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Bernthal: Pit Bull Stigma is 'Dog Racism'
2 Aug
Summary
- Jon Bernthal argues pit bull fear is unfair stereotyping.
- He calls the widespread fear of pit bulls 'dog racism'.
- Bernthal believes a dog's behavior depends on owner and training.

Actor Jon Bernthal recently voiced strong opposition to the stigma associated with pit bulls, likening the fear of the breed to "dog racism." Speaking on The Howard Stern Show, Bernthal argued that the negative reputation pit bulls often receive is rooted in stereotypes and misinformation.
He asserted that a dog's temperament and actions are primarily influenced by its upbringing and training, rather than its specific breed. Bernthal contended that fearing an entire breed is illogical and unjust.
Bernthal drew parallels between judging dogs by breed and judging people by their race or sexual orientation, deeming both practices as baseless. He stated that the myth of pit bulls being inherently dangerous is incorrect, attributing aggressive behavior to improper ownership and training rather than the breed itself.