Alpha-Dog

The American Staffordshire Terrier, the American Pit Bull Terrier, or more commonly known as a "Pitbull" or a "Pit". These dogs gained fame for their ability in sports fighting, dog against dog, fighting in a "pit". Long since declared illegal, the fighting "ring" is still prevelant today, fighting dog against dog where only the fittest survive. Definitely not what Darwin had in mind when he spoke about his Theory of Evolution and Survival of the Fittest.

Different people and organizations speak about a ban on such breeds as the Pitbull, saying these dogs are mean and attack people at will. Typically Pitbulls are docile, playful and affectionate. A dog is not born mean, unless, of course, there is an underlying medical condition. Mean dogs are generally born at the human end of the leash!

Do you know the average number of people killed in America each year by various causes? Indeed, Pitbulls get a lot of "bad press", but lets observe some recent statistics I came across.

People killed by:

Cigarettes - 435,000+
Automobiles - 42,000+
2nd Hand Smoke - 35,000+
Guns - 29,000+
Pitbulls - 3 (no plus)

What do you think is out of control and what should we ban? Just food for thought!

Labels: PITBULLS

DO YOUR RESEARCH


Choose the dog with the right personality to match youe lifestyle.

Did you know that 1/3 of dogs acquired by people are voluntarily given up to shelters, euthanized, or simply abondoned. This is because people get a dog before they research the particular breed that best suits them and their family. If you have a sedentary lifestyle you are best suited for a breed that isn't active. On the other hand, if you are active don't choose a breed that is not. Makes sense!

Check on things like the breed's energy level, exercise requirements, playfulness, friendliness toward other dogs, strangers, other pets.

What is your climate? Get a dog suited to your area. If you live in a warm climate, don't get a dog suited to a cold climate and vice versa.

What is the dog's form and function, history and upkeep? Some dogs shed more than others. If you have allergies, this may be an important consideration!

Finally, did you know that 50% of people who give their dog to a shelter go on to get another dog. Over 90% choose a different breed and over 90% seem to be successful matches.

Shelter dogs make some of the best pets. Check out your local shelter(s). You may find your best friend! Look for the dominant breed characteristic, i.e., GSD, Golden Retriever, etc.

Alternatively, go to your local pet/book store and look through some dog encyclopedias. You will find valuable information.

And most important, DO YOUR RESEARCH! (Excerpts from "Why Does My Dog Act That Way" by Stanley Coren, 2006)

Labels: Research