American pit bull terrier An American pit bull terrier is widely known to be one of the most viscious and unpredictable dogs alive today. Although american pit bull terriers are probably more tractable than Wolf-dog hybrids, and other such semi-feral animals, it is none-the-less true that you really should think twice before buying an american pit bull terrier, particularly if you have children. There was actually a woman recently in the San Francisco bay area, whose child was mauled to death by her american pit bull terrier, because the dog became completely unstable while mating. She left her child alone in the house with the american pit bull terrier, but instructed him to stay in the basement until she got home. Being a young kid, of course, he wandered out anyay, and the american pit bull terrier viciously killed him. This tragic story is certainly not as uncommon as it should be. Of course, like all breeds, the American pit bull terrier really does have its good side, and that side is quite pronounced. The american pit bull terrier is an extremely loyal dog who will do whatever it can to help its owner out, no matter what. It is a tough dog, and will defend the people it is familiar with, often willing to fight to the death once it gets its teeth in a percieved opponent. Unfortunately, american pit bull terriers are unstable creatures, and sometimes will attack the wrong person. Besides that, who really needs a dog that will fight to death, like an american pit bull terrier? If you want a dog to defend you, you'd be better to get a dog that will attack anyone who is a threat and chase them off, not outright kill them. A dog willing to kill will be willing to kill when it is not strictly necessary, and no one wants to see that happen! For my money, a golden retriever is a much nicer and better dog than a pit bull, and much safer too. Unlike the American pit bull terrier, a golden retriever will make friends with other dogs and people too. As a matter of fact, the golden retriever is one of the friendliest dogs that there is, and is smart enough to enjoy hunting, playing catch, wrestling, and any other one of a number of different activities. But it is still big enough to scare off trouble makers if absolutely necessary.