Pit bull....

I'm part of the 'all dogs can bite' crowd. I didn't see it specifically mentioned, but dogs, as a rule, are very aware of the disposition of people they encounter. The phrase 'they can smell fear'. Go up to most any shepherd, lab, pit, dobie, rotty, poodle, chihuahua, whatever.. in their yard and show fear.. My bet is you're gonna get bit. some bites just may be a bit more extreme.

I've been around dogs all of my 52 years and people say I'm 'one of those dog people'. dogs who seem to hate everyone, tend to take a shine to me. It's usually not hard to tell if a dog is barking at you just to say Hello or if he wants you for lunch. Pit bulls, while not my favorite breed, have been very little trouble to me (was even owned by a pit/lab mix years ago). Irish Setters, on the other hand, have drawn more of my blood than any other breed.

I believe the 'dog went crazy and ate someone events', while real, are VERY isolated (yet no less tragic or devastating) occurences. In these cases, any breed over about 40 pounds can kill a child or elderly person.

I have one of these 'Suspect Breeds', a German Shepherd. Sure looks like a sweet little thing huh? But make no mistake, she could do some damage if a person with ill intent entered her home.

If i got to raise them from a pup, there's no particular breed i would worry about. Just raise 'em right and spend LOTS of time with them.