Celebrating National Pit Bull Awareness Month: Honoring Our Lovable Underdogs

October is National Pit Bull Awareness Month, a time to celebrate one of the most loyal, affectionate, and misunderstood types of dogs. At Silicon Valley Pet Project (SVPP), we know firsthand how special bully-breed mixes are. Every year, we rescue many of these dogs from local animal shelters—dogs who are often overlooked simply because of how they look, not who they are.

Pit Bull Isn’t a Breed—It’s a Label

One of the most common misconceptions is that “pit bull” refers to a specific breed. In reality, it’s a general term used to describe dogs that share certain physical traits—blocky heads, muscular builds, and big smiles! The label can include several breeds and mixes, such as American Pit Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, American Bullies, and mixed-breed dogs with similar features.

Unfortunately, the “pit bull” label often carries unfair stigma, leading these dogs to be passed over in shelters. But at SVPP, we’ve seen time and again that they’re simply loving, loyal companions who thrive with people who understand them.

Big Hearts, Not Big Demands

Because of their sturdy build, people sometimes assume bully breeds need endless exercise or a “job” to stay happy—like herding or guarding. The truth? They’re happiest when they can be close to their humans. They are the perfect companion dog!

Unlike working breeds such as German Shepherds or Border Collies, most bully mixes don’t need a structured job or hours of running to be content. A daily walk, some playtime, and lots of affection are usually all it takes to make them feel secure and fulfilled. Despite their athletic bodies, they’re often couch cuddlers at heart!

Andrea Lee rescuing Nilla from San Jose Animal Care Center.

SVPP’s Experience with Bully Breeds

SVPP has 10 years of experience rescuing, fostering, and adopting out bully-breed mixes. We’ve seen how quickly they blossom in loving homes—showing off their playful personalities, goofy grins, and deep devotion to their families.

Andrea Lee, SVPP’s Foster Program Manager, has fostered and owned many bully breeds over the years. Her dogs, Tilly (an American Bully) and Carl (a bully mix and SVPP alum), perfectly represent the gentle, loyal spirit of these dogs.

“Bully breeds are incredible companions,” says Andrea. “They’re people-oriented, funny, affectionate, and they live to make you smile. Once you’ve loved one, you understand how special they are.”

“After fostering and working with dozens of bully breeds, I’ve learned how intuitive and eager to please they are,” Andrea explains. “They just need guidance, love, and the right match. With proper care—especially around nutrition and structure—they make some of the most devoted companions you’ll ever meet.”

Advocating for the Underdogs

This October, we invite everyone who has ever loved a bully-breed dog to help us advocate for them. Share their stories. Post their photos. Talk about their gentleness, their silliness, their big hearts. The more people see these dogs for who they really are, the more lives we can save.

If you’re considering adoption or fostering, we encourage you to meet some of the wonderful bully mixes currently in our care. They’re ready to become someone’s best friend, walking buddy, and snuggle partner for life.

See our adoptable dogs: https://www.svpetproject.org/available-dogs

Together, we can replace fear and stereotypes with understanding, compassion, and love—and continue giving these loyal underdogs the futures they deserve.