Locking jaws, naturally aggressive, most likely dogs to bite? Dispelling myths about ‘bully breeds’

Ever hear the term “bully breed?” Bully breed is a generic term for a variety of terrier-type dogs like American pit bull terriers, bull terriers, bullmastiffs, Staffordshire terriers, Boston terriers, boxers and French bulldogs. The term “bully breed” actually has nothing to do with the dogs’ temperament or behavior and everything to do with their history.

Bully dogs are descendants of ancient bulldogs and a variety of British terriers. This produced a breed that combined the tenacity of the bulldog with the terrier’s alertness, agility and speed. Sadly, they were used for dog fighting and bullbaiting in the early-to-mid-1800s. Since the beginning of the 20th century, though, bully dogs have been featured in advertising and on TV, highlighting their spunkiness and friendliness. (Think Spuds MacKenzie from the Bud Light commercials, Bullseye from Target’s advertisements and Petey from “Our Gang.”)

Bully dogs have steadily evolved into great companions for families of all types. They’re loyal, fun-loving jokesters that tend to remain playful throughout their lives. They’re affectionate toward people and world-champion lap sitters no matter how big they get. They’re also active and exuberant, often with a rough-and-tumble play style. But they’re not the right choice for everyone:

• Although many enjoy the company of other dogs, some are intolerant of them.

• They’re highly motivated to chase prey. Fast-moving small animals and children, joggers, bikes and skateboards can sometimes trigger predatory behavior.

• Because they tend to be strong and solidly built, their excited play style can sometimes be too much for other dogs — and for people.

Many bully breed dogs are labeled as violent and aggressive, but in reality, most are loving, loyal companions. Here are some easily dispelled myths:

• Bully dogs have locking jaws. One of the most popular myths is that bully dogs have a unique jaw and dental structure that locks and cannot be pried apart once they bite down. In reality, no such locking mechanism exists. Their jaw structure is not any different from any other breed.

• Bully dogs are naturally aggressive. Breed alone does not shape behavior. Socialization, training and management also have a strong influence on a dog’s behavior.

• Bully dogs aren’t good with children. Bully-type dogs can actually make great pets for families. In tests done by the American Temperament Test Society, Inc., bully dogs were generally less aggressive when faced with confrontational situations than many other stereotypically “friendly” breeds.

• Bully dogs are the most likely dogs to bite. In yearly tests of more than 240 dog breeds by the American Temperament Testing Society, Inc., pit bull-type dogs consistently achieve a passing rate that’s as good as or better than the other most popular breeds.

• Bully dogs aren’t good with other animals. With proper management and supervision, most bully dogs get along well with other animals.

How can you be a smart bully breed guardian? Choose a dog that’s suited to your home, energy level, lifestyle and work schedule. Although some bully-type dogs tend to be couch potatoes, most are athletic. They require daily physical and mental exercise.

They can also become excited easily, and that excitement can quickly turn to unwanted behavior. Their guardian should learn the signs of overexcitement and manage it before it becomes a problem.

Play with your dog! People who regularly play with their dogs develop understanding, respect and communication with them.

Lastly, taking dog-training classes or working privately with an instructor is invaluable. Marin Humane offers a special class called Bully Breed Basics at various times of the year. Email ohbehave@marinhumane.org if you’re interested.

Lisa Bloch is the marketing and communications director at Marin Humane which contributes Tails of Marin and welcomes questions and comments from the community. Visit marinhumane.org, find us on social media @marinhumane, or email lbloch@marinhumane.org.