Any large dog is potentially dangerous. They are strong graceful animals with purpose built teeth and the cognition of a couple year old human child. Combine that with the fact they are *not* little humans, they have a different social programming, it is totally unrealistic to think they are safe without direct adult supervision and control.

Add in more dogs and the pack mentality and adrenalin, the prey drive, etc., and the situation is all that much worse.

Now add in poor or nonexistent rearing, training and socialization.

It isn't the fault of the dogs. We have chosen to keep these animals, we have shaped their evolution. We have a responsibility to protect them, and that includes protecting them from themselves.

The reality is the breeds seen as "problem breeds" attract owners who are often at best inadequately understand the situation and responsibilities of dog ownership, but often and sadly in many cases, actively program these dogs for poor behavior, either because they don't understand what they are doing, or because they *desire* the dog to become a dangerous instrument.

While I do feel there is a genetic element to dog behavior, I think the big problem here is the owners. Unfortunately, the dogs are the ones who end up paying the bill. That, and random people along the way.

Breed based laws make about as much sense as laws that regulate people based on their ethnicity. We need to hold the owners accountable, regardless of what type of animal is involved. It doesn't matter if they own a Labrador Retriever or a Cougar. Their responsibility to keep their animal from hurting others is the same.

That said, I would urge people to try to learn about dog behavior. Many dog encounters that are seen as "aggressive", are not inherently deadly encounters and can be diffused.

Considering the number of dogs out there, people are likely to encounter them and as a result, it stands to reason it is a prudent skill to learn and to teach our children. Think of it as another aspect of being (mentally, intellectually) Equipped to Survive.

Lastly, we should all keep in mind that it is our *personal* responsibility to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe. Bad things happen. Animals do attack. Bad people happen. Since it *does* happen, it means it could happen to any of us. And that means *you* and that means *me*.

Be safe,

-john