#1 Fact or Fiction: Pit bulls have locking jaws

It’s Pit Bull Awareness Month!

Fact or Fiction : Pit bulls have locking jaws.  Once they bite down, they cannot let go.

Fiction. Dr. I. Lehr Brisbin of the University of Georgia has stated under oath “There is absolutely no evidence for the existence of any kind of ‘locking mechanism’ unique to the structure of the jaws and/or teeth of the American Pit Bull Terrier.” A study out of Presbyterian College by Jesse M. Bridgers III  titled “The Mechanical Advantage of the Pit Bull Jaw” examined 49 skulls of various breeds of domestic dogs, including those of pit bulls.  Conclusion: “After graphing and analyzing the derived ratios, I have found no evidence of mechanical advantage in the pit bull compared to other breeds of domestic dogs.”  A 2003 study by T.E. Huston titled “Bite Force and Bite Pressure Comparisons of Humans and Dogs” found “There is nothing out of the ordinary in the jaw structure or anatomy of the bull breeds.” That same study also disproved the myth that pit bulls bite with 1600 pounds of pressure per square inch.  Both Rottweilers and German Shepherds were shown to bite with substantially more force than pit bulls.

Nearly all breeds of dogs are capable of biting and holding on with amazing tenacity.  For a free demonstration, stop by the clinic and attempt to extract a Greenie from Grendel’s mouth. You will tire long before our geriatric dachshund does!