Pit Bull dogs have long been associated with aggression toward humans as well as being thought to cause a high number of canine related deaths over the years. Extensive research has shown recently that this may not be the case at all. If there is any aggression shown toward humans from the Pit Bulls, it is usually due to mishandling and /or mistreatment from their owners. Some Pit Bull owners actually have trained their dogs to be mean.

Pit Bulls, in reality, are very stable, and intelligent, which makes them very trainable. Since they are athletic and strong dogs, they need an owner who makes sure to provide a lot of exercise and the right type of training. For the right owners, Pit Bulls are loving, loyal and make amazing pets.

In spite of the many negative things said about Pit Bulls and their aggressiveness, they are actually among the most stable and human friendly dogs around. One of the 122 breeds tested by the National Canine Temperament Testing Association, Pit Bulls came in 4th highest with a passing rate of 95 percent. These are such even tempered dogs that they are used as therapy or service dogs. Pit Bull therapy dogs are in service by the Chako Rescue Association currently in the states of Texas, California, and Utah. Even the famous Helen Keller had a Pit Bull as her animal helper and companion. They are also used as search and rescue dogs, helping to locate missing people.

Contrary to the misconception of Pit Bulls as aggressive dogs, they are actually heroes. A Pit Bull by the name of Stubby was America’s first war dog. Throughout World War I, he was presented with several medals, along with being invited to the White House. Weela was the 1993 Ken-L-Ration dog hero. This Pit Bull saved a total of 30 people, 13 horses, 29 dogs and 1 cat during a Southern California flood. The Georgia Animal Hall of Fame inducted a Pit Bull named Dixie for saving children from a Cottonmouth snake.

Many Pit Bulls may be aggressive towards other dogs, but normal, well-raised Pit Bulls do not have any human aggressive actions. The human aggression factor has actually been bred out of Pit Bulls. Most Pit Bulls are affectionate, intelligent and trainable. An American Pit Bull Terrier by the name of Maddy holds the highest obedience trial record of all time. Also, contrary to what some people believe, Pit Bulls do not "turn" on humans.

Given these facts, if you are stalling on adding a Pit Bull dog to your home, investigate the myths before deciding against it. These are truly wonderful dogs that just need to be treated the right way.