When Opie wants attention, he rubs up against his humans’ legs, going back and forth like a cat, tail raised in the air. Cat’s are definitely onto something with this move—it always gets the message across!

Despite being a mid-sized to large dog, Opie doesn’t sit on the couch seats—he sits on the cushions on the back and makes dents in them! He might not be the size of a cat, but he sure sits like one. He also takes naps with his face tucked into his paws and even loafs like a cat, hiding all four paws under his body. Sometimes Opie will even loaf on top of objects like cat trees!

Truly oblivious to his size, Opie’s belief that he’s a cat goes so far that he’ll even choose to sleep in cat beds, even if he doesn’t quite fit. Funny boy!

Opie still lives with cats, and while he sometimes judges them for being too crazy, he feels right at home with his feline siblings. 

Despite being raised with cats and being a little different from other dogs, Opie has plenty of canine buddies. A sweet, gentle, happy dog, Opie is a typical Bully breed with a sprinkling of kitty-cat in his personality. Opie loves to play, wear cozy pajamas, eat delicious treats, and make sure his humans are always laughing at his adorable antics. 

Have you ever met a dog raised with cats or other animals? What about a cat raised with dogs? Animals have an amazing ability to adapt to their surroundings and are far more observant than we give them credit for—they can even pick up behaviors from their humans. Opie has some especially cat-like qualities, but if you watch your pets carefully, you might notice them imitating each other, too!

Everyone at the shelter admired how Raven would wake up every day bursting with energy and excitement as though she had hit the jackpot. She was the type of puppy who’d spend hours wrestling with toys in her kennel like they were her greatest rivals. And whenever volunteers took her outside, this gorgeous Pittie would play and run around so hard, you’d think she was training for the Olympics.

@humanebroward Look at her go!! 🙌💞 Raven was adopted from our shelter five months ago but was returned simply for being a puppy. Now at just ten months old, she has so much love and energy to share! Our spunky girl was so excited to leave that she couldn’t decide which toy to take with her! 🎾🥎 Before heading to her forever home, she made sure to give our staff plenty of hugs and cuddles—because this time, she knows she’s not coming back. 😊 We’re over the moon for Raven and her new family! ❤️🏡 We still have many wonderful pets looking for forever homes 🥺 Please check our website to see who is still available. If you can’t adopt, please share our posts and consider donating to our shelter through the link in our bio 🙏 Your generous donations allow us to take in homeless pets like Raven and keep them safe until they find their forever homes ❤️ If you would like to offer one of our pets a home, please fill out a pre-adoption application at www.humanebroward.com (link in bio) and come on in today. The Humane Society of Broward County is located at 2070 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL and opens daily at 11 a.m. If you have any questions call 954-989-3977 ext. 6 ❤️ #adopted #goinghome #dogrescue #adoptdontshop #rescuedog #dogsofinstagram #dogreels #dog #shelterdog #dogshelter #pittie #puppy #bullybreed #pittielove #staffy #gotchaday #staffygram #good #feelgood #happy #wholesome #love #happyday #happydog #tgif #puppiesofinstagram #doglover #friyay #friday ♬ original sound – Humane Society Broward County

Raven loved being around people so much that anyone who came to greet her in her kennel was met with a tongue lolled out and a tail wagging at top speed. Her excitement for life was her special factor, but unfortunately, not all potential adopters saw it that way. 

Rejected for Being Herself 

When Raven was five months old, she found a forever home…but the “forever” didn’t last long. The family that had initially fallen in love with everything about her — including her boundless puppy energy — started feeling like she was a lot to deal with, so they returned her to the shelter.

Sweet Raven was returned for simply being herself. Even though she loved her previous family with every inch of her, they still considered her not good enough. But as they say, no dog is too much for the right home. Raven’s previous family didn’t work because they were not meant for her. Lucky for Raven, the universe had something much better in store for her, and it all unfolded a few days ago. 

Raven Gets Her Happy Ending 

The shelter recently announced that Raven had found her forever home in a heartwarming TikTok video that’s melted thousands of hearts online. The clip captured the beautiful moment when Raven realized she had been adopted, and it’s nothing short of soul-stirring. As seen in the video, Raven’s whole body wobbled in pure happiness once she heard the good news, and in the frenzy of excitement, she began sorting out her precious toys as though trying to figure out which ones she’d take home with her.

Raven’s tail went into overdrive, wagging with the intensity of a dog who was over the moon. When her kennel door swung open, she raced to share her joy with the staff members by giving each one the warmest goodbye hug. It was obvious that Raven had dreamt of this moment for long. And as she trotted out of the shelter’s doors with her forever human beside her, the feel of fresh air on her nostrils and the sun’s warmth on her gorgeous brindle coat confirmed everything — that she was stepping into the most beautiful chapter of her life.

Finally, Raven has found the family that was always meant for her; a loving family that wholeheartedly accepts her just as she is.

His short coat offered him little protection from the biting cold at night and the unforgiving heat during the day, making his plight even more sorrowful. For years, Chubbs scanned his surroundings for a savior who’d rescue him from his misery and show him the other good side of life. Luckily, his silent cry for help would eventually be answered in a way he never imagined (watch the heartwarming video below).

@lindsayboyk When vacation takes a turn. We’re flea free and clean. 💕 #pitbull #rescuedog #dogs #freedom #ride #roadtrip #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp ♬ Bass Boat by Zach Bryan – Oklahoman Outlaw

Freedom At Last

In a now-viral TikTok video, Chubbs’s new owner Lindsay Boyk documented on her account @lindsayboyk the moment she came to this sweet dog’s aid. She’s had, on several occasions, spotted a chained, helpless Chubbs outside, but each time she tried to help, Chubbs’ owner wouldn’t let her.

Despite the resistance from Lindsay never gave up on her one and only goal: to change Chubbs’ fate for the better. Thankfully, her persistence paid off, as Chubbs’ owner eventually agreed to let her give the poor dog a chance at a better life. It was at this point that Chubbs’ journey to a cherished home with his new owner began. 

Of Car Rides and New Beginnings

Chubbs’ eyes sparkled with amazement and newfound joy as he enjoyed what seemed to be perhaps his first-ever car ride. The air smelt fresher, and the new exciting sights ushered him to a whole new world that he never thought existed.

The look on his face told the tale of a dog who couldn’t believe that he had finally found freedom — freedom from a life marred by neglect and sadness. The gentle strokes and soothing words of comfort from his new owner made him feel completely safe and loved, just as he was always meant to feel.

Thanks to this one person who never gave up on him, Chubbs’ present life is filled with happiness, warmth, abundance, and security, a stark contrast to his pitiful beginnings. 

“He was scared of everything,” recalls animal advocate Rocky Kanaka, who documented Cody’s transformation. “You could see it in his eyes—he didn’t believe he was safe.”

For someone like John, an experienced rescuer with iPittytheBull Foundation, Cody presented one of the biggest challenges he’d ever faced. “We were out there for two and a half hours just trying to get him into the car,” John said. “He was looking at me like, ‘You couldn’t get me into a car, and now I’m supposed to trust you with my life?’”

Earning Trust, One Step at a Time

John quickly realized that Cody didn’t need to be “fixed” — he needed to feel safe. “I took the pressure off fixing him,” he explained. “Instead, I told him, ‘Let’s just hang out. Let’s walk outside. It’s 50 feet to the door — I don’t care if it takes four hours.’”

Those patient walks became the turning point. Day by day, Cody learned that not every human meant harm. The once-frozen dog began exploring the world, wagging his tail for the first time.

“Taking that pressure off made all the difference,” John said. “It was about showing him that outside wasn’t scary, that he could choose to trust.”

Finding His Forever Family

As Cody’s confidence grew, something amazing happened — other people could finally approach him. “I started seeing him interact with people without me,” John said. “That’s when I knew he was ready for adoption.”

After dozens of applications, one family stood out. Tony and his wife brought their kids to meet Cody and instantly felt a connection. “Just seeing his eyes drew me in,” Tony recalled. “He was so calm. The kids loved him right away.”

Following an overnight trial, Cody made his choice clear. “John called me at 7 a.m. and said, ‘He came to say hi to me, but then went right back to your daughter. He’s yours,’” Tony said. “I looked at my wife and said, ‘Go, go, go!’”

A Happy Ending Built on Patience and Love

Cody’s journey wasn’t easy. His new family knows that his fears and anxieties might never completely disappear — but they’re celebrating every small victory. “Just seeing him do normal dog things makes us emotional,” Tony said. “When his tail wags, we’re on cloud nine.”

From a dog too afraid to walk through a doorway to a beloved family member who finally feels safe, Cody’s story is a testament to patience, compassion, and second chances.

As Rocky Kanaka summed it up: “It only takes one family to change a dog’s life.”

But it wasn’t always this way. In fact, pit bulls were once beloved as family companions and even nicknamed “nanny dogs” for their gentle nature with children. While that title may be more folklore than fact, the qualities behind it are real—pit bulls are caring, patient, and incredibly devoted to their humans, especially the littlest ones.

1. Pit Bulls Are Lovers, Not Fighters

Pit bulls are controversial because they have a history of being used as bull-baiting and fighting dogs. There are two main misconceptions about bully breeds that have led to their exploitation as fighting dogs:

• The lockjaw myth
• The innate aggression myth

Lockjaw refers to a dog “locking” its jaw in place after a bite. However, no healthy dog has this ability—bully breeds included.

Locked jaw is a medical condition commonly caused by infection. Dogs that suffer from it struggle to close or open their mouths and thus have difficulty eating and breathing. Any dog that suffers from locked jaw syndrome needs immediate medical treatment.

What about aggression?

Bully breeds aren’t inherently aggressive. Some pitties that are bred for fights don’t even end up fighting other dogs. For example, in a litter of six pit bulls, only one or two dogs might display enough aggression to take part in fights.

Regardless of how mistreated pitties are, they’re not aggressive towards their owners. If you ask pit bulls, they would rather curl up on the couch next to you and cuddle. They’re a loving and social breed that thrives among humans.

The results of temperament tests confirm this too.

2. Pit Bulls Pass the Temperament Test With Flying Colors

When the American Temperament Test Society (ATTS) tested pit bulls, they were surprised to find that 87.4% of pitties passed the test. What’s more, they scored higher than golden retrievers!

The table below compares the results of temperament testing of pit bulls and several popular family dogs.

What does the non-profit organization ATTS test, exactly?

ATTS tests different aspects of a dog’s temperament including shyness, friendliness, stability, and protective instincts towards their owners.

The temperament test lasts 12 minutes, during which they walk the dog on a loose leash. Dogs who fail the test are those who display unprovoked aggressive behavior, avoidance, or panic.

What are pit bulls really like? Pit bulls are:

• Energetic—they are athletic dogs that require a lot of activity and playtime. Pit bulls are ideal for active people who love to exercise and do sports.
• Affectionate—they are extremely affectionate dogs with a dominant cuddle gene. Expect a lot of hugs, cuddles, and kisses. (this is why they’re also called nanny dogs)
• Intelligent—it’s easy to teach them tricks because they’re fast learners. With proper training, they can pick up a new skill in no time.

These are general traits common among pit bulls, but every dog is different. Your pittie will have more or less of these traits. Every dog has a unique mix of genetics and environment that shapes its personality. But most can be excellent nanny dogs!

3. Pit Bulls Set Records as Work Dogs

Pit bulls are intelligent, highly trainable, and social dogs. With training, socialization, and structure, they have a lot of potential. Record-setting bully dogs that proved this include drug-sniffing dog Popsicle, military dog Stubby, and rescue dog Dacota.

Popsicle broke the record for the largest single drug find in Texas—his strong nose alerted the police to 3000 pounds of cocaine. He was dubbed Popsicle because he was rescued from an old freezer.

Sergeant Stubby set the record as the most decorated dog in military history. Stubby served in 17 battles during World War I and returned home with medals and dog tags. He would warn the soldiers of poison gas early on and find wounded soldiers.

Dacota took part in over 200 life-saving search missions as a member of the Search and Rescue (SAR) team of pit bulls. One mission even included locating NASA astronauts following the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster.

Soft and hard skills that make pitties amazing therapy, guide, and rescue dogs include being:

• Great with children—they’re known as nanny dogs because they get along with children. Pit bulls are protective, gentle, and playful with children.
• Obedient—they’re great listeners, which makes them highly trainable.
• Friendly—”You’ve Got a Friend in Me” (as if you couldn’t tell from that big signature pit bull smile)  is the unofficial soundtrack of every pittie’s life. They’re social butterflies that easily trust others and effortlessly make new friends. If they see you trust someone, it won’t take long until they approach your friends for pets and kisses.
• Amazing entertainers—they have big personalities and like to make their humans laugh by being goofy and playful.

Why were they fired from their last positions as guard dogs? They were too friendly and trusting towards humans.

4. Pit Bulls Are Retired Children’s Comedy Stars

Children who grew up in the 1930s had a favorite TV dog named Petey—a pit bull with a black circle around his eye. He starred in a children’s comedy called Our Gang (AKA The Little Rascals). In the series, he was the children’s best friend ( best nanny dog) and a loyal, goofy companion.

Petey showed audiences not only that bully breeds (AKA nanny dogs) are great with children, but that they can be trained like any other dog breed. Sit, turn around, shake a paw, play hide and seek—the pit bulls that portrayed Petey could do it all and more.

That wasn’t the last time pitties graced the screen in a positive light either. Here are some recent films that have starred pit bulls:

• The Little Rascals—1994 film featuring a dog similar to an iconic 1930s Petey with the ring around the eye.
• John Wick 1 & John Wick 2—starring a rescue pit bull named “Boy,” protected by Keanu Reeves since 2014.
• Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero—2018 animated film about the most decorated pit bulls in military history.
• Flashdance—1983 cult classic starring loyal and gentle pit bull terrier named Gunt.

The debate around pit bulls has been so polarizing and heated. Therefore, it’s important to portray them positively on the big screen.

The media tends to highlight pit bulls that have been mistreated by their handlers. This perpetuates the image of bully breeds as aggressive and dangerous.

Stories that remind people that pit bulls are lovable and affectionate family dogs help to remove the stigma from these good dogs who have received quite a lot of bad press.

Dog-Tired of Hearing Pit Bulls Are Aggressive? Me Too

Pitties don’t have any innate traits that make them dangerous. They’re lovable tail-wagging dogs if you give them a chance.

They’re predisposed to make extraordinary working dogs. They aced the temperament test, they are highly trainable, caring, and loyal dogs.

Misinformation has been hurting their adoption chances for a long time. Families that give pit bulls a chance are even shamed for choosing a bully breed.

I recognized the abilities of this incredible breed and produced a short story video about how pit bulls and their handlers are treated today.

Check out this video and consider a pittie if you’re looking for a new family member.

Why Adoption Stories Matter

That’s why, when a pit bull is adopted I celebrate. I can’t tell you how many pit bull adoption stories I have heard where the new family tells me they were apprehensive at first but now love their pitbull dog like one of their kids.

After all, dogs are people too and should be treated like family. Pitties are no exception and make great family dogs.

Meet Josie: A Pittie Too Scared to Move

Josie the Pit Bull is a great example of what can happen when love and patience are applied over time.

In the video, Erin and her dog Remi found ways to comfort Josie and let her know it was going to be okay. At first Josie didn’t even know how to be a dog. She didn’t go to the bathroom or eat food from a dog bowl. When they would go for a walk she would pancake to the ground, hug a wall, or hide behind a fire hydrant. It was sad, but Erin wasn’t about to give up—and over time Josie started to learn that she could trust again.

Learning to Trust Again

Things started to look up when Josie started connecting with Erin’s other dog Remi, who taught her how to be a dog.

The great news is that Josie was adopted by her foster mom Erin. And what’s even better is now she helps other foster dogs that might be apprehensive when they first arrive at the shelter or their temporary dog foster home.

But her struggles didn’t end there. She was taken to an overcrowded shelter. Just when it seemed like hope was slipping away, NorCal Bully Breed Rescue in Citrus Heights, California, stepped in to give Fig the second chance he so desperately deserved.

From Years in a Crate to Finally Feeling Safe

When Fig first arrived at the rescue, her little body told the story of years of neglect. She was covered in painful pressure sores and urine scalding: injuries the staff believes came from being confined to a crate for most of her young life.

What’s remarkable, though, is that despite everything she’s endured, Fig’s heart remains wide open. She greets every human she meets with nothing but love and trust, proving just how resilient dogs can be.

Now safe and thriving in a foster home, this sweet Pittie mix is finally learning what it means to be cared for. All she needs now is a forever family to complete her journey to happiness.

Could You Be Fig’s Forever?

Fig was once skin and bones, struggling just to survive. Today, she’s healthier, happier, and finally learning what it feels like to be truly loved. But there’s still one piece missing from her story: a forever family to call her own.

This sweet girl is a total people pleaser. With her wrinkly face, charming underbite, and striking green eyes, she’s impossible not to fall for. She’s the perfect mix of playful and cuddly, always ready for a game of fetch, but just as eager to curl up by your side.

Her favorite pastimes include nibbling on her stuffed toys, strolling on short walks, and napping on the couch. But above all, Fig’s perfect day is simply being near her humans.

Fig would thrive in a cat-free home without small children. She’d also love a doggy friend, as long as introductions are done slowly. So, if you’re interested in adopting Fig, learn more here.

Pet Rescue Advocate and YouTuber Rocky Kanaka remarks, “There’s a light in Fig’s eyes that speaks of hope and love. She’s more than ready to begin the next chapter of her life.”

@nycacc Status: Available for adoption at Queens ACC Pop is in need of emergency placement! We would love to see this demure and mindful boy find a loving home ❤️ @Jools Lebron A volunteer writes, "Everyone is talking about Pop. His pictures are so ridiculously cute and he's just a few years old! When we meet him though, he is nonstop fun. His tail is just absolutely wiggling all over the place, and his butt shakes so much he almost hits himself in the face with it. Pop is excited to meet us and prefers pets and snuggles to any toys at the moment. On a dreary day, he is happy to be out and about and is our temporary ray of sunshine. He has a sweet sweet face and is so soft and snuggly. He just melts his whole body into each of us to get in enough snuggles for us all. In his little tshirt, Pop looks like a total heartbreaker. He is reported to be friendly and playful with strangers, children, and other dogs. His favorite activities are playing (obvi) and going for walks. He prefers to sleep on the couch to his bed. He is a very energetic young boy who would do best in a home ready to keep the good times rolling." Pop's Bio: https://nycacc.app/#/browse/168283 If you're on mobile and unable to access the link, visit nycacc.app to search for Pop's name or ID: 168283 #nycacc #boroughbred #shelterdogs #queensacc #nycactivities #demureandmindful ♬ original sound – Jools Lebron

Pop has all the qualities most dog owners are looking for—he’s affectionate, social, and very polite despite his size. Who wouldn’t want this demure gentleman in their home? 

Harnessing the power of TikTok and a trend that has gone crazy viral, NYCACC got hundreds of thousands of views for Pop. In no time, Pop was getting adoption applications and I’m happy to report that Pop has since found his forever home! 

Spreading The Word About Pop Using a Viral TikTok Trend

Pop is one of the many dogs that Animal Care Centers of NYC has helped find a home in 2024. A big, handsome Pit Bull mix with a sweet face and an even sweeter personality, staff at NYCACC say that Pop is “nonstop fun. His tail is just absolutely wiggling all over the place, and his butt shakes so much he almost hits himself in the face with it.”

Pit Bulls and other Bully breeds are at a high risk of becoming long-term residents at animal shelters. Untrue breed stereotypes about Pit Bulls and widespread breed bans/housing restrictions make potential adopters less likely to choose a Pittie, so sometimes shelters need to get a little creative to get their dogs adopted. 

In Pop’s case, shelter staff decided to feature him in a video using the viral “very demure, very mindful” trend which perfectly embodies Pop’s personality. He’s sweet, affectionate, and playful, and even if he sometimes has too much energy for his own body to contain he still keeps it very cutesy! 

How You Can Help Dogs Like Pop

Thanks to his very demure, very mindful behavior in the shelter, Pops got what every adoptable dog dreams of—a family to call his own. If stories like Pop’s touch you, don’t wait until a TikTok comes across your feed to adopt a dog. Visit your local animal shelter and meet some of the residents, your new four-legged best friend might be waiting for you!

If you’re not ready to adopt a dog of your own, consider searching for volunteer opportunities at your local shelters and animal rescues. Who knows, you might be able to help a dog find a forever home using your own favorite TikTok trend!

Can Someone Explain the “Very Demure, Very Mindful” Trend? 

@joolieannie #fyp #demure ♬ original sound – Jools Lebron

If everyone you know has been calling themselves “demure” and “mindful” and you’re feeling lost, here’s everything you need to know about this summer’s most viral TikTok sound. 

Created by Jools Lebron—a Chicago-based TikTok creator with over 2 million followers—the phrase “very demure, very mindful” began as a satirical take on how women are expected to perform femininity. Now adopted by the internet at large, the phrase has taken on new depth and is simultaneously used ironically to describe societal expectations and to name behaviors that might not be so “demure.” 

“I started a new job, and I noticed that a lot of the older men that would come through my cashier line—I think maybe because I wear a lot of makeup and I’m blonde—they would kind of like, treat me I noticed like I was kind of air-headed,” said Jools Lebron in an interview with Good Morning America. “I thought it was kind of funny to put it on its head and be like ‘no, I’m very demure,’ and kind of make it its own character. I’m like, the complete opposite of what ‘demure’ is—I have long blonde hair, I wear heavy makeup, I have long acrylic nails—so to me, it was the fact that I’m not like the traditional definition of ‘demure’ that was the whole joke of it all.”

If this sounds like a surprisingly cerebral trend to gain so much traction, don’t worry, “very demure, very mindful” is ultimately a lighthearted trend. Jools has built her platform on beauty and makeup content, hilarious jokes, and the uplifting message that we should all be who we are, whatever that looks like. 

Quick Guide to Breed-Specific Legislation in the U.S. & Abroad

Many U.S. cities and counties have passed anti-Pitbull laws, including Miami-Dade County, Florida. Following a 1989 incident in which a child was severely injured by a Pitbull, Miami has upheld a discriminatory Pitbull ban that not only restricted housing options for Pitbull owners but forced animal rescues to make unnecessary life-or-death decisions. 

“This was an unnecessary ban that cost a lot of pitbulls their lives. Shelters basically had no choice but to euthanize them. Unfortunately, by discriminating against breeds, whether it be a Pitbull or a Rottweiler or a German Shepherd, many homeowners associations, many renters policies that discriminate against breeds, literally end up being a death sentence for that dog because homeowners have no choice, but to give them up.”

Lauree Simmons—founder of Big Dog Ranch Rescue—in an interview with Florida’s WPBF News

Independent rescues and shelters outside of Miami have attempted to help manage the overpopulation of stray, abandoned, and surrendered Pitbulls in Miami-Dade County. Unfortunately, with thousands in need of homes and surrender rates up 40–60% in the county following the ban, many Pitbulls have unnecessarily lost their lives. 

Now, nearly a quarter of a century later, Miami’s Pitbull ban will thankfully and finally be repealed. Two key pieces of legislation [1] [2] recently passed that will revoke the authority of municipal governments and housing authorities to enact breed-specific restrictions. A huge win for Pitbulls in Miami, but it raises the question: where else is breed-specific legislation affecting the happiness and security of Pitbulls and their humans? 

Keep reading, we’re about to cover some of the details of Pitbull bans and their policies, what breeds are considered “Pitbulls” and may be impacted by these bans, and explore a few countries with strict breed-specific legislation. 

What Breeds are Considered “Pitbulls”

As we know, the term “Pitbull” is generally used as an umbrella term to refer to “Pitbull-type” dogs and Bully breeds. Some of these breeds may be banned altogether, while others may be restricted or denied access to housing or public places. Some of the breeds typically included in Pitbull specific bans include:

American Bulldog	Dogue de Bordeaux
American Pitbull Terrier	English Bull Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier	Majorca Mastiff
Brazilian Mastiff	Neopolitan Mastiff
Bullmastiff	Rottweiler
Bull Terrier	Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Cane Corso	Tibetan Mastiff
Dogo Aregentino	Tosa Inu
Dogo Canario

Dog breed bans are not exclusive to Pitbulls. Many countries publish lists of banned “dangerous breeds” which also include breeds like the Kangal, Caucasian Shepherd Dog, Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog, Akita Inu, Doberman Pinscher, German Shepherd Dog, and Wolfdogs. 

Examples of Pitbull Restrictions

In many cases, these restrictive policies are region-dependent and arbitrarily enforced. Not based on scientific evidence, but rather established due to breed bias and disproportionate reporting, these bans are passed under the guise of “public safety” but do nothing more than make life difficult for dogs and their owners.  

Few countries have managed to ban Pitbulls outright, but many do place restrictions on their ownership, you can expect to encounter the following rules. 

Countries with Pitbull Bans & Restrictions

More than 30 countries worldwide have enacted breed-specific bans mentioning or pertaining specifically to Pitbulls. If you own a Pitbull, it may be possible to travel through some of these places with your pup, but you shouldn’t expect to stay long. If you own a Pitbull and live in one of these places, you’ll know that some people choose to entirely ignore breed-specific legislation, while others are true believers in the “cause” of keeping people “safe” from Pitbulls. 

Let’s take a quick glance at 12 countries and their Pitbull-specific legislation. 

1. Belarus

Belarus has had breed-specific legislation since 2012, restricting more than 40 breeds. Dogs on the list must be kept in a securely fenced area, cannot be walked without a hard leash, collar, and muzzle, and may not be walked by people under the age of 18. Owners of so-called dangerous breeds may also be required to attend training certification courses. 

2. Denmark

Denmark strictly prohibits Pitbull type dogs, and has had breed-specific legislation since 1991. Breeding, importation, sale, purchase, and keeping of these dogs are prohibited, but the Danish government allows special dispensation for certain dog owners willing to follow strict rules in public. 

3. Germany

If you live in Germany, a law passed in 2001 will prohibit you from buying, selling, breeding, or importing a Pitbull. If you can find a Pitbull available for adoption, that is allowed, but only after being granted permission and passing a series of competency tests. 

4. Great Britain

The 1997 Act on Dangerous Dogs bans the breeding, sale, purchase, and exchange of Pitbulls, and requires qualifying breeds to be licensed with insurance, and leashed and muzzled in public. 

5. New Zealand

Like many other countries, New Zealand introduced legislation in 2003 requiring Pitbull-type and “dangerous” dog breeds to be on a short leash and muzzled. Importing these breeds is prohibited and punishable by a fine. 

6. Poland

Poland has some of the oldest Pitbull-specific legislation, where these breeds have been restricted since 1997. Polish residents may still own Pitbulls as long as they follow strict rules, but import, sale, and breeding is prohibited. 

7. Romania

Possession of Pitbull-type dogs and other “dangerous breeds” requires licensure, a psychiatric certificate of approval, and a background check. 

8. Russia

A 2011 Russian law requires Pitbulls and other “dangerous breeds” to be placed on a federal registry, and restricted who could own Pitbulls. People with disabilities are prohibited from owning, walking, or housing “dangerous breeds.”

9. Singapore

Residents of Singapore are required to keep Pitbulls and other “dangerous breeds” on a short leash and muzzled in public. Additional ownership requirements include sterilization, microchipping, and obtaining insurance, which can be quite expensive. 

10. Spain

To own a Pitbull in Spain, you must be of legal age, obtain a special license, prove that you don’t have a criminal background, submit to mental and physical health examinations, and purchase dangerous dog liability insurance. These regulations have been in place since 2022. 

11. Ukraine

Ukraine has one of the longest lists of “dangerous breeds” with more than 80 breeds included. Some surprising additions include the Bouvier, the Dalmatian, and the St. Bernard. All breeds on the list are subject to mandatory microchipping and public muzzling, and their owners must obtain liability insurance and keep their dogs on short leashes. 

12. United States

That’s right! The U.S. doesn’t have Pitbull laws on a federal level, but local municipalities have established rules limiting and regulating Pitbulls. In the U.S., many apartment complexes and housing options refuse to house Pitbulls and their owners, a practice that is not only common but entirely permissible. Just some U.S. cities with breed-specific legislation pertaining to Pitbulls include:

• Arkansas has more than a dozen cities with explicit Pitbull bans.
  
• Iowa’s municipalities have widespread Pitbull bans.
  
• Kansas has a little more than a dozen municipal laws regulating or banning the ownership of Pitbulls.
  
• San Francisco, California requires Pitbulls to be spayed and neutered. Breeders must obtain a special license. 

Pitbull Ban FAQs

Wondering how breed-specific legislation could impact you if you own a Pitbull? Here are the answers to your most asked questions. 

@cddl_buddies Huge pitbull meets bunny for first time Find Chalupa & Emma on TikTok: @supadupachalupaa #pitbull #animalfriends #pettok ♬ original sound – cddle_buddies

Despite her size, Chalupa is all about cuddles and kindness. She dotes not only on her owner, Emma, but also on tiny animals like kittens and bunnies, showering them with affection and treating them like her own. Her viral videos with hundreds of thousands of views are proving that love, not fear, defines this misunderstood breed.

Chalupa the Foster Babysitter

Chalupa was one of over 150 animals fostered by her mom, Emma, but from the moment they met, Emma knew this Pit Bull was different. Before anyone else had the chance to adopt her, Emma made it official: Chalupa was staying for good.

After the adoption, Emma took a break from fostering to focus entirely on her new companion. She quickly discovered that Chalupa was not only affectionate and cuddly but also full of playful energy, indicating to Emma that she clearly needed friends. 

So, a few months later, Emma resumed fostering. That’s when she saw a whole new side of Chalupa. Around puppies, cats, rabbits, and other tiny animals, the Pittie girl transformed into a doting nanny—cuddling, playing, gently grooming, and even “cleaning” them with loving licks. It was as if she saw them as her babies.

Love Beyond Labels

Many of the animals Emma fosters arrive injured or scared, but Chalupa meets each one with calm, gentle care, often knowing exactly what they need. With adult dogs, she takes on a different role, becoming a patient mentor who helps them learn the ropes and adjust to life in her home.

By sharing Chalupa’s story on TikTok, Emma wishes to challenge the preconceived notions people have about Pit Bulls. She remarks, “Pits have such negative stereotypes, but Chalupa is proof that dogs like her—often misunderstood—can be loving, gentle, sweet, and caring dogs.”

Thankfully, Chalupa’s gentle and sweet nature touched the hearts of many, sending her videos viral. With over 15,000 likes, fans flooded the comments with love, with one user writing, “Pits used to be nanny dogs, this is only shocking to people who believe media saying they are ‘bad’ dogs.” 

As pet rescue advocate Rocky Kanaka reminds us, “Every dog deserves a chance to show their true heart beyond the labels society places on them,” a powerful message echoed by Chalupa’s inspiring story.

Pit Bull Stereotypes Are Just That—Stereotypes

Chalupa’s story is a heartwarming reminder that pit bulls aren’t the monsters they’re often made out to be. With her gentle nature and love for cuddling kittens and bunnies, Chalupa defies every harmful stereotype, and she’s not alone.

Despite their loyal and affectionate personalities, pit bull-type dogs are constantly misjudged. Many people believe myths like “pit bulls are naturally aggressive” or “their jaws lock,” but science tells a very different story.

Peer-reviewed studies on dog-bite incidents show that aggression is almost always linked to how a dog is raised, treated, and socialized, not its breed. In fact, according to the San Francisco SPCA, breed-specific laws meant to “protect” the public don’t actually reduce dog attacks and often lead to unfair discrimination and isolation for pit bulls, which can create more behavioral issues.

The truth? Aggression is fear-based and context-dependent, and pit bulls are no more aggressive than any other breed. There’s no such thing as a “locking jaw,” and bite strength is related to a dog’s size, not its breed. Plus, adult pit bulls, like Chalupa, often make the best companions because their personalities are fully developed and easier to match with the right home.

Chalupa’s loving and nurturing behavior proves what pit bull advocates have always known: with love, stability, and care, these dogs are not only safe, but they’re also incredible companions. 

How To Deal With Stereotypes?

Many Pit bull owners face prejudice against their pets, which can be quite frustrating. A Reddit post on the subreddit r/pitbulls invites Pit bull parents to share their experiences of dealing with the stereotyping. 

To this, a user, u/Impossible_Newt_537, replies, “My boi is a big goofy blockhead, but too often I see people clutching their pearls and making remarks about him when we walk by. The only thing I can do is ignore them and go about my day. And maybe if I’m lucky, they can see how well behaved he is, which might challenge their perception, but for the most part, I’m not going to change their mind. It’s a sad, destructive stereotype, but it’s the world we live in.”

The Humane Society of Tacoma & Pierce County provides the following guidelines on how to handle the negative bias:

• Educate Yourself & Others
  Misinformation fuels fear. Trusted organizations like Best Friends Animal Society and the ASPCA provide fact-based resources to help you learn—and teach others—the truth about pit bull-type dogs: they’re loving, loyal, and just as safe as any other breed when properly cared for.
• Speak Up for Change
  Breed-specific laws still exist in many places, forcing families to choose between their homes and their beloved pets. In July 2023, Tacoma took a stand by banning breed restrictions in rental housing. You can help push for similar progress. Check your local laws and advocate for inclusive, evidence-based policies that treat all dogs fairly, regardless of their breed label.