What a great picture that is ilovehounds! I fostered a pit bull mix for a short time, short because he snapped at me several times and for the first time in my life I was afraid of a dog - all because there was no warning when he snapped. I would not get an older pit bull from a shelter, but a puppy won't have the fear and insecurity of an abused or abandoned dog. I think a non-dominant female would be the safest choice. Obedience training is also a good idea.

Of course use caution in getting any dog. We used to have an over-protective dachsund who would bite - and dachsunds don't look tough!