Dog Training Classes.. Are they for your PitBull?

The article below was copied from Jason Mann’s “The Pit Bull Lovers Gazette” – January 2009 Issue .  He is very passionate about Pit Bulls and the BSL laws that are being forced upon us.  Remember, today its Pit Bulls, then it will be Rotts, then German Shepard’s… maybe Cocker Spaniels will be next, who can say what breed will be deemed dangerous.  I’m just saying…

At any rate, Jason Mann puts out a monthly, now becoming a bi-monthly newsletter for the Pit Bull enthusiasts.  You can read the entire newsletter at http://www.pitbulllovers.com/pitbullgazette/jan09.html#article3.  I’m taking just the portion of the letter that is stating a good case for getting your pittie out into society, get him trained and be the wonderful example my favorite breed needs!!  Of course I agree that every pittie needs to be socialized, put into group classes, walked down busy streets, and all the while under control of the owner.  I don’t want to see you being dragged down the street like a kite on a strong wind.  You must be in control of your dog at all times - more so than any other breed – and if you can’t be in control of your dog, please select a different breed for your companion.

I am of course an advocate of the Sit Means Sit method of training and communicating with your dog.  Big or small this technique works and there are no excuses – it just works.

Dog Training Classes
Are They For Pit Bull Owners?

Pit Bull owners often email me asking of they should attend a dog training class. Most often the question is something like, “Jason, I am thinking about getting involved in a dog training class. Do you think this is a good idea since I have a Pit Bull?”

My answer is the same, Yes. Get involved in a dog training class. Why wouldn’t you get involved in a dog training class? After all, getting Pit Bulls out into the public around other dogs and more importantly, dog owners is one of the ways we can start to change the publics perception of our dogs.

If you happen to run into a flat out retarded dog trainer who does not allow “Pit Bulls” in her class, seek out a trainer who is smarter. I really hope one of those short bus trainers reads this article because I despise ignorance.

SIDE NOTE: I mention trainers who do not train Pit Bulls because in my area there are a number of trainers that refer Pit Bull owners to me because they “don’t work with dangerous dogs.” Ignorance annoys me to no end.

Dog training classes are a great option for well trained Pit Bulls too. If your Pit Bull is trained to the hilt get involved in a beginner class to start proofing (or maintaining) their obedience around untrained dogs. This is also a good way to show your dog off to dog owners who might otherwise think your dog is straight out of the Hounds of Baskerville novel.

I also encourage you to seek out sport training like agility or protection sports. Yes, I said it, protection sports. Don’t have a moo-moo. Protection sports are a gateway to some of the highest levels of obedience on the planet. Ever see a highly trained sport protection dog? It is a thing of beauty to see a handler and dog working in complete partnership.

SIDE NOTE #2: Working a dog in a protection sport can be rewarding but there are pitfalls you want to avoid. Using harsh methods stinks. Don’t do it. Putting your dog into defense and fight drive are to be avoided too. Of course this is my opinion but I know one can train a dog in protection sports without doing that. Using prey drive and making the bite work a game, much like tug of war, is the preferred path for Pit Bull owners. Again, my opinion. Proceed with caution when seeking out a trainer to help you. DO NOT try to train bite work yourself.

Agility, fly ball, dock dog jumping, Schutzhund, French Ring sport, are many of the sports that American Pit Bull Terriers excel at. Don’t limit yourself or your dog. Get involved and have fun.

In the end, any chance you have to get out there and show the world what real Pit Bulls are capable of is opportunity you should not pass up. Take advantage of those opportunities every chance you can.

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Side note, Sit Means Sit does not discrimate against any breed.  We look at each dog individually.  What we can’t handle we’ll tell you up front its not safe for our trainers.  And it will not be based on breed.  I’ve been nipped and snapped at by more pocket dogs than any other breed on the face of the earth!