Joe Stahlkuppe is a  widely read pet columnist, author and freelance feature writer. He has written several Barron Pet Owner manuals. He is a clergyman and has his own pet talk show in USA, Pets AmericaLIVE. He spends a lot of time with his family and owns several dogs. His credentials also include being a

community affairs director for HumaneSocietyAdoptions.com. This work is, in author's words, a book about the pure, misunderstood American canine treasure, the dog that has overcome more obstacles than any other dog in history of human - canine relationship... This work is without a hint of apology about the American Pit Bull Terrier. This nicely written book gives credit where it's due. The author is, clearly, on the side of the breed and has done his research well.

The book is, overall, well_written, especially the last chapter, title of which has been unashamedly borrowed from Richard Stratton _The Pit and the Pendulum. This work is primarily a new owners manual. There are 14 chapters and a lot of information is in condensed form. This makes this book an excellent choice for new owners. This work used to be widely available in bookshops and pet stores in Melbourne (not so widely available as of late). The book itself is paperback, printed on glossy paper like other Barron Pet manuals.

The text opens with the chapter aptly named: APBT _ a new view. Road that took the breed since 1980s has been a roller-coaster. This is the same road that previously took German Shepherd, then Doberman. Now is our breed's turn. The greatest problem the breed is facing today is mass ownership - characterized by irresponsible ownership and irresponsible breeding practices. Both lead to exposure of the breed in the media. General public tends to be affected by what is commonly known as APBT hype. Our breed has been a victim of bad press, rumour, innuendo myth and fathomless fear more than any other breed in recent history. Introductory section is further expanded in Chapter 2 where themes related to history of the breed are explored. Of interest to a student of the breed (and yet another interesting theme for discussion) would be a statement that this breed is not strictly a terrier and it is not strictly American either. Historical part of the book continues in Chapter 3 where the breed's coming to America is explored. APBT may not have been American - but American have certainly improved it - says Stahlkuppe. A book about our breed would not be complete without touching upon the controversial subject of dogfighters and dogfighting. This book is not an exception. In chapter on dogfighting, an unbiased view of this questionable activity is given. In author's words, it is wrong to castigate the whole breed because a few individuals engage in this activity. However, author points out, quite rightly may I add, that this practice has provided the breed with some of its best qualities whether we want to acknowledge this fact or not. Chapter 5 discusses breed registries and some differences between APBT and Amstaff while Chapter 6 focuses on understanding the APBT. Attention is paid to topics like gameness and dog-to-dog aggression. Many positive aspects of the breed are discussed. Chapter 7 further expands on understanding the breed by tackling ownership issues. This section is highly recommended to new owners.

Attitude towards APBT is, unfortunately, not the same as attitude towards the other breeds. Chapter 8 deals with these and related issues. If your Kelpie escapes your property, the general attitude is probably to protect the animal. If an APBT escapes your property, the general attitude will probably be to “protect the public from it” - your dog will be euthanased. That is what the media did to our breed.

Setting a stage for success involves proper socialization of the dog and learning about the breed, keeping an eye for potential hazardous situations thus giving a dog an opportunity to reach its maximum potential. In a family situation, every member of the family should be concerned for well-being of the dog. Responsible ownership means setting the stage for success. Adult supervision is required when walking the dog in neighbourhood. Chapter 9 further expands on previous chapter by looking specifically at what you should do to develop a confident APBT. Importance of early socialization is stressed.

Care should be taken with other dogs and other pets. Properly socialized dog is a delight to have around kids, and, in fact, dog should be protected from kids! APBT is, contrary to popular belief, not a guard dog as it has not been bred to attack humans. Remaining four chapters cover common topics of care, training, activities for you and your dog, feeding and health care. These topics are covered in same format as seen in other books previously reviewed.

In the chapter on caring for your dog, it is stressed that your dog should always be viewed as a work in progress. Your dog is always learning and this process never stops. Other issues regarding raising a strong and confident APBT are also discussed. Of particular interest is a statement that your puppy becomes a large, powerful dog in a very short amount of time. Therefore, training and socialization should start early! Training issues are discussed in Chapter 11.

The last chapter, Chapter 15 of this book discusses position the breed has been put in as a result of repeated media attacks. The world 'pit bull' has become a marketing magic. Despite the fact that APBT as a breed does not come even close to the top of the list of dog bites in many countries, many municipalities have, due to media hype and pressure either restricted or completely banned our breed. It takes time for the truth to come through. The author notes that APBT is only beginning to regain some lost ground in recent times.

Overall, this relatively short but comprehensive work is highly recommended for new owners. Seasoned owners, enthusiasts and students of the breed will like introductory, historical and final chapters of this book.