Miniature Pitbull
All About the Miniature Pitbull
The miniature pitbull has very many names that it may go by. It could be called an English bull terrier, a mini bull terrier, or even an English mini bull terrier. No matter what it is called, its history and characteristics remain the same. The miniature usually weighs approximately 22-34 pounds and it is usually ten to 14 inches tall. These dogs are expected to live for roughly ten to twelve years. It is thought to have originated in England in 1835 by breeding the English bull dog and the English terrier. They have short, smooth hair and they are usually solid in color. Although, it is not unheard of to find one that does have a pattern to their hair color. Their eyes can vary in color but they are never blue.
These dogs are often thought to be very aggressive. Their short hair does a very good job showing off its muscles and gives the appearance of begin very strong. They are actually very confident, smart and loyal. They are very athletic and needs to be exercised on a regular basis. When they were bred years ago, they were meant to protect their owners from other dogs. Today, the miniature pitbull is very friendly and does very well with its families. They are not thought to be very good guard dogs because of their soft temperaments.
There are many myths that tend to accompany this breed of dog as well. For example, it was once believed that they had a type of lockjaw system that would keep them from being able to release someone that they had bitten. However, there is no real evidence to support this myth. Pitbulls and miniature pitbulls have actually been used in the sport of Schutzhund. Within this sport they are able to release a decoy’s sleeve on command in order to gain points. Another frightening myth is that these dogs will turn on their owners without any reason or explanation as to why. What is important to remember is that a dog is not going to turn on someone without a reason. At least not if that dog is in its right mind. Keep in mind, however, that there are reasons for aggression such as improper handling and poor socialization. If your miniature pitbull has become aggressive, you need to identify the reason for this aggression to avoid someone getting hurt.
Contrary to the fact that these myths are just that, many insurance companies will not insure a family if they have a pitbull or a miniature pitbull. If they do insure the homeowners they may only do so if the dog has received a canine good citizen award. If you are interested in this type of dog, you may want to research this topic and find out more about it. American Airlines also banned these dogs from being on airplanes in August of 2002. This was later lifted in May of 2003.
While the miniature pitbull has received negative press in the past, it is important to remember that they have also received positive press as well. Many of these dogs may work in hospitals as therapy dogs. Many are also very good family dogs if they are socialized properly. Sometimes they are even employed by U.S. customs or police enforcement agencies as effective K9 dogs.
If you are interested in owning a miniature pitbull make sure that you learn all you can about them first. Learn effective and positive ways to socialize your puppy so that he or she will be friendly to people that visit your home. Research the canine good citizen award if you are worried that your insurance company will not cover you. It is always a good idea to research you pet anyways, no matter what type you are interested in owning.