I agree 100% to the nth degree on the training. My family, once we had said we got a pit bull, they immediately resorted to “ah, what????” and “NEVER HAVE KIDS DURING HIS LIFE.” I thought to myself “who are you to tell me how to live my life? I’m an adult, responsible, and can bring this dog up to appreciate life to its fullest.”
That being said–socialization, training, and more socialization. We’re working with our pit right now on loose leash walking and calming down just a bit when he meets new people and dogs. But when we do walk, it’s difficult to socialize when others see you and turn the other way or get on the opposite side of the street. If you can form a connection of friends around you (say, since the vet LOVES pits, try to find others who do–takes time, I know), that just helps spread the word. 🙂
And love ’em, love ’em, love ’em! I think that should be number one, along then with socialization and training. Hope to hear how you’re doing with your pittie in the coming months. 🙂
