Pit bulls are naturally strong and smart. They are made to protect, and as dogs, they understand the responsibility of taking care of their owners. 

Are Pit Bulls good guard dogs? Well, to get the answer to this question,  there are some interesting facts you should learn about this dog. Over time, certain misconceptions and stereotypes about this agile yet loving dog have existed.

People are scared of Pit bulls because of the generalization that Pit bulls are naturally ferocious and unfriendly. How true is this?

Let us dive into the life and style of this dog and see for ourselves if Pit Bulls will make good guard dogs.

Understanding The Pit Bull Breed

Pit bull breeds are naturally strong, intelligent, and courageous. A pit bull’s main purpose and goal is to guard and please its owner.

Most breeds commonly identified as pit bulls originated in the United Kingdom, where breeders sought to combine a terrier’s playfulness with a bulldog’s strength and athleticism. 

The Old English Bulldog, similar to the modern American Bulldog, was used in the popular sport of bull baiting, in which dogs were directed to attack a tethered bull or bear.

The sport emphasizes certain qualities: 

• Muscularity, 
• Strong jaws, 
• Compact and close to the ground

After the British Parliament outlawed bull and bear baiting in 1835, other cruel sports involving dogs developed in their place, pitting dogs against rats and then other dogs. 

These sports required more speed and agility than baiting, so Old English bulldogs were crossed with terriers.

At the beginning of the 20th century, the first strain of this breed was the Staffordshire Terrier, which comes from the Staffordshire region of England, hence the name. 

They were bred to have stronger and stockier frames for guard dogs and dog fighting. When dog fighting was banned, a second strain of the breed developed. 

This new variation was milder and smaller. Known as the American Staffordshire Terrier, this newer pit bull breed is loyal and protective of its owner and family. They were known to be faithful and loving, especially regarding children.

Four breeds fall under the “pit bull” category:

• American pit bull terrier
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• American tyrant

The most common breed is the American Pit Bull Terrier. A cross between terriers and bulldogs, American pit bull terriers were first brought to the United States in the late 19th century from Staffordshire, England. 

They later symbolized American strength and courage during World War I. Pit bulls are trained to be aggressive by using other people’s pets as bait. Cats, rabbits, and other small animals are used to draw out the dog’s attack instinct. 

Because the American Pit Bull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier can appear somewhat similar at first glance, most people are unaware that they are two distinct dog breeds. 

They share similarities in appearance because they are somewhat related, as both are pit bull breeds. 

Although the American Pit Bull Terrier and the Staffordshire Terrier make loving and devoted pets, their outward characteristics and personalities diverge.

In comparison, we would be looking at the major differences between the American Pitbull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier.

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Differences In Shape

The body shapes, and outlines of the American Staffordshire and Pit Bull Terrier are remarkably similar. 

Although both breeds have powerful muscles, the American Staffordshire Terrier tends to have a slightly more muscular appearance than the American Pit Bull Terrier.

The American Staffordshire Terrier has a longer muzzle than the American Pit Bull Terrier, which has a more flat-faced appearance, another distinction between the two breeds.

Differences In Size

There isn’t much difference in size between the American Pit Bull Terriers and Staffordshire Terriers.

• Male American Pit Bull Terriers: 45–48 cm (18–19 in), 15–30 kg (35–63 lb).
• Male American Staffordshire Terriers: 45–48 cm (18–19 in), 18–30 kg (40–63 lb).
• Female American Pit Bull Terriers: 43–45 cm (17–18 in), 13–26 kg (30–57 lb).
• American Staffordshire Terriers: females, 18–30 kg (40–63 lb), 43–45 cm (17–18 in).

Differences In Coat and color

Both varieties of pit bulls have short, silky, smooth coats that can be any of the following colors:

• All colours, brindle combinations, spots, points, patches, and masks are permitted in American Pit Bull Terriers, except merle patterns.
• Blue, black, blue fawn, bronze, liver, red, red sable, seal brown, and white American Staffordshire Terriers are available. 
• All types of brindle patterns, including spots, points, patches, and masks, are acceptable.

Differences In Adaptation

In adaptability, the American Staffordshire Terrier takes first place. Since this breed doesn’t need as much space or activity indoors and outside as the American Pit Bull Terrier, it can adapt to changing environmental conditions.

Differences In Temperament

Both varieties of pit bulls are renowned for their intelligence and fierce loyalty. 

The American Pitbull Terrier is recommended against being used as a guard dog since it is self-assured and vigilant but also amiable, gregarious, and eager. The Amstaff, on the other hand, is also affectionate but less extroverted.

Natural Traits That Make Pit Bulls Good Guard Dogs

Pitbulls are amiable, love people, and have good dedication to their owner, as they will intervene if there is a serious threat. In addition, their menacing demeanour and loud barking help deter prospective predators.

When selecting a guard dog, you should keep loyalty, bravery, obedience, and awareness in mind. Pit bulls also exhibit a protective nature due to their intense affection and commitment towards their human family.

Loyalty And Protectiveness

Pitbulls are the best choice for a devoted and affectionate companion animal. Pitbulls are very kind and friendly despite their peculiar stigma.

In the opinion of the majority, the most faithful breed is the German Shepherd or Golden Retriever. 

Pitbulls give them a run for the most devoted dog, even though they may be some of the most frequently brought home canines. Pitbulls are renowned for being obstinate cuddlers and highly devoted to their families.

They know the person who saved them and integrated them into the family—their extraordinary loyalty and intellect aid trust between puppies and their owners. 

They enjoy receiving and giving love. They are also fiercely devoted to their guardians, which makes them the ideal family dog. 

Do not mistakenly interpret violent behaviour as being protective. Pitbulls are not naturally aggressive. Handlers bred pit bulls to be kind and loving.

Strong Physical Attributes And Athletism

Pitbulls are ideal for running, biking, or trekking partners. In addition to having a lot of energy, they frequently get along well with children and other canines. 

So, if you have a backyard, let your children and dog socialise there. They are a friendly breed of dog and excellent swimmers and fetchers. 

Like any dog, they require enough exercise to burn off their excess energy and prevent them from being unruly inside your house.

Fearlessness And Confidence

Pit bulls were raised to be brave and competitive, to keep going no matter the situation. They are courageous, tenacious, and stubborn due to these traits. Pit bulls should be closely watched around youngsters, as with any large dog.

Compared to many other breeds of dogs, pit bulls typically exhibit less tolerance. Despite this, pit bulls typically don’t bite people. Moreover, they are “very tenacious. They succeed at anything they set their minds to.

Training And Socialization For Guarding Abilities

It is indeed important to train pit bulls to fit into the category you want them to; guarding. Pitbulls are infamous for their tendency to be aggressive and for having a bad reputation as deadly canines. 

It has been extensively debunked that Pitbull dogs are innately aggressive, and it has been proved that this is mainly the fault of their owner. 

This breed is actually quite pleasant and longs for human company and affection just as any other dog would.

However, if you want your Pitbull to provide an additional layer of defence, you should learn how to do this correctly and in the most beneficial way for your dog.

If you already own a young pitbull puppy or are shortly to acquire one, give socialisation first attention. Your pit bull must develop a sense of ease with a range of people and circumstances from an early age. 

Men, women, children, and animals should all be exposed to it. Get your pet accustomed to handling. 

Maintain a cheerful attitude and let your pit bull puppy explore new things at its own pace. The most crucial element of your puppy’s training is this early socialising.

The first stage in teaching your dog should be to earn their trust and develop a close relationship with them. It lays the groundwork for efficient instruction that will contribute to long-term success. 

Whether you are a seasoned pro or just beginning your dog-training journey, building a strong bond with your canine friend is crucial for producing long-lasting results that improve their obedience and help ensure they enjoy the experience.

This is possible by:

• Understanding their Behaviour
• Poitive reinforcement
• Creating a routine
• Setting realistic expectations
• Increase bonding time

It is indeed important to train pit bulls to fit into the category you want them to; guarding.

Pitbulls are infamous for their tendency to be aggressive and for having a bad reputation as deadly canines. 

It has been extensively debunked that Pitbull dogs are innately aggressive, and it has been proved that this is mainly the fault of their owner. 

This breed is actually quite pleasant and longs for human company and affection just as any other dog would.

However, if you want your Pitbull to provide an additional layer of defence, you should learn how to do this correctly and in the most beneficial way for your dog.

If you already own a young pitbull puppy or are shortly to acquire one, give socialisation first attention. Your pit bull must develop a sense of ease with a range of people and circumstances from an early age. 

Men, women, children, and animals should all be exposed to it. Get your pet accustomed to handling. 

Maintain a cheerful attitude and let your pit bull puppy explore new things at its own pace. The most crucial element of your puppy’s training is this early socialising.

The first stage in teaching your dog should be to earn their trust and develop a close relationship with them. It lays the groundwork for efficient instruction that will contribute to long-term success. 

Whether you are a seasoned pro or just beginning your dog-training journey, building a strong bond with your canine friend is crucial for producing long-lasting results that improve their obedience and help ensure they enjoy the experience.

This is possible by:

• Understanding their Behaviour
• Poitive reinforcement
• Creating a routine
• Setting realistic expectations
• Increase bonding time

There are more benefits to training your pit bull to be a guard dog than effectively deterring intruders. You will instil a high level of discipline in your dog. 

A discipline that can be used to train them to perform a variety of commands and tricks. This training type is also a great way to spend quality time together.

Before you start training, you must ensure you have a few things together. 

• First, you will need to stock up on treats or small pieces of your dog’s favourite food. 
• You will also need a secure leash and some friends your Pit Bull doesn’t know well.
• Set aside 10 to 15 minutes for training several days a week. The more consistently you train, the sooner you can see results.

Once you have all that, just bring your enthusiasm and patience and let the work begin.

Training a pit bull to be a guard dog is not without problems. You will need to keep them focused and properly motivated for months. This requires the right food or a favourite toy. 

You then use obedience commands to get your dog to bark and show interest in strangers. You will also need to do some socialisation work to ensure they don’t show any signs of aggression towards people or pets they know.

If your dog is still a puppy, they should learn quickly and be eager to please. As a result, the training can turn out to be successful in just a month. 

However, if they are older and less enthusiastic students, you may need a few months to see consistent results. If the training is successful, you will have a fantastic way to keep people and property safe.

Are Pit Bulls Good Guard Dogs/ Pit Bull Temperament And Aggression

Bulldog and terrier breeds were crossed to produce pit bulls. Early breeders were looking to cross the bulldog’s might with the terrier’s “mad” daring.

They seem to have been successful because the Pitbull slowly became one of the most well-known breeds used in dog fighting.

A group of breeds make up the Pitbull categorisation; any dog that belongs to one of the following is a Pitbull.

But are the pit bulls as aggressive as the world makes them look? Popular myths about pit bulls include the following:

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Myths 1: All Pit Bulls Are Mean And Vicious

Pit bulls scored 82% or higher on temperament tests administered by the American Temperament Test Society, compared to 77% for the overall dog population.

A dog is placed through several unexpected circumstances, including strangers, as part of these temperament tests.

Failure of the test results from spontaneous aggressiveness or panic in these circumstances. Pit bulls’ success in this study refutes the notion that they are naturally aggressive toward people.

Myth 2: Pitbulls’ Aggression Towards Animals Extends To Humans

Aggression toward people is quite abnormal for canines of the pit bull breed. They are neither intrinsically nor innately hostile to people. 

Environment and development are at crucial stages, but most significantly, human behaviour moulding is some of the factors that contribute to aggression. 

Although they have been taught to attack other dogs or bulls for ages, they have never all been raised to be human-aggressive, completely different from animal aggression in dogs.

 Understanding The Role Of Responsible Ownership

All dogs deserve and need responsible ownership, but large or powerful breeds like German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, Cane Corsos, Huskies, Mastiffs, and many other powerful breeds and mixes need it to help ensure everyone’s happiness and safety. 

A failure of one or more aspects of responsible ownership causes almost all major dog bite-related incidents. 

The principles of responsible ownership are covered in various publications, and this subject may be covered in great length. 

Vitals

• Regular veterinary examinations and all necessary vaccines.
• Plenty of food and water
• Strongly consider spaying or neutering (intact males cause the most serious incidents in males, and unfixed females may have higher levels of aggression).

Exercises

• Adequate exercise (walks, play) appropriate to the dog’s age and energy level.
• Exposure to outdoor activities.
• Exercise should be provided at least twice a day.

Training

• Show basic obedience commands like “sit”, “stay”, and “come”.
• Use positive reinforcement by rewarding good behaviour with a treat
• Avoid negative training as it can lead to undesirable outcomes such as increased aggression.

Safety

• Always supervise dogs around infants and small children
• Pitbulls should always wear a tag collar, and all dogs should have a chip
• Always use a leash when walking 
• Never allow dogs to run free
• Provide a safe, fenced yard for play and potty breaks.
• Always obey all local laws and ordinances that apply to dogs (leash laws, registration laws, etc.)

With this training and supervision, you will be able to recognise aggressive signs and give proper management.

Legal Considerations And Breed Restrictions

Under any legal consideration in raising dog breeds, there is the Breed Specific Legislation (BSL). It is a subset of a larger body of legislation aimed at regulating supposedly dangerous dogs. 

BSL developed in response to what was felt to be a growing problem with dog bites in communities. 

Advocates of BSL believed that the increased danger posed by certain dog breeds (namely pit bulls) necessitated a ban on ownership. This sometimes raises concerns about the legal legitimacy of breed-specific bans in these communities.

There is no doubt that dogs are subject to state and local government regulation. One of the first cases to deal with the regulation of dogs was the knowledge that breeds were subject to the police power of the state government. 

Police power loosely means that the government has the authority to make laws that protect its citizens’ health, safety, and welfare. 

The case also established that people have property rights over their dogs under the 14th Amendment to the federal constitution. 

However, since this right of ownership is a “qualified right”, it is entirely within the legislature’s discretion to say to what extent dogs shall be recognised as property.”

Opponents of BSL typically recognise the government’s right to regulate dogs but disagree with targeting specific breeds, which includes the stereotypes of pit bulls that call for immediate counteraction. 

Thus, groups that oppose BSL often raise a number of legal arguments rooted in constitutional rights.

Understanding Local Laws And Regulations

By far, the most commonly regulated breeds are pit bulls. As Miami-Dade’s ordinance notes in its legislative intent section, “the unique history, nature and characteristics of pit bulls have been determined to require special regulations and provisions to protect the public health, safety, and welfare.

As you may know, pit bull is not a dog breed; ordinances governing pit bulls generally clarify the definition of “pit bull”. As mentioned earlier, specific breeds commonly considered “pit bulls” include American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Staffordshire Bull Terriers. 

Often, the ordinance will also regulate mixed breeds that contain an element of those breeds, exhibit physical traits, have the appearance of those breeds, or exhibit characteristics that substantially conform to the standards of these breeds.

Under this type of legal consideration, regulated breeds are not allowed within the city/county except in specific circumstances. 

These considerations tend to be very broad in their prohibited activities, including the ownership, possession, transportation, possession, custody, the exercise of control, maintenance, sale, purchase, acquisition or acquisition of a regulated breed.

Most ordinances have a clause that allows owners who had a dog before the breed restrictions were passed to keep the dog if they meet certain requirements. 

These requirements make for responsible ownership and good community perceptions. They include the following:

• Keeping the rabies vaccine current;
• Payment of an annual license fee
• Spaying or neutering a dog
• Proof of ability to pay for any damages caused by the dog through insurance, surety bond, personal bond or personal statement
• Imprisonment in the owner’s house
• Confined in a secure, locked building or leashed and muzzled when outside the owner’s home
• Posting signs “Dangerous dog” or “Beware of the dog.”
• Registration of colour photographs
• Reporting the death, removal or new address of the dog.

Most jurisdictions also prohibit the sale or transfer of an animal to anyone other than a family member. Some jurisdictions also require the owner to be of a certain age.

Pit Bulls As Family Pets And Guard Dogs

Due to their loving, caring and protective nature, pit bulls make for good guard dogs and family pets. However, certain restrictions should be put in place to avoid catastrophe, as animal instinct may set in due to unforeseen or unmanaged family-dog affairs.

Many families are turning to protection dogs as a way of securing their loved ones and their houses as personal security becomes more of a priority. 

These properly trained dogs are equipped to protect their owners and fend off possible dangers. 

But there is still one unanswered question: Can a security dog also serve as a family pet, providing the love, company, and fun we associate with conventional family dogs?

Balancing The Roles Of Family Pet And Guard Dog

It is important to create a peaceful environment in a household with a guard dog. All family members must practice consistent training methods and have open lines of communication. 

Parents should monitor interactions to avoid any potential accidents and teach kids how to behave around dogs. 

In order to meet the dog’s physical and emotional needs, it is also crucial to set aside enough time for play, affection, and exercise.

Whether you have young children at home who are looking forward to a new furry addition or you’re expecting a little one soon, it’s important to prepare to keep your children and pets safe.

Be Gentle

Do not play rough with dogs generally. Also, avoid pulling on leashes or collars or touching/getting close to the animal’s face.

Supervise Interactions

If your child is very young, teaching them how to gently handle pit bulls is important. However, always monitor interactions as young children may find it difficult to learn this restriction until later.

Watch For Warning Signs

Watch for signs of animal distress. Teach them to look after their child too. Aggressive signs such as growling, staring, or raised grunts mean that they must be kept calm until the dog can be safely removed. Avoid eye contact with an aggressive dog.

Tips For Responsible Pit Bull Ownership

There are several tips that make for responsible Pit bull ownership. These have gone through the test and re-test methods and have proved really helpful.

• Obedience Training: Train your dog to be the star in all situations.
• Spay/neuter your dog: This will reduce aggression, prevent more unwanted puppies and prevent your dog from wandering off. 
• Socialization: Encourage your Pitbull to be a social butterfly. Socialize them with as many different people as possible, such as children and other dogs.
• Use and understand dog body language. This will help you anticipate and prevent potential dog-dog conflicts. Be ready to intervene and watch for triggers that might set your dog off. 
• Pay close attention to behavioural changes that develop as your pit bull goes through changes in your life. 
• Respect Leash Laws: Leash laws are a dog owner’s best friend. They guide and help you navigate situations where another dog may provoke your dog.
• Ask for the help of an experienced dog trainer. Dogs that do not improve in their behavioural patterns should be kept away from the public. Pit bulls were trained to be extremely friendly to people.
• Exercise: Your dog needs regular exercise to burn off “bulldog energy.” Pit bulls are known to be intelligent athletes; treat them as such. 
• Feed the well: According to scientific studies, an adult dog’s daily diet can include up to 50% by weight of carbs, including 2.5–4.5% fibre. Fats should not make up more than 5.5% of the diet. Proteins should make up 10%. In general, critical nutrient quantities on pet food labels are not given in grams.

Alternatives To Pit Bulls As Guard Dogs

If you are looking for the best protection dogs for your family and don’t want a pit bull, we recommend looking for one of the breeds below.

Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois are intelligent, incredibly capable, and enthusiastic workers. They are a versatile breed that is becoming increasingly in demand as performance security dogs. 

These canines are extremely devoted to their pack—your family—and will fight to protect you. Belgian Malinois adapt to your needs and get along with people of all ages, other canines, animals, and even dogs.

German Shepherds

German Shepherds are devoted and obedient dogs who serve their owners and defend their families. 

Parents and kids are bright and friendly, yet they will rebuff any threats from strangers. Police frequently utilise German Shepherds for executive protection and jobs like bomb and drug detection.

Rottweilers

Despite being cautious about strangers and those they haven’t met, Rotties are incredibly loyal and devoted to their families. 

These dogs are known for being aggressive throughout the years, but if you’re searching for a guard dog, this may work to your advantage.

Doberman

Dobermans are intelligent, loyal and protective. They are natural guard dogs that defend their pack and act aggressively or attack when necessary. 

Dobermans are loving and gentle with their families and love to have fun. They need enough space to run around and accompany their families on trips to the park or on vacation.

Bullmastiff

The great protective instincts, physical strength, and devotion to their family characterise the Bullmastiffs. Children and other pets will all be beloved by this breed. When spending time with their “pack,” they are obedient and enjoy playing. 

Bullmastiffs will stay behind their pack and protect you at all costs if their family is attacked by an assailant, intruder, or stranger, and it appears unsafe.

Other guard dogs include:

• Giant schnauzer
• Rhodesian ridgeback
• Cane Corsos

FAQ

Conclusion

To answer the question, are Pit bulls good guard dogs? Yes. Not only are pit bulls strong and energetic because of their hybrid nature, but they are also fun-loving, kind, and loyal to their masters.

If you are thinking of getting a pit bull for a guard dog, by all means, we are certain that with proper training, this guard dog will also be your best friend. 

Remember that proper training and care should be shown to your dog so as to endear them to you and create a bond that will make them love you and feel at ease. Always keep them protected from harming others too.

Do you have any questions or inquiries? Why don’t you use the comment box, and we will respond as soon as possible?  Also, do well to share his article with friends and loved ones. 

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