Let’s just get the pink elephant out of the way now: Pitbulls have a bad reputation. This stereotype is just that – the “big, scary pitbull” stereotype is a foolish theory, just like most stereotypes. No matter the breed, every dog’s mentality and temperament are shaped from the story of its life and environment combined with its genetics. Are they the right type of dog for everyone? Of course not. Being a pitbull owner requires commitment, a thick skin, and an even bigger heart. What a lot of people don’t know or fail to realize, is that in the right hands, pitbulls can be the most caring and affectionate pet you’ll ever have. They have big personalities and are very loving, loyal, easy to care for, hilarious, trainable, and more. They truly encompass everything a great dog should be!
1. YOU’LL NEVER FEEL UNLOVED – PREPARE FOR AN OVERLOAD OF LOVE AND AFFECTION
Pitbulls are extremely affectionate, loving, and devoted animals. Their zest for life is truly infectious. They like to cuddle, wiggle, and give you kisses. And, don’t forget about that incredible pittie smile! Pitbulls are smart and very in-tune with human emotion – they like to remind you regularly of how they much they love you. Pitbulls have a ton of personality and appreciate their owner’s attention and approval more than anything. You truly can’t have a bad day with a pitbull. Why? Just take one look at them – their huge smile and flopping tongue will undoubtedly make you smile as well.
2. SNUGGLE BUGS: CUDDLING IS NOT OPTIONAL
Repeat: No matter where you are, the bed or the couch, cuddling IS mandatory! Pitbulls are GREAT cuddlers, so you may need to consider a different breed if you aren’t a fan of snuggling up close with your dog. We’re pretty sure pitbulls have a cuddle gene in their DNA, because impromptu cuddle sessions are very frequent and necessary!
3. PITBULLS LOVE PEOPLE AND CHILDREN
Pitbulls are lovers! Since the 1900s, pitbulls were given the title of “Nanny Dogs” because they are natural caretakers. Many tend to show particular affection towards children, understanding their vulnerability and being a warmhearted companion to them. This is also why they make great family pets, because they are so devoted to their family. It’s always super encouraging to watch someone’s reaction when meeting a loving pitbull, especially when the pitbull is better behaved and affectionate than other dog breeds that they have experienced. Of course, it is worth mentioning all dogs should always be supervised when around children, regardless of breed.
4. PITS HAVE BIG PERSONALITIES – THEY’RE HILARIOUS, FRIENDLY, AND FUN
Pitties make sure you never go a day without smiling. They are goofy and love to make us laugh by clowning around. They are natural entertainers, whether that’s their intention or not. Their expressive faces and charming antics make them great companions. Pits are fun and playful – even as they get older, they love to play around. They are extremely friendly, always wagging those big tails and quickly bond very strongly to their owners.
5. PITBULLS ARE RIDICULOUSLY LOYAL AND ALWAYS EAGER TO PLEASE YOU
If there was one word to describe a pitbull, it would be “loyal”. When you visit a shelter, you won’t find another type of dog that is happier to see you than a pitbull. A best friend is all a pitbull is searching for, and they are eager to quickly grant that honor to you when you choose them. Still doubtful? Reach out to Friends to the Forlorn and come meet a few of them; our dogs will undoubtedly speak for themselves.
6. PITTIES ARE HIGHLY INTELLIGENT AND EASILY TRAINABLE
Pitbulls are easy to work with and super smart; they learn quickly and pick up proper training very well. They crave consistency, structure, and strong guidance from their human. Give them that and watch them thrive. Pitbulls have gone on to become therapy and service dogs, agility champions, search & rescue dogs, and even military heroes. Pits are great listeners and, when their training in consistent, they will amaze you with their obedience skills – and maybe teach you a thing or two as well!
7. PITBULLS ARE SOCIAL BUTTERFLIES
Pitbulls can be very sociable dogs. Many love meeting people and even other animals. They are eager and quick to make new friends and are typically quick to trust others. They tend to love human contact, so if you’re a people-person their friendly personality is a perfect companion match for you. When your pittie sees you being social with another person, they will often follow your lead and treat your friend in the same manner with plenty of kisses, wiggles, and excitement, which is also another great way to spread the awareness about how great pitbulls truly are.
8. PITBULLS LOVE SPORTS, ACTIVITIES, AND EXERCISE
Pitbulls are typically athletic by nature and generally love to exercise just as much as they love to lay around and snuggle on the couch. Their drive for activity, stimulating the mind as well as burning off some energy, helps to keep their owners active as well. They are muscular and fit, and typically excel in agility and weight-pulling. If you are looking for a new jogging partner, a pitbull could be your dog! Just be aware their shorter snouts can cause them to be sensitive to heat, so know the signs of overheating and be prepared with lots of water and cool air. No worries if you’re not a runner, pitbulls are also happy with a walking pace. Many pitbulls also love to swim if you have the opportunity to provide them with a cool pool, lake, or even creek. They just need to exert their energy and prefer to do so while bonding time with their owner – you’ll instantly notice how happy it makes them!
9. PITBULLS ARE LOW MAINTENANCE, HEALTHY, AND EASY-GOING DOGS
As a diversified dog, pitbulls typically have had the advantages of vast and extensive genetics. The ancestors of pitbulls were working dogs due to their strength and long life expectancies, descending mainly from farming lifestyles. Minimal grooming? Yes, please. With short coats, pitbulls only shed moderately and just require regular bathing, nail clipping, and ear cleaning. They don’t tend to have health disorders like some other large dog breeds thanks to often having DNA made up of different types of dogs, and, as long as they exercise regularly, they are normally satisfied living in any home setting.
10. PITBULLS ARE ETERNALLY GRATEFUL – THEY WILL THANK YOU DAILY FOR THE REST OF THEIR LIFE
When you adopt your pitbull, your life will never be the same. It will be changed forever because from that day you bring your pitbull to their forever home, they will return the favor and spend every day of the rest of their lives rescuing you right back. They cling to their owners with fierce loyalty. They will stay by your side all day and night, giving you all their love, and are there for you no matter what.
It’s so unfortunate that there is an extreme overpopulation of pitbulls and simply not enough good homes to offset the need. Whether it be encouraging responsible ownership, supporting spay/neuter, providing proper training, or educating owners so they can keep their pets, we all have to work together to save these amazing animals and help them spend their lives in loving, furever homes. At Friends to the Forlorn, our goal is to help them do just that!
Thankfully, there are a lot of people who have joined us in educating the public about the breed and are helping to dismiss the negative stereotypes and false myths. Even if you aren’t able to adopt just yet, please take this opportunity to spread the word about wonderful pitbulls really are. Spreading awareness and education is crucial to saving the lives of the dogs we love.
Ready to make a pitbull part of your family? Visit our Adopt page to learn how you can give one of our pitbulls a second chance and adopt the best friend you’ll have ever have!