We invite you to learn how the American Pit Bull Terrier
went from "America's Dog" to America's Underdog.
From our CEO to You.
Dear Friends,
The Humane Society for Hamilton County dedicates the month of March to help educate the community about the history of the American Pit Bull Terrier. This dog, who was once revered so deeply it was coined as “America’s Dog” in the 1930’s, has evolved through history into America’s underdog.
You will learn that the American Pit Bull Terrier and his “bully breed” brothers and sisters share DNA with the ancient Molossus dog. Going back to ancient Greece and Rome, these dogs (who shared physical characteristics with today’s Bull Mastiff) were considered loyal warriors.
You will learn why there are more “pit bull” type dogs in animals shelters who are waiting, and dying, for someone to love.
And I promise, it’s not what you’re thinking.
The reality is, every month needs to be “Pit Bull Education Month” until we have a chance to share this with those who, understandably, believe the inaccurate media reports and fabricated dog bite statistics reported by propaganda websites like dogsbite.org.
If you read on, and we change your mind enough to advocate for these dogs–it’s a win.
If you are the person who wants to adopt “anything but one of those dogs,” and this information makes you rethink the possibility–that’s a huge win.
If you read the rest of this page and feel your heart hurting for these dogs so much you’d like to come in and meet one–well, that means these dogs may have a fighting chance after all.
That’s why we ask that you please read on with an open mind. You have little to lose if you do. They have everything to lose if you don’t.
With faith,
Rebecca Stevens
President/CEO
Many thanks to our friends at J.C. Hart Apartment Communities and PODS Moving and Storage for sponsoring our Pit Bull Education Program.
What is a "Pit Bull"?
First and foremost–there is no such breed.
The term “pit bull” was coined in the 20th Century to refer to bull-and-terrier dogs who originated in England. The term refers to the violent practice of “bull baiting” which was a popular sport that placed these dogs in pits to bait bulls, meaning, take bulls down by their snouts. Many times these dogs did not survive the violent shaking of the bulls, or they would be stomped to death.
While the practice was outlawed in 1835, the term “pit bull” has lived on. Over the last 40 years the term “pit bull” has become the catch-all breed reference for dogs that share similar, physical characteristics such as:
- Large heads and torsos
- Sturdy, muscular bodies
- Cropped ears
- Brindle, blue, solid white, and brown and white coats
Referring to the 20 plus breeds of dogs who have similar physical traits, but who have very unique traits inherent to their breeds, is like claiming all breeds of
horses, donkeys and zebras are the same.
While "Pit Bull" is not a breed, there are still four pure breed dogs who are grouped under this umbrella.
American Pit Bull Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
American Bully
DID YOU KNOW?
The American Pit Bull Terrier and many of its brothers and sisters have an ancient bloodline dating back to ancient Greece circa 300-350 B.C.
These Mastiff-type dogs were called “Molosser” dogs referencing the area in which they were first born and bred.
Their strength, protective nature, and resilience made them a favorite of the Greek and Roman armies, including Alexander the Great.
DID YOU KNOW?
The term “pit bull” was derived from the blood sport of “bull baiting” which was a popular past-time in England.
Dogs that managed to grab onto the bulls’ noses were shaken violently as the bulls tried to throw them off, often resulting in serious brain and bodily injury.
The “sport” was outlawed in England in 1835, but continued illegally just as dog fighting does today.
The Evolution of the Pit Bull
After bull-baiting was outlawed, the “pit bull” remained popular as both a working and family dog. These dogs, who are a cross of bulldog and terrier, evolved into the Staffordshire Terrier (Staffie)—and they remain very popular in the U.K. today. Staffies are the short and stout version of the American Staffordshire Terrier—both known for their strength, loyalty, and love of people.
Immigrants brought the first ”pit bulls” over to America in the mid-1800’s where they were the dog of choice by many homesteads.
Considered family members, ”pit bulls” were loved and respected.
America's Dog
During World War I, the American Pit Bull Terrier became the mascot for the U.S. military as they symbolized courage, determination, and strength — the ideal American hero.
Stubby served alongside the troops in France during World War I.
He saved his regiment from surprise mustard gas attacks, found and comforted the wounded, and allegedly attacked and held a German soldier by the seat of his pants until American soldiers found him.
He received a gold medal, a wound stripe, and two purple hearts,
And, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant.
The label “America’s Dog” was more than a marketing phrase as it reflected how deeply “pit bulls” were woven into American life. They worked alongside farmers, marched beside soldiers, entertained children, and curled up at night as beloved pets. Their image — strong yet kind, tough yet loving — mirrored the values many Americans held dear. And they were the dog of choice by celebrities, politicians, and other American icons like Helen Keller, pictured here.
During this time “Pit Bulls” appeared in advertising, family films, and even comic strips, where they were consistently portrayed as loyal, playful, and trustworthy.
Fall From Grace
A rise in illegal dog fighting operations during the 1980’s led to widespread abuse of the dogs. Because “pit bulls” are strong, loyal, and eager to please, they were tragically exploited by individuals who trained them to fight. Dog fighting became a lucrative sport in both urban and rural communities.
Another factor is how they are portrayed in the media. Media reports on “pit bulls” are heavily biased, disproportionately focusing on bites from these dogs, featuring sensationalist headlines, 68% of the time. In contrast, the media often ignores similar incidents involving other breeds.
This sensationalism creates a false perception of, and unwarranted fear surrounding, pit bull-type dogs.
Aug. 19, 2007
COVERED BY TWO LOCAL NEWSPAPERS
Aug. 21, 2007
COVERED BY 230 NEWSPAPERS PLUS CNN, FOX & MSNBC
Misidentification & Legislation
Studies show ~60% of dogs labeled as “pit bulls” in media reports have no genetic ancestry from those breeds, making incident statistics unreliable. Law enforcement officers or journalists respond to dog bite incidents and misclassify dogs as “Pit Bulls” due to lingering prejudices, subconscious biases, and ignorance. 98% of dogs with pitbull-type ancestry are mixed-breed, with only 2% classified as purebred.
This wave of negative attention culminated in the implementation of breed-specific legislation (BSL) — laws that restrict or ban certain dogs based solely on their appearance or assumed breed.
BSL is alive and well today in many U.S. cities and around the world either resulting in a total ban of “pit-bull type” dogs, or other restrictions (e.g. muzzles in public.)
Breed discrimination in the form of breed restrictions imposed by insurance agencies and rental properties also became, and continue to be, prevalent.
These are key reasons why “pit-bull” type/bully breed dogs outnumber any other breed of dog in U.S. shelters.
Misinformation
One of the most commonly cited sources of information on dog bites is dogsbite.org (DBO)
The website is owned and managed by Colleen Lynn who claims to have been bitten by a pit bull. Lynn (who also does fortune-telling) collects newspaper clippings on dog bites and uses social media reports from anti-’pit-bull’ groups to publish completely inaccurate statistics.
She claims that the CDC and veterinary community of medicine and science have a conspiracy to hide the truth about the danger of pit-bulls.
Due to the lack of due diligence, popular press reporters and social media influencers cite this fact-free website regularly.
Even academic papers and textbooks on aggression, on dog bites, and on canine behavior routinely go there for information and commentary.
Insurance companies and municipalities look to this page as a justification for discriminatory policies, based on undocumented, unreviewed numbers.
The CDC tracks dog bite injuries people have considered serious enough for an emergency room visit. They’ve done this for more than 20 years.
Restoring Their Reputation
In order for pit bulls to have their reputation restored, there has to be a reconciliation between the facts and the fiction. The breed misidentification leads to the breed discrimination. These fictional stories stay at the forefront of people’s minds and sways them to stay away from what could possibly be a wonderful dog, just because it’s a pit bull.
FACT or FICTION
FICTION
FACT or FICTION
FICTION
FACT or FICTION
FICTION
FACT or FICTION
FACT
FACT or FICTION
FACT
FACT or FICTION
FICTION
Breeding Matters
Genetic Predisposition: Specific breeds were historically developed for work that requires high alert, guarding, or chasing (e.g., terriers or guarding breeds), which can lead to higher aggression if not managed.
Threshold Variations: Genetic differences influence the “agonistic threshold,” or how easily a dog resorts to aggression when challenged.
Inbreeding Risks: Inbreeding can reduce genetic diversity and amplify negative traits, including increased tendencies toward aggression.
Selective Breeding: While environment and training are significant, selective breeding can enhance traits that make certain breeds more prone to guarding or territorial behavior, setting a baseline for temperament.
Watch Our Award Winning PSA!
If you give a pit bull a chance, you will learn that pit bulls make wonderful and loyal family companions. Like all dogs, they require intelligent, responsible, and dedicated ownership. Because of the breed’s undeserved negative media image, pit bull owners have to be even more careful and responsible than the average dog owner.
They must also be aware of the myths (urban legends, really) surrounding their dogs. Owners must be well educated about bully breeds, because they will likely face comments from friends, families, and neighbors.
When you adopt a pit bull, you adopt the most energetic, intelligent, and loyal friend you’ll ever have, but you also take up a responsibility to represent the entire breed.
Pit bulls are wonderful, loving animals that deserve the chance to have a good life.
Please Help
Adopt a Pit Bull
63% of the dogs HSHC receives are pit bulls, bully breeds and other special breeds – 53% of which are specifically pit bulls. They make up the majority of dogs entering the shelter system due to breed discrimination and misperceptions. Pit bulls also represent the largest number of victims of animal cruelty and neglect arriving at our shelter.
Foster a Pit Bull
On average, bully breeds spend more time waiting for a home. In 2022, bully breeds waited an average of 38 days, compared to the overall average of 23 days. Fostering gives these dogs a break from the stressful kennel environment and a better chance to find a loving home.
Pit Bull Education Month is Made Possible by Our Partnership With
Sources
- CDC FastStats– Unintentional injuries, motor vehicle accidents, & falls (2023)
- CDC MMWR/WONDER– Dogs (2011-2021 average/year)
