staff Responsible breeders are no longer breeding pit bulls for dog fighting or high prey drive. Be wary of pet stores that sell a few select puppies, as they may be sourced from inhumane puppy mills. Look for a puppy that greets you enthusiastically and follows you around.
Avoid puppies that bark consistently or growl (beyond the usual, brief skirmishes between litter mates). These pups need more confidence and will likely have better adult social skills.
Health
The first step in choosing pitbull puppies for sale is to check their health. Look for pink and firm gums, teeth coming in correctly, and a good appetite. Also, could you take a close look at their skin? It should be free of areas of hair loss, pustules (pus-filled bumps), or flaking.
You want a pitbull with a robust walk, not one that limps or sluggishly. Ask the breeder about the last time they de-wormed and vaccinated the litter. It is essential to meet and observe the puppies’ parents and grandparents and ask to see videos of them playing with their littermates. This will give you a better idea of the litter’s temperament and behavior.
Be wary of a breeder that won’t let you interact with the puppies. They may have poor breeding practices and will likely produce unhealthy and undersocialized dogs. Also, avoid pit bulls that spend their entire lives in kennels or outdoors, away from human interaction. They will likely have behavioral problems and may exhibit aggression.
This is a common problem with breeds that are used for dog fighting. This is a shame because a well-bred pit bull can be a great family pet. A responsible breeder will prioritize the health and socialization of their puppies.
Socialization
Puppies need a lot of exercise and interaction to stay happy and healthy. This is an excellent reason to choose one from a reputable breeder that prioritizes the puppy’s health and socialization. Exposing your puppy to different people and situations as early as possible is essential so he learns that humans and other dogs are mostly friendly.
This will prevent him from getting scared and defensive in new situations later in life and help him get along well with other pets. To test a puppy’s attitude toward other dogs, start by having him ignore other dogs several yards away.
When he is comfortable doing this, try having him approach them slowly and rewarding him with treats for calm behavior. If he becomes nervous or aggressive, stop the interaction and try again later. It is a mistake to assume that every Pit Bull will get along with all other dogs because some do not do so well.
Instead, work with a professional trainer who can help your dog interact more positively with other dogs. This will help him become a better-mannered companion and may even save his life if he gets into an altercation with another dog.
Training
A pit bull should be well-trained in obedience. These dogs are brilliant and quick to learn. The best way to ensure your dog will listen is to use positive reinforcement-based training. A good obedience trainer will also incorporate exercises that help with impulse control, such as the “look” command.
In addition to obedience, a puppy should be exercised regularly and given plenty of mental stimulation. A pup must be supervised for long periods, which can lead to boredom and behavior problems. Try to have a friend or family member exercise your dog when you are not home.
If you are considering a particular litter, note how the puppies interact with each other and their parents. Do they play together, or are some withdrawn and afraid? Choosing a breeder that is honest and open with you is essential.
Ask the breeder plenty of questions about the pup’s health, history, and requirements for care. Before you buy a puppy, visit an obedience training facility that offers classes for puppies. Observe the class and see how the instructor manages off-leash play between puppies.
A reputable trainer will ensure that all puppies are of similar age and size before they play with each other. A puppy should be confident in the presence of humans, but they mustn’t exhibit signs of aggression, even in play.
Care
Pit bulls are intelligent dogs who thrive when given the necessary exercise and attention. They are highly adaptable and a joy to have around children. They also bond deeply with their humans and make loyal companions.
However, they are strong-willed and must be taught obedience and housebreaking. This requires a commitment of time and effort that many people need help to make. A responsible breeder will only sell puppies to qualified families who can provide for their needs. Avoid pet stores and online retailers, which often buy their puppies from inhumane puppy mills.
Instead, ask your veterinarian for a referral to a reputable breeder and tour their facility to see how the puppies are raised. When choosing a puppy, please consider how it interacts with its family and other dogs. Look for a puppy that comes to greet you, follows you, and doesn’t mind being held. It should also play with other dogs calmly, without aggression or mouthing.
A puppy that displays aggression towards other dogs is not a good fit and may have been exposed to poor social skills as a young dog, which can have lifelong consequences. In addition to exercise, a healthy pit bull puppy will need plenty of sleep.
It is essential to provide a comfortable bed sized appropriately for the puppy. Choose one made of breathable material to help the puppy stay relaxed and comfortable. Finally, take the puppy outside frequently to relieve itself and establish a potty training routine.
