Dear Journal...

Bullying the Bully Breeds

As we all know, bully breeds have a bad rap. It’s not their fault, but the ignorant individuals who own them. There are certain people who should not have a pit bull, or any bully breed in my opinion. They are overly backyard bred, and the population pours into shelters and SPCA facilities. Thousands are euthanized on a daily basis due to the lack of homes willing to accept them. Who can blame them? Bully breeds have such a bad name that it can be hard owning them just because of the way other people will look at you. You have to be a strong person to deal with the mean looks, and the ridiculous comments that people mutter under their breath.

Too often do I find people coming into the store with their little lap dogs (aka “ankle biters”) and will yank their little dogs across the floor at the first sight of a bully breed. I often hear comments like, “He’ll eat you for lunch!” Actually, most bully breeds that come into the store are very well behaved, and are even more friendly than most smaller breeds. I’m not against toy breeds. In fact, I love Shih Tzus, or anything mixed with a Shih Tzu. I adore Chinese Crested, and Papillons. I even like Miniature Pinschers and Chihuahuas, and on occassion, I find a few heart-snatching Yorkies and Bichons. I’m not biased when it comes to dogs. I love all shapes and sizes.

I honestly would not have the patience to deal with ignorant people who frown at the bullies. I don’t think it’s fair to bully the bully breeds, because they are some of the sweetest dogs I’ve ever known. Some come from a bad background, but it isn’t their fault. Some are just dealt a shitty hand in life, and I can only hope that every deserving bully breed out there is fortunate enough to be rescued and given a better life.

Today at work a Boston Bulldog came in for training. She’s a short, stocky thing with a white and grey coat. She has the worst bark I’ve ever heard, but in a way it’s kind of cute at the same time. Her owners have been working on her behavior and have really improved in the basic obedience course they’re currently enrolled in. 

As the owner was heading out of the store to let the dog potty before class, she passed a couple of other dogs and reacted to them by barking and pulling at the leash. The woman who had been at my register at the time, was gathering her bags to leave when she saw the dog. Once they were out of hearing distance, she commented how that dog needed some training. I firmly expressed that the dog was in training. The woman replied, “Well it’s not working.” I tried to remain calm, and pointed out that they were slowly making improvements. Training doesn’t happen overnight. A dog’s behavior doesn’t just change. It takes time, patience, and consistency.

Every dog is different. For some, it may only take a few moments to learn a new trick. For others, it could takes weeks, months, and even years before they make any improvement. I find it rather annoying when uneducated people make assumptions about something they don’t understand, like dog behavior and training. I may not be a behaviorist or a certified dog trainer, but I am a dog owner and I have done a bit of research on training and communication with dogs. Most of the things I know seem like logic, or common knowledge. But you’d be surprised how dumb people are. 

It’s hard not to be offended by the stupidity of others, especially when it comes to animals. I only want the best for all living things, and if I ever give advice, it’s most likely in the animal’s best interest. I would love to rescue a bully breed because I know so many are in need of a loving home, but I can assure you that if I ever do, I might have to slap a few people… On the other hand, it just isn’t worth it. I would have to learn to keep my mouth shut and ignore the ignorance. Sounds like a tedious job. Kudos to all you bully breed owners, and extra props to those of you who rescued! <3