But they also are great running buddies.

One tip a parent gave us (I’m a teacher) is to find a rescue society and then volunteer some hours there to work with the breeds we finally narrow down to.

I think a pit might be a good choice as they’re so tolerant around kids. What started the research engine on pits was both your post plus watching Animal Planet where they showcased a couple of pits on their Animal Rescue show. I was greatly impressed with their happy personality and their patient attitude.

We’re having our home visit in a few weeks and I’ll bring up whether our license for foster (the step before adoption) would be jeopardized by owning a pit. If it’s not, I’ll contact a few groups here in Los Angeles for more info.

Thank you for your response. I think I’m finally on the right track.

Lee

There’s a ton of breeds out there that are great with children, and one does happen to be the APBT (American Pit Bull Terrier). I wouldn’t consider pitties a small breed, with all the backyard breeding taking place, you could end up with a pit anywhere from 30-60lbs. Pits are generally excellent dogs with children. They have a level disposition, are good at distinguinshing between rough housing and real danger, and most have a goofy personality that just makes you fall in love with them. I’ve had several, and they get so excited when my little nieces and nephews come over for a play date.

Choosing the right dog. Just like people, all dogs have their own personality, regardless of breed and their respective traits. You should first examine your lifestyle. Are you an active family? APBT’s are active dogs that require daily walks or runs. They’re very athletic and love to exercise and play. Are you ready for a strong-wiggly dog that thinks their “spot” is in your lap? =)

With a APBT, you have to realize that it may not be the breed you want if you intend on going to off-leash dog parks or beaches. I’ve met plenty (most actually) of pits that love other dogs, but others remain dog aggressive no matter how much socializing you give them. This shouldn’t deter you from pits, but it’s something every responsible owner should consider. If you’re looking for a watch dog, find another breed. APBT’s are very trusting of people and love humans, and would be more likely to show a burglar where the treats are kept then they would be to chase someone off.

The best way to judge which dog will fit your family, is going to dog adoption events. This way you can meet and interact with the dogs. You can speak with the foster parents and volunteers, and ask all kinds of questions about the dogs there. I always recommend bringing children to these events. You can see if the dogs respect the kids, if they play nice, if they remain calm or get too excited, and so on. Also, most Humane Society’s have an area where you can play with the dogs and see how everyone gets along. Be sure to find out if the dog it cat friendly. Every pit I’ve ever known enjoy cat companions, and the cats were always in charge!!

I hope this helps answer your question. Check out my other blog post, “My Top 5 Favorite Breeds” for more information about some breeds that are truly great. Also, PETCO.com has Care Sheets that can give you great information about bringing home a new pet, and helping you all learn to be a new family.

Best of luck!! Keep me posted on your progress.

With that said, I’m doing research into potential breeds to adopt a dog. We’re adopting kids through LA county (hopefully within the year) and I’m a big believer that kids need a dog to play with.

I’m looking at small breeds and the American Pit keeps coming to my attention. However, how do I know if it’s the right fit or not? I know to adopt through an adoption organization, but how do I choose the right dog?

Congrats Matt and Ace!

There’s a ton of breeds out there that are great with children, and one does happen to be the APBT (American Pit Bull Terrier). I wouldn’t consider pitties a small breed, with all the backyard breeding taking place, you could end up with a pit anywhere from 30-60lbs. Pits are generally excellent dogs with children. They have a level disposition, are good at distinguinshing between rough housing and real danger, and most have a goofy personality that just makes you fall in love with them. I’ve had several, and they get so excited when my little nieces and nephews come over for a play date.

Choosing the right dog. Just like people, all dogs have their own personality, regardless of breed and their respective traits. You should first examine your lifestyle. Are you an active family? APBT’s are active dogs that require daily walks or runs. They’re very athletic and love to exercise and play. Are you ready for a strong-wiggly dog that thinks their “spot” is in your lap? =)

With a APBT, you have to realize that it may not be the breed you want if you intend on going to off-leash dog parks or beaches. I’ve met plenty (most actually) of pits that love other dogs, but others remain dog aggressive no matter how much socializing you give them. This shouldn’t deter you from pits, but it’s something every responsible owner should consider. If you’re looking for a watch dog, find another breed. APBT’s are very trusting of people and love humans, and would be more likely to show a burglar where the treats are kept then they would be to chase someone off.

The best way to judge which dog will fit your family, is going to dog adoption events. This way you can meet and interact with the dogs. You can speak with the foster parents and volunteers, and ask all kinds of questions about the dogs there. I always recommend bringing children to these events. You can see if the dogs respect the kids, if they play nice, if they remain calm or get too excited, and so on. Also, most Humane Society’s have an area where you can play with the dogs and see how everyone gets along. Be sure to find out if the dog it cat friendly. Every pit I’ve ever known enjoy cat companions, and the cats were always in charge!!

I hope this helps answer your question. Check out my other blog post, “My Top 5 Favorite Breeds” for more information about some breeds that are truly great. Also, PETCO.com has Care Sheets that can give you great information about bringing home a new pet, and helping you all learn to be a new family.

Best of luck!! Keep me posted on your progress.