Why All Dog Breeds Need to Fight

Hmmm… What other breeds went into Bull Mastiffs? Maybe they need to be mentioned as well. Boxers, yes, they have Mastiff in their heritage, maybe they need to be named as well! This is how legislators or other undereducated people think: if one breed is dangerous, any breeds related to it must be as well. It is not a big step from an APBT to a Bull Terrier or from a Mastiff to a Great Dane.

What about the breed descriptions? Herding breeds are known to chase and nipping can be part of herding. Does this mean herding breeds pose more of a biting risk? In the eyes of the undereducated, yes, herding breeds may pose a greater risk.

I have seen Australian Cattle Dogs listed in BSLs because it is thought, according to some accounts, the breed history includes Dingo and Bull Terrier blood. Does this seem fair?

This is why whenever we see Breed Specific Legislations in the works, regardless of where or what breeds are mentioned, dog enthusiasts all over the world need to take action and educate. Just because your breed is not mentioned, does not mean it never will be.

Even if your community has codes against breed discrimination, be wary. I learned recently that Virginia (where I am currently living) laws state "No canine or canine crossbreed shall be found to be a dangerous dog or vicious dog solely because it is a particular breed, nor shall the local governing body prohibit the ownership of a particular breed of canine or canine crossbreed." (Virginia Code Section is 3.1-796.93:1, C, 2 - states.) But please note, this could be changed.

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