The key to introducing your Pit Bull (especially if they already have a tendency for dog aggression) is to have the dogs meet by taking a walk in a neutral area (i.e. somewhere either dog has ever been before). By walking in a neutral area you minimize, if not diminish, the risk of one dog exhibiting any type of territorial behavior. Before going out for the walk, be sure that each dog is properly fitted with a properly fitted collar and sturdy leash. It is not recommended to use choke chains or prong collars when going through the introduction, as you risk injury to your dog if a fight does break out. [Read more…]
Crate and Rotate
Perhaps you acquired same-sex pit bulls that, upon maturation, no longer tolerate each other. Maybe you have a multi-dog household, and two or more of your dogs have recently been fighting. Or you recently added a pit bull to your home, and it just isn’t working out with the other dogs. Whatever the reason, by employing the use of ‘Crate and Rotate’ in your home you will be able to safely manage your pets and maintain them in your home. A pet is a lifetime commitment; re-homing should be a last resort. Dog aggression is common among Pit Bulls and other bully breed dogs, and it is important to recognize this behavior for what it really is, and accept the reality that this breed has selectively been bred to be aggressive towards other dogs. [Read more…]
The Problem With Chaining Dogs
I am not talking about putting a leash on your dog to take him for a leisurely walk through the neighborhood, as there is certainly no problem with Fido getting some much-needed exercise to work off the holiday pounds. Instead, I am talking about the practice of attaching your dog to a stationary object, such as a stake or tree, and attaching a leash, chain or rope as a means of confining your canine companion. Dogs are social creatures, and being confined to a small space for long periods of time can cause immense psychological damage. This inhumane practice can harm not only the dog, but also poses a threat to other animals and humans. [Read more…]
Dogs and Kids, Preparing Your Pet for a New Baby
Welcoming a new baby into the family is a very exciting time, and it is important for parents to make sure that their canine companion(s) are ready for the changes that are about to take place. Instead of waiting a week before your arrival home from the hospital with your new human to start instituting harsh changes and new rules, it is important to start making gradual changes in your dog’s routine to get them adjusted to the idea that soon they will be sharing the house with another person. The sooner you start, the easier the transition will be, and less unsure you will be about your new family dynamic. [Read more…]
Bully Play Dates
The following is an account of actual events that take place in my backyard on a regular basis involving my two dogs – Pit Bull and American Bulldog, and a roommate’s American Staffordshire Terrier. By encouraging this sort of off-leash play with other dogs we have helped to assure that our dogs receive the proper socialization within a safe environment. Dog aggression is always a concern with bully breeds, and we as owners should always take proper steps to assure that our dogs will not be on the receiving end of any unwanted attention resulting from an incident. Bully play groups are always a great option to have the dogs interact within a controlled space, but just as we as humans have people we can not get along with, dogs do too, and owners need to be respectful and mindful of their dog’s particular needs. The following is a description of some of the typical bulldog play fighting our dogs frequently engage in.