FACT: The “Pit Bull” is not an official breed.
Animal Rescue League of Boston
“Pit Bull” is an umbrella term commonly reported to contain the following 3 registered breeds of dogs: Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and American Pit Bull Terrier.
According to the American Temperament Test Society, Pit Bulls pass their temperment test—conducted by a trained handler—87% of the time. That ranks them as 4th best of 122 breeds tested, meaning they are one of the most affectionate and least aggressive dogs.
Central California SPCA
Pit Bulls do extremely well on the “canine good citizen test.” “From my years’ experience, pit bulls are the most people-friendly, children-friendly, human-social, and passed temperament tests higher than most breeds
VC Reporter
A test conducted by National Geographic in 2008 on three popular dog breeds showed that the bite force of Pit Bulls came in last, behind both German Shepherds and Rottweilers. Note: ( Pit Bulls have lock jaws) This is a myth that has been spread for years.
Central California SPCA
Pit Bulls are more likely to obey their owners and require fewer command repetitions. This breed is easier to train than many other breeds. For owners who love to be active, pit bulls will keep you well exercised. This breed is very energetic and requires daily activity to stay in shape and remain content.
Humane Society for Boone County
Pit Bulls are great with children. Pit Bulls are a loyal, people-oriented breed that thrive as part of the family. They are affectionate with both adults and children. Note: All children should be taught how to interact with animals and should be supervised when playing with any animal.
Petfinder.com
At one point in history, Pit Bulls were considered trustworthy enough with children to be called nurse maids or nanny dogs.
Central California SPCA
Pit Bulls don’t require much grooming. Their short coat is very low maintenance and they can be bathed in very little time — not that they need to be bathed often. They do not need to be brushed (though most enjoy it) or get doggie haircuts, and their fur is not naturally odiferous.
Petfinder.com
In their “Pit Bull Facts,” The Villalobos Rescue center cites a 1999 article by Dunbar that shines a light on the sweet nature of properly bred Pit Bulls
“Today, a properly bred Pit Bull is so exuberantly happy upon meeting her owner’s friends (or even friendly strangers) that new owners sometimes worry that their dog is too sweet and fun-loving to protect their home and family. A multitalented companion, the well-trained Pit Bull is suited for a variety of exciting activities. He excels at obedience, agility and weight pulling competitions, events, which showcase intelligence, training ability and strength. In addition, the Pit Bull’s pleasant nature makes him an ideal candidate for therapy work with people.”
The Villalobos Rescue Center
Pit Bulls are very eager to please people. A Pit Bull will do almost anything his favorite people ask of him, just to hear their praise. These dogs crave our attention and approval, and are very social with humans. This devotion to people has contributed heavily to the bad reputation of Pit Bulls, because a bad person can use a Pit Bull’s eagerness to please to train the dog for nefarious or criminal purposes.
Petfinder.com