I recently adopted what I was told was a 5 year old Terrier mix, neutered male dog. I have been watching him and his interactions with my Boxer and I believe that he may be a Pit Bull. How can I tell the difference between a Terrier and a Pit Bull? How do I know the Humane Society I adopted my dog from classified him as the correct breed?
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Pit Bulls are in fact terriers. Hence the full name, Pit Bull terriers.
Sometimes shelters call dogs by less "scary" sounding names so people will give them a chance. If you have any misgivings about owning one or it is illegal for you to own one, take the dog to a veterinarian and get an opinion on the dog's breed.
A vet can DNA test the dog to determine the correct breed. I would take him to a vet for a check up and ask him when there. I have several family members who are vets. From them I have been told that most shelters have volunteer vets or a vet on staff so usually the breed, if determined by the vet, is correct.
A Pit bull specifically is characterized by a large, flat head and muscular body. In fact, four different breeds can be considered 'pit bull' and these are American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, American Bully, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
In terms of horrific breed-specific legislation, if your dog even looks like one, you probably have to consult your local authorities.
As far as biting behaviour, "Contrary to popular myth, pit bulls do not have "locking jaws".[33] There is no physiological "locking mechanism" in the jaw muscle and bone structure of pit bulls or other dogs.[34] Pit bull-type dogs, like other terriers, hunting and bull-baiting breeds,[35] can exhibit a bite, hold, and shake behavior and at times refuse to release.[16][36][37] Pit bulls also have wide skulls, well-developed facial muscles, and strong jaws,[33] and some research suggests that pit bull bites are particularly serious because they tend to bite deeply and grind their molars into tissue.[38] " en.wikipedia.org/
In general i would not worry, these are some of the smartest dogs around and if he is already well socialized, I am sure he will make a great pet.
Having volunteered at my local Humane Society, I know that much of the information given to new owners comes from the previous owner or from an experienced worker at the Humane Society.
Occasionally, a vet or vet tech will voice an opinion as to the breed of an animal but usually they are more involved with the ever demanding health problems of the animals under their care.
Here is a site that gives pretty accurate information but you will have to upload a photo:
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