Breed Specific Legislation and Aggression in Dogs

Breed specific legislation only serves to create fear and confusion. I am a professional dog trainer/ behaviour counsellor and I know there is no such thing as a bad dog, just bad owners. While it is true that some aggression issues can be genetically influenced, the vast majority of problem dogs are not born that way.

Irresponsible breeders can make a problem worse by breeding dogs that simply should never be bred. These breeders only account for a percentage of the dog aggression issue. In my entire career, I have only seen one dog that was incorrigibly dangerous and had to be destroyed. I have successfully treated thousands of dogs and their owners. In some cases it is about management and the dog will never be completely trustworthy but most are treatable and can be rehabilitiated.

The major problem with all aggressive dogs and in particular the so called bully breeds is that they are not in the right homes and irresponsible macho gear heads can easily ruin a good dog. Even a well meaning owner that just doesn’t know how to be a good dog leader can take a dog that had a naturally balanced temperament and turn him into a neurotic basket case simply by doing stupid things.

In my years of working with aggression problems in dogs I have had many more aggression issues in breeds other than pit bull terrier. The bully breeds are just like any other breed; there are some that will require treatment, but the majority are wonderful loving affectionate, well balanced dogs. The percentage of Pitt Bull Terriers with aggression issues is no higher than any other breed.

Let me dispel some pervasive myths here:

Pitt Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Terriers, Mastiffs, Rottwiellers, and other breeds can be absolutely fantastic family pets under the right conditions.

No breed of dogs was bred to be mean, they were bred for the characteristics that best suited the role they were to play in the lives of humans.

Dogs have been used for a huge variety of jobs and can be taught virtually anything with the right methods.

Working protection and police dogs are not vicious!

A junkyard dog that is mean was made that way by the stupid things people do and is not a reliable protection dog!

Proper training, temperament testing and breeding practices are needed to have a well balanced dog.

Dogs are not fashion accessories, status symbols or an addition to your ego. If this is what you want, buy some jewellery, a car or something else.

Dogs are living, breathing creatures that require a great deal of commitment to care for them for their entire lives. Proper Life Long Training, Proper Diet, Medical Care, A caring interactive home, Exercise, and a multitude of other things to make sure they are well balanced and valued members of our family.

The majority of dog issues with problem behaviour actually have nothing to do with the dog. It is the owner that is causing it.

Dogs are very social creatures; they need to feel like they are part of the pack. They will also instinctively seek out leadership and with the absence of good leadership they will take on the role themselves, usually with disastrous results. To have a great relationship with a well balanced loving dog requires mutual respect, trust, love and good solid leadership. The owners need to learn to be a good caretaker and to teach the dog to be acceptable in human society. If you are not willing to do this then don’t get a dog.

I am a firm believe
that we don’t really need dog licences, we need licences for the people that want to get a dog. They should have to demonstrate a knowledge and commitment required for the life of the dog.

I would also like to remind the average dog owner and consumer out there that not all trainers are created equal. I have seen some very stupid suggestions regarding treating problem behaviours. Some suggestions are just downright dangerous and will only make the problem worse. Be sure the professional you choose is qualified to help you with your problems. Anyone can call themselves a trainer after reading a few books. Be sure they really understand dog behaviour, training and behaviour modification. If you are in doubt ask for references or attend a session without your dog to observe. Ask questions and do not make a training decision based on price. Choose the most qualified trainer you can find.