Not much point in singling out breeds that are not included in the DDA's ban list. Any large powerful dog I agree can do much damage. I love Pit Bulls, I really do but as I stated in a previous post they need a certain type/kind of owner that could do the breed justice for all the right reasons and not the wrong ones, you cannot compare them to any other breed on this earth..I was told or read somewhere that they have a different enzyme in their brain that causes them to react in different ways than any other dog breed, as do Chows I belive. (I'll try and find the source of that information again)
Maybe the answer to your previous question Dawn regarding why they tend to 'snap' and attack with the severity they do

That may explain why Chows/Chow mixes were also responsible for quite a high number of fatalities.
Becky

obviously nearly everyone on here has a dog! so imagine the pain the families who owned these dogs have gone through! How would you feel if someone knocked your door tomorrow and said they had to take your dog to put it to sleep because in was of a certain type? I know there would be a lot of broken hearts

you just can't ban a breed? it's just not right!

The youtube video is excellent, "Pit Bulls have been fighting for humans its time for humans to fight for Pit Bulls"

I've never met a pitbull to my knowledge so have no direct experience. I have thought the issues surrounding them must be related to their breeding, what they were bred for (and therefore their instincts) and their ownership.

Therefore if it is down to the owner and their training/treatment it might seem that these dogs need specialist care and should not be available to just anyone, not bred by just anyone else they can be deadly. So perhaps there should be strings and checks attached to both, rather than banning.

I found this which kind of said it for me:

http://www.pbrc.net/breedinfo.html

Breed Information Related Links
PBRC is against the cruel sport of pit-fighting, past and present. There is NO justifiable reason to throw two dogs in a pit and watch them tear each other apart.

Following is basic breed information for anyone interested in acquiring a pit bull*, for those who already have one or more and would like to learn more about the breed, or for anyone who would simply like to understand these great dogs a little better.

This page discusses the most notable traits of pit bull type dogs, including the potential for dog-aggression as well as their great love for people. You will learn that while pit bulls make wonderful family companions in the right hands and living situation, they require intelligent, responsible and dedicated ownership. Unfortunately, too many people obtain these dogs for the wrong reason and/or have little understanding of the inherent traits this breed possesses. It is unfortunate that one of the original purposes of the APBT was (and still is) dog-to-dog combat, but it's a fact that can't be denied or ignored. It's important that every potential pit bull owner understand the selective breeding process that took place to make the dogs of today.

PBRC is committed to educating current and potential pit bull owners so they have a better understanding of their dog and provide responsible and caring ownership. PBRC does not condone animal fighting, but acknowledges the importance of respecting the special traits of the breed and advocates education regarding responsible pit bull ownership. While a dog-owner can have all the dog experience in the world, it is also essential to understand the distinctive features of the type of dog you own or work with -- in this case, a dog with an important fighting background that requires extra vigilance around other pets.

*Pit bull is NOT a breed. It's a generic term often used to describe all dogs with similar traits and characteristics often known by the public as "pit bulls".

Remember that little is known about the background of rescue dogs. Some may be gamebred APBTs (from fighting lines), some may be registered show dogs, some may be AmStaffs, some may look like APBTs but might be mixed with other breeds, etc. Since there is no way to know for sure unless you have the pedigree of the dog, we recommend following the guidelines offered by PBRC for any pit bull type dog. See PBRC's FAQ for more information.

Basic Breed Overview
Pit bulls are wonderful animals that deserve a chance to have a good life like any other dog. However, it's important to remember that pit bulls are not just any other dog - They are a little more of everything a dog can be.

Pit bulls have superior physical and mental characteristics that make them excellent partners for responsible, active, and caring owners. On the other hand, these same outstanding qualities can make them a little difficult to handle for people who don't have a lot of experience with dog ownership, or for those who don't understand the breed very well. Luckily, pit bulls are very responsive to training and eager to please. It is therefore strongly recommended to take them to obedience classes as soon as they are up to date with their shots. (Pit bulls are prone to parvovirus, so it is important that they receive all their vaccinations before coming into contact with other dogs or going places that other dogs frequent.) A well behaved and obedient pit bull will be a great ambassador for the breed and help fight prejudice and misconception.

Pit bulls are very adaptable and will even do well in urban living provided they have enough exercise or other positive outlets for their energy. Many pit bulls are easygoing couch-potatoes but can also be somewhat rambunctious until they mature. Maturity can come pretty late with this breed (2 to 3 years old in some cases). Pit bulls remain playful all their life and have a great sense of humor. Real clowns at heart, these dogs will make you laugh like no other.

Pit bulls are strong, energetic, agile, and powerful dogs. They are also very resourceful and driven. Determination is one of their most notable traits. Whatever they set out to do, they put their heart and soul into it...Whether it is escaping an inadequately fenced yard to go explore the neighborhood, destroying your new couch when left home alone, or climbing into your lap to shower you with kisses! They just don't give up easily.

Stahlkuppe (1995) writes, "The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT), or the AmStaff, is certainly not the right pet for everyone. Being a powerful dog, it will require sufficient and adequate control. Some prospective elderly owners or children, will not be able to supply that control... A first-time dog owner, in the minds of many experienced dog breeders, should not buy an APBT or an AmStaff! An insecure person who wants only an aggressive dog to bolster some personal human inadequacy should never become an owner of one of these dogs. An uncaring or negligent person should not buy an AmStaff or an APBT (or any other dog for that matter)."

Another very important characteristic of pit bull dogs is their amazing love of people. Many people are surprised by the loving personality of these dogs the first time they meet one. Pit bull dogs are indeed remarkably affectionate and truly enjoy human attention. They are wonderful cuddlers, and nothing beats a belly rub. In fact, most pit bulls think they are lap dogs!

Dunbar (1999) writes: "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 multi-talented 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, trainability and strength. In addition, the pit bull's pleasant nature makes him an ideal candidate for therapy work with people."

Human aggression, severe shyness, and instability are not traits typically found and accepted in the APBT breed. Dogs with these traits are not good representatives of the breed and should not be placed into adoptive homes.

Like any other breed, pit bulls can develop behavior problems if poorly bred, mishandled, abused, unsocialized, etc., that could result in inappropriate aggression. Any large, strong, and powerful dog that attacks can do a lot of damage. This is why temperament evaluation is important when dealing with dogs of certain size and potential.

Unlike the myth propagated by the media however, human aggression is NOT a problem specific to pit bulls. In fact, pit bulls tend to do better than average in temperament tests.

The American Temperament Test Society provides temperament testing around the country for dog breeds, and gives a passing score for the entire breed based on the percentage of passed over failed within total number of the particular breed tested. As of December 2003, the American Pit Bull Terrier has a current passing rate of 83.9%, and the American Staffordshire Terrier passes at 83.2%. In comparison, The Golden Retriever passing rate is 83.2%.

Pit bull type dogs are wonderful, loving, and very loyal companions. It is important however, to understand the breed's nature, to provide a structured environment, and to establish a positive leadership role. In order to do so, pit bull owners must understand the original purpose of the breed, and respect its limits and potential.

The Breed's Original Purpose
Humans have created specialized dogs through emphasizing desired traits and eliminating unwanted ones. It is no different with the pit bull type dogs. The American Pit Bull Terrier has been "selectively" bred for hundreds of years to fight other dogs. This is the sad "work" these dogs were created for. In the same way that Labradors were bred to retrieve birds, APBTs were bred to face other dogs in mortal combat. Even in dogs that are not recently bred from fighting lines, the urge to fight can arise at any time. Not to strongly emphasize this fact would be negligent.

That said, we can't blame specialized breeds for behaving as they were bred to. Specific traits were bred into the dogs and are now part of the breed's character. It's like the digging instinct of many Terriers, the herding behavior in Shelties, the compulsion to run in Greyhounds, etc. Your Pointer may have never spent a day on a real hunt, but he may still point and flush birds as his ancestors did.

It's a mistake to think that the fighting gene can be trained or loved out of a dog, or that early socialization will guarantee your pit bull will always get along with other animals. There are precautions to take when owning pit bulls, especially in a multiple-dog environment. Unfortunately these precautions are often viewed as acceptance for the sport of pit-fighting when nothing could be further from the truth. Knowing how to avoid a fight, as well as how to break it up if, despite all efforts one strikes, is proof of smart and responsible pit bull ownership.

Never trust a pit bull not to fight...
It is not a hate of other dogs that causes pit bulls to fight, but rather an "urge" to do so that has been bred into the dogs for many generations. Pit bulls may fight over hierarchic status, but external stimulus or excitement can also trigger a fight. Remember that any canine can fight, but pit bulls were bred specifically for their drive, intensity, and determination to win.

Pit bull owners must be aware of the remarkable fighting abilities these dogs posses and always keep in mind that pit bulls have the potential to inflict serious injury to other animals. A pit bull may not even be the one starting a conflict, but he has the genetics to finish it. Remember that pit bulls are almost always blamed no matter who initiated the hostilities, and often end up paying the price...as does the owner!

That said, some pit bulls get along great with other pets and may live happily with other dogs without incident. We just can't assume that this is true for all of them, or take for granted that pit bulls getting along with other pets today will do so tomorrow. Pit bull owners must have common sense and make sure they don't set their dogs up for failure by putting them in inappropriate situations.

Every negative incident involving a pit bull adds to their reputation and jeopardizes our right to own these great dogs. Keep your pit bull out of trouble!

Please remember that animal-aggression and people-aggression are two distinct traits and should never be confused. Unless they have been very poorly bred and/or specifically "trained" to attack humans (often by undesirable individuals through abusive methods), pit bulls are, by nature, very good with people. They are, in fact, one of the most loving, loyal, friendly and dedicated companions one can have.

PBRC hopes this article will help people understand why so many of us are deeply dedicated to these wonderful dogs. Pit bull dogs need more help, compassion and understating than many other breed, but they will pay you back with more love and loyalty than you ever thought possible.

Copyright © 1997, 2004, 2006 Veronique Chesser
Document may be reproduced as long as PBRC.NET is credited





Breed Information
Recommendations
Crate & Rotate
FAQ

The CDC report on Stats,
http://americaagainstbsl.tripod.com/cdc.html

I think (as do others) that it is not the dog, but the owner that is dangerous!
The right dog in the right hands can be wonderful! ANY dog in the wrong hands can be dangerous!!!
I do not think they should pick out certain breeds (in a warped way that makes the 'chosen few' more attractive to idiots that think they are tough and have no idea). I do not know how regulation and control is going to happen, I just feel that the DDA is not effective!

American temperament test see how well the 542 American Pit Bulls did, see how well your chosen breed did.


http://www.atts.org/statistics.html




Test Description


http://www.atts.org/testdesc.html

http://www.mail-archive.com/univcity.../msg06053.html

This is what it says,
"FATAL DOG ATTACKS"
The Stories Behind the Statistics
An Investigative Study into the Circumstances Surrounding Dog-Bite Related
Human Fatalities from 1965 through the Present.
by Karen Delise

"There is nothing to fear except the persistent refusal to find out the
truth, the persistent refusal to analyze the causes of happenings."
Dorothy Thompson, (1894 - 1961)

Todays media is filled with sensational headlines of dog attacks.
Routinely quoted in these newspaper accounts are dated statistics from the
Centers for Disease Control. The last CDC study released documented which
breeds of dogs caused the most human fatalities from 1979 through 1998.
While the CDC did an admirable job of studying fatal dog attacks, and went
to great lengths to point out that irresponsible owners were the cause of
most of these incidents, the media and lawmakers continue to use CDC
statistics to substantiate claims that certain breeds of dogs are
inherently more "vicious" than other breeds.

The result of sensationalizing individual incidents of severe or fatal dog
attacks, included with the use of unexamined statistical "evidence" has
created an unfortunate and inaccurate public and political perception as
to the dangerousness and predictability of certain breeds of dogs. Despite
enormous public and political interest in fatal dog attacks, there is no
agency or organization that does investigative work (with the exception of
this study) into each of the individual cases of fatal dog attacks and
records the number and circumstances of fatal dog attacks on a continuous,
yearly basis.

This study is conducted in an attempt to understand the human and canine
behaviors that contribute to a fatal dog attack. Only in understanding the
events and circumstances surrounding these incidents can we hope to
prevent future tragedies.

STUDY FINDINGS:
After reviewing over 431 cases of fatal dog attacks it is apparent there
is no single factor that translates in a lethal encounter between a person
and a dog(s). A fatal dog attack is always the culmination of past and
present events that include: inherited and learned behaviors, genetics,
breeding, socialization, function of the dog, physical condition and size
of the dog, reproductive status of dog, popularity of breed, individual
temperament, environmental stresses, owner responsibility, victim
behavior, victim size and physical condition, timing and misfortune.

While many circumstances may contribute to a fatal dog attack, the
following three factors appear to play a critical role in the display of
canine aggression towards humans;

1. Function of the dog - (Includes: dogs acquired for fighting,
guarding/protection or image enhancement)

2. Owner responsibility - (Includes: dogs allowed to roam loose,
chained dogs, dogs and/or children left unsupervised, dogs permitted or
encouraged to behave aggressively, animal neglect and/or abuse)

3. Reproductive status of dog - (Includes: unaltered males dogs,
bitches with puppies, children coming between male dog and female dog in
estrus)

It is necessary to emphasize that a fatal dog attack is an exceptionally
unusual event. Approximating 20 deaths per year in a dog population of 53
million yields an infinitesimal percent of the dog population (.0000004%)
involved in a human fatality.

THE BREED FACTOR
Many communities and cities believe that the solution to prevent severe
and fatal dog attacks is to label, restrict or ban certain breeds of dogs
as potentially dangerous. If the breed of dog was the primary or sole
determining factor in a fatal dog attack, it would necessarily stand to
reason that since there are literally millions of Rottweilers, Pit Bulls
and German Shepherd Dogs in the United States, there would have to be
countless more than an approximate 20 human fatalities per year.

Since only an infinitesimal number of any breed is implicated in a human
fatality, it is not only unreasonable to characterize this as a specific
breed behavior by which judge an entire population of dogs, it also does
little to prevent fatal or severe dog attacks as the real causes and
events that contribute to a fatal attack are masked by the issue of breed
and not seriously addressed.

Pit Bulls in particular have been in a firestorm of bad publicity, and
throughout the country Pit Bulls often bear the brunt of breed specific
legislation. One severe or fatal attack can result in either restrictions
or outright banning of this breed (and other breeds) in a community. While
any severe or fatal attack on a person is tragic, there is often a tragic
loss of perspective as to degree of dangerousness associated with this
breed in reaction to a fatality. Virtually any breed of dog can be
implicated in a human fatality.

>From 1965 - 2001, there have been at least 36 different breeds/types of
dog that have been involved in a fatal attack in the United States. (This
number rises to at least 52 breeds/types when surveying fatal attacks
worldwide). We are increasingly becoming a society that has less and less
tolerance and understanding of natural canine behaviors. Breed specific
behaviors that have been respected and selected for over the centuries are
now often viewed as unnatural or dangerous. Dogs have throughout the
centuries served as protectors and guardians of our property, possessions
and families. Dogs have also been used for thousands of years to track,
chase and hunt both large and small animals. These natural and
selected-for canine behaviors seem to now eliciting fear, shock and a
sense of distrust among many people.

There seems to be an ever growing expectation of a "behaviorally
homogenized" dog - "Benji" in the shape of a Rottweiler. Breeds of dogs
with greater protection instincts or an elevated prey-drive are often
unfairly viewed as "aggressive or dangerous". No breed of dog is
inherently vicious, as all breeds of dogs were created and are maintained
exclusively to serve and co-exist with humans. The problem exists not
within the breed of dog, but rather within the owners that fail to
control, supervise, maintain and properly train the breed of dog they
choose to keep.

CANINE AGGRESSION - AN OVERVIEW
It is important to emphasize that dogs bite today for the same reasons
that they did one hundred or one thousand years ago. Dogs are no more
dangerous today than they were a century or millennium ago. They only
difference is a shift in human perception of what is and is not natural
canine behavior and/or aggression and the breed of dog involved.

Examination of newspaper archival records dating back to the 1950s and
1960s reveal the same types of severe and fatal attacks occurring then as
today. The only difference is the breed of dog responsible for these
events. A random study of 74 severe and fatal attacks reported in the
Evening Bulletin (Philadelphia, PA) from 1964-1968, show no severe or
fatal attacks by Rottweilers and only one attack attributed to a
Pit-Bull-type dog. The dogs involved in most of these incidents were the
breeds that were popular at the time.

Over two thousand years ago, Plato extolled a basic understanding of
canine behavior when he wrote "the disposition of noble dogs is to be
gentle with people they know and the opposite with those they dont
know...." Recently, this fundamental principal of canine behavior seems to
elude many people as parents allow their children to be unsupervised with
unfamiliar dogs and lawmakers clamor to declare certain dogs as dangerous
in response to an attack.

Any dog, regardless of breed, is only as dangerous as his/her owner allows
it to be.

Addressing the issue of severe and fatal dog attacks as a breed specific
problem is akin to treating the symptom and not the disease. Severe and
fatal attacks will continue until we come to the realization that allowing
a toddler to wander off to a chained dog is more of a critical factor in a
fatal dog attack than which breed of dog is at the end of the chain.

Only when we become more knowledgeable, humane and responsible in our
treatment of dogs can we hope to prevent future tragedies.

Minihaha this is in relation to the thread, im saying that a pitbull is no more dangerous that any other large breed of dog, so i cannot see how ive gone off topic
So in answer TO YOUR QUESTION Minihaha a Pitbull is not dangerous, but All i was trying to do when Dawn asked me a question was explain the fact that when an American Pit Bull Terrier does attack (rarely) then it will do more harm than a Yorkshire Terrier, But maybe no more harm than another large powerful breed.

Im defending the American Pit Bull Terrier because a few members think they are more dangerous, weather in your eyes I have gone off topic or not, I will do anything to defend any breed of dog being labeled as dangerous, weather it is a American Pit Bull Terrier or a Yorkshire Terrier, NO DOG IS MORE DANGEROUS THAN ANY OTHER