Photos: Dogs with bad reps need homes too

Pit bull puppy
Nine-week-old pit bull puppies, like Roxy who was held by volunteer Mary Walters, were on display during a news conference to announce that people can now adopt the breed, and other power breed dogs, from Minneapolis Animal Care and Control Thursday, June 5, 2014.
Jennifer Simonson/MPR News

For the first time, the city of Minneapolis is making so-called "power dogs" available for adoption at its animal shelter.

City rules long excluded Dobermans, Rottweilers and pit bulls from the pool of available dogs — even puppies who just wanted to play with chew toys.

They would all go to rescue organizations, or be euthanized. But now that's changed. The city will no longer discriminate based solely on breed.

Since 2010, the city has reduced the percentage of adoptable animals it puts down from 60 percent to less than 20 percent.

Political Coverage Powered by You

Your gift today creates a more connected Minnesota. MPR News is your trusted resource for election coverage, reporting and breaking news. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.