Tag Archives: Maryland SPCA

Popularity and Population Density of the “pit bull”

Puppy

Photo courtesy of Bartlett Image.

With this recent Maryland ruling that “pit bull” dogs are inherently dangerous, it’s time to take a look at the popularity and population density of the breed. It’s absurd, even for owners of a docile dog of any breed, to think that there aren’t variations in the breed as well as responsibility in ownership. Because your dog does not bite, does not mean that other dogs haven’t. For the victims of dog bites, we are doing an injustice by thinking this way. Let’s take a look at some real information, instead.

I’m going to address a few breeds in particular for the simple reason that they have had marked increases in popularity over certain time frames, NOT because I believe that any other breed is better than the dogs addressed. It’s true that, as the population density of a particular breed goes up, the bite statistics go up. Let’s ignore the numerous reasons bite statistics are inaccurate, for now.

Right now on average, our local shelters have a 66% “pit bull” population versus all other breeds. (Based on five local area shelters. See breakdown at the end of article) The population density is higher the closer to the city, as one may expect. It is historically true for all dogs, that the higher the popularity of a breed, the higher the number of that breed in the shelter. 66% is probably a low estimate to the actual “pit bull” density in our area because two of the five shelters surveyed are limited admittance, and one specifically has a limited number of “pit bulls” allowed into the program. The population of “pit bull” type dogs has been significantly increasing over the last ten years or so. In fact, during the years of 1997-2007, the AKC Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a smaller relative of the UKC’s American Pit Bull Terrier, has seen a 69% AKC registration  increase. (http://www.akc.org/press_center/facts_stats.cfm?page=popular_pooches)

Just 20 years ago, in the 1990’s, “the years following the release of the second movie [101 Dalmatians], the Dalmatian breed suffered greatly at the hands of irresponsible breeders and inexperienced owners. . . Dalmatians were abandoned in large numbers by their original owners and left with animal shelters.” (http://aquariumcouncil.org/docs/library/2/Release_Nemo_FINAL.PDF)  This goes to show that the popularity of a breed will show in the shelters. Ten years following this, the“AKC registrations of Dalmatians decreased 90%.” . . .as did their numbers in the shelter. (http://www.akc.org/press_center/facts_stats.cfm?page=popular_pooches) If we go back 30 years, “The cocker spaniel was the most popular dog of the 1980s. It earned the No. 1 most registered dog breed spot from 1983 to 1990.” http://www.ehow.com/list_7738692_top-breeds-dogs-1980s.html#ixzz1uUGkPeNe During this same time frame, it was noted in a Palm Beach County Comparison of most severe bites by dog breed, that the Cocker Spaniel ranked #2 in 1988, during its reign of popularity. (http://www.nokillnow.com/DogBiteStudies.pdf) Is the Cocker Spaniel an “inherently dangerous” dog? I think not!

So, what’s the solution to the problem? (The problem being an over population of a specific breed, not a court ruling) Pet owners: Spay and Neuter your pets. Reputable breeders: Heavily screen potential new owners. Require spay/neuter contracts for pet dogs. Let’s address the over population and responsibility in ownership. It’s the only thing that’s going to save our dogs.

Statistics of “pit bull” density in 5 local shelters in Maryland:

TOTALS FOR ALL LOCAL SHELTERS COMBINED

Number of pit bulls/mixes- 196

Number of all other dogs- 102

Percentage of pit bulls/mixes in shelters- 66%

MD SPCA: 3300 Falls Rd., Baltimore, MD

Limited admittance shelter. Only selected dogs enter the program. Limited pit bulls allowed.

Number of pit bulls/mixes- 7

Number of all other dogs- 23

Percentage of pit bulls/mixes in shelter- 30% (As of 5/1/12)

Baltimore Humane: 1601 Nicodemus Rd., Reisterstown, MD

Limited admittance shelter.

Number of pit bulls/mixes- 31

Number of all other dogs- 6

Percentage of pit bulls/mixes in shelter- 84% (As of 5/1/12)

BARCS: 301 Stockholm St., Baltimore, MD

Open admittance shelter. City’s animal control drop.

Number of pit bulls/mixes- 135

Number of all other dogs- 41

Percentage of pit bulls/mixes in shelter- 77% (As of 5/2/12)

Harford County Humane Society: 2208 Connolly Rd., Fallston, MD

Open admittance shelter. Harford County’s animal control drop.

Number of pit bulls/mixes- 17

Number of all other dogs- 16

Percentage of pit bulls/mixes in shelter- 52% (As of 5/2/12)

Baltimore County Shelter: 13800 Manor Rd., Baldwin, MD

Open admittance shelter. Baltimore County’s animal control drop.

Number of pit bulls/mixes- 6

Number of all other dogs- 16

Percentage of pit bulls/mixes in shelter- 27% (As of 5/2/12)

New Dog Introductions

Selecting an appropriate new dog to bring home, as well as selecting new playmates for dogs in your household always requires introducing the dogs. There are a few points to remember to ensure that all new greetings are as successful as they can be. A few general rules to keep in mind are: 1. Male-Female pairs tend to do better long term; 2. Adult dogs that get along initially will typically continue to do so; and 3. Walking the dogs together before greeting can greatly improve chances for appropriate greetings, especially with dogs that are selective.

Male-Female pairs are best because there will be less competition between the dogs. In a pack, there is always an alpha male and an alpha female. (Of course, in your pack at home, you should be the dominant leader, although that’s another topic all together!) Keeping opposite sex pairings can reduce dominance scuffles, which can be intense. In multi-dog households or playgroups, it’s best to determine who the top dogs are, and keep a watchful eye to be sure that other dogs do not challenge this role.

Contrary to the popular myth, adult dogs are better new additions! Getting a puppy to have it “grow up” with the other dog or with the family greatly increases the risk that the puppy will challenge an adult dog as he/she matures. If you select a new addition to your household as an adult and your current dog is receptive from the initial greeting, chances are that the roles will not be challenged in the future because both dogs are mentally mature. Mental maturity in most dogs happens between the ages of 2-4 years, which often depends on the breed and the individual dog.

Now . . .you think you have found the perfect match. It’s time to introduce the dogs! Start on neutral territory, and do not allow the dogs to greet right away. Take the dogs on a long walk side-by-side to start. The longer the walk the better, as greetings will be less intense if the dogs have burned some energy. As you’re walking, take turns having one dog walk in front and the other behind. This will give both you and the dogs the opportunity to watch behaviors. Plus, it will give the dogs an opportunity to pick up on the other dogs scent.

Once the walk is over, as the handler, you must make the decision if it’s the right time to let the dogs greet. Happy, but relaxed, posture is key. Do not allow the dogs to greet head-on; this can present a challenge to some dogs. Head-to-tail, or a sideways greeting is better, as this allows the dogs to learn each others scent. With loose leashes, allow the dogs to approach naturally; you should notice one or both dogs veering slightly to one side, with bodies curved. If the dogs are pulling toward each other with tight leashes, more walking may be needed.

Some dogs are able to meet with new dogs quickly and easily, while other dogs may need more time to get used to a new household or playgroup addition. This depends greatly on the individual dog, with breed and gender playing a role in this as well. Always know your dog and his/her reactions, anticipate responses, and watch behaviors for the best new intros.

Have safe introductions, and enjoy your new addition!

It is NOT a Pit Bull problem. . .

. . .and I am not a “pit bull” person. I am a “dog” person.

 

. . .it's a human problem.

. . .it's a human problem.

Pit Bull News

It was noted on WJZ news on Tuesday morning/evening that there is a “pit bull problem” and that there is currently a pit bull overpopulation. A local “Pit Fix” program was also noted as a solution to overpopulation and abuse. The fact that the breed is, unfortunately, notoriously popular at the moment is true. That does not make our current situation a “pit bull” problem any more than there was a “cocker spaniel” problem in the 70’s or a “dalmatian” problem in the 80’s. The problem is people! The pit bull is just as abused and overbred as any other breed in history right now. It is probably more publicized than any other breed in history in part because of the internet- something that wasn’t in existence (or popular) when other breeds were under attack.

While spaying and neutering of pets is important and can certainly help overpopulation and homeless animals, breed specific clinics have the potential to give the wrong message. Much like this news report indicated, the message given is that pit bulls need to be spayed/neutered more than any other breed. This is simply not true. Keep in mind- spay and neuter programs are used by RESPONSIBLE dog owners. Individuals abusing dogs do not spay/neuter regardless of cost- it’s a completely different mindset. Promoting the spay/neuter of an individual breed will not prevent animal abuse any more than banning a breed will provide public safety. This is an effort that needs to be directed to individuals and it goes much deeper than spay/neuter.

We have created and bred dogs for companionship and service. It is our responsibility to care for them. Please do spay and neuter your pets, and encourage all to treat companion animals with love and respect. . .regardless of breed!

You breed. Do you also help rescue?

As a trainer, I work with dogs that come from all places- both reputable and backyard breeders, rescues, shelters, strays, and more. I take them all, work with them all, and love them all. I accept the dogs and the owners for who they are. Working with many rescues, I encounter a lot of individuals who have very strong feelings against breeding dogs. They would prefer to be out of business, having no more homeless animals to save. Of course breeders feel justified in their actions and beliefs as well- this goes for both reputable and backyard breeders, as often the backyard breeders don’t know who they are, unfortunately. As we all know: everybody’s dog is the best dog in the world!

My question to all of you is this: Is there a middle ground?

L-R: Reese, Dojo, and Caddy. . .and in the back is Star. All rescues.

L-R: Reese, Dojo, and Caddy. . .and in the back is Star. All rescues. Puppies are available for adoption through Mid Atlantic Bully Buddies.

As a working dog person, I prefer a purebred and intact dog to work with. I have never bred my dogs, and I don’t intend to. However, when I work a dog in the sport that I choose (Schutzhund), I prefer the uninterrupted drives of an intact dog that is specifically bred for a purpose. I also prefer the muscle development of intact dogs for such an athletic sport. Yes, I’ve successfully competed with spayed/neutered rescue dogs as well. It’s my preference, and I do see a difference. I also participate in rescue. Although I only contribute to the population by adding occasional demand, I find it both important and rewarding to assist in rescue efforts. Personally,  I believe that anybody who adds to the population in any way- whether that be breeding or seeking a purebred dog, should assist in rescue as well. It really is important to see both sides!

Now, this doesn’t mean that a typical family that purchases a purebred dog for the children needs to go out and adopt a rescue as well. Anybody can help, and there are a number of ways. Volunteering at a rescue or shelter can be a great help to them, and very rewarding to you. Donations are always welcomed, too- money, bedding, collars and leashes are all helpful. Of course, if you do feel compelled to take in a rescued life, foster and forever homes are always needed!

Take time today to consider what you can do to help your local animals in need. A few local all-breed shelters are:

Maryland SPCA

BARCS

Baltimore Humane

Humane Society of Harford County

The puppies in the picture above are available for adoption once they have been fully vetted and spayed/neutered. Please contact Mid Atlantic Bully Buddies for details: MABB