Choosing a Pit Bull Puppy
Choosing a Pit Bull puppy is no small matter. You should research, research, and do more research before you even think about buying a Pit Bull puppy.
One of the most common things people seem to misunderstand is that Pit Bull Terriers are not “pets.” Pit Bull Terriers are historically working dogs used for work and many breeders still breed for these qualities today.
Pit Bull Terriers are high energy, high drive, workaholics that need stimulation and exercise.
Choosing your breeder should be like choosing your wife or husband. You should build a relationship with them before you decide on purchasing a puppy. Ask questions about why they breed Pit Bull Terriers and what lines they are using in their breeding programs.
You should inquire as to what they do with their dogs. Are they competing in dog sports? Are they doing nothing with them? Are they selling them as pets?
Word to the wise, any serious Pit Bull breeder that says they are breeding because they “love the dogs and they make great pets” should be looked into further.
Yes they do make great pets for the right homes but breeders who breed “pet dogs” are more times than not just breeding whatever they can find to sell you. Investigate further.
Choosing a puppy should be compared to choosing a high end sports car. You’re not going to buy from just any dealer. You are not going to fork over thousands of dollars for just any car. You are going to take your time and research, investigate, and choose wisely.
Remember you will have to take care of the dog for upto 14 years. That is a huge commitment and if you are unsure in the slightest that you are ready for that commitment do not get a puppy.
My final piece of advise is to look for a breeder who breeds Pit Bulls that do what you want them to do. If you want a pet dog, rescue a Pit Bull from a shelter or a breed specific rescue. If you want a working dog, get a dog from a breeder who does the work you want to do with your dog. If you want a competitive dog, get a dog from a breeder who competes in dog sports.
Avoid buying a dog online. You should go to the breeder, see the dogs, see the breeder, see their family, meet their kids, and share some time with them to get to know them better.
The time you take to properly do your homework will be well worth it when you get a puppy that fits exactly into what you are wanting.
Until Next Time,
Jason Mann
Author – The Pit Bull Training Handbook
PitBullLovers.com – Delivering Hard Facts about Pit Bull Terriers
Probably the most important research is finding out about the breed and learning what you face. This dog is not for everyone. They are wonderful pets with the most kind and warm hearts, but they have a lot of needs, and you have to know how to fulfill those needs. LACK OF RESEARCH AND EDUCATION IS WHY SO MANY PITS ARE AT YOUR LOCAL HIGH-KILL SHELTER!! I can’t stress it enough. 93% of pits in a city shelter will be euthanized. On a “good night” in NYC, 15 pits will be euthanized….all because someone thought he wanted to be “cool” and have a pittie without knowing how to take care of him.
Exercise and mental stimulation–and lots of it–are the only way you will have a well-adjusted pittie. There are many out there trying to educate the general population about the breed, but I just wish they would also put the effort into educating those that have or want to get a pit bull.
Unfortunately, the one thing that I think was highly understated in this blog (which really disappoints me) is that if you are looking for a pet dog and know how to properly care for a pittie, GET IT FROM A SHELTER OR A RESCUE! The last 3 I have had all came from the city pound….a day or 2 from death because some imbecile did not know what he was getting himself into. Although you may have to put in a little work with the dog, you would have anyway if you were doing it right….Trust me, you will have the best of friends for life. Sitting in that cage at the pound, he knew what was coming, and he will never forget that you saved him.
I think you answered the reason why I do not post about buying dogs from breeders or shelters/rescues in your first paragraph (This dog is not for everyone). Frankly I do not encourage people to get them. The site is for people who have them already.
I agree that this breed is not for everyone, I highly recommend you do your homework before purchasing a pitbull. I do not recommend purchasing a pitbull from a shelter because you wouldnt have a clue of what the parents were like. If were to purchase a Pitbull it would be from a pitbull kennel.
I like the clear and concise advice on ‘Choosing a Pit-Bull Puppy’ that is right for what you are looking for. I am beginning my search for a pup and am compelled to get a rescue.
I’m delighted to be the first ‘like’, your blog looks awesome. Thanks for all the useful information for Pit owners and enthusiasts.
Wishing you and yours the best!