Nothing like a good discussion (thanks, Danzig and Cajun) to get the Google itch going- this is from the ASPCA site:
<<The Pit Bull’s Bad Reputation
Sadly, pit bulls have acquired a reputation as unpredictable, dangerous, and vicious. Their intimidating appearance has made them attractive to the wrong sorts of owner—people who are looking for a macho dog and end up encouraging aggressive behavior. In order to meet the growing demand for pit bulls, unscrupulous and uncaring breeders are producing puppies without maintaining the breed’s typical reliability with people. In fact, pit bulls are now notorious for redirecting aggression from a dog to any person who attempts to break up a fight. It is a shame what has happened to this loyal and affectionate breed.
Having said all that, we must tell you that a well-bred, well-socialized, and well-trained pit bull is one of the most delightful, intelligent, and gentle dogs imaginable. Some of the most famous dogs in American history were pit bulls: Stubby, the most decorated United States war dog; Petey, the beloved mascot from Little Rascals, and Helen Keller’s faithful companion. Additionally, many pit bulls were featured in well-known advertising campaigns, such as Buster Brown shoes and Levis. The majority of pit bulls are still ambassadors for their breed, serving as loving companions, family members, and therapy dogs, working in search and rescue, narcotics and explosives detection, and police and sentry duty. Unfortunately, we often hear more about the exceptions than the rule.>>
Here's the link- it's really interesting reading about the history of the various breeds that are called pit bulls:
http://www.aspca.org/site/PageServer...e=pets_pitbull
Interestingly, they were once called the nursemaid's dog, because they were so trustworthy with children (the original fighting dogs were bred and trained to be aggressive to animals, not people, because the owners had to be in the ring with the dogs at all times). But, as the article says, breeding hasn't been so carefully regulated recently. It sounds like proper socialization is the key, and I don't think many owners really put the proper amount of time into training their dogs, regardless of breed, which may make them too challenging for some.
Danzig is SO right on about people not taking into account their living situation when they get a dog- I see so many overweight, depressed Golden Retrievers here in the city, who clearly are not getting the exercise the breed needs. I think their owners probably grew up in the 'burbs. Good apartment dogs, interestingly enough can include greyhounds (my personal wish, when I finally live in an apartment that allows pets) and really big dogs, like St. Bernards and Pyrenees Mtn. Dogs, because they don't require a lot of exercise and aren't barky (noise always a factor in apartment living- also why I can't have a parrot.
).