[Prosze]

Originally Posted by Irish4evr

Purebred dogs bite too ! Keep in mind, and I am sure you know, not everyone can afford one of those canines as you describe (which too come with their own set of issues).

Having been on both sides of the coin, there is a definite place and need for rescue and placement programs. In what you suggest, every mixed breed dog should be euthanized...

It is that "reputation" that provokes many into considering a "pit"...a cheap, watch dog without ever understanding the consequences of their lineage. Enter the "paranoia" factor !

One last thought, depending on the breed, I would bet I could show you 10 dogs, with only one having "pit" lineage...and you could not tell me which one it was ....

Of course any dog can bite.

I couldn't care less how many pictures you showed me. I'm not interested in any type of pit bull or pit bull mix, Staffordshire etc. I'm not into those dogs at all. If I was going to get a Staffordshire I'd get one from someone that breeds and shows. How many of those do you run into? Pit bulls aren't even a breed there is no quality control. I also don't like chows, sharpeis, cane corso, presa canarios, dogo argentino I could go on forever.

[Irish4evr]

I get your point...in the course of my life I have encountered 100's of pitbulls or mix of same. There is a balance here where the "human factor" tends to control the destiny.

During the course of my life there were only three breeds that I personally elected not to work with...those being "pits"..."chows"...and "wolf/hybrids"...and the canines I imported were some of the best "working" lines in this country. Most going to law enforcement agencies !

As life passed I had observed Borders preform and quite frankly the breed fascinated me. Today both of my Borders are "rescue dogs"...There is a place and absolute need for rescue programs until such time (which will be never) when responsible owners, spay and neuter.

The "pit" is a loosely termed breed unto itself.....in many ways !

You seem to key on the "show" factor. You do realize that those breeders selectively breed specifically to satisfy a defined physical standard...sometimes negating health/emotional issues simply to meet a "standard". I dealt with some of the top European breeders...they all bred to a relatively strict standard, not for show...but for work.

I tend to be a "no kill" kinda guy regardless of lineage.

[Prosze]

Originally Posted by Irish4evr

I get your point...in the course of my life I have encountered 100's of pitbulls or mix of same. There is a balance here where the "human factor" tends to control the destiny.

During the course of my life there were only three breeds that I personally elected not to work with...those being "pits"..."chows"...and "wolf/hybrids"...and the canines I imported were some of the best "working" lines in this country. Most going to law enforcement agencies !

As life passed I had observed Borders preform and quite frankly the breed fascinated me. Today both of my Borders are "rescue dogs"...There is a place and absolute need for rescue programs until such time (which will be never) when responsible owners, spay and neuter.

The "pit" is a loosely termed breed unto itself.....in many ways !

You seem to key on the "show" factor. You do realize that those breeders selectively breed specifically to satisfy a defined physical standard...sometimes negating health/emotional issues simply to meet a "standard". I dealt with some of the top European breeders...they all bred to a relatively strict standard, not for show...but for work.

I tend to be a "no kill" kinda guy regardless of lineage.

Yes, definitely some breeds are being ruined by ridiculous physical standards most brachycephalic breeds, German Shepherds etc.

I love Borders collies. They are intelligent dogs that a need a lot of exercise/job. Another breed that is usually picked by people that shouldn't have one. You know what breed of dog I feel like we are going to see a lot more problems with around Vegas? Belgian Malinois. I'm starting to see a lot more around and they are not for a novice dog owner.

[lvmensch]

It is a judgement thing. I will again try and get another German Spitz even though I know perfectly well it is genetically a little killer...program to hunt and dispatch rodents. I however consider it a potentially dangerous dog and would not have it in a household with frequent small children.

As my wife and I age a large breed protective dog begins to have some charm...a 75 lb version of the German Spitz perhaps. But we pass on the fear we would not be able to physically control such a creature.

As an aside we have friends in the NW who actually have a domesticated wolf. The wolf is now ancient so not much of a threat...and the interesting thing in that house is a chihuahua is the alpha. The chihuahua actually eats the wolf's food while perched between the wolf's legs.

There are all kinds of canines.

[Irish4evr]

I thought I knew dogs...until I got involved with my Borders. As you said...they require time, patience, lots of exercise...and a "job". I have had many people see my dogs work then insisting they "wanted" one...to which I say..."maybe best not".

I swear to God...one of my dogs watches the news every nite...I know they can tell time...and have a vocabulary greater than mine...amazing breed...but definitely not for everyone !

I only wish that those adopting or getting involved with that particular breed (pit) or any breed for that matter, truly understand the "true nature of the beast"....if wishes were fishes right !

[Prosze]

Originally Posted by lvmensch

It is a judgement thing. I will again try and get another German Spitz even though I know perfectly well it is genetically a little killer...program to hunt and dispatch rodents. I however consider it a potentially dangerous dog and would not have it in a household with frequent small children.

As my wife and I age a large breed protective dog begins to have some charm...a 75 lb version of the German Spitz perhaps. But we pass on the fear we would not be able to physically control such a creature.

As an aside we have friends in the NW who actually have a domesticated wolf. The wolf is now ancient so not much of a threat...and the interesting thing in that house is a chihuahua is the alpha. The chihuahua actually eats the wolf's food while perched between the wolf's legs.

There are all kinds of canines.

German Spitz are hard to find, aren't they? I only really see Kingsfield Kennels. I remember someone else on LVCDF wanting a spitz.

[Prosze]

Originally Posted by Irish4evr

I thought I knew dogs...until I got involved with my Borders. As you said...they require time, patience, lots of exercise...and a "job". I have had many people see my dogs work then insisting they "wanted" one...to which I say..."maybe best not".

I swear to God...one of my dogs watches the news every nite...I know they can tell time...and have a vocabulary greater than mine...amazing breed...but definitely not for everyone !

I only wish that those adopting or getting involved with that particular breed (pit) or any breed for that matter, truly understand the "true nature of the beast"....if wishes were fishes right !

Ha they are smart I wouldn't put it past them

[Irish4evr]

Originally Posted by Dltordj

Ha they are smart I wouldn't put it past them

Anyone involved with Borders is familiar with the infamous "stare". Most normal people go home to watch their dogs...I go home so my dogs can watch me...constantly studying...always trying to stay one step ahead...I could write a book about that breed !

[OmegaSupreme]

Originally Posted by ElleTea

Just know that for every animal bought at a breeder "professional" or otherwise, many innocent, amazing animals die.

Preaching to the choir

Christmas puppies always ensure there is a fresh healthy supply to the kill shelters once owners realize the costs and inconveniences that come with dogs

[Prosze]

Originally Posted by OmegaSupreme

Preaching to the choir

Christmas puppies always ensure there is a fresh healthy supply to the kill shelters once owners realize the costs and inconveniences that come with dogs

Most likely from Craigslist for $100 or less to free. I paid over $1k for my dog, you think I'm going to dump her at a shelter or put her on Craigslist? I also spent $1600 dollars on professional training.

blame those backyard breeders.