Pitbull Puppies
From LoveToKnow Dogs
There are few things in the world more adorable than Pitbull puppies. Their short jaws, square little heads and chunky bodies make them quite lovable and appealing. Aside from their charming good looks, Pitbull puppies also possess an innate desire to be with people. Such a wonderful personality wrapped up in a darling little puppy package makes Pitbull puppies virtually irresistible.
Before you decide to commit to one of these little heart bandits for the next fifteen years, take some time to learn about Pitbulls and what will be required of you to be a good and responsible owner for the lifetime of this dog.
Pitbull Ancestry
This powerful and tenacious breed has a rich history as a working dog, a family pet and also as a fighting dog. The American Pit Bull Terrier has roots back to 19th century England where its ancestors worked to help butchers control unruly bulls. In 1835, The British Parliament made the practice of "bull baiting" illegal.
People then began to place the dogs in a "pit" with many rats; the dog that killed the most rats won the competition. This is where the term "pit" became part of the name for these types of dogs. Sadly, these activities evolved into the sadistic and inhumane practice of dog fighting. The dogs were bred to be tenacious and stoic, seemingly unaware of pain.
When the English Settlers came to America, they brought the dogs that would become the foundation for the American Pit Bull Terrier with them. As they settled the new land, these dogs proved their ability to be great all around working dogs. The dogs could herd, pull loads and protect, and made great hunting dogs for large game.
Size and Color
Pitbull puppies grow up to be Pitbull dogs, and like many breeds bred for performance, their appearance will vary. Pitbulls can weigh between 30 and 60 pounds and be anywhere from 17-23 inches tall at the shoulders. The breed standard allows for all colors.
Temperament
Pitbulls are an energetic, happy dog that is easily trained by a consistent handler. Their high intelligence and energy level can result in destructive behaviors such as chewing and digging. The Pitbull is not a good guard dog, and is usually quite affectionate towards all humans. They are often not good with other dogs and animals, especially those of the same sex.
Considerations for Pitbull Ownership
Pitbulls are an active, working breed. They require rigorous daily exercise and environmental management. If you do not enjoy walking, running, biking and hiking, you may not be a good fit for a Pitbull puppy. Aside from exercise, there are many other things to think about before you take a Pitbull puppy into your home. Ask yourself these questions before you purchase or adopt a puppy:
- Do I have time to care for and train this puppy?
- Can I afford veterinary expenses beyond routine vaccinations and check ups?
- Is there Breed Specific Legislation where I live that will make it illegal to own a Pitbull?
- If renting, will my landlord allow me to keep a Pitbull on his property?
Where to Find Pitbull Puppies
Once you have researched the breed and made sure that your lifestyle is a good fit for a Pitbull, you will want to obtain your puppy from a responsible resource. Good places to find Pitbull puppies include:
- A Responsible, Recognized Breeder: These breeders are very knowledgeable about the breed, compete in events such as obedience, agility and weight pulling, or show in conformation. They will ask you for a lot of information about your living situation and will want to know where they are sending their puppy to live. They do not often have multiple litters, and take care to create a good environment for early puppy socialization. Parent dogs are available to be seen by you.
- Pitbull Rescue: Many Pitbull puppies are born in animals shelters across the country. Many good-natured female Pits are not taken care of and wind up pregnant with unwanted litters. Consider adopting a homeless Pitbull puppy from a rescue or shelter, especially if you are not planning on competing in shows..
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Comments
Hi Shayna,
That's a wonderful story. I'm glad you shared it. :)
-- Contributed by: KellyI got a pitbull from a lady that was moving into a retirement home. Lord knows I didn't know what I was getting into. Not even a month went by before my new puppy caught parvo.Lucky for me when we got to the vet she was so active they gave me meds to give her and to take home. I thought oh my god my dog may die, well that was until I could hear her eatting dog food over in the night. We later return to the vet on a saturday morning, and the look on their face ounce we walked in was priceless. Turns out she was the first dog ever to survive parvo with home treatment. As soon as we got past this situation I startded to notice she was growing. Huge she got. Now at 1year and 4months she is 67 pounds and so active. She is the best dog I have ever owned. We had a ruff start but now she is so busy and ready for the world. I would have to say she is very aware of everything and very intelligent. She understands very well the english language and very kind hearted... Now if I could just get her to stop waking me up at 5 a.m. for play time before I leave to go to work would definently help. For those in search of getting a pitbull, Good luck, and I hope you truly are as lucky as I was for wow, I am not sure what I would do if my dog wasn't in my life. It is the best companion to have....
-- Contributed by: ShaynaThat's a wonderful story Karen. I hope it all works out for you. :)
-- Contributed by: Kelly
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