2012/07/25 Council Agenda Packet

Character over Form Because the earliest breeders were going for speed, stamina and attitude rather than looks,the ,.. ... general appearance of the purebreds can vary greatly. They can range between 25 and 75 pounds. The earlier'classic'APBTs were on the small side - an advantage which afforded them speed and agility in the fighting pits. As the pitdogs made their way to the working farms of America, larger characteristics were encouraged r in breedings. In recent years, appearance and ``` " � M • •conformations vary so widely that it's hard to recognize the 'old world'pit bull anymore in the . 'new world' creations. A good reminder why DNA analysis keeps coming back with mixed breed results for so many dogs considered to be 'pit bulls.' Pit bulls are beautiful in their variety, but their most appealing features are their inner qualities. Strength, confidence, a sense of humor and a zest for life are all hallmarks of the breed. They also tend to be sensitive and get their feelings hurt easily. Properly socialized dogs are quite affectionate and friendly, even with strangers, and therefore do not make good guard dogs. They're intelligent and eager to please and tend to remain playful throughout their lives. While some can be low key `couch potatoes,' many others need a job to channel their enthusiasm and energy. They excel in dog sports, search and rescue work, drug and bomb detection work,and as therapy dogs. Severe shyness, fearfulness or human-directed aggression is not characteristic of the breed and highly undesirable in any dog.