Pit Bull Terrier totally antisocial and aggressive?!?

Question

I have a pit bull and he is one vicious dog. He's nice with me, but he seems like he's ready to rip other people and dogs into pieces. I only hope my leash is strong enough... When I go to the dog park he cant get along with other dogs either. He does not have any "friends"... Sometimes weeks would go by without anyone sniffing his butt. What can I do to make him more friendly?

Answer 1

If you own a mature pit bull (i.e., one who has physically reached the age of maturity, usually anywhere between 10 months and 1 year), you SHOULD NOT be taking him to a dog park. Pit bulls (even trained and socialized ones) have a genetic disposition for dog aggression, especially toward strange dogs. Owners of pit bulls must be aware of this trait, respect it, and take proactive measures to protect their own pet and the pets of others. For a pit bull, the dog park is an attack waiting (or not waiting) to happen. Socialization is so important though, so I suggest first getting his aggression under control from a certified pet trainer, preferably one who specializes in aggressive behaviors. If your pit reponds well to training, some SUPERVISED play with another known dog could be helpful. Regardless, keep out of the dog park, because in allowing you pit to socialize off leash with strange dogs, you are not only jepardizing your own dog's safety, but the safety of other people's pets as well. Pit bulls MUST have responsible owners!!

However, if your pit is demonstrating aggressive behaviors toward other PEOPLE, that is not normal, and must be evaluated by a professional immediately. Pits may be dog aggressive, but they are most certainly not human aggressive. If they are, there may be a serious medical problem, or worse. See your vet promptly.

PS. If you worry about your ability to control your pit on leash, by all means muzzle him. It does nothing to help avoid the stereotype, but then again, neither does your lack of training and socialization of this dog. And it could save a life.

Answer 2

I wouldn't take him to the dog park. Pit bulls have aggression towards other dogs genetically bred in. I'd frequent the walking, trying to get him used to being around other people. If you have a good friend with a dog maybe try setting up a time for them to get together, but don't let them get into a stare down. Exercise the dog and it's mind.

I've got a seven month old that was showing some signs of destructive behavior and aggression. She wasn't getting enough exercise. I upped her movement, and its helped a ton.

Answer 3

I am a pit bull rescuer and this seems to a common thing in some dogs. You are probably making his aggression much worse by taking him to a dog park around all the other dogs and people. Especially if he doesnt like them. I would seek out an animal behaviorist in your town to work with him to get him comfortable with being in public. The last thing that you want is for him to bite someone because he will be put down and you will suffer immense fines for your dogs actions.

Answer 4

First, take him to a vet to make sure he doesn't have anything medically - often a dog that is hurting displays this as aggression. Also, consider neutering him.

Secondly, After the clean bill of health, as others have said, take him to a trainer that specializes in aggressive dogs.

Third - again as others have said, Keep him away from children unless you want a lawsuit. And don't let him around other dogs unsupervised.

It will take time and effort to re-train Rocky but in the end, it will be well worth it - if only to avoid a lawsuit.

Answer 5

I would strongly urge you to get into dog obedience training with your dog. Pit bulls are sometimes bred to be aggresive - do you know anything about the parents? At least obedience training (and it must continue for life after the class) will make him easier for you to handle. Depending on his age, it may take quite a lot of training before you get the results you need. Good luck.

Answer 6

Put the dog on a harness (easier to keep control of his strength & body weight) & begin with a muzzle (in case he want's to bite) keep walking him around people and pets. The more exposure the less aggressive he will become. He just is not socialized. It takes time or you can look for a local dog training course which can help, they also know behavior modification techniques.

Answer 7

Ive heard storys apout pitbulls hurting adults and children,But however I know that no dog can put any trust into people,Unless they really love him.Your dog is very protective over you,and dosent want anybody to come near his property.Some dogs are born with a bad disposition

Answer 8

There are many urban legends surrounding the pit bull, mostly based on the idea that the dogs are somehow physiologically different from other breeds of dog.

Answer 9

OK I see your up to having a little fun this morning. Well I'm sure many people will give you some heart felt advise.

My advise is for you to pick on a different breed of dog. Pit bulls get enough bad press without you making crap up.

Enjoy you fun.

Answer 10

Find a trainer who specializes in aggressive dogs. Be sure they use positive training methods and have good references. Most cases like this are an issue of lack of proper socialization. This is a serious issue and can only be addressed by a properly trained, certified dog trainer/ethologist.

Cindi G.
Pet Trainer