It is a common trait for all Pit Bulls to demonstrate some level of aggressive behavior toward a strange dog. It is in their inherent nature to do so. It is a trait that was emphasized to them during their early breeding as fighting Pit Bulls and one that is difficult to possess in today's society. Pit Bulls were bred for many generations to be fighting dogs. But just because they were originally bred to fight does not mean that they are vicious dogs. That is not the case at all. However, it is accurate to say that many Pit Bulls are naturally inclined to behave confidently and sometimes aggressively toward other dogs. It is also accurate to say that most of them are naturally inclined to win a fight should another dog start it.

Pit Bulls that stem from genetic lines that were producing fighting dogs are more inclined to have this tendency than Pit Bulls from lines that were not selected for fighting in recent a generation. In any case, regardless of how long it has been since your dog's ancestors were used for fighting, his instinct and ability to fight another dog remains with him. It is in his blood and one of his original reasons for existence. So keep in mind that the gentlest and calmest of Pit Bulls who will never dare start a fight will also never dare back down from one that another dog has started.

Each breed of dog has a tendency to do what its genes tell it to do. Refusing to accept that fact is not only unfair but irresponsible. Denying that your Pit Bull's heritage is one of gameness and toughness is like denying that a Golden Retriever has a tendency to retrieve. On the other hand, retrievers are not the only breed that is inclined to retrieve, just as the Pit Bulls are not the only breed that is inclined to fight. If you are adamant about not getting a dog that carries the possibility of being aggressive or fighting with another dog, then it is wise to not get more than one Pit Bull.

With all types of dog breeds out there, there is always a great deal of variation. Many Pit Bulls get along wonderfully with other dogs while some may not get along with them at all. There are also many breeds out there that are far less tolerant of living with other dogs than Pit Bulls are. Although Pit Bulls that were brought up in a fighting environment and came from fighting lines are most likely inclined to be aggressive toward other dogs, other breeds that were raised in the most friendliest of homes and came from the gentlest of lines may not get along with other dogs.

Where to look when shopping for a Pit Bull

When searching for the right Pit Bull puppy, some common sources include online ads, newspaper ads, rescue groups, and professional as well as hobby breeders.

You have to be careful about getting a dog from a newspaper ad. Although there are some reputable breeders who advertise in the paper, finding your Pit Bull in the classifieds is not often a good idea. Most ads in the paper are placed by inexperienced breeders who naively breed their pet thinking that they can make a quick buck. They seldom have the resources or knowledge to produce healthy and well adjusted puppies.

Would you take home a rescued Pit Bull? Many Pit Bulls are abandoned by their previous owners and in need of new and permanent homes. Most of these dogs will make tender, loyal, and trustworthy pets. However, a few of them may require special care and attention in order to help them recover from their past experiences.

Professional and hobby breeders who place ads in magazine or put up a site online tend to be serious about their dogs. You can find a wide variety of quality Pit Bulls from breeders who either have a web site dedicated to their dogs or those who advertise in an all-breed or specific breed magazines.