What resources do you recommend about stereotypes or temperament?
Hey Levi,
I’ve been a fan of the rescue force for a while and the Pitbull breed.
My wife and 2 sons are looking at getting a dog and I would love to rescue a pitbull, however my wife seems to fall into the trap of pitbull stereotypes. Are there good resources you would recommend about these stereotypes or temperament in general? Is there a way to have her spend time with these animals and hopefully change her view of them?
Thanks for your help
-Dave
Hi Dave,
I’m so excited you asked this question! I myself am a dog bred to look like a big, mean brute, but I’m just the opposite! I love nothing more than to educate people about my breed. My suggestion is to expose your wife and kids to as many Pitbulls as you can in the next while and let them experience for themselves how wonderful we are! And guess what, you’re in luck! We are taking part in an Adoptathon THIS Saturday at BowDog in Calgary. Hopefully you are in the area and can make it out! Come meet some of our dogs and talk to people who volunteer their time to help my wonderful breed. It’s 11am-3pm, Saturday March 10th at 6909 Farrell Road SE Calgary.
If you’re unable to attend this weekend there are tons of other options to gain exposure. Go to the local shelter, volunteer with us, ask anyone you know with a Pit and just spend some time with us. I’m always available and love to meet new people, especially kids
Here are some tips for your family on how to properly say hi to an unfamiliar dog:
1. Always ask the owner first! Make eye contact and ask if it’s okay you (or the kids) say hi to the dog.
2. It’s a good rule of thumb to only say hi to a dog that is in a calm, submissive state. If the dog is jumping up everywhere, pulling on the leash, barking, etc. I recommend thanking them and saying “maybe another time” or something of the sort. You should only say hi to an unfamiliar dog when they are showing you proper manners (sometimes I have a hard time with this myself, we get excited to meet new people)!
3. Step to the side of the dog so you are not approaching the dog head on – a head on approach can sometimes be imitating. Make a fist with your hand, get to the same level of the dog and offer your closed hand. Let the dog sniff away. If all goes well you are more than welcome to pet the dog and show affection all you want! I recommend chest rubs! Beware – pitties love to give kisses!
There are a ton of great resources out there to learn about the Pitbull as well. I recommend:
http://www.badrap.org/breed-history
http://www.ourpack.org/truthaboutpitbulls.html
http://www.cesarsway.com/dogbehavior/basics/How-Did-Pit-Bulls-Get-a-Bad-Rap
http://www.pbrc.net/breedinfo.html
This is a great online “book” depending on how much you want to read.
http://www.pitbullproject.ca/placebo.pdf
Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help!
Licks & Wags
~Levi