearing, lack of attention, abuse, etc. A pet poodle will also exhibit some belligerence if cared for similarly. In one study conducted by the American Temperament Test Society for dog temperament, American Pit Bull Terriers have a very high passing rate of 83%, higher than even gentle breeds like collies and chihuahuas. There will be many pit bull owners who will vouch for this.

Myth 4- A Pit Bull Has Jaws That Lock.

An anatomic impossibility. If this were true, every time a pit bull took a bite of food, the jaws should lock, rendering them useless to chew. However, the ASPCA and leading veterinary professionals have verified that there is no such thing as jaws that lock in the entire natural animal world. True, a pit bull’s style of self-defense is ‘grab and shake.’ But that it cannot or will not let go is gross deceit.

Myth 5- A Pit Bulls Has A High Bite Rate

What on Earth is that? The American Veterinary Medical Association has denied ever calculating such a figure, nor is it possible. Dog bite incidents are mostly towards pit bulls. This prejudice rises from fear. The narrative in Tabloids generates public interest, demonizes the animal, and sensationalizes the story. Often, on examination, the act was one arising from provocation.

Facts About Pit Bulls

1. Pit Bulls were not native. They were brought to the United States and the strain was improved by injecting new bloodline strains.
2. A combination of physical strength and fearlessness has made them ideal as fighting dogs.
3. Their aggressiveness towards human beings was an unwanted trait, especially as the handler too had to be in the ring in the early days.
4. Bloodsports employed Pit Bulls. Bear baiting and bull baiting were much in demand for entertainment and also gambling purposes.
5. After the banning of bear-baiting, they were pressed into ratting, a so-called sport where a pit bull was released into a pitf ul of rats. The dog that in the shortest span of time killed them all, was the winner. It is suspected that their name ‘pit’ came from there.
6. Early on Pit Bulls were used on farms guarding livestock. They were good hunting dogs and made great guard dogs for protection.
7. They found employment as mascots for the United States Army, often appearing in recruitment posters and other advertisements.
8. Pit Bulls are very reliable with children and hence called nanny dogs.
9. More than any other breed, Life Magazine has featured them 3 times on the cover. An estimated 3.6 million Pit Bulls are in existence in the United States alone.
10. Pit Bull pups have wrinkled foreheads that stretch out and become tight as they grow older.
11. In a test run by the American Temperament Test Society, they outscored many likely contenders.
12. Because of their superb athleticism, they can scale very high fences. A 10-12 feet fence is easy pickings for Pit Bulls.
13. That they do not feel pain is patently false. They focus so intently that they can block out the pain.
14. Their reputation as savage dogs takes a beating as they may greet intruders as a friend. Experts opine that they make lousy guard dogs.
15. Blue Nose Pit Bulls are very favored because of their unique coloration.
16. Another highly prized dog is the Razor’s Edge Pit Bull. Its bulky stature and tender nature are distinctive. As a breed, they are unrecognized. A pup will set you back several thousands of dollars.
17. Guarding wounded Union soldiers at the Battle of Gettysburg, stood Sallie, a Pit Bull,  now commemorated in a Civil War monument in Pennsylvania.
18. The most celebrated dog of World War 1 was Sargeant Stubby who survived 17 campaigns on the Western Front. He steadfastly remained comforting wounded soldiers.
19. The movie ‘The Little Rascals’ features Petey, a Pit Bull..

Proven Statistics About Pit Bulls

Pit Bulls have a temperament rating of 86.7%. The lower the percentile, the more likely the dog will show signs ranging from aggressive to shyness.

Do Pit Bulls, as many believe, have a strong bite force? Compare this; a human bite is around 120 pounds, on average a domestic dog, 320 pounds. Pit Bulls have the smallest bite force compared to other ‘bully breed’ dogs, as held by The National Geographic,

Pit Bulls occupy the top slot for dogs brought to the shelter. An estimated 1.2 million of 3.6 million Pit Bulls in the US, will end up in a shelter.

389 is the number of reported death from bully-breed dogs from 1982 till December 31st, 2017. The dogs included Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Akita, Boxers, and many, many more.

To keep a Pit Bull, you have to pay additionally for your homeowners’ insurance.

What Its Like Owning A Pit Bull- 15 Tips

1. With obedience training, he should be a star in all situations.
2. Spay your dog. This curbs territorial aggression, the urge to go wandering around as they are great escape artists. Most importantly, block all those unwanted puppies. Dogs who are ‘fixed’ are much more tolerant and fun to be around with.
3. Socializing is a must. Teach and encourage him to socialize widely with children, old-timers, disabled, and of differing ethnicities.
4. Socializing with other dogs up to a point is good. Remember Pit Bulls have a natural distaste for other dogs and may pick up a fight.
5. Be a committed student of ‘dog body language.’ Be very watchful when a play session is turning into a conflict. The dog may raise the bar due to the excitement. It is common in the terrier strain to move from the social dog stage as they grow, to one less tolerant.
6. Establish leash laws; they are your best friend. Other dogs may be trying to provoke your dog to a fight.
7. Pit Bulls were bred to be highly patient with human beings. Any signs of aggression towards a person is a strict no-no and needs dealing with outright. Bring in an animal behaviorist or expert and seek his opinion. Dogs that show a disability to adjust should be humanely put down.
8. The mantra to keeping a Pit Bull happy; exercise and more exercise. They have loads of energy and are intelligent athletes. That energy has to be burnt off. 2 hours of your time is not a huge demand, is it?
9. Many people are genuinely scared of dogs either from previous negative experiences or through exaggerated stories. And Pit Bulls carry that additional millstone around their necks, of violent and being dangerous. Pit Bull owners need to rise above the call of duty. Reassure them and try to get them over their fears.
10. Learn to thick-skinned about your pet. He will invite snide remarks.
11. When out with your dog, be sensitive to public needs. Pick up his mess, don’t let him jump on or annoy others. Be aware that he is unleashed and may be challenged by another dog.
12. Take it that the worst happens to you. Stay calm when called to break up a dogfight. Do it swiftly with minimal fuss. Its called ‘the wheelbarrow.’ Each person takes hold of the hind legs of his dogs and lifts off the ground. The dogs will part to maintain balance, draw them away from each other.
13. To make good success of your pet, research well into what lifts them, tick and what doesn’t.
14. Microchip and license your precious pet. In case of getting lost or getting away for an adventure, he can quickly be relocated.
15. Enjoy your pet.

Why Should I adopt A Pit Bull- 5 Reasons

1. They are wonderful, affectionate pets despite the disrepute forced on them as mean, vicious animals. They are sweet, loyal pets and dig human companionship.
2. The ‘Don Juan’ of the dog kingdom, they are handsome and attractive. A short, neat coat, different colors, and a smile that one can die for.
3. With a deep chest and splendid musculature, they invite looks. Although a tad stubborn, they enjoy exercising, cart-pulling, training, and macho stuff.
4. Pit Bulls are low-maintenance dogs and very easy to take care of. Their smooth coat needs brushing twice a week, and they enjoy a bath. They should be groomed regularly.
5. They love to be cuddled. Think of a better reason.

In Conclusion

So much has been said and written about Pit Bulls. In the end, you feel strangely sad for a dog of this bloodline. 10-12 years is their survival period. Never mind Pit Bulls; children in the company of any dog will need supervision. Classic TV shows, movies like ‘Spanky and our Gang’ depict these dogs, and possibly rightly so, as trustworthy with young children. But all the same, responsible adult behavior should exercise caution. They are exemplary babysitters. They have been pets for the likes of Helen Keller, and Hollywood celebrities endorse them as great pets. Animal shelters cant cope with the number of these dogs surrendered for adoption. There’s another sad story for you. That they make outstanding friends is a fact. But there’s a demand attached; you. He needs your time. The erroneous account of ‘bully breed dogs as Pit Bulls is a raw deal. If I had my way, I’d never pass by chance to become a Pit Bull owner.

If you aspire to adopt or own a pitbull, you want to check this out: https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/american-pit-bull-terrier

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Best Puppies To Adopt

Comet, the Golden Retriever in the movie Full House, or Toto in The Wizard of Oz, these furry critters are captivating and engaging. Picking one up for the family can be great fun. All the more when your kids are involved.

So you want to adopt one. That’s easier said than done. You don’t walk into a dog shelter and pick up a pup that seems pally and is adorably cute. If you are going to bring a dog into your child’s life, the puppy has to be kid-friendly. Some breeds are more adept at it. It’s not about good or bad dogs here; just a suitable breed.

Let’s dive in and see what these suitable breeds are.

Traits That Will Clinch It

There are just three checkboxes to tick here- the pup’s temperament, size, and energy level. With little kids, you’ll need a dog with an amenable personality who veers towards being calm and enjoying the fun. Kids have energy, lots of it. The doggie needs to keep pace. A breed that hankers for exercise and playtime will accomplish the trick. That brings us to size. Rule-of-thumb is small breeds are more excitable and a mite edgy. More giant breeds are calmer. Pitbulls are also known as nanny dogs because of their utter devotion to their little wards.

Here are 7 breeds that make terrific companions.

7 Pooches That Make Great Companions

1. Golden Retriever

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These born charmers are renowned as great family dogs. The golden coat is undoubtedly an appealer, but their fun and loving spirit give them first. They love to frolic and play, have a great attitude, and training them is a cinch. Retrievers sure will keep your kids active.

2. English Bulldogs

Picture Credit: https://www.dailypaws.com/dogs-puppies/dog-breeds/bulldog

Never mind those grumpy, grouchy looks. An English bulldog is all heart. They are extraordinarily affectionate, sweet and your kids will be delighted. Bulldog pups are quite a handful being hyper-energetic and playful. However, they do get calmer as they age. They can grow up with your child, which is excellent. They also make good watchdogs, and managing any aggression towards humans and other animals is easy.

3. Beagles

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Those beguiling large eyes will make you zero in on a Beagle as the choice for your kid’s buddy. Small, compact, and hardy, they are active companions for adults and children alike. These sweet, floppy-eared pups are simply divine with kids. Being freakish about exercise, they will play all day long without tiring out. They will keep your child active and can end up tiring him. It is their very nature to be super sweet and loving. They get along well with other dogs too. As they are natural, hunters avoid keeping them with other smaller animals.

4. Labrador Retriever

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A Lab is one heck of a great family dog. Naturally exuberant, they are calm and easy-going, a do-it-all kind of a dog. This remarkable family dog is angelic in sweetness and its loving nature, a sheer delight. Being highly intelligent, training them is easy. They love commotion, so if you have many energetic, playful kids, your dog is happy. They are absolutely at ease around children. Get your child one today.

5. Irish Setter

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An Irish Setter is a gorgeous companion for a child. Their traits include being intelligent, affectionate, energetic with a need for activity non-stop. These gundogs are famous for being dedicated family dogs with their sweet temperament. They love romping with kids and make excellent playmates for them.

6. German Shepherd

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A German Shepherd may be a bit intimidating, perhaps. Right? Fear not. Besides, having a reputation as military and police K9 dogs, these beautiful dogs have another side as devoted family dogs. Kids are incredibly secure with them. They are super easy to train and love fun and play. They are eager to learn new things, which is a great boon with kids. Their nature is loyal and protective, so your little ones will always be safe.

7. Collie

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Remember the movie Lassie about a courageous family dog, a Collie by the same name. The portrayal of the dog’s trait is 100% true. They adore kids. Collies are very smart with undying loyalty and can foresee their owners’ needs. Being highly affectionate, they don’t care to be left alone for long periods. Give them companionship and love, and they will reciprocate tenfold

Tying It Up

One cardinal rule; don’t shop for a dog; adopt one from a shelter. This way, you can help more homeless dogs in getting protection. Having your child grow up with a dog is the best gift you can give him. Dogs inculcate compassion and sensitivity in a child. Get your dog to have his shots in time and train them with basic commands. Then, rush to your nearest dog pound and pick up a suitable puppy for your kid today.

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5 Irrestible Cat Food Brands To Pamper Your Pet Feline

Cats are obligate carnivores. Cat Food can be dry, raw, freshly cooked, or wet. We recommend wet cat food because of its beneficial properties for cats requiring support for their urinary tract or kidneys. Overall it is suitable for their digestive health. In addition, being desert animals, they have a low thirst drive, so wet foods help compensate for their low water intake.

Our Choice Of The 5 Best Cat Foods

1. Feline Natural Chicken & Venison Feast Canned Cat Food

It is impossible to surpass Feline Natural cat’s wet food. It is an exceptional blend of protein content and animal-sourced constituents. Additives could prove harmful to your cat over time. The complete elimination of any such additives makes Feline Natural a great choice.

Feline Natural is a well-rounded formulation of feline nutrition. Being a wet food, it is rich in water, providing sufficient moisture to your cat to stave off urinary tract and kidney ailments. In addition, its composition is of species-appropriate organs, muscle meat, and blood, providing an assorted range of animal-origin nutrition.

The product is rounded off with green mussels, a significant origin of Omega-3 acids for reducing inflammation and good skin health.

2. Nom Nom Chicken Chow Meow

Picture Credits: https://allaboutcats.com/reviews/nomnomnow-cat-food-review

Nom Nom, a delivery service, supplies cat food meals that are human-grade. Every meal is measured considering your cat’s age and weight.  Delivery to the doorstep is in a cooled box. So they are fresh and not frozen, ready to dish out. You can choose between different plans. So your supply will never get exhausted.

Nom Nom is a favorable alternative if you are keen on the plan of home-cooked food for your cat but just can’t rustle up the time for it. Nom Nom’s food line currently serves fish and chicken recipes. Their chicken recipe consists primarily of chicken breast, liver, and thighs which are appropriate protein sources and many nutrients. Apart from meat, also put in are minor amounts of vegetables and fruit.

3. Authority Chicken Entree Adult Cat Food Pate Canned Cat Food

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Costing $0,16 to an ounce, this is one of the least expensive canned cat foods in the market. In contrast to other cat foods at a similar price point, Authority Chicken does not contain any poultry or animal byproducts. Instead, it comprises liver, chicken, and sea fish. It is dissimilar to other cat food brands in another way; it shies away from using flavors, artificial colors, and preservatives. Guar gum is the thickening agent, and carrageenan or usual inflammatory additives skip. It carries menhaden fish oil, a source of Omega-3.

4. Dr. Elsey’s Cleanprotein Chicken Formula Grain-Free Dry Cat Food

Dr. Elsey’s is a stimulating changeover from the large carbohydrate percentage and dollops of plant protein found in other cat dry foods. In lieu, it is essentially a formulation of egg, pork protein isolate, chicken, and other derivatives of species-suitable nutrition. 

Other brands count on high-carb binders like wheat, corn, potatoes, and soy; Dr. Elsey employs gelatin as the primary binder.

In general, the food dishes out carnivore-suitable nutrition with ample protein, species-suitable fat keeping carbs to a minimum. In addition, the meaty makeup of this food renders it efficient and calorie-dense than other dry foods.

One gripe about this product is its relatively high cost.

5. Ziwi Peak Air-Dried Mackerel And Lamb Recipe

If you pander to the comfort of dry cat food but disagree with the carbs and compromised ingredients that many kibble preparations include, you might take a shine to this offering from Ziwi.

Instead of extruding meat, air-drying it seals in more nutrition with minimal supplementary ingredients. The outcome is a nutrient-packed, meat-oriented food with very little carb content. As a result, you end up with the nourishment that raw food brings and the benefit of kibble as a crunchy food.

In addition to lamb muscle, mackerel, tripe, lung, bone, and liver, it contains the green mussel, packed with Omega-3 acids. It’s a species-specific, nourishing food that is effective. 

Summing Up

Choosing appropriate food for your cat involves a boggling variety of factors, including Company reputation, ingredient quality, and more. We are looking for a low carb, high protein, no animal by-products, no animal protein, moisture content for hydration, and more. Human-grade products are the best. Also, feeding habits are not consistent for all ages. Follow prescribed guidelines, and you will have one contented Garfield on your hands.

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