Labeling dogs as "pit bulls" is killing innocent, sweet mutts in shelters and on the streets.  

Here’s the thing about “pit bulls” - the breed doesn’t exist. In fact, the American Kennel Club does not recognize “pit bull” as a breed because it is a mixture of breeds. “Pit bull” is a slang term that has been used loosely and taken advantage of by the media to describe a dog with a big head and muscular build. When a dog has been labeled a “pit bull” it is based simply on their look and not personality, traits or DNA. Even we are guilty of calling a dog a “pit bull,” but we are ready to stop.    

Many dogs who are labeled “pit bull” are stigmatized and therefore considered less adoptable or euthanized in shelters. The worst part is that most dogs labeled as “pit bulls” are an actual dog breed! The American Staffordshire Terrier, Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Bulldog and Miniature Bull Terrier are recognized dog breeds but are mislabeled as “pit bulls” everyday. Dogs comprised of multiple breeds, aka mutts, are mislabeled a “pit bull mix” because of certain features like a large head or body.    

Labeling dogs a “pit bull” and enacting bans on this nonexistent breed is discrimination and makes no sense. When humans judge each other based on looks alone they’re being discriminatory. Humans do the same thing to “pit bulls” except these dogs are banned, abandoned, killed, abused and misused because of the way they look - something they didn’t choose. Discrimination and mislabeling these dogs has to be stopped. 

Myth: “Pit bulls” are inherently aggressive. Since there is no such breed as a “pit bull”, it is impossible that being aggressive is in the DNA of these dogs. Bans happen all around the world due to this myth when in reality we are killing dogs because they look a certain way. Today, Petey, The Little Rascals’ dog, may have been euthanized because of this myth. Back then he was every family’s dream dog. 

Steps to stop mislabeling dogs!

1. DNA test your dog

2. Stop using the term “pit bull” to define your dog’s breed 

3. Share your dog on social media using #stopthepitlabel to squash misinformation