Jon Bernthal speaks out against pit bull stigma, calling breed fears 'dog racism'

The 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' star argued that people should not judge dogs solely by their breed

Jon Bernthal has criticised the public stigma surrounding pit bulls, describing fear of the breed as “dog racism” during an appearance on The Howard Stern Show.

The Daredevil actor, who owns three pit bulls named Boss, Venice and Bam Bam, argued that people should not judge dogs solely by their breed.

Bernthal said, “It's just racism. It's just dog racism. I think to be afraid of a breed of dog is completely ridiculous. It's like being afraid of somebody for their race or their se*ual orientation.”

The actor also rejected what he described as myths surrounding pit bulls, saying, “Pit bulls don't attack.”

However, Bernthal acknowledged that the breed can bite and said “it kind of sucks” when attacks occur. He argued that a dog’s behaviour can depend heavily on its owner and training.

A co-host suggested that ownership and training could influence aggression, a view Bernthal agreed with. He claimed some owners choose pit bulls because they believe the breed represents toughness or masculinity.

“To me that's not manly or strong, I think you gotta change your dog,” Bernthal said.

The discussion comes amid continuing debate about pit bull behaviour and dog attack statistics.

The supplied report cites figures showing pit bulls have been frequently represented in fatal dog attack data, while also referencing the ASPCA’s position that pit bulls are not inherently aggressive.

Historically, dogs associated with pit bull types were used for fighting, work and companionship. The ASPCA states that their ancestry can be traced to English bull-baiting dogs.

Bernthal’s comments have renewed discussion about whether a dog’s behaviour should be assessed primarily by breed, or by factors including training, ownership and individual temperament.