The Real Problem with Pit Bulls
The real problem with Pit Bulls is people - specifically the people who own them. There is much debate about breed specific legislation which will effect Pit Bulls or similar breeds. There is one side that considers them a threat to the community and wants them banned and/or euthanized. There is the other side which points to instances of heroic actions and paints them as gentle pets. As in most debates, there are valid points on both sides of the argument.
The problem is that dog owners, regardless of the breed they chose, need to take responsibility for properly training their animals. Taking a dog home requires a commitment. Too many people seem willing to provide food, shelter, a proper bed, medical attention, etc., but fall short of committing the time required to properly train their dog. The dog that is chosen will be part of the family for a long time. The dog, the humans in the household, and the neighbors will all be happier if the dog is properly trained.
I don’t believe that any dog that has had basic obedience training and has been properly socialized ever attacks a person without provocation. The incidence of such behavior would be reduced to the point of a non-issue if owners took responsibility for their animals. I have heard of a breeder who will not sell a dog unless the buyer signs an agreement to enroll the dog in obedience class. A well trained dog is a well behaved dog.
Realizing that many people will buy dogs and not be willing to put forth the effort to train them, and knowing that training is better for the dog, the owners, and the community, I would not object if a community incorporated obedience training as a condition of the dog license. Let the license do more than generate revenue for the village. I know that people will object on the basis that they do not have time to attend the classes. For these people, I recommend goldfish.
