Pit Bull Characteristics
Pit bulls are commonly confident, people-oriented dogs that can develop a strong sense of dependence on their humans. Caring for a pit bull requires an extremely responsible person. Because of their affectionate but dependent natures, it is particularly important to provide balance with Cesar’s fulfillment formula, making sure that they have plenty of exercise and discipline before they receive affection.
Because of their dependence upon humans, pit bulls respond well to positive reinforcement training and praise—they want to impress you by learning new tricks and showing submissive behavior.
Despite popular misconceptions, pit bulls do not make ideal guard dogs because they are so people-oriented. Training pit bulls to be guard dogs can just make them aggressive toward all people, including their own pack.
Pit Bull Health
Pit bulls are generally healthy, living on average 12 to 14 years, with few issues—they can be susceptible to parvovirus as puppies, as well as allergies as adults, and hip dysplasia and hereditary cataracts as seniors. Pit bulls are also energetic, and should get a minimum of 30 to 45 minutes of vigorous exercise per day. As with all dogs, be sure your pit bull has up-to-date vaccinations, as well as annual or semi-annual veterinary check-ups.
Bringing a pit bull into your family does take a lot of dedication and commitment, but the love you will receive in return will be more than worth your time and effort. There’s another benefit as well. Bringing up your pit bull to be calm, submissive and well-behaved will create a canine breed-ambassador—like Daddy and Junior—and help teach the world the truth: There are no bad breeds, just badly raised dogs.
