The pit bull possesses an iconic, instantly recognizable look of strength. Their loyal, fun-loving temperament also makes them a popular canine companion. Like any puppy, prospective pit bull owners want to make the most informed choice. This guide shares tips for selecting a happy, healthy pit bull puppy from a responsible breeder.
Understanding the Pit Bull Breed
The term “pit bull” loosely covers several breeds including the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Traits they share include:
- Muscular, stocky build
- Square head with broad skull
- Strong, pronounced jawline
- Small-medium size averaging 30-65 pounds full grown
- Shiny short coat that comes in many colors
pits display eagerness to please, intelligence, agility, and vitality. They shine brightest as active companions of experienced owners providing proper training, socialization, exercise, and outlet for their enthusiasm.
Buying From a Reputable Source
A responsible breeder devoted to furthering the breed should be your only source for a pit bull puppy. Avoid:
- Pet stores – puppy mills supply their stock
- Casual breeders – lack health testing and breeding standards
- Online ads – no way to verify source or see parents
A quality breeder will:
- Health test and screen breeding dogs for temperament
- Focus on preservation, not profit
- Ask you questions to ensure a good match
- Provide support for the puppy’s lifetime
- Have you complete an application, sign contract, pay deposits
Take time finding the right breeding program for a healthy, even-tempered pit bull pup.
Visiting the Breeder In-Person
Before committing, visit the breeder’s facility in-person to observe:
- Parents’ temperament – both sire and dam should have friendly, stable personalities. Aggression is a red flag. Meet at least the mother dog if not both parents.
- Whelping conditions – the space should be clean, roomy, and well-equipped for whelping puppies.
- Socialization – puppies should be raised indoors and handled frequently for proper behavioral development.
- Appearance – parents should be fit and well-groomed. Watch for signs of neglect.
- Logistics – get clarity on timeframe, reservation order, deposits, and take-home date.
Don’t ignore any bad gut reactions you have about the breeder’s practices or facility. Finding the right source is worth the wait.
Signs of a Healthy Pit Bull Puppy
During your visit, observe puppies for signs of health:
- Clear eyes – no redness, discharge or crust
- Clean nose & ears – no excessive wax or discharge
- Smooth coat – shiny with no patchy fur or bald spots
- Active, social – interest in visitors, littermates, toys
- Healthy weight – no protruding ribs or bloated belly
Also ask to see vet records for the litter verifying they’ve received proper well puppy checks, deworming, and first vaccines.
Temperament Testing
Reputable breeders temperament test each puppy starting at 7 weeks old. The Volhard Puppy Aptitude Test assesses traits like:
- Social attraction – comfort level with strangers
- Following – willingness to follow human gestures
- Restraint – response to brief physical restriction
- Social dominance – attempts to control objects/littermates
- Elevation – reaction to being held and examined
- Retrieve – drive and gentleness when bringing objects back
- Touch sensitivity – sensitivity to tactile handling
- Sound sensitivity – startle response to a loud noise
Choose a puppy with moderate scores, avoiding fearful or dominant extremes. Confident but controllable is ideal.
Gender Considerations
For pets, female and male pit bulls make equally excellent companions. Look at lifestyle factors:
- Females tend to be more affectionate, mature faster, and better fit multi-dog homes. Heat cycles and spay costs are a consideration.
- Males may be more playful, energetic, and distracted. Neutering prevents roaming and aggression.
Discuss your situation with the breeder to determine if a male or female pup best suits your home.
Coat Color & Markings
While color doesn’t impact temperament, certain pit bull color patterns stand out:
- Red nose – liver-colored nose with red/brown coat
- Blue nose – gray nose and fur with bluish sheen
- Black mask – distinctive dark facial markings
- Brindle – streaked brown/gray stripes over any background coat color
- Merle – splotchy gray, blue, and brown marbled coat
Choose based on personal preference. A reputable breeder focuses on health and temperament over cosmetic traits.
Prepare the Home Before Bringing Puppy Home
To welcome your pit bull puppy, set up the essentials:
- Puppy-proof by sealing off unsafe areas and removing hazards
- Designate a confinement space like a crate or pen for when you can’t actively supervise
- Dog bed with washable cover suitable for chewing puppy stage
- Food & water bowls – stainless steel or ceramic work best
- Collar & leash with ID tag engraved with your contact info
- Potty training supplies like enzymes, treats, schedule
- Grooming tools – nail clippers, brush, shampoo for short coats
- Toys – variety of teething toys and chews
- Pet insurance – enroll the puppy as soon as they come home
Preparing the space and supplies ahead of time makes the transition smooth.
Picking Up Puppy & The Ride Home
When pickup day arrives:
- Come equipped with a pet carrier secured in your vehicle with a blanket inside
- Arrive prepared to pay any remaining balance owed
- Review the health/vaccine record and feeding schedule provided
- Collect the puppy’s blanket or toy carrying mom’s scent to comfort them
- Gently place the puppy in the carrier and cover to keep warm and secure during the drive
- Go directly home – don’t make unnecessary stops with a young pup
- Upon arriving home, calmly acquaint the puppy with the new environment
Follow the breeder’s advice to help puppy smoothly adjust those first critical days. Keep introductions low-key while establishing a schedule and routine.
Commit Fully to Your Pit Bull’s Lifetime Needs
Adopting any puppy brings great responsibility. Pit bull ownership in particular requires:
- Dedication to training and early socialization to ensure a stable temperament
- Providing plenty of exercise, playtime, and outlets for their active nature
- Standing firm as a consistent pack leader – they test boundaries
- Committing fully to the pup in sickness and health
- Serving as a breed ambassador – counter negative stereotypes through responsible ownership
When screened for sound temperament and paired with dedicated owners, the iconic pit bull makes for a loyal best friend. Do your homework to find a healthy, happy pit bull puppy with the confidence and zest for life this breed is meant to embody.