Everyone loves dogs, or at least everyone that I’ve met. But, when the breed “Pit Bull” is mentioned, it is not uncommon to receive mixed reactions since there is still a stigma that surrounds them. Some people often assume that they are “dangerous” or “aggressive” based off of what they were bred to do in the past, or simply because they have an intimidating physical appearance. This could not be further from the truth.
With proper training, socializing, and lots of love, Pit Bulls can make the most loyal canine companions. They are energetic, happy-go-lucky, and would take a bullet for their owners. Perhaps I am a bit biased on this specific breed, because I happen to be a Pit Bull mom, and a proud one at that, and can attest to all their qualities.
Quick back story: I met my boyfriend, Zack, in May of 2018 and eleven days prior, he rescued a handsome one-year-old (estimated) Blue Nose Pit Bull named Morris. The three of us became one happy trio and I quickly took on the role as a dog mom.
Growing up, my family always owned dogs, but I never really had to take on the responsibilities that are associated with being a “dog parent.” Needless to say, I have loved every second of looking after Morris since entering his life.
Zack leaves for work fairly early in the morning during the week. Morris will typically wake me up around 8:00AM by whining, indicating that he needs to go outside. Afterwards, we walk back upstairs to our apartment. He patiently waits by the door to the balcony and stares at me as I make my first cup of coffee for the day. We then go outside and enjoy a relaxing morning together.
After I do all that I need to do for the day, Morris and I head over to the dog park where he burns off his pent-up energy. This is always great bonding time for us. He absolutely LOVES playing fetch with a tennis ball and could do so for hours on end. To beat the Texas heat, he cools off in the water tubs that the park provides. He’s a water dog, that’s for sure!
Zack and I take Morris with us wherever we can, mostly to bars, breweries, and restaurants with outdoor patios. He even walks with us to our neighborhood Walgreens! Almost everyone whom we cross paths with will say “what a beautiful dog!” and ask to pet him. Sometimes people are hesitant because of his breed, but that changes once Morris walks up and greets them with a smiling face and a wagging tail.
Morris is actually known around the places we frequent for a specific talent- he can belly-up to the bar! This is a trick that Zack taught him and people are so amazed by it. They’ll ask to take photos as they’re walking by and it makes us feel like such proud dog parents. I’d say we raised him right.
The bad rep that Pit Bulls are oftentimes accompanied by is truly unfortunate. They are frequently misunderstood and it’s so upsetting to me. I can say with total confidence that Morris is the sweetest and cuddliest 65-pound lap dog you will ever meet. He not only brings so much joy to our lives, but to the lives of total strangers as well, and that is the most rewarding feeling.
