Do not let stereotypes fool you! There are no "bad" breeds of dogs.

Dogs considered "pit bulls" carry many stereotypes. Any time one of these dogs does something bad, the media makes sure we all know about it. The public never learns about the thousands of "pit bulls" that are cherished family pets, gentle with children, and excel in obedience or agility trials.

Sure, these dogs require time, patience, and affection, but what dog doesn't?

Unfortunately, many of these dogs are abused and exploited. They are used for entertainment and gambling in the form of dog fighting. This activity is illegal, but enforcement is very difficult.

It is important to bear in mind that these dogs are not the villains, but the victims. They deserve to be rescued just as much as any other breed, from a Chihuahua to a Rottweiler.

The best site on the web for information on this intriguing breed is Pit Bull Rescue Central.

BARK has helped save several pit bulls who otherwise would have died. These dogs have survived horrible abuse, yet learned to trust people after time with patient foster parents.

Other sites for information on the breed (s) that are considered "pit bulls":

Societal effects of pit bull fighting

The story of a "drug-fighting pit bull"