Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello everyone!

Just wanted to introduce myself. My name is Andy Rogers and I am from Ft. Bragg, NC. I was given the opportunity to rescue a really great dog from a less than adequate owner recently and not being one to leave an animal in a bad situations, I am now the owner of a beautiful female 19 month old (estimate) American Pit Bull Terrier.

She was kept outside in the elements and used as a breeding bitch for 2 litters with little human interaction whatsoever. As a true testimony to her temperment, she may be the sweetest dog I've ever met, certainly the sweetest I've owned.

One question (for now) - she seems so lethargic it's almost frightening. I had her to the vet and aside from the stress from the move she's healthy but she's very content to just lay there and look at me unless I call her over (in which case, the tail wags and she comes trotting over). Is this normal behavior for APBT's? Could this be the result of being a 2x mother? Does anyone have any input? I certaily thought this breed would be a little more playful. She doesn't even play with her rope pull-toy I bought her. Just an old soccer ball and even then I have to really encourage her to play.

Thanks in advance for all your help!

Andy

Hi Andy and welcome!!!

Thank you for rescuing this wonderful dog. It is horrible to think she has had 2 litters and only 19 months old. How sad.

I don't own Pit Bull Terriers and can't say anything about this breeds behavior, but having adopted 3 dogs that have never lived in a home before, it can take some time for a dog to get comfortable in a new situation. Do you now keep her inside your home, or is she still kept outside? Depending on where she is kept, can make a difference in how long it will take for her to learn these new behaviors. It was almost 2 years before I got my Lyta to play. She is now 10 and loves to play with squeaking toys.

So, don't be dishearten. Keep at her and you may find she will learn to play with abandon. Hopefully, those with this breed will be able to give you some advice.

Do you have any pictures to share??
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Melody/PHFasDog
Email me at PHFasDog
My furkids: Kira, Lyta, Jadzia

Thanks for your input. She does seem to have gotten better over the last few days. I got her to play with a tennis ball today for the first time and bought her a squeakie toy at the store - hopefully she'll come around to that.

As far as her new lifestyle. She stays inside with me when I'm home but we go for frequent walks and I try to take her whenever I go someplace dog-friendly. She seems to love it. I can't open the car door without her trying to jump in. I also love peoples' reactions when Rogue "introduces" herself (tail wagging, hugs, licking, etc.) and people learn she's a pitbull. People always say, "THAT's a PITBULL? I thought they were mean and aggressive!" The media has really marred this breed and it's a shame. I took her to my parents house in Virginia this past weekend and they were so worried that she'd fight with all their animals (dogs and cats). For the FIRST time anyone has introduced a new animal into the mix, there was no barking, hissing, biting, scratching, clawing, growling, etc. Needless to say my parents are hoping I'll give her to them. (Not a chance).

Anyhow, thanks again for your input. I've got a few pics. Know what a good host is?

Thanks!

Andy

you can post the pictures in the photo gallery (gallery.pethobbyist.com/index.pl?cat=561&thumb=1) here at Dog Hobbyist! Just upload your photos under your username and you can put them in any of your posts.
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Lesya & Sophie

Hi Andy,
Welcome to the wonderful world of the pitbull terrier. I can't tell you how lucky your furbaby was to find a home where she is cared for. Those who adopt are truly special folks.
I, too am a first time owner. Trouble is now almost 5 years and she's been with us since she was about 4 months. There are losts of websites out there that are excellent sources of information, just do a search and read until your hearts content. These pups are the most human interactive of any dog I've seen. They are happiest living in the house, being a part of your everyday life.
Trouble has always loved to play, so I can't give you much insite in that area. She is very selective on the toys she likes. She doesn't like the hard rubber toys, and prefers toys she can play tug with. However, we don't allow tug a whole lot. Most things you read discourage playing tug with them because of their strength. Her second choice are tennis balls. She has three different sizes. Has enjoyed playing 'soccer' by herself from the very beginning.
Don't give up, it sounds like she just doesn't know how to play.

Thanks for your input! Just today I got her to play with a tennis ball - a good sign in my opinion. I bought her a squeak toy and a rope-pull. I've heard about limiting their pulling and I'll keep that in consideration.

Other than that, she seems very happy, has a great appetite and loves people. She's a great dog!

Thanks again for your help!

Andy

That's great news. You have to be careful what you ask for, ya know. These guys can play, and play, and play, well after the human playmate gets tired.

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