Cesar’s special makes the case for pit bulls

There was a time when the pit bull was one of the most popular family pets in the country. President Theodore Roosevelt, Gen. George Patton and Helen Keller all owned pits. But today, the breeds are more closely associated with gangs and violent dogfighting, making them among the most vilified — and unwanted — dogs in America. But are they really more dangerous or naturally aggressive than other breeds? Or should humans and bad training share more of the blame?

Video: Cesar Millan: Love My Pit Bull Exclusive

For Cesar Millan, pit bulls and other dogs classified among the so-called “bully breeds” aren’t bullies at all. “Cesar Millan: Love My Pit Bull” is a compelling one-hour special showing Cesar and his current pit bull companion, Junior, make the case that it’s not just pit bulls — but also humans — who need to be trained.

In the revealing special, you can learn about the history of pit bulls, dating back to the 1800s, when they were commonly used on farms and cattle ranches to herd animals. They were even trusted to watch the children while the adults worked the field. In England, for example, the Staffordshire bull terrier was so good with kids that it became known as “The Nanny Dog.” It’s a quality Cesar often saw in his own pit bull, Daddy.

Often abused or abandoned, today pit bulls are destroyed at a far higher rate than any other dog. Overbreeding, improper training and neglect force about one million pit bulls to be put down each year — more than 2,000 dogs a day. For Cesar, rescuing the pit bull from near extermination is a cause worthy of his time and attention.

Video: Dog Whisperer talks about what Pitbulls are really like