5 Reasons Why Pit Bulls are Misunderstood
Many years ago, pit bulls were considered "Nanny dogs" because of their loyalty and gentleness toward their guardians. They were also once an American favorite, earning the title "America's dog."
Unfortunately, people soon found ways to exploit pit bulls' behaviors and tendencies for dog fights, and their strong appearance became a symbol of violence, drug culture and gangs.
Today, pit bulls remain largely misunderstood because of irresponsible owners, sensationalist news stories, and a proliferation of myths. As a result, breed specific legislation (BSL) has popped up in cities across the U.S. that either greatly restricts or completely bans pit bull dogs as pets.
The stigma that marks pit bulls has also contributed to their rise in U.S. shelters. One in four of all animals brought into shelters are pit bulls, and their average euthanasia rate hovers at 93 percent across the board.
However, if given the chance, pit bulls can be very loving companions, and in some communities, they have even become heroes, saving people and their guardians from harm.
Discover the top five reasons pit bulls are misunderstood below, then help debunk these myths by telling your family, friends and social media followers the real truth about pit bulls.
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Image source: Richard Masoner / Flickr
![Pit Bull - Image source: Richard Masoner, Flickr [ 87.08 Kb ]](/data/image_3_8506.jpg "Pit Bull - Image source: Richard Masoner, Flickr [ 87.08 Kb ]")
