[navygirl76]

oh lord. Not all pitts are killers in the making waiting for little old ladies and helpless babies to scarf down- i know its an unstable breed, but there are some really good ones out there. i had a dog that was over twice the height (she was a dalmatian/boxer mix) and weight as a pit, and gentle as a lamb, along with the patience for kids and small animals that rivaled Buddha. there is no need for pepper spray.

you said the dog knows you. what i would do is go up to the door and open it slightly(!!) and call his name, AS YOU ARE opening it, talk to the dog, extend a treat and see how he reacts. TAKE YOUR TIME DOING ALL OF THIS dont act all scared, because dogs sense fear and he may react based on YOUR fear and get scared himself and bite. talk to him for a minute, if he seems ok, pet his head and put one foot in the door... just slowly get in the door. this neighbor should have helped you a few times!!! they should have had you come to the door, knock, come in and pet him. then he would have known it was all ok. there is no need to be afraid of him, just read his body language and noises.

now, if he reacts with growls (like he not only doesnt know you, but doesnt want you on his terrirory) lock the door and go away. wait a half hour or so and come back and try again-i would try a few times but not open the door.. trust me, he can smell you through the door, and should know who you are.

if you cant get in there without him being aggressive then dont go in... the neighbor will just have a mess to clean up, and maybe learn a lesson that they should have worked with you in the first place! lol.

well, this is just my 2 cents, and its what i would do- others may have a different approach method..