Are Pitbulls Really That Scary?

I think not. However, the dialogue we often hear in the news is about pit bull maulings and attacks, and the viciousness and ferocity of these animals. It’s difficult not to feel as though pitbulls are to be feared, and it’s understandable why some people are afraid. My goal: to share the good stuff surrounding this breed because I am a pitbull owner and advocate. Today I want to share a few tidbits about my own pitbull.

Shall we begin?

Meet my pittie. My peanut. My family. This is Nova — originally named Casanova by his foster family because “he is such a lover.” He is that, but my husband and I dropped the Casa, kept Nova, and it fits him perfectly. His ears tell a thousand different stories and the one below says something has caught his attention and it’s time to focus. They most likely formed an entirely new shape 5 seconds after this photo was taken. Those ears are super kissable, by the way.

Nova at a local park

Nova is our first full pitbull, and we selected this breed with intention. We had a wonderful half-pit that we said goodbye to in 2020 (another reason that year was so tough) and knew we wanted to adopt a pitbull because our previous experience with the breed would allow us to have a smoother transition than someone who was less experienced. Plus, we specifically wanted to bring a pitbull into our world so people around us could see for themselves that many stereotypes about this breed are simply not true.

Nova was a street dog before he was rescued, so we don’t know much about his life during that time. It’s easy to imagine it was probably not great. To date, he is terrified of loud noises such as fire works and will visibly shake while trying to seek shelter somewhere. Despite a tough start at life, post rescue he was chosen to participate in a training program that would offer him a better chance at adoption. This assumed-to-be-vicious dog was so sweet and affectionate (remember: Casanova?) that his rescuers knew he belonged in a loving home and not in line to be euthanized.

Nova has been in our lives for nearly 3 years now and after the devastating loss of our previous dog, our lives have felt happy and fulfilled again. He brings so much joy and love into our home and his affection and devotion toward us is second to none. He makes us laugh every day with his silly antics, his pittie noises, and his desire to be cuddled closely. Nova is adored by every person who meets him and is always a greeted with open arms and a friendly pat from the neighbors, especially the children.

I am an animal advocate in general, but I feel it’s important to continue the dialogue specific to pitbulls, and how wonderful they can be when given love, comfort, and the dignity to be the bully breed that they are meant to be. Pitbull advocacy is crucial for these animals with ongoing breed bans happening across the world, and because of the stories we hear about their mistreatment by humans. But those are topics for another day.

I am aware that pitbulls have been responsible for some horrific occurrences and I cannot deny that this breed is 100% capable of real destruction. But pitbulls, like any other dog type, will thrive with the right amount of love and a set of clearly defined boundaries. They can make for exceptional pets and wonderful members of the family. I found a quote on Friends to the Forlorn Rescue Site (www.friendstotheforlorn.org) that sums up my feelings about pitbulls exactly:

Generally speaking, pitbulls have an astounding love for people, which makes them incredible family companions. They thrive on human interaction and are champion snugglers. Pitbulls are extremely affectionate, and the emotional bond between a pitbull and its human is unparalleled.

After all, how can this sleepy smile ever be considered scary?

Nova Naps