Pitbull-Type Dogs Achieve Excellent Temperament Scores

According to the latest available breed temperament test data, the unique breeds that are commonly included in the modern pitbull-type category (such as the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier) continue to achieve excellent temperament scores - scoring in the top 23% of all breeds tested. Not only do pitbull-type dogs have an excellent temperament, they are also successful as service dogs, therapy dogs, K9 police dogs, and as family pets - validating their status as outstanding canine citizens. Furthermore, the ATTS (American Temperament Test Society, Inc.) test results are supported by scientific studies on canine behavior that have reached similar conclusions about the positive temperament of dogs labeled as "pitbulls". Summaries of the temperament test results and conclusions found in several studies on breed-specific aggression and temperament are provided below.

Temperament TEST Scores

Pitbull-Type Breed Scores
  • American Pit Bull Terrier score: 87.6%
  • American Staffordshire Terrier score: 85.7%
  • ​Staffordshire Bull Terrier score: 91.9%
  • Average score for pitbull-type breeds: 88.4% (top 31 of 134 breeds tested or top 23%)​
  • Average score for the 134 breeds included in this analysis: 83.3%​
Additional Scores & Info
  • Lowest score (Bearded Collie): 58.5%
  • Highest score (Dutch Shepherd): 97.2%
  • Scores for other popular large breeds:
    • German Shepherd: 85.7%
    • Golden Retriever: 85.9%
    • Labrador Retriever: 92.4%​
  • The ATTS data used for this analysis includes 134 breeds with a test population size of 25 or more dogs using the latest available temperament test data (January, 2023).
  • Source: ATTS Breed Statistics

Scientific Studies

Breed Aggression Study
Journal of Applied Animal Behaviour Science​
Human directed aggression in domestic dogs: Occurrence in different contexts and risk factors
Conclusions: Breed does not determine aggression. Factors relevant to aggression include un-neutered dogs and dogs subjected to punishment-based training methods.
​Source: Link to study
Breed Aggression & Temperament Study
Journal of Veterinary Behavior​
Comparison of golden retrievers and dogs affected by breed-specific legislation regarding aggressive behavior
Conclusions: Breed does not determine aggression. There were no differences in aggression between the legislated breeds and the control group (golden retrievers).
​Source: Link to study

"America's Dog"

​While all dogs are individuals, temperament test data, scientific studies on canine behavior, and the growing popularity of pitbull-type dogs all confirm that as a group, dogs labeled as "pitbulls" are overwhelmingly successful as loving companions in millions of U.S. households. In fact, pitbulls have been popular in the U.S. going as far back as World Wars 1 and 2 when they were proudly called "America's Dog" and prominently featured as national mascots on military recruitment posters. Their excellent temperament and growing popularity are just a few of the many reasons why it's really no surprise that discriminatory appearance-based dog bans (aka BSL or breed-specific legislation) that target dogs labeled as "pitbulls" have become exceedingly unpopular and are a trend in decline.
The ATTS test focuses on and measures different aspects of temperament such as stability, shyness, aggressiveness, and friendliness as well as the dog’s instinct for protectiveness towards its handler and/or self-preservation in the face of a threat. The test is designed for the betterment of all breeds of dogs and takes into consideration each breed’s inherent tendencies.
- American Temperament Test Society (ATTS)
Updated: September 28, 2023