5 Myths About Bully Breeds

For the longest time, bully breeds have been feared due to the stereotypical belief that they are inherently dangerous. It is thought by many that these breeds are naturally aggressive because they are selectively bred for their fighting prowess. In the 1980s, the media coverage of dog bite incidents created a myth of bully breed unpredictability when they stopped reporting triggers or events that precipitated the attacks. This has put the bully breeds in an undeserved bad light. Bully breeds often face prejudice and misunderstanding due to misconceptions about their nature and temperament. These dogs are frequently labeled as aggressive or dangerous. 

Let’s address some common misconceptions about bully dogs and provide evidence-based information to dispel these myths, helping you better understand the truth about these loyal and affectionate breeds.

1. Myth: “Pitbulls are Aggressive and Dangerous”

are pitbulls agressive

One of the most pervasive misconceptions about pitbulls is that they are inherently aggressive and pose a danger to humans. However, this belief is unfounded and not supported by scientific evidence.

Fact: Studies have shown that aggressiveness in dogs is not breed-specific, but rather influenced by various factors such as genetics, upbringing, and socialization. In fact, the American Temperament Test Society, which tests dog breeds’ temperaments, consistently shows that many bully breeds score higher in terms of stability and friendliness than some other popular breeds.

pitbulls-are-nicest-dogs

(See the ATTS breed statistics here.)

2. Myth: “Bully Dogs Have Locking Jaws”

pitbulls don't lock their jaws

Another common myth is that bully breeds have “locking jaws,” meaning that once they bite, their jaws lock into place, making it impossible to release their grip.

Fact: There is no scientific evidence to support the existence of “locking jaws” in any dog breed. Bully breeds, like all dogs, have powerful jaw muscles, but their anatomy does not differ significantly from other breeds in terms of jaw structure or function.

3. Myth: “Bully Breeds Are Unpredictable”

are bullies unpredictable

Some people believe that bully breeds are unpredictable and can suddenly become aggressive without warning.

Fact: Like any dog, bully breeds can exhibit aggressive behavior if they feel threatened or provoked, but this is not unique to these breeds. Proper socialization and training from an early age can help ensure that bully breeds become well-adjusted and well-behaved pets.

(Related: Can you take your pit bull to a dog park?)

4. Myth: “Bully Dogs Are Not Good with Children”

bully breeds are good with children

There is a misconception that bully breeds are not suitable for families with children due to their perceived aggressiveness.

Fact: Many bully breeds, such as the Boxer and American Staffordshire Terrier, are known for their affectionate, gentle nature and can make excellent family pets. When properly socialized and supervised, bully breeds can form strong bonds with children and become loyal, protective companions.

5. Myth: “Bully Breeds Are Only Suitable for Experienced Dog Owners”

bullies are good for first time owners

Some people believe that bully breeds are only suitable for experienced dog owners due to their strength and potential for aggression.

Fact: While it is true that bully breeds require consistent training and socialization, they can be perfectly suitable pets for first-time dog owners who are committed to investing the time and effort needed to raise a well-adjusted dog. Many bully breeds are intelligent, eager to please, and highly trainable, making them excellent companions for dedicated owners.

Misconceptions about bully dogs have led to unfair stereotypes and breed-specific legislation in some areas. By understanding the truth about these breeds and sharing evidence-based information, we can help dispel these myths and promote a more accurate, compassionate view of these loyal, affectionate dogs.

Conclusion

Bully breeds have faced a lot of criticism due to the stereotypes they have been linked with over the past decades. The unfair depiction of these breeds has led to disappointing repercussions such as breed bans, increased abandonment rates, and even mass euthanasia. It is important to issue a strong call to action to share the truths highlighted and help affect change. 

One of the best things bully breed-owners can do is to become breed ambassadors. It can start with doing everything necessary to be responsible dog owners. This small step can help change the public’s perception about bully breeds and aid the end of this breed discrimination.

 

Are you a bully breed dog owner? Support this call by leaving us a comment below.

About The Author


Dr. Irah Pearl Acierto

Veterinarian (DVM), Freelance Contributor

Dr. Irah Pearl Acierto is a companion animal veterinarian and a freelance writer from the Philippines. She is trained in the fields of preventive medicine, internal medicine, animal nutrition, animal welfare and veterinary public health.

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34 comments

Anthony on Jan 25, 2024

I have been kicked out of a lot of public places for having bully breeds. I even had to move apartments a couple of times after ordinance were passed. I’m even sorry to say I have shied away from the pitbull and I am now more interested in the banddog which is just basically a big pitbull, but that’s between .

John Gray on Jan 25, 2024

Best dog I ever had never aggressive towards people or other dogs she is a big lap dog.its a myth about them being aggressive. loveable big baby all the kids in the neighborhood love her

William Wasserman on Jan 25, 2024

You say, “Fact: Many bully breeds, such as the Boxer and American Staffordshire Terrier, are known for their affectionate, gentle nature and can make excellent family pets.”
It is the Staffordshire Bull Terrier that has the reputation of “Nanny Dog” in the UK, not the Am Staff. The UK breed standard states that the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is “affectionate especially with children.” All bully breeds in the USA stem from the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Your website rarely talks about or shows pictures of this breed.

Scott Vail on Jan 25, 2024

I’ve rescued Bully’s for the last 25yrs ,they are the most loyal dog 1st you build their trust they will love you to death. Joey, My Bully was rescued from Atlanta,due to scaring we believe he was used as a bait dog . When we rescued him he was on his way back to the shelter for the last time. He ate the corner off a pool table and the top off a bar stool before my niece could bring him up to me. 2 yrs later he’s rotten as HELL and my BEST FRIEND

Zoe J Ennis-bedford on Jan 25, 2024

I live in Australia and have grown up my whole life with AM Staffs even when I started my own family it’s the only breed we every had. I bottle fed my boy from the day he was born because he had a bad mum, motherhood not for every female… but I also had a new born baby 4 months prior and they grew up together as best friends. 5yrs later someone killed my boy deliberately and broke me to pieces, my husband bought my son a Aussie bulldog to help him cope but I couldn’t move on like that. 2 yrs later my heart was ready to love again and I went to a breeder and bought a pure bread American XL Bully. He’s now 4months old 26kgs and the biggest mummies boy. He loves kids and loves being around other people and animals of all types. People are so horrible stereotyping when it’s not the breed themselves it’s the owners and how they are raised. Give them the love they deserve and they will return it 10fold