Should I Get a Pitbull?

 Pitbulls have an undeserved bad reputation. Stereotyping them as "big, scary pitbulls" is unfounded and illogical, just like most stereotypes. The temperament and behavior of any dog, regardless of breed, are shaped by their life experiences, environment, and genetics. While pitbulls may not be suitable for everyone, owning one requires commitment, resilience, and a compassionate heart. What many people fail to realize is that, in the right hands, pitbulls can be the most caring and affectionate pets one could ever have. They possess big personalities and exhibit qualities such as love, loyalty, ease of care, humor, trainability, and more. In essence, they embody everything that makes a great dog.

#1. Overflowing Love and Affection

With pitbulls, you'll never feel unloved. They are incredibly affectionate, loving, and devoted animals. Their zest for life is contagious, and they enjoy cuddling, wiggling, and showering you with kisses. Just one look at their big smile and lolling tongue is enough to brighten your day.

#2. Snuggle Bugs

Cuddling is a Must: Whether on the bed or the couch, cuddling is not optional with pitbulls. They excel at cuddling and may not be the right breed for those who don't enjoy close snuggling. It's almost as if pitbulls have a cuddle gene in their DNA, as spontaneous cuddle sessions are frequent and necessary.

#3. Pitbulls Love People and Children

Pitbulls are natural lovers. In fact, they were often referred to as "Nanny Dogs" since the 1900s due to their innate caretaking abilities. They often show particular affection towards children, understanding their vulnerability and acting as warm-hearted companions. This is why they make excellent family pets—they are deeply devoted to their families. Witnessing someone's positive reaction when meeting an affectionate and well-behaved pitbull is always heartening. However, it's important to supervise dogs around children, regardless of breed.

#4. Big Personalities

Hilarious, Friendly, and Fun: Pitties ensure you never have a joyless day. They are goofy and love to entertain, inadvertently or not. Their expressive faces and charming antics make them wonderful companions. Pits are playful and fun, maintaining their love for play even as they age. They are extremely friendly, always wagging their tails, and form strong bonds with their owners.

#5. Ridiculously Loyal and Eager to Please You

If there's one word to describe pitbulls, it's "loyal." When you visit a shelter, you'll be hard-pressed to find another dog happier to see you than a pitbull. All a pitbull seeks is a best friend, and they are quick to grant that honor to you when you choose them. Still doubtful? Reach out to Friends to the Forlorn and meet a few of them—our dogs will speak for themselves.

#6. Highly Intelligent and Easily Trainable

Pitbulls are intelligent and responsive, making them easy to work with. They learn quickly and excel at proper training. Consistency, structure, and firm guidance are what they crave from their human companions. Provide them with that, and you'll witness their remarkable growth. Pitbulls have become therapy and service dogs, agility champions, search and rescue dogs, and even military heroes. They are great listeners, and their obedience skills will amaze you—maybe even teach you a thing or two.

#7. Social Butterflies

Pitbulls are sociable creatures. Many enjoy meeting people and other animals. They are quick to make new friends and exhibit a natural trust in others. Their friendly personalities make them ideal companions for people-oriented individuals. When your pittie sees you being social with someone, they often mirror your behavior and treat your friends with kisses, wiggles, and excitement—a wonderful way to spread awareness about the true nature of pitbulls.

#8. Love for Sports, Activities, and Exercise

Pitbulls are naturally athletic and typically enjoy exercise as much as they love lounging and snuggling on the couch. Their drive for activity not only stimulates their minds but also keeps their owners active. They have muscular bodies and excel in agility and weight-pulling. If you're in need of a jogging partner, a pitbull could be your ideal companion. However, be cautious of their sensitivity to heat due to their shorter snouts, and ensure you recognize the signs of overheating, providing them with ample water and a cool environment. If jogging isn't your thing, pitbulls are also content with a brisk walk. Many pitbulls also enjoy swimming, given the opportunity. They simply need an outlet for their energy and prefer to bond with their owners during exercise, which will bring them immense happiness.

#9. Low Maintenance, Healthy, and Easy-Going Dogs

As a diverse breed, pitbulls benefit from their extensive genetic background. Their ancestors were working dogs, renowned for their strength and long life expectancies, primarily originating from farming lifestyles. Minimal grooming is a plus—short coats mean moderate shedding and only require regular bathing, nail clipping, and ear cleaning. Unlike some large dog breeds, pitbulls generally don't suffer from health disorders. Their mixed DNA contributes to their resilience. As long as they receive regular exercise, they adapt well to any home environment.

#10. Eternal Gratitude

When you adopt a pitbull, your life will forever be transformed. From the day you bring them to their forever home, they reciprocate your love by rescuing you every single day for the rest of their lives. They cling to their owners with unwavering loyalty, staying by your side day and night, and providing endless affection and support.

Unfortunately, there is an alarming overpopulation of pitbulls and an inadequate number of good homes available to accommodate them. To address this, we must encourage responsible ownership, support spaying/neutering initiatives, provide proper training, and educate owners to help them keep their pets. Together, we can save these amazing animals and ensure they find loving forever homes. At Friends to the Forlorn, our goal is to achieve just that.

Fortunately, many individuals have joined us in educating the public about pitbulls, dispelling negative stereotypes and myths. Even if you're not ready to adopt, please seize this opportunity to spread the word about how wonderful pitbulls truly are. Raising awareness and providing education are crucial steps in saving the lives of the dogs we hold dear.

Ready to welcome a pitbull into your family? Visit our Adopt page to learn how you can give one of our pitbulls a second chance and experience the best friendship you'll ever have!