Pitbulls Dictionary

APBT: American Pit Bull Terrier; a type of dog classified in the category of pit bulls which is not recognized by the American Kennel Club.

aggression: A type of behavior meant to intentionally inflict pain or harm.

Alano Espanol: A Spanish breed of dog similar to a large bulldog.

American Staffordshire Terrier: A breed of dog which is slightly larger than the American Pit Bull Terrier and is recognized by the American Kennel Club.

BSL: "Breed Specific Legislation;" laws passed to restrict ownership of pit bulls such as requirements for muzzles, microchips or certain breeding practices.

baiting: The practice of releasing an aggressive dog onto a chained or otherwise confined animal.

barrier frustration: A reason animal behaviorists list for dog aggression when the animal wishes to be off-leash or outside a crate.

behaviorist: An expert who studies animal behaviors, and may be hired to address dog aggression issues.

bite inhibition: The ability of a dog to control the strength of a bite; a sense which is formed as a puppy with play-biting.

Cane Corso: A large, Italian breed of dog similar to a mastiff, which is most commonly used by humans as a guard dog.

CordobaFighting Dog: An Argentine breed of dog developed for hunting and fighting.

counter-conditioning: A form of desensitization used by behaviorists to reduce fear of certain people or objects among dogs.

desensitization: A type of therapy used by behaviorists to reduce anxiety in dogs.

Dogue de Bordeaux: A French breed of dog developed for fighting and guard duties.