Although the media focuses on the negative aspects, in reality "Pibbles" (Pit Bulls and Pit Mixes) can be awesome pets for the smart owner. Here are six reasons why:
1. Pibbles are Affectionate Companions...
Pibbles are wiggly, cuddly, affectionate dogs. If you don’t like dog kisses then consider another breed, because most pibbles love licking. The same goes if you have children and you don’t want them to be a regular target for face washes. Pibbles are not aloof – they like to remind you regularly of how they feel about you, and in general this means a lot of tail wagging and kissing.
2. Pibbles are Generally Healthy and Easy to Care For...
Yes, pibbles require a reasonable amount of attention. They do not, however, need a lot of care. They have short coats and are normal shedders, and only need to be brushed semi-regularly.
They don't tend toward genetic disorders like some other breeds, although they should be inspected at puppyhood for signs of hip dysplasia, but this is a good idea for most medium to large breeds anyway. Most pibbles do not get larger than 50 to 60 pounds, although there are some larger sub-breeds. And as long as you exercise the dog regularly, a pibble can be very comfortable in a small dwelling.
3. Pibbles are People-Orientated, When Socialized Properly...
Pibbles love people. Although this breed frequently gets a bad rap in the media, if you have ever met a pibble that was raised by a loving, conscientious family then you will understand how much they like to be with people.
The downside of this personality trait is that they can get overexcited when they meet new people, which is something that needs to be addressed through training and positive reinforcement.
4. Pibbles are Loyal to their Owners...
Your pibble will be you and your family’s best friend from the day you take them home to the day they pass away. While they will be naturally protective of their family and their property, because pibbles are so people-orientated they do not make good guard dogs--unless you just want them to smother intruders with hugs and kisses.
5. Pibbles are Eager to Please...
A pibble will always do it’s best to make you happy, as long as you are clear about what you expect from them. Many people will mention the fact that this breed is notoriously stubborn, but once they realize that you are the boss, they will work hard to ensure that you were happy with them.
6. Pibbles have a High Tolerance for Pain...
Sometimes presented as a negative trait, the fact that pibbles have a high pain tolerance makes them exceptional family dogs. They easily (and happily) put up with the rough play of children without reacting.
It is important that when considering a pibble as a pet that you carefully screen all puppies and adult dogs to ensure that they respond positively. Dogs of any breed that show fearfulness or aggression towards people or other dogs should be avoided, particularly as a family pet, unless you are willing to put in a lot of extra time and money into behavioural training.
To be a successful and responsible pibble owner you need to at all times have your pet under control. Dogs should never be left unsupervised with other dogs or children, and should never be allowed to roam off leash except in controlled dog-friendly spaces.
Remember that as a pibble owner you are charged with showing the positive side of this breed, so make sure that you always have a friendly and well behaved pet.
(Article by Pitbulls.org)
