Pit Bull: lots of love, lots of energy and some paperwork

The pit bull has a bad reputation and a legion of fans. People who live with one usually talk about an affectionate, playful dog that’s very close to its family. What’s certain is that it’s strong and has lots of energy, and that shapes its care.

Energy: let it burn it off with you

• Long walks every day, with time to sniff and not just to do its business.
• Games that make it think: finding treats, learning new commands, fillable toys.
• Tough toys. A pit bull destroys a soft one in minutes. Look for hard rubber chews and throw away any that break, so it doesn’t swallow pieces.

Socialise from puppyhood

Let it meet people, noises, places and other dogs calmly and positively from a young age. A well-balanced pit bull is the best answer to its bad reputation. If there’s tension with other dogs, find a dog trainer who uses positive methods.

Skin and cold

Its coat is very short. In winter it appreciates a coat, and in summer you need to protect its pale areas from strong sun. Many have sensitive skin: if it scratches a lot or gets red patches, see the vet.

The paperwork

The Pit Bull Terrier, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier are on Spain’s national list of potentially dangerous dogs (PPP). That means a licence from the town council, insurance and registration. On the street, a muzzle and a non-retractable lead shorter than 2 metres, and one dog per person. It’s all explained in “Potentially dangerous dogs: what the law says, plain and simple”.