We need to first understand that there is no such breed as a Pit Bull. This is a generic term for a variety of “Bully breeds.”
Pit Bulls have averaged an 83.4% passing rate with the American Temperament Test Society. That’s a better score than Golden Retrievers and the popular Border Collie (both known for being family dogs), which scored between 79.6% to 82%, respectively. ATTS stands for the American Temperament Testing Society. The ATTS administers a test that is given to determine a breed of dog’s temperament. Every registered breed takes part within this test. American Pit Bull Terriers have always received excellent passing rates in temperament, proving that they are a great breed overall. See where many breeds score at American Temperament Test Society.
Pit Bulls are commonly used as therapy dogs. Whether they are visiting a nursing home, hospital or just helping someone recover from an emotional accident, Pit Bulls are making a mark as outstanding therapy dogs. Their ability to comfort those in need have allowed them to become amazing service dogs as well.
Pit Bulls are used in Search and Rescue work. Kris Crawford leads a very well-known team of Search and Rescue (SAR) Pit Bulls. Kris and her dogs have helped save the lives of many people during their efforts. One of her dogs, Dakota, has been deployed on over 200 search missions including such high-profile searches as the Laci Peterson search effort. Dakota, and her handler Kris, were even hand-picked by FEMA and NASA for the elite team tasked to search for the remains of the seven astronauts that lost their lives in the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster.
Pit Bulls serve as narcotic and bomb sniffing dogs. One American Pit Bull Terrier, Popsicle (so-named because he was found in an old freezer), has the largest recorded single drug find in Texas history. He was honored for his incredible discovery of over 3,000 pounds of cocaine in Hildago, Texas. For more on Popsicle and his amazing accomplishments.
Pit Bulls are great with kids. They are known for their playful energy and their patience. Pit Bulls also have a natural ability to love and let themselves be loved. This is a great trait to have with children. Petey, the famous dog from The Little Rascals, was a Pit Bull. He was known for the famous ring around his eye and for his playful antics and goofy personality. There wasn’t a child that didn’t love Petey! He spent countless hours with children day after day and became their best friend. He was one of the most intelligent Hollywood dogs of all time.
Pit Bulls are not human aggressive. In fact, this is quite the opposite of the breed. They are gentle and loving dogs. Sadly, some take advantage of this trait and use Pit Bulls to fight. Dog fighters claim that they love the breed because they will never turn on their owners in the ring. It’s this breed’s love for their owners and their willingness that causes them to end up in such horrible circumstances. We’ve seen some sad examples of poorly bred and badly treated dogs that are the byproducts of irresponsible “backyard breeders” and cruel and abusive homes. But the true disposition of the American Pit Bull Terrier breed is their sweet, gentle and patient demeanor. They love without measure.
Sergeant Stubby was one of the most famous American Pit Bull Terriers of all time. The American Pit Bull Terrier breed was so popular in the early 1900s that the Pit Bull was our mascot in both World War I and World War II. They were featured on recruiting and propaganda posters during this time period to invoke a sense of pride among citizens. Stubby was an American icon and a war hero. He was wounded in action twice, and saved his entire platoon by warning them of a poison gas attack. Stubby also became an expert in locating wounded men in the “no man’s land” between the trenches of the opposing armies. Stubby would listen for injured and lost men shouting in English. He would then go out to them and bark for paramedics or lead the uninjured ones back to the safety of the trenches. Stubby once even captured a German soldier on his own. One day, while on patrol in no-man’s land, Stubby heard a noise coming from a small patch of brush. He went to investigate and found a German spy who was mapping out the layout of the Allied trenches. The German soldier tried to call Stubby to him but it didn’t work. Stubby put his ears back and began to bark. He had saved his platoon yet again. When the war ended, Sergeant Stubby had served in 17 battles. He was awarded many medals for his heroism and dedication. He is known as one the most famous canines of all time. Click here for more on the story of Sgt. Stubby.
Pit Bulls are naturally loved by everyone, including celebrities. There are quite a few celebrities and famous people throughout history who own or owned Pit Bulls and consider them members of their family. Some of these celebrities and historical figures include: Jennifer Aniston & Justin Theroux, Jessica Biel, Jessica Alba, John Stewart, Rosie Perez, Michael J. Fox, Fred Astaire, Usher, Alicia Silverstone, Rachel Ray, Thomas Edison, Madonna, Amy Jo Johnson, Linda Blair, Vin Diesel, Bernadette Peters, Cesar Millan and Ira Glass. Even President Theodore Roosevelt and Helen Keller owned Pit Bulls. Their popularity shows just how special this breed truly is.
