What is BSL? (Breed Specific Legislation?)

Called BSL for short, Breed Specific Legislation is a lot like it sounds. BSL restricts what types of pets owners can have based on breed, rather than disposition, training and the pet’s history. It has come under fire in many communities in which entire breeds (and breed mixed dogs) suddenly became illegal. (i.e. American Staffordshire Terriers, Rottweilers, “Pit Bulls,” etc.)

So what’s the thought behind it? Loosely, the idea is to limit the number of dogs that are usually used in fighting. To those unfamiliar with the breeds under restriction, it may seem like a logical solution to a problem that has plagued our society for sometime now.

Other than the fact that many responsible pet owners share their lives with targeted breeds, the critics argue this is not a long-term solution to the problem. Why?

• Problems with dogs generally stem from irresponsible pet ownership and/or provocation, not simply the breed of dog. (Interesting fact: In the early 19th century American Staffordshire Terriers were the most common “family dog” due to their gentle nature with children.)
• Responsible, law-abiding citizens will start to shy away from certain breeds. These are the exact people that are needed within the pet rescue community to help combat the breed stereotypes.
• In communities where Breed Specific Legislation is upheld, the dog fighting circles go further underground, or simply switch to another breed. Dog fighting is illegal in the first place. Why would fighters adhere to BSL? Only law-abiding citizens (and their dogs) are punished.
• “Pit bulls” are the most commonly effected, when in fact the “pit bull” isn’t even a breed. Pit bull simply refers to a large group of dogs who show similar traits and characteristics of what the public deems a “pit bull.” Therefore, the criteria is a vague line. Is a American Staffordshire Terrier and Labrador Retriever mix considered a pit bull? What about a Rottweiler and Golden Retriever Mix? What about a Whippet and AmStaff mix? In many communities, these dogs would fall under the “pit bull” umbrella.
• Along with the previous point, mixes are often difficult to distinguish and and innocent dogs are destroyed based on paranoia. Many BSL cities will literally euthanize perfectly healthy and socialized “pit bulls” that enter shelters, regardless of their background, history and upbringing. The American Veterinary Medical Association is opposed BSL due to this.
• These laws are “complaint” based. This causes two problems. First, it can initiate violent neighborhood feuds and retaliation against those who “snitched.” And second, it creates further disrespect for the law if it’s upheld only when a complaint is made. (Thus driving dog fighting further underground.)

So what can we do to aid the helpless dogs that are caught up in these vicious circles without making them “illegal?”

1. Encourage local rescue groups to work within the community to talk about responsible pet ownership. Foster an environment of respect for dogs, not fear, through education and outreach.  Hold low-cost or free spay/neuter clinics.  Numerous studies have shown that the dogs that are at the top of the list for bites, also happen to be the dogs that are the most popular at the time, and pit bulls happen to be the #1 dog in America due to irresponsible breeding.  Provide people with an easy way to prevent unwanted puppies from being born.
2. Support the already existing dog laws. Enforce action toward owners who keep untrained and unsupervised dogs of any breed or mix. Enforce common dog laws such as chaining laws, leash laws, waste disposal and barking ordinances so urban areas are made into places where dogs are welcomed, rather than shunned.  Most bite cases involve un-leashed dogs.  Enforce the leash laws already in effect.
3. Speak out! Talk to friends and neighbors about your experiences with any of the breeds effected by this legislation. Be a spokesperson for the “pits” you know.
4. Be a smart pet owner. Know your dog’s breed, and act accordingly. Example: If a Whippet and a Rottweiler get into a fight at a dog park (even if the Whippet as ultra aggressive and started the fight), who’s going to be blamed for the outcome & who’s going to end up with more serious injuries? It’s the unfortunate truth that many of us face, but we have to acknowledge it. Chihuahua’s can be more aggressive than crocodiles, but a Rottie or a Pit Bull with a 1/2 of the aggression of Chihuahua can be dangerous. Large dogs hold a different standard, regardless of their breed. (Just like Great Danes can’t jump on small children.)  Pits are not like “every other dog,” just as Cocker Spaniels (notoriously bad around children) aren’t like any old dog.  Know the breeds, and act accordingly.

Comments are welcome about this topic. BSL is a hot-button issue so please keep the comments clean and respectful toward each side. Pit parents are encouraged to share stories and antidotes about their best friends. Remember – be nice. Everyone is entitled to an opinion, even dissenting. It’s all about education!