There are few breeds as controversial and misunderstood as the American Pit Bull Terrier. Their reputation as aggressive dogs has caused bans around the world. But “pit bull” fans argue these pups are just like any other breed—their behavior depends completely on their owner and environment.
So do pitbulls pick favorites in the family or remain equally attached to all members? Let’s find out.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Pitbulls do tend to bond very closely with one person in the family and show extra affection and loyalty towards that favorite individual.
However, with proper socialization and training, they can develop strong bonds with all members of a household.
Pitbulls are People-Oriented Dogs that Thrive on Human Interaction
Pitbulls crave companionship and human contact
Pitbulls are extremely people-oriented dogs that crave human companionship and contact. They love being around their family and aim to please their owners. Pitbulls will often follow their owners around the house just to be near them and will happily accept any affection that comes their way.
Many pitbulls dislike being left alone for long periods of time, as they thrive on interacting with their loved ones. They make excellent companion dogs for people who can provide them with the socialization, attention, and affection they need.
They are highly emotionally sensitive compared to other breeds
Studies have shown that pitbulls are one of the most emotionally sensitive dog breeds. They are incredibly in-tune with human emotions and body language. Pitbulls are quick to pick up on the moods of their owners and become distressed if they sense tension or negativity in their environment.
Their high emotional intelligence allows them to form deep bonds with their families. Pitbulls aim to make their owners happy and will go out of their way to comfort them when upset. Their sensitivity combined with their affectionate nature is why many describe them as “velcro” dogs that attach themselves closely to their people.
Pitbulls aim to please their owners and family
Pitbulls have a strong desire to please their loved ones. They are obedient, loyal, and eager to follow commands in order to make their owners happy. Pitbulls love taking part in training and learning new tricks as it provides them with mental stimulation and quality time interacting with their family.
They thrive when given a job to do and enjoy the praise and rewards that come with accomplishing tasks. Well-trained and socialized pitbulls make wonderfully devoted companions as their aim to please results in them being obedient and docile around people.
With proper care and training, pitbulls channel their drive to please into being polite, gentle family dogs.
Factors that Influence a Pitbull’s Choice of Favorite Person
Who spends the most time with the dog?
The person who spends the most quality time with a pitbull will likely become the dog’s favorite. Pitbulls crave attention and interaction, so they bond closely with humans who frequently play with them, take them on walks, give them affection, and meet their basic needs like feeding.
According to the ASPCA, adult pitbulls require at least 60 minutes of exercise per day. An owner who regularly takes their pitbull out for long walks, hiking, playing fetch, or jogging together can strengthen their bond significantly.
Who trains and feeds the pitbull?
The person who trains a pitbull helps establish respect and leadership, which influences the dog’s attachment. Trainers who use positive reinforcement and reward-based techniques tend to build more affectionate relationships.
Likewise, the one who regularly feeds a pitbull becomes associated with getting food – an invaluable resource. Through classical conditioning, the dog forms positive associations with that person.
Who does the dog first bond with as a puppy?
Human-canine bonding starts early, so a pitbull’s favorite person is often the first one they imprinted on as a pup. Between 3-16 weeks old, puppies go through a developmental “socialization period” forming attachments that strongly shape future relationships.
Owners who spend the most time caring for and playing with a pit puppy while they’re impressionable tend to become the dogs’ lifelong favorite.
Personality match and energy levels
Compatible energy levels and personalities also impact bonding. Since pitbulls are active, loyal pack animals, they tend to choose favorites who are equally energetic and engaging. Calmer dog owners may have a harder time becoming their sole focus.
Additionally, some evidence shows dogs prefer interacting with people who have similar personalities to themselves. So an outgoing, social pit is apt to bond most closely with a similarly gregarious owner.
Signs Your Pitbull Has Picked Its Favorite
Follows them everywhere in the house
One of the clearest signs that a pitbull has bonded closely with a particular person is that they will follow that individual all around the house. Wherever their favorite person goes – whether it’s to the kitchen, the bedroom, or just walking from room to room – the devoted pitbull will likely be hot on their heels.
This shadowing behavior demonstrates that the dog feels most comfortable and secure in the presence of that person.
Gets visibly excited when the person comes home
Pitbulls that have selected someone as their most treasured human companion will show effusive excitement when that person returns home after an absence. As soon as the favored individual walks in the door, the ecstatic pitbull may jump up, spin in circles, whimper joyfully, grab a toy, or display other signs of elation.
This reaction indicates that the dog strongly associates that person with happiness and fun times.
Listens attentively and is eager to obey
A pitbull that has chosen a favorite person will be extra attentive and responsive to that individual. For example, when the cherished human issues a command, the dog will promptly follow the directions with enthusiasm. This obedience stems from a strong bond of trust and respect.
The pitbull looks to their special person for guidance and joyfully complies with their wishes.
Prefers to sleep in their room or on their lap
Many pitbulls like to sleep right next to their beloved favorite person. They may insist on sleeping in that individual’s bedroom at night and even try to sneak onto the bed. If the person is sitting down, the dog may also plop down on their lap or cuddle up next to them on the furniture.
These snuggly behaviors are a sign that the dog feels safest and most content when closest to their special human.
Displays signs of separation anxiety when the person leaves
Pitbulls are known for forming strong attachments, so it’s common for them to become anxious when separated from their chosen person. Signs of separation anxiety may include whining, pacing, barking, or destructive chewing only when that specific individual leaves the home.
The pitbull misses their special companion to the point of distress. However, the dog will remain calm if other family members exit the house without the favored human. This points directly to the canine’s intense bond with that particular beloved friend.
Tips to Spread the Love Around Your Family
Involve the whole family in training and feeding
Getting every family member involved in a pitbull’s care and training helps the dog bond with all humans in the household, not just their perceived “favorite.” Consider having a chore chart where each person takes turns feeding, walking, playing with, and working on commands with your pitbull daily (AKC).
This shared responsibility and positive interaction helps cement affection.
Ensure everyone plays with and exercises the dog
Fun, stimulating activities like playing fetch, going on walks, or doing tricks and obstacle courses are bonding opportunities for any pitbull and human. Try to switch up exercise partners – maybe Dad plays tug of war one day while Daughter goes on a jog the next.
This fluctuation keeps things exciting and spreads the endorphin rush!
Have each person practice commands with the pitbull
Reinforcing that all family members are capable leaders that a pitbull should respect can encourage equal attachment. Take turns being the main trainer during short 5-10 minute obedience sessions where you target commands like sit, stay, down, heel, or come (consistently responding to different people helps generalize behaviors).
Rotate roles to diversify interactions.
Allow bond with favorite person but encourage socialization
It’s ok for your pitbull to have a special connection to one individual as long as they still properly socialize with others. While respecting an exceptionally strong bond with a favorite person, continue involving the whole family through the tips above – the goal is a friendly, obedient dog that loves everyone …even if there’s a little extra tail wagging for their number one!
Consider adopting a second pitbull so they can be companions!
While one bonded pitbull is great, adopting a second dog (especially another pit) can provide fabulous friendship. Pitbulls tend to thrive when paired up, as they can satisfy exercise needs together and alleviate any separation anxiety directed at a favorite human.
The dogs encourage positive play and engagement as they learn sharing …taking the pressure off familial forces having to be the sole provider!
Conclusion
While pitbulls tend to choose a favorite human, this likely stems from lack of socialization rather than inherent breed traits. With time, effort and proper training, bully breeds can form strong attachments with all family members.
The key is exposing them to a variety of people and experiences starting at a young age.
