Breaking Stick

Two different styles of breaking sticks.

Also known as a break stick or parting stick. A device shaped like a blunted wedge or dagger. It is used to humanely break the grip of a dog without hurting him. May be used to quickly break up an accidental fight, or to get a dog off a springpole or tug.

Breaking sticks are most commonly made out of wood or hard plastic. They sometimes have lanyards attached for hanging purposes. Breaking stick dealers can be found via the Internet, usually places which specialize in equipment for APBTs and similar breeds. Breaking sticks are also frequently available through vendors at ADBA dog shows.

A breaking stick is a recommended piece of equipment for an American Pit Bull Terrier owner, as it is probably the most effective and humane way to stop a fight when properly used. However, Pit Bull owners should be aware that it is considered "dog fighting paraphernalia" in some communities.


How to break up a fight using a breaking stick:



1. Remain calm. Do not yell or hit the combatants as this will only cause the situation to escalate.

2. This is most easily done with 2 people. If 2 people are not available, you might try to leash one of the dogs to a stationary object before you proceed. If both dogs are willingly engaged in battle, they will try to get back to each other if you do not remove one or the other.

3. Straddle the dog from behind, locking your legs around his waist. This prevents a great deal of mobility.

4. Grab the dog's collar. If the dog is not wearing a collar, grab his scruff (ie, the skin on the back of the neck). Get a good, firm grip as he will probably struggle when you break him free.

5. With your free hand, work the tip of the breaking stick into the gap behind the dog's canine teeth.

6. When you've worked the stick in as far as you can get it, attempt to pry his grip loose. The method most commonly prescribed is twisting the stick, similar to how a motorcyclist would twist the throttle of his bike.

7. Once the dog has been broken off his opponent, keep the stick in place between his teeth to keep him from re-gripping, and pull him away.

Although it sounds like a drawn-out process, it can really be done quite quickly and fluidly. It takes far longer to type it out than it does to actually do it.