Any owner of a dog that was bred for fighting and or guard duty does need to be cautious. This includes Dobermans, Rotties and Pit Bulls (Staffies).
I've seen lines of Pit Bulls that would tear your face off if you got too close. I've also seen lines that would flop onto their back at your feet and demand that you rub their belly. The pit bull is slowly becoming one of the more passive dogs in America, but there are still some lines that are dangerous. Bottom line is, if you are buying a dog that has a bit of a reputation, do your homework and research the bloodlines. If you have a family, get a passive one. If you need guard your scrapyard, get one bred for that duty. Do not try to use a guard dog as a family pet though!
And be responsible. Don't let your dog (of any breed) have full freedom in your neighbourhood. You'll make your neighbours grateful if you demonstrate some responsibility.
Sad thing is, there are a lot of idiotic owners out there that won't heed to common sense and will go out and grab the most vicious dog they can find as some sort of machismo status symbol. Dogs are bred to fulfill a purpose. Make sure you get the right one for the job.
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