There’s an American Pit Bull Terrier, and a Staffordshire Terrier, both are generically referred to as “pit bulls”. Both are fabulous dogs, but have to be raised appropriately. They need lots of exercise, and consistent boundaries, and tons of affection. You may well need friends and family to help out with the dog, especially while it’s a puppy!

Before you get one, though, know that Pits are illegal in some places, so please make certain that you are not in one of them. These places have a zero tolerance policy, and they destroy the dogs if they find them.

I think the best advice anyone can give is to study the breed, learn about training, ask questions (like you’ve done here), enroll your dog in “puppy classes” if you can — socialization is EXTREMELY important for a Pit or Staffie. Make sure that you have the time and space for a dog — they are a full-time commitment! They need all the love and attention that a child needs. That said, dogs are the greatest, and bring so much joy!

Good Luck!

The pit bull is going to cause a lot of controversial situations anyway. There were three more pit bull attacks in our area in the last week and 1/2.

I would suggest you do a lot of research on the breed. Make sure you are able to properly care for the animal,Shots, Vets expenses, fencing, food. Make sure you are able to get it properly trained. It will take time and money to train a pit bull. Also make sure you are able to own a pit bull in your town. I know I’ve said this over and over again. But….. some towns you can not legally own a pit bull with out having a hefty insurance policy in place.

Her are a couple websites that may help you.

EDIT:If the websites I gave you do not come up go to the home page of either puppydogweb or dogbreedinfo and type in the specific breed. It Will take you to the page. Sorry about that.

I have a pitbull! and yes alot of people our scared of them, but thats why its our job to change thier minds!
If you don’t want one that will draw alot of attention, then do not get a red nosed pitbull. most people think of pitbulls of as being brown. Get a pit that is two different colors like black & white or gray & white. Also DO NOT cut his ears or tail, that gives them a meaner look, which makes people scared of them.
Started socializing your pitbull asap. Take him to meet new people and dogs as often as you can. This way he won’t be aggresive towards other people or dogs. Make sure you get a puppy who is 6 mths or less because you don’t know if the owners treated him badly before you bought him, and he may be mean. Take him for walks daily!

Pitbulls are wonderful, loyal dogs!

The standard breed of the common pitt bull is the American Pittbull Terrier. If you’ve seen different kinds, that means they are mixes. If it looks remotely like a pitt it will draw attention regardless. They are such sweeties, and too often the public isn’t aware of this fact. Still, you need to be very vigilant if you get a pitt. You will also train this dog like you would any other dog. If you get it as a puppy, puppy classes are a good start and then work you way up. Consistancy and socialization are key.

There is only one kind of Pit Bull. I would say you first need to educate yourself on what a pit is. The only Pit Bull is called an American Pit Bull Terrier. It is confused with many other similar breeds but a lot of them were bred for different purposes.

Pit Bulls are great dogs but definitely educate yourself. Be prepared to deal with a lot of uneducated remarks, even from people that see you on the street.