Throughout the last 20 or so years breed specific laws have been becoming more popular. However, the more restriction that have been placed on owning Pit Bulls has caused them to gain an "outlaw" image. Being an outlawed dog combined with their strength and intimidating physical features they have quickly become a favorite among gangs and dog fighting rings.

Since, in many areas, it has become difficult to own Pit Bulls people have taken an "underground" approach to pet owning. The dogs aren't licensed, spend most time indoors, don't get walked or exercised enough and don't get socialized with other dogs or with people outside of their "family." These factors are all part of the aggression equation.

Another reason for breed specific laws are so ineffective is because of their costs to maintain and enforce them. They usually require a dedicated group to enforce the laws and once the dogs are removed from the owners they must be cared for until either transferred to another location that doesn't have a law that bans them or until dog is destroyed. These laws don't just apply to Pit Bulls that have shown aggression or have bitten, they apply to all Pit Bulls. That means that every one of these dogs will be removed if the city or county where the owners live has bans prohibiting Pit Bulls.

Also, if all Pit Bulls were taken out the equation, people would shift to another breed and the same issues would arise as that breed gain popularity.