 |
| Not our photo- If yours contact for credit please! :) |
http://www.aspca.org/fight-animal-cruelty/dog-fighting/ten-tips-for-adopting-a-pit-bull.aspx
♥ Ten Tips for Adopting a Pit Bull ♥
Thinking
about adopting a Pit Bull? Well, congratulations! Despite the bad rap they get,
Pit Bulls can make very sweet and loyal family dogs. Adopting a Pit Bull should
be fun and joyful, so we’ve created a list of handy tips to help you make good
choices. Additional information on raising and
training a well-adjusted Pit Bull.
Socialization is the key to a happy and confident Pit Bull.
All Pit puppies should be enrolled in a puppy class where part of the time is
devoted to off-leash play with other dogs.
Pit Bulls are enthusiastic learners. They enjoy trick training and many graduate at the head of their obedience classes. There are many Pit Bull rescue groups that can recommend training classes.
It’s play time! Pits are moderately active indoors and extremely active outdoors—be prepared to spend a minimum of 20 to 30 minutes twice a day engaged in aerobic-level activities with your dog.
You may experience breed discrimination. Legislation may prohibit you from living in certain communities, and homeowners insurance may be harder to find. Before you adopt, call your local city hall or animal shelter to find out about your local laws.
Do your research.
Are your neighbors the kind who might get concerned about a Pit Bull in the community? Bringing home a Pit Bull may be tough because many people wrongly associate them as being aggressive. Be prepared with breed facts and history to let people know that it’s bad ownership that causes Pit Bulls to be aggressive.
Adoption is the best option.
By rescuing a Pit Bull, you are saving a dog that needs a home and family. Adopting a Pit from a shelter means that the dog will have had an initial health evaluation and should also have already been vaccinated and spayed or neutered for you. More and more shelters use a standardized evaluation to assess the behavior of their dogs. If the dog you’re interested in has been evaluated, ask to see the results so you can get a more complete picture of the dog’s typical reactions to things.
Consider adopting an older Pit Bull. With an adult dog, what you see is what you get. Their personality is already developed, and you'll be able to spot the characteristics you're looking for much more easily than with a puppy.
Establish house rules
for your new Pit that everyone will stick to. Consistency is the key to training Pit Bulls. Decide on the behaviors you find acceptable and those that you wish to discourage, such as:
• Is she allowed on the furniture?
• Is it okay for her to bark in the backyard?
• Can she play with toys in the house?
• How do you want her to behave when guests come into the home?
Set a good example for others.
Become a proud parent—be sure to show your Pit Bull the love and care she deserves. And always let others know what great companions they make!
Understand that Pit Bulls are large and strong dogs.
If they aren’t used to being around small children, they may unwittingly knock them over while playing. Some Pit Bulls do best in a home with children 12 and older.
_________________________________________________________________________http://aspcabehavior.org/articles/193/The-Truth-About-Pit-Bulls.aspx
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------http://www.pets.com/petcare/breeds/american-pit-bull-terrier Pit Bulls are enthusiastic learners. They enjoy trick training and many graduate at the head of their obedience classes. There are many Pit Bull rescue groups that can recommend training classes.
It’s play time! Pits are moderately active indoors and extremely active outdoors—be prepared to spend a minimum of 20 to 30 minutes twice a day engaged in aerobic-level activities with your dog.
You may experience breed discrimination. Legislation may prohibit you from living in certain communities, and homeowners insurance may be harder to find. Before you adopt, call your local city hall or animal shelter to find out about your local laws.
Do your research.
Are your neighbors the kind who might get concerned about a Pit Bull in the community? Bringing home a Pit Bull may be tough because many people wrongly associate them as being aggressive. Be prepared with breed facts and history to let people know that it’s bad ownership that causes Pit Bulls to be aggressive.
Adoption is the best option.
By rescuing a Pit Bull, you are saving a dog that needs a home and family. Adopting a Pit from a shelter means that the dog will have had an initial health evaluation and should also have already been vaccinated and spayed or neutered for you. More and more shelters use a standardized evaluation to assess the behavior of their dogs. If the dog you’re interested in has been evaluated, ask to see the results so you can get a more complete picture of the dog’s typical reactions to things.
Consider adopting an older Pit Bull. With an adult dog, what you see is what you get. Their personality is already developed, and you'll be able to spot the characteristics you're looking for much more easily than with a puppy.
Establish house rules
for your new Pit that everyone will stick to. Consistency is the key to training Pit Bulls. Decide on the behaviors you find acceptable and those that you wish to discourage, such as:
• Is she allowed on the furniture?
• Is it okay for her to bark in the backyard?
• Can she play with toys in the house?
• How do you want her to behave when guests come into the home?
Set a good example for others.
Become a proud parent—be sure to show your Pit Bull the love and care she deserves. And always let others know what great companions they make!
Understand that Pit Bulls are large and strong dogs.
If they aren’t used to being around small children, they may unwittingly knock them over while playing. Some Pit Bulls do best in a home with children 12 and older.
_________________________________________________________________________http://aspcabehavior.org/articles/193/The-Truth-About-Pit-Bulls.aspx
♥American Pit Bull Terrier♥
Origin: United States
AKC Group: Terrier
Height: 18 to 22 inches (46 to 56 cm) (Male)
Weight: 30 to 60 pounds (14 to 27 kg) (Male)
History:
Personality: When raised and trained with respect and knowledge, there is no finer companion than the APBT. He is intelligent and easily trained, loving, playful, expressive, faithful and versatile. Properly trained, APBTs are actually less likely to be human-aggressive than other breeds.
At home: The ideal environment for the APBT is a home with a fenced-in yard, where his energy needs can be met and where he can be supervised.
AKC Group: Terrier
Height: 18 to 22 inches (46 to 56 cm) (Male)
Weight: 30 to 60 pounds (14 to 27 kg) (Male)
Coat: Short,
smooth and glossy.
Colors: All
colors and patterns acceptable.
History:
The American Pit Bull Terrier
(APBT) was developed from the bull and terrier-type dogs who were popular for
fighting bears, bulls and other dogs. These dogs succeeded at their jobs by
being tenacious, athletic, strong, intelligent and courageous. They also
succeeded because they responded to people. When it was time for a dog to be
called away from the fight, he was expected to be handled by his owner without
turning on him. Fortunately, pit fighting has been outlawed in most countries,
but unfortunately, the APBT's reputation for being a "go-for-the-jugular" dog
has stayed with him. His sleek, shiny coat, intelligent eyes and well-developed
musculature make him one of the best-looking breeds around, and those who
understand and love the APBT know that his true nature is just as
handsome.
Personality: When raised and trained with respect and knowledge, there is no finer companion than the APBT. He is intelligent and easily trained, loving, playful, expressive, faithful and versatile. Properly trained, APBTs are actually less likely to be human-aggressive than other breeds.
At home: The ideal environment for the APBT is a home with a fenced-in yard, where his energy needs can be met and where he can be supervised.
Recommended activities: The APBT is adept at Schutzhund, tracking, obedience and
weight pulling. Jogging and camping can also suit this breed.
Exercise: APBTs are high-energy dogs who require an outlet for their
enthusiasm. Vigorous daily exercise is necessary for a well-adjusted dog.
Several walks a day can keep him physically fit and mentally challenged, as can
outdoor games that involve the whole family.
Feeding: These active and muscular dogs need a high-quality diet. Feed two
meals a day. They can gain weight easily, which puts extra strain on their
joints and musculature.
Training: Responsive and smart, the APBT is a relatively easy breed to train
and has excelled in many areas that demand a high level of aptitude. A training
issue with this breed can be how others perceive him, which makes going out with
your APBT - who needs the exposure to all sorts of people and places to help him
be a confident, trusting adult - sometimes difficult.
Compatibility: The APBT is devoted to serving his family. He is kind and
caring toward children and very tolerant of any accidental roughness. He
will play for hours with his human children and is a natural and competent
guardian. APBTs can be dog-aggressive, but with training and management, can
learn to ignore other animals.
Health: The average life span of the American Pit Bull Terrier is about 12
years. Breed health concerns include allergies; cataracts; heart disease; and
hip dysplasia.
Fun fact: The American Pit Bull Terrier was the first breed recognized by
the United Kennel Club (UKC).
Grooming
blurb: His short, smooth coat is easily
managed with regular brushing using a firm-bristled brush, an occasional bath
and a vigorous rubbing with a soft towel.
******************************************************************************OTHER PITBULL PET GUIDES:http://www.mountainspca.rescuegroups.org/info/breedInfo?BreedID=207 He's a lover, not a fighter.
******************************************************************************OTHER PITBULL PET GUIDES:http://www.mountainspca.rescuegroups.org/info/breedInfo?BreedID=207 He's a lover, not a fighter.
 |
| Not our photo- no copyright infringement intended |
*******************************************
What breed of dog is best for me?
{source: http://shine.yahoo.com/breed-dog-best-212900033.html}
You probably have a favorite breed of dog, but is that breed a good fit for your particular lifestyle? Adopting or purchasing a dog is a long-term commitment, so don't make the decision lightly. There are many factors to consider before adding a pet to your family, so do your homework and investigate different breed characteristics first to learn of any quirks or health issues that might be more than you bargained for. Here are six things to research and think about before choosing which dog is right for you.
Safety –
Some breeds of dogs are thought to be dangerous when in reality, any dog can be a danger to you and your family if the situation is right or they are provoked. A Denver news anchor was recently bitten in the face by an Argentine Mastiff. Does that make all mastiffs dangerous? No. The various mastiff breeds are often referred to as gentle giants.
The pit bull has been given a bad rap for years because of their use in dog-fighting rings, but those that are bred as pets can be just as loving as any Cocker Spaniel. Ignorance of the breed perpetuates the myth, as evidenced by a recent McDonald’s ad. Don’t dismiss any breed on the basis of media hype only.
If you’re concerned that a breed you’re considering might not be good with kids, do your research and talk to other owners to get the straight scoop. If you do decide on a particular breed, be aware that each dog will still have an individual personality and temperament. Not every dog from a breed that’s considered friendly will be good with children. Get to know the dog and his history before bringing him home, and never leave any dog alone with a young child.
Cost -
Even a dog that starts out free or cheap can be costly to keep. Some dogs will bite you in the pocketbook more than others, and those prone to health problems can send you to the poorhouse quickly. Less than desirous qualities aren't limited to purebreds; my Molly is a mix of Golden Retriever, German Shepherd Dog and St. Bernard, three breeds that are known to have hip dysplasia. Guess what $240 worth of x-rays diagnosed Molly with at her first birthday? Don't overlook other health issues predominant in some breeds, such as respiratory problems with dogs with pushed-in noses.
Beyond health issues that can keep your veterinarian in new golf clubs, dogs that destroy your clothing and furniture can eat up your budget (and your sanity) too. Some breeds of dogs tend to settle down after the initial chewing stage that most puppies go through, but others are notorious for tearing a house apart because they don't like to be left alone. Look for breeds that are more laid back if you'd have to leave your dog while you go to work.
Size -
Yes, size does matter. I've always loved the larger breeds, and while most are generally good with kids, they can be intimidating to those who are fearful of dogs. If you're looking for a large dog, make sure the entire family is on board so that your pre-teen daughter doesn't stay locked in her room because she's afraid of your behemoth buddy.
Some small or toy breeds are prone to being nervous and yap a lot, which would be extremely irritating to me. If you don't mind that they need a lot of attention and are constantly underfoot, you might be satisfied with a purse-puppy -- but be careful that you don't step on him.
Space -
Whether you live in a studio apartment or have a large fenced-in yard can help determine which dog is best for you. Surprisingly, some large dogs adapt very well to apartment life (the Great Dane is one), as long as they are walked daily. Even so, a giant of a dog might do better with a bit more room to turn around (think bull in a china shop).
Having a small dog doesn't necessarily mean you don't need space, however. The Jack Russell Terrier, for instance, is diminutive in size, but makes up for it in temperament. This feisty little fella is a very high energy dog and daily walks aren't enough to keep him busy. He needs a place where he can run and explore, and to hinder him from that is asking for trouble.
Grooming -
With few exceptions, all dogs shed, but some more than others. Anyone with a German Shepherd Dog will tell you that it's almost impossible to keep up with their shedding, but many think it's a small price to pay for such a loving companion (myself included). If you can't stand dog hair on your furniture or clothing, look for a Poodle or Poodle-mix.
Many breeds can get by with a simple brushing a few times a week, but others require more extensive primping that might include a trip to a professional groomer every month. Be aware of grooming requirements before you fall in love with a dog whose haircut will cost more than your own.
Several dog breeds are notorious for drooling. If a slobbering dog is a turn-off, you won't want to share your home with any of the Bulldog and Mastiff breeds.
Activity -
Some breeds need a job and will make up their own if you don't give them one. Terriers were bred to dig, and dig they will if not kept occupied. Beagles are known escape artists and won't let anything get in the way of their nose on a scent (I had a Beagle who would walk into a tree because he 'looked' with his nose rather than his eyes). All hounds will howl or bay in excitement when they catch sight or whiff of any small critter in their territory, no matter the time of day or night. You might be able to tolerate any or all of these activities, but consider how they might affect your neighbors too.
What about a mutt?
Mixed breed dogs can take on the characteristics - both good and bad -- of any breed in their genetic makeup. If you're considering a hybrid dog, make sure that you're acquainted with the qualities associated with both breeds. Better yet, for a loving dog with fewer genetic predispositions, head to your local shelter to adopt another of my favorites - the Heinz 57.
*We looked that last term up for you just incase you didn't know:
Q.- What is a Heinz 57 dog?
A.- A "Heinz 57" dog is a mixed breed dog of uncertain ancestry- a mutt. The name refers to the "57 varieties" Heinz slogan.
{source: http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_a_Heinz_57_dog#ixzz1mIormRpN}
What breed of dog is best for me?
 |
| Not our photo- If yours contact for credit please! :) |
{source: http://shine.yahoo.com/breed-dog-best-212900033.html}
You probably have a favorite breed of dog, but is that breed a good fit for your particular lifestyle? Adopting or purchasing a dog is a long-term commitment, so don't make the decision lightly. There are many factors to consider before adding a pet to your family, so do your homework and investigate different breed characteristics first to learn of any quirks or health issues that might be more than you bargained for. Here are six things to research and think about before choosing which dog is right for you.
Safety –
Some breeds of dogs are thought to be dangerous when in reality, any dog can be a danger to you and your family if the situation is right or they are provoked. A Denver news anchor was recently bitten in the face by an Argentine Mastiff. Does that make all mastiffs dangerous? No. The various mastiff breeds are often referred to as gentle giants.
The pit bull has been given a bad rap for years because of their use in dog-fighting rings, but those that are bred as pets can be just as loving as any Cocker Spaniel. Ignorance of the breed perpetuates the myth, as evidenced by a recent McDonald’s ad. Don’t dismiss any breed on the basis of media hype only.
If you’re concerned that a breed you’re considering might not be good with kids, do your research and talk to other owners to get the straight scoop. If you do decide on a particular breed, be aware that each dog will still have an individual personality and temperament. Not every dog from a breed that’s considered friendly will be good with children. Get to know the dog and his history before bringing him home, and never leave any dog alone with a young child.
Cost -
Even a dog that starts out free or cheap can be costly to keep. Some dogs will bite you in the pocketbook more than others, and those prone to health problems can send you to the poorhouse quickly. Less than desirous qualities aren't limited to purebreds; my Molly is a mix of Golden Retriever, German Shepherd Dog and St. Bernard, three breeds that are known to have hip dysplasia. Guess what $240 worth of x-rays diagnosed Molly with at her first birthday? Don't overlook other health issues predominant in some breeds, such as respiratory problems with dogs with pushed-in noses.
Beyond health issues that can keep your veterinarian in new golf clubs, dogs that destroy your clothing and furniture can eat up your budget (and your sanity) too. Some breeds of dogs tend to settle down after the initial chewing stage that most puppies go through, but others are notorious for tearing a house apart because they don't like to be left alone. Look for breeds that are more laid back if you'd have to leave your dog while you go to work.
Size -
Yes, size does matter. I've always loved the larger breeds, and while most are generally good with kids, they can be intimidating to those who are fearful of dogs. If you're looking for a large dog, make sure the entire family is on board so that your pre-teen daughter doesn't stay locked in her room because she's afraid of your behemoth buddy.
Some small or toy breeds are prone to being nervous and yap a lot, which would be extremely irritating to me. If you don't mind that they need a lot of attention and are constantly underfoot, you might be satisfied with a purse-puppy -- but be careful that you don't step on him.
Space -
Whether you live in a studio apartment or have a large fenced-in yard can help determine which dog is best for you. Surprisingly, some large dogs adapt very well to apartment life (the Great Dane is one), as long as they are walked daily. Even so, a giant of a dog might do better with a bit more room to turn around (think bull in a china shop).
Having a small dog doesn't necessarily mean you don't need space, however. The Jack Russell Terrier, for instance, is diminutive in size, but makes up for it in temperament. This feisty little fella is a very high energy dog and daily walks aren't enough to keep him busy. He needs a place where he can run and explore, and to hinder him from that is asking for trouble.
Grooming -
With few exceptions, all dogs shed, but some more than others. Anyone with a German Shepherd Dog will tell you that it's almost impossible to keep up with their shedding, but many think it's a small price to pay for such a loving companion (myself included). If you can't stand dog hair on your furniture or clothing, look for a Poodle or Poodle-mix.
Many breeds can get by with a simple brushing a few times a week, but others require more extensive primping that might include a trip to a professional groomer every month. Be aware of grooming requirements before you fall in love with a dog whose haircut will cost more than your own.
Several dog breeds are notorious for drooling. If a slobbering dog is a turn-off, you won't want to share your home with any of the Bulldog and Mastiff breeds.
Activity -
Some breeds need a job and will make up their own if you don't give them one. Terriers were bred to dig, and dig they will if not kept occupied. Beagles are known escape artists and won't let anything get in the way of their nose on a scent (I had a Beagle who would walk into a tree because he 'looked' with his nose rather than his eyes). All hounds will howl or bay in excitement when they catch sight or whiff of any small critter in their territory, no matter the time of day or night. You might be able to tolerate any or all of these activities, but consider how they might affect your neighbors too.
What about a mutt?
Mixed breed dogs can take on the characteristics - both good and bad -- of any breed in their genetic makeup. If you're considering a hybrid dog, make sure that you're acquainted with the qualities associated with both breeds. Better yet, for a loving dog with fewer genetic predispositions, head to your local shelter to adopt another of my favorites - the Heinz 57.
*We looked that last term up for you just incase you didn't know:
Q.- What is a Heinz 57 dog?
A.- A "Heinz 57" dog is a mixed breed dog of uncertain ancestry- a mutt. The name refers to the "57 varieties" Heinz slogan.
{source: http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_a_Heinz_57_dog#ixzz1mIormRpN}
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