[Britster]

I wanted to add -- I think protecting our dogs is our natural way of being. There's nothing wrong with it. I would never allow Jackson in a pack of Pits, but I wouldn't allow him in pack of Golden Retrievers either (meaning 3 or more dogs). Golden's, the family friendly dog, have reached #3 (somewhere around there) on the bite list. Most are more willing to go up and pet a Golden than a Pit. It's all a bit stereotypical but I also understand peoples concern. I've allowed Jackson to play with my aunt's Pit on numerous occasions and all is always good. I keep a close eye simply because of the size difference (70 some pounds versus 13lbs). Jackson loves big dogs and gets along with them. He doesn't antagonize them, esp. if he doesn't know them, so bottom line is: I trust my own dog and I make judgment on what other dogs to trust by reading body language. Jackson has been "attacked" (with no wounds or scars) 3x in the small dog area of the dog park, but while in the big dog side (which we almost never do, only if there's 3 or less dogs) everything is always fine. I've allowed him to go up and meet any big dog he wants to if the other dog is calm and under owners control. A Rottie owner in Petco was so thankful I allowed her dog to meet Jackson and thanked me for it because she is trying to socialize him and be responsible but many have this fear. Dogs sense that. If you're confident about what you're doing and entrusting these animals, usually all goes well. Obviously proceed in anything with caution!