It is important to note that every dog breed including the little Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Yorkshire Terrie, etc, is dangerous as long as it has a tooth and is not properly trained.
Larger dog breeds such as pit bull terriers and rottweilers are more dangerous if they are not trained, handled properly, and socialized during their formative years.
This has led some animal lovers to adopt smaller, less perceived dangerous animals such as cats, rabbits, African Grey parrots, and lizards.
These little pet animals also have associated risks but cannot be compared to larger pets, especially dog breeds such as Pit bulls or Rottweilers.
Larger breeds of dogs such as an American Pitbull are even capable of killing a lion when in combat with other dogs
However, the strength, body build, bite force, agility, stamina, height, weight, speed, intelligence, behavior, etc of a pit bull and a rottweiler varies which will be discussed in this article.
History Of Both Breeds:
Every recognized dog breed has its special origin, history, and reasons for being bred.
Learning about these vital factors is paramount to understanding their nature and behavior.
Pit Bull:
Pitbull is a common name for dog breeds such as the American Staffordshire Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
The American pit bull terrier is the most popular of all Pit bulls.
They were originally bred in the United Kingdom for bull baiting and blood sport before the introduction of the Animal Welfare Act in 1966.
It has also been reported and well-documented that they were bred in the 1800s as killer animals according to the American Society For The Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals.
They were allegedly used to hunt and kill other animals such as bulls and bears that were in overwhelming numbers around human enclaves.
Their aged-long history as tenacious fighters during bull baiting has made them have a negative stereotype
However, just like other dog breeds, when properly trained from a young age and socialized, they are loving, less aggressive, and friendly.
Rottweilers:
Rottweilers alongside German shepherds have been used by security agencies in so many countries to fight against crimes.
This is a result of their intelligence, bravery, stamina, loyalty, and ease in training them.
They were originally bred in the Roman Empire more than 2,000 years ago as guard dogs for cattle and other farm animals that were attacked by humans and wild animals.
Their history of holding off and fighting imposed threats to livestock contributed to their modern-day use in fighting crimes by security agencies around the world.
Comparison:
This comprehensive analysis of their physical features and characteristics aims to outline and explore their potential risks.
- Bite Force: Surprisingly, the American Pit Bull Terrier has a bite force of 240-330psi. While rottweilers have a bite force of 328psi.
- Height: American Pit Bull male has a height of 24-27 inches ( 61-69cm), while male rottweilers have a height of 24- 26 inches ( 56-61cm). Both of their females are usually smaller in size.
- Weight: The male American Pit Bull weighs 35-65 pounds (16-29kg), while male rottweilers weigh 65-90 pounds (29-41kg ). Their females, weigh less.
In terms of bite force, height, and weight, rottweilers are more dangerous than the American Pitbull.
However, there are other important factors such as speed, and behaviors, reported fatalities that will be discussed.
Statistics and Bite Incidents:
Pit bulls and rottweilers are some of the most popular breeds of dogs that are known for their fearlessness and protective nature.
In the year 2016, Pitbulls accounted for over 71% of reported incidents in the United States despite accounting for only 6% of the animal pet population.
While rottweilers came second accounting for 6.5% in the same year under review in the United States.
In terms of fatalities, the American pit bull is more dangerous than rottweilers.
Speed:
In a situation where you have to run for safety from a potential pit bull or rottweiler threat, it’s most likely the pit bull will grab you by the neck in a few minutes.
Pit bulls are also known for their agility and athleticism which is evident in their body build.
They can burst at a fast speed of 25 to 30 miles per hour ( 40 to 48km/h).
While a rottweiler can race 20 to 25 miles per hour ( 32 to 40km/h).
In general, Pit bulls are faster than rottweilers, and when they attack, they target the most exposed part of the body which is usually the leg or neck region.
How To Reduce Potential Threats:
Reducing imminent threats from a rottweiler or pit bull involves proactive measures right from their adoption.
Here are some practical strategies to help you reduce any possibility that they might pose.
Early Socialization:
Pet animals such as rottweilers and pit bulls are lovely creatures that should not be kept in isolation regardless of their species or breed.
Early socialization of rottweilers and pit bulls with other animals and humans should be encouraged.
To have them socialized, take your pet animal to animal parks. They should be familiar with other environments and situations.
This can make them less aggressive unnecessarily.
Trainings:
Consider training your pet animal on basic commands such as sit, eat, walk, stand, stop, and leave.
These basic commands help to instill control and stamp your authority on them.
When training them, always start early and be consistent while exercising a great deal of patience.
You can also consider working with professionals or in groups ( with other dog owners).
Safe environment:
Rottweilers and pit bulls should be kept in a safe and secure environment from indiscriminate interactions with other animals and humans.
You should provide a secure cage or a well-fenced space as their dwelling place.
They should be allowed to retreat to their personal space whenever they feel like it without any hindrance.
Health and Well-Being:
In most cases, a rottweiler or pit bull will be more aggressive when they feel any sign of discomfort.
They can be reserved and unfriendly when unwell and any forced interaction can lead to a confrontation.
Always ensure to visit the veterinary clinic often for periodic medical check-ups.
Do not wait for them to be sick or injured before scheduling an appointment with a vet.
Always engage your rottweiler or pitbull with enough physical and mental stimulation such as walking, running, and playing with toys and puzzles.
By actively following and practicing the above measures, you will be able to reduce any potential threat from your rottweiler or pitbull and ensure a safe space with a great companion and defender.