Are Pit Bulls the Most Troublesome Dogs? 28 Common Complaints About Them 

Perhaps one of the most controversial dogs in the world, the pit bull has been vilified by some groups while being advocated for by others. Those who don’t recommend them as pets have a long list of pitbull complaints. Others avow that their pitties are just big, silly babies. Families post pictures of their pit bulls lying next to their children, curled up on their laps, or hamming it up for the camera with a big goofy smile.

Ironically, the pit bull isn’t even a breed unto itself. Rather, the term pit bull refers to a collection of breeds or a combination of them, including the American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Bulldog, and the Bull Terrier. In this article, we explore the question: Are pit bulls the most troublesome dogs?

Read on to find out some of the facts and myths about pit bulls. We’ve studied and put together a list of the 28 most common pit bull complaints. Now you can decide if pit bulls are truly menacing or merely misunderstood.

1. Pit Bulls Are Bred to Be Aggressive

Pit bulls were originally bred for bull-baiting, bear-baiting, and even lion-baiting, which has been documented as far back as the 1600s. The traits that were selected for the job of being able to grasp a huge animal around the head or neck were those such as aggression and tenacity, which we’ll mention later on. In later centuries, they were used for the sport of ratting, and later on — dog fighting.

While aggression has definitely been a trait selected for this particular dog, a lot of the problems can be traced back to the way in which they were raised. Improper training is a huge factor in any dog’s bad behavior. So, in the case of pit bulls, those inherent tendencies can emerge if they’re not trained correctly and socialized early.

2. Pit Bulls Are Unpredictable

Family pit bulls who suddenly turn on their owners or other people have been the subject of many news stories. Part of that issue stems from the way in which the dogs mature. They don’t fully become adults for two years, and they can be fun-loving, sweet-tempered puppies up to that point and suddenly change in temperament.

Because it’s difficult to see which genetic traits puppies have inherited until they’re older, an aggressive trait may emerge in adulthood. There have been several reported cases in which a pit bull has savagely attacked someone without provocation or warning and with no history of previous aggression. Of course, a dog of any breed could suddenly become aggressive out of anger, fear, or pain. Unfortunately, there have been more reports of pit bulls’ sudden turns of aggression than other dog breeds combined.

3. Pit Bulls Have a High Tolerance for Pain

It’s true that some pittie owners swear their dogs are big wimpy babies. However, new research shows that pit bulls are, indeed, among the breeds with the highest tolerance for pain. Other breeds in this category include Rottweilers, boxers, bulldogs, and mastiffs.

Just as herding dogs inherit the instinct for herding through their DNA, pit bulls inherit the selected traits that make them ferocious fighters. Being able to withstand intense pain allows them to continue fighting until the death. All 50 states have outlawed dogfighting, but it still goes on illegally, much to the detriment of the breed.

4. They Are Tenacious Fighters

While another common complaint of pit bulls as a breed is their tenacity in fighting, the blame is on the breeders who began breeding them with that selected gene in mind. The phrase, “They/she/he was like a pit bull,” reflects the truth of just how tenacious these dogs are. They also have a tendency to be stubborn, which adds to their tenacity.

A common myth related to their tenacity is that pit bulls have “locking jaws.” This is completely false. While they do display their tenacity by often refusing to release a bite, this is a behavioral trait and does not have any physical or anatomical truth.

5. Pit Bulls Are Involved in Maulings More Often Than Other Dogs

Pit bulls have several characteristics that involve them in more maulings than other dogs. First of all, they have a bite force of 235 PSI (pounds per square inch). This isn’t the strongest of all dog breeds, but it does rank pit bulls at 14 out of the 20 breeds with the strongest bite force. Additionally, a mixed breed called the American bandogge, a cross between an American pit bull terrier and a mastiff, has the fourteenth strongest bite force of any animal in the US.

Pit bulls also have innate tenacity which often makes them continue their biting and chewing for much longer than other breeds. And, while there is much debate about how aggressive the breed is, the fact remains that more pit bulls than the combination of all other breeds put together are involved in gruesome or deadly attacks.

6. Their Size and Muscular Build is Intimidating

The sheer size and physique of pit bulls make them an intimidating sight for many people. Being one of the most aggressive breeds of dogs, their reputation and size can send people running. On top of that, many disreputable dog owners inject their pitties with anabolic steroids. This increases their size and their aggression.

Their size and muscular build also make them unsuitable for inexperienced owners. Yet, time and again people adopt or buy pit bulls without having the experience to handle this strong dog. If an owner doesn’t set limits for their pit bull, get proper training and socialization, and use caution when bringing them around other animals and people, the pit bull pet could end up being another mauling or fatal attack statistic.

7. Is Their Bark Worse Than Their Bite

It is a myth that pit bulls are prolific barkers. In fact, they are more moderate barkers. Though each individual dog differs in the amount of barking they do, pit bulls typically only bark when given a reason. They will bark to alert their owners of any perceived danger, when they’re afraid, when they’re bored, or when they get excited.

Despite their not being persistent barkers, the sound of their bark can be fearsome. They have a deep, throaty bark that sounds like a direful warning. Their growl is equally frightening. When a dog of their size barks at someone, it could definitely be intimidating.

8. Pit Bulls Are Destructive Chewers

Pit bulls share many traits with other dogs. One of these traits is chewing things when they’re bored. The difference with pit bulls is the level of destruction that they can do. Some pitties have been known to chew through drywall, destroy furniture, and annihilate carpeting.

Another reason that pit bulls may be chewing and destroying your property is that they have separation anxiety. Owners can mitigate the chewing through proper training, daily exercise, and offering appropriate chewing sticks. This can also help if your pit bull is chewing just because it feels good.

9. Pit Bulls Frequently Jump up on People

A common complaint of pit bulls stems from their love of people and of greeting them when they come over. In order to get a better perspective for greeting them, they may jump up on them. This gives them that eye-to-eye view and a better chance to grab their attention. However, this happens to be a natural behavior for most dog breeds.

The problem with pit bulls jumping on people is their size and strength. Not only can a dog with the build of a powerful pit bull be intimidating when it comes to being jumped up on, but it can cause injuries as well. It’s crucial for owners to train their pit bulls from a young age to sit or stay down when greeting people.

10. Pit Bull Puppies Have a Mouthing and Biting Problem

Like most puppies of any breed, pit bull puppies tend to bite. They may bite out of fear, when they’re teething, or simply out of over-exuberance. Some owners think that the nipping and biting during play is “cute,” so they tolerate it or even encourage it.

When owners allow or encourage a puppy to bite, they are rewarding them for a negative behavior. And while a puppy biting with its little razor-sharp teeth is merely uncomfortable, a full-grown pit bull’s bite is quite another thing. It’s essential to train pit bull puppies when they’re young not to bite because, when they’re full-grown, their bite force can cause serious injuries.

11. They Frequently Suffer From Separation Anxiety

Pit bulls love their owners and usually develop a close bond with them. But this close bond can make it difficult for these dogs to cope when their owners leave them alone. Many pit bulls develop separation anxiety when left alone for too long.

When pitties suffer from separation anxiety, they often act out. They sometimes destroy property. Others may howl or bark continuously or even have bathroom accidents inside. Proper training can help these dogs learn to manage their behavior when left alone. And, since separation anxiety-related behavior is the number one cause of owners surrendering their pit bulls, it’s important to deal with the problem right away.

12. Pit Bulls Tend to Resource Guard

People sometimes refer to resource guarding as possessive aggression. This happens when dogs get protective over their food, toys, or any other possessions. They will sometimes guard their possessions and bark, growl, or bare their teeth if a person or other animal gets too close.

This behavior is actually a natural one that dogs have developed over time in order to survive. Though it’s natural, it can be a huge problem in adult dogs. Pit bulls who guard their resources could end up seriously hurting their owners, other pets, or other people.

Individual dogs may vary in regard to resource guarding, but genetics plays a part in this behavior as well. Many pit bulls are adopted from shelters, and their history may have warranted this behavior. Stress, medical issues, or lack of stimulation and exercise can also play a part in resource guarding. Once again, proper training is key to stopping this dangerous behavior.

13. Bad Behavior is a Genetic Disposition

Why are pit bulls in the news more often than other breeds? A report from the CDC confirms that pit bulls were responsible for more dog-bite-related deaths than any other dog breed in the twenty-year period between 1978 and 1998. There is no current CDC data since they stopped collecting it from specific breeds.

Of course, other dog breeds have had incidents of bad behavior. However, pit bulls were bred to fight and kill, and that is a hard reputation to shake. Genetically, they do have a greater disposition toward aggression. That’s part of the “nature” contribution. But the “nurture” aspect of their upbringing is equally as significant. There are good owners and irresponsible owners. An experienced, consistent, and patient owner can definitely raise a loyal and friendly pit bull.

14. They Require Copious Amounts of Exercise

The pit bull does require lots of exercise in order to curb bad behavior, prevent obesity, and live out its relatively long lifespan. This breed is intelligent and needs mental stimulation. Their high levels of energy require physical stimulation as well. Anyone thinking of adopting a pit bull should make sure they have the time and energy to devote to the breed’s needs.

It can be a lot of fun to provide exercise activities for pit bulls. Running and walking help to build up their muscles. Activities like flyball and frisbee give them a positive way in which to use their natural penchant for running and jumping while stimulating their minds. Providing these activities offers owners a chance to bond with their pets as well.

15. Several States Have Banned Pit Bulls

Currently, there are 37 states in the US that have either banned pit bulls completely or have enacted breed-specific legislation. States like Arkansas and Colorado have dozens of cities that prohibit people from owning or transporting pit bulls and bully breeds. Other states like Michigan and Ohio have cities in which owners must muzzle their pit bulls or put special green collars on them before taking them out in public.

These cities and states have enacted their legislation in response to both statistical results and outright myths about the pit bull breed. For instance, the propensity toward aggression due to their breeding and often abuse is one reason for the laws. However, myths about their locking jaws and that dog aggression is an inescapable lead-in to people aggression have also been factors in this legislation. Therefore, it’s essential to find out about any pit bull legislation or bans in your own city.

16. They Can Be Hard to Train

Though pit bulls can be quite stubborn and independent, they aren’t always difficult to train. Early training can help them become loyal and loving pets. By training them as puppies, owners can avoid the dogs’ adopting negative behaviors.

Anyone wanting to own a pit bull should be willing to show patience, be consistent, use positive reinforcement, and avoid punishing their dogs. The consistent, firm, positive demeanor of an experienced dog owner will ensure the best possible outcome for a pit bull’s development. Many experts recommend beginning training when the pit bull puppy is between six and eight weeks old.

17. Pit Bull Owners Have a Negative Stigma

Despite American pitbull terriers ranking as the ninth most popular dogs as pets in 2021, owners still sometimes carry a negative stigma. The news often relays stories — unfortunately, true ones — of pit bulls suddenly becoming aggressive and attacking people’s pets and, sometimes, people themselves. To many, people who walk their pit bulls through town are akin to someone walking with a loaded gun pointed at people.

Unfortunately, people sometimes see pit bull owners as criminals or unsavory characters. They pigeonhole the owners as irresponsible people who are inflicting a dangerously vicious dog upon society. Yet, many pittie owners are responsible people who have invested time and energy into training their dogs to be good canine citizens.

18. They Are Prone to Lots of Medical Conditions

Pit bulls have an average to above-average life expectancy. Some of the more common health issues they face are non-life-threatening. Skin infections and allergies are the more prevalent issues they experience. Separation anxiety is another more common affliction. However, all of these issues are fairly easy to mitigate with proper vet care and training.

This breed does have a propensity toward skin cancer due to their short fur. Pitties with white fur are the most prone to this affliction. Hip dysplasia is not uncommon in the breed either. But all dog breeds have health concerns that are particular to their breed, and pit bulls are no exception. Regular health check-ups with a qualified vet, proper care, and good nutrition can prevent most health problems.

19. Pit Bulls Can Be Stubborn

Individual dogs within the pit bull breed vary, but stubbornness can certainly be one of their traits. Here, again, is where proper and consistent early training can help owners raise well-behaved dogs. When training is begun as early as six to eight weeks old, owners can help their furry friends develop positive behaviors.

20. They Are Territorial

Pit bulls can indeed be territorial. As mentioned earlier, they can become territorial over food and toys which is displayed in resource guarding. They may also display territorial behavior in terms of their property and families.

These dogs are very loyal to and protective of their families. Therefore, with their protective natures comes their proclivity toward being territorial. This can be a concern where other animals unfamiliar with the pittie are concerned. While most pit bulls won’t attack humans, they may attack other dogs or animals that come into their territory.

21. They Don’t Fully Mature For Two Years

The time it takes to mature varies from individual to individual, as in most dog breeds. Still, the pit bull group as a whole takes a bit longer than most. These dogs don’t typically mature fully until they’re two, and sometimes three, years old.

At one year to 18 months old, when they’ve reached full physical maturity, they become very large puppies. Their emotional and social maturity hasn’t yet caught up to their physical growth. That can make it difficult to handle them if they haven’t been trained early enough.

22. Pit Bulls Carry a Bad Reputation

There was a time in American history in which pit bulls were actually the breed of choice for many families. TV shows like The Little Rascals popularized the breed with their dog, Petey, in the 1920s. From the turn of the 20th century to the 1930s, Americans admired the breed for its loyalty, bravery, friendliness, and hardworking demeanor. Many families adopted pit bulls as their pet of choice.

The 1970s brought a sharp turnaround in the breed’s reputation. Dog fighting began to increase, and pit bulls were treated cruelly to make them meaner. Breeders often injected them with steroids and amphetamines to increase their strength and aggression. The increase in breeding for negative traits wrought more dog attack fatalities and a downward spiral of the dogs’ reputation.

23. Backyard Breeders Are Carrying Out Random Breeding

People who are irresponsible and unethical and who breed dogs over and over again to make money are often called backyard breeders. The overbreeding and inevitable inbreeding results in genetic defects and health problems. The poor doggie moms are used up and often discarded when they’re not useful to the breeder any longer.

This type of breeding often leads to aggressive dogs who end up in shelters. The shelter dogs, in turn, often go to inexperienced owners who do not train them properly. This leads to aggressive behavior and possible attacks, which further discredits the breed and makes people afraid of them.

24. They Are the Most Surrendered Breed of Dog

People surrender pit bulls to animal shelters for so many reasons. For one, many breeders discard mama dogs when they’re no longer profitable for them. Other times, people adopt pit bulls without understanding all that’s involved, and they end up surrendering the animals. At any rate, pit bulls populate shelters at an alarming rate.

All in all, the dog-fighting realm is still going strong despite the illegality. That brings a multitude of dogs to shelters, and those dogs often have injuries or severe anxiety caused by the inclination to avoid fighting. They may bear the effects of neglect and abuse. Many people are unwilling to take a chance on a dog with that kind of unstable history, leaving the dogs for prolonged periods in the shelters.

25. They Are the Breed of Choice For Criminals

As drug dealers and other criminals began using pit bulls to guard their caches of drugs and money, the pit bulls became associated with the criminal element. Not only were they guard dogs, but they also served to warn their owners of police or others approaching the house. They were the preferred dog of choice to this darker side of the population because of their intimidating looks, tenacity, and inbred aggressive tendencies.

For some of these criminals, pit bulls are also a status symbol. Police reports also show that some of these owners sic their dogs on others for the slightest provocation. The unfortunate fallout is that the onus is put on the dogs rather than the owners.

26. They Are Dog-Aggressive

Born to fight other dogs, pit bulls do have the instinct to be dog-aggressive. However, with early socialization and the correct training, they can become tolerant of other canines. Any dog can become dog-aggressive, so it’s always essential to supervise your dog when around other pups.

It’s critical to remember that pit bulls do have the inbred predilection for aggressiveness hard-wired into their brains. And while they may get along great with other dogs and even cats for years, there’s a possibility for a sudden change in temperament which can be traced back to their breeding. It’s always safer to supervise pit bulls around any other animals.

27. Pit Bulls Represent the Majority of All Dog Attacks

Pit bulls represent a mere 6% of the total number of dogs in our country. Yet, 68% of dog attacks since 1982 and 52% of deaths resulting from attacks have been caused by pit bulls. The numbers are astounding but taken with the knowledge of how these dogs are mistreated, it’s not surprising.

There are a multitude of responsible pittie owners who supervise their dogs and train them appropriately. However, there are an abundance of irresponsible owners as well. The combination of inexperienced or negligent owners with the frequent mistreatment of these dogs is a problem for everyone.

28. They Are the Most Abused Dog in the World

It’s a sad fact that pit bulls represent the most abused and neglected dogs of any breed. The breed overrepresents the sector of abused dogs to the point that the Animal Justice League of America has set up a website for reporting pitbull abuse and neglect. The number of pit bulls that are mistreated and the degree to which they are abused is staggering.

Pit bulls are often used, though illegally, as fighting dogs. Their owners starve and mistreat them to keep them mean. They cut their ears off and beat them. Females are used to breed litter after litter until they are recklessly abandoned or killed. About one million pit bulls are euthanized each year as they comprise 6% of all dogs in US shelters.

Conclusion

Pit bulls are the most misunderstood dog breed in the world. Through no fault of their own, they have certain genetic traits which have been bred into them. However, they don’t need to be victims of their history. If owners understand the training and care involved with owning a pit bull, they help others to see these dogs as the amazing breed they are.