I think you're with me too, Mike. Dog fighters breed and select pitties that show the aggression level of their figting parents. Fans of the pitbull's clownishness, loyalty, and smiling face select and breed for those qualities, which eventually lessen the agressiveness built early into the breed. Your point about dobermans is spot on, the aggression has been toned way down or replaced by other traits that make them better suited as obedient, intelligent, playful, companions-- though there are bloodlines that are still being bred for their original purpose of guards. All those things you mention about owners who train, neuter, excercise and correct bad behavior etc. are the key--those along with well-thought breeding programs. Unfortunately, more owners don't than do. With some dogs, like some kids, you need to enforce tough love--let them know through firm but kind training that there are rules you just have to follow. I've had many breeds and crossbreeds over the years. Right now, I have a doberman/lab cross and a poodle/dacshund cross and just 3 weeks ago we put down our 15 year old boxer/german shepard cross. they were/are so different in many ways--their boldness, shyness, energy level, vocalness etc. despite growing up and being trained by our family only. We adapted our interactions and style of training to their natures and they adapted their watered down, crossbred natures to our training.
Donna
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