As most dog fanciers are aware, a Colored Bull Terrier named "Ch Rocky Top's Sundance Kid," a.k.a. "Rufus," took home the Best In Show trophy at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show this year. Rufus is a seasoned show dog, having won several other top honors, including taking the Terrier group at the recent AKC/Eukanuba National Championship. The morning after his win, invitations were already pouring in for Rufus to appear on a host of tv shows and at various events. Ironically, however, Rufus is not welcome in many communities due to the fact that he is a Bull Terrier—a breed that is often mistakenly characterized as a “pit bull” and thus the target of breed-specific legislation.

Rufus is perfect example of why breed-stereotyping is an ineffective way to which dogs pose a danger to communities. This well-mannered canine would be prohibited or restricted in various cities, regardless of his good behavior. He is judged by his breed, rather than his deed. AKC is dedicated to fighting laws that unfairly punish dogs like Rufus and instead works for passage of well-enforced animal care and control laws that put responsibility for a dog’s behavior at the right end of the leash—with the owner. Please join us in our on-going efforts to educate elected officials and the general public about the inherent failures of breed-specific legislation.