Pitbull is a term commonly used to describe several breeds of dogs, including the American Pit Bull Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. These breeds were originally developed in England in the 19th century and are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and affectionate nature.
Pit bulls are a popular breed, but they can come with a significant cost. But how much does a pit bull cost? Well, the answer won’t be definitive, as it depends on many things, and when it comes to owning a dog, it is important to consider their ongoing maintenance, as well as the initial purchase.
So, in this article, I’m going to discuss the costs involved with being a pit bull parent. As well as a number of factors you should consider before buying a Pitt bull.
Let’s get started with the…
Contents
Initial Costs of Owning a Pit Bull
When it comes to purchasing your pit bull, the initial cost can vary widely. The price paid for a pitbull is usually determined by whether the dog is bought from a breeder or adopted from a rescue center.
If you are buying from a reputable breeder, a pit bull can cost as little as $200. Although it can cost considerably more. Breeders tend to charge higher fees for uniquely colored puppies or those that come from champion bloodlines.
Which can cost anywhere up to $3,000…
However, adopting a pit bull from a rescue organization can be a much more affordable option. Adoption fees can range from $50 all the way through to $400, depending on the shelter and the dog you choose.
Just keep in mind that these prices only cover the initial purchase or adoption of your pup and do not include any maintenance expenses.
Ongoing Expenses of Owning a Pit Bull
The costs associated with owning a pit bull go way beyond the initial purchase or adoption. And the ongoing cost of your canine companion will depend on several factors, such as age, health, and behavior.
Here are some of the estimated costs associated with pit bull ownership:
Food and Supplies
The first thing to consider when it comes to owning a pit bull is the cost of food and supplies.
Pit bulls are classed as large dogs and will, therefore, require more food than smaller breeds. On average, a pitbull will eat between two and four cups of food per day, depending on its weight and level of activity.
What are we talking?
Well, high-quality dog food can set you back between $50 and $100 a month. And that’s without accounting for any extra treats and snacks.
In terms of immediate supplies, your furry friend will need a crate, or something similar, to be transported home in. They will also require bowls for food and water, as well as a comfy place to sleep and some toys to keep them entertained.
A little bit later on, you may want to consider getting your pup a collar, tag, and leash. Once they are tagged, they can accompany their human on adventures and be identified should they get lost.
Medical Expenses
As a general rule, the annual cost of medical care for an average pit bull ranges between $200 and $400.
Just like any other dog, your pit bull will require routine medical care. Including vaccinations, dental checkups, and flea treatments. Not to mention the array of health conditions that pit bulls are prone to, such as skin infections and hip dysplasia.
It all adds up!
Therefore, it may be a good idea to consider insuring your pup in case of any unexpected accidents, illnesses, or injuries too.
The cost of pet insurance can vary drastically depending on your dog’s age and health status. Fortunately, getting a pet insurance quote online is quick and easy. You can check the premium for your pup within minutes.
Just bear in mind to provide accurate information throughout the quotation process, as any conflicting data could lead to unpaid claims in the future.
Training and Behavior Management
Depending on your dog’s nature, they may need some professional obedience training to correct any behavioral concerns and generally keep them safe.
Pit bulls can be a challenging breed to train and socialize due to their high energy and strong personalities. Professional dog training programs can cost thousands of dollars. But it may be necessary if your pitty is particularly pesky.
Alternatively, if you make use of online resources, you may be able to improve your dog’s behavior from home for a fraction of the price. Just keep in mind that although home training may be cheaper, it usually takes more time, dedication, and perseverance to achieve the desired results.
Top tip…
It is also worth checking your homeowners’ insurance policy as some require proof of training or exclude coverage altogether for pit bulls.
Housing and Safety
As well as food, supplies, healthcare, and training, it is important to consider the safety of your K9 companion.
Pit bulls are active dogs and require a lot of exercise. So if you don’t have one already, investing in a secure outdoor space will be essential. Depending on the size and type needed, a sturdy fence can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
There’s more…
You may also want to get a dog flap installed so that your pup is free to roam inside and out. This not only allows your pup to entertain themselves, but it can also prevent them from doing their ‘business’ inside the house.
Win-win!
Now that you should have a satisfactory answer to, ‘How much does a pit bull cost?’, let’s talk a little more about more…
Pet Ownership Matters
As you can see, we take responsible pet ownership seriously around here. And we pride ourselves on offering up-to-date information on all of your pet concerns.
For example, you may want to know more about PetSmart – best known for its pet adoption services and an impressively wide range of products for your animals. Find out What Time Does PetSmart Close Open, all about PetSmart Grooming Prices, and Do You Tip PetSmart Groomers?
Interested in the costs involved with other types of pets?
We can inform you of that too! Find out fast, How Much Does a Capybara Cost, or How Much Does a Flemish Giant Rabbit Cost?
Finally, when it comes to accurate breakdowns of the realistic cost of things in general, well, this is another area where we shine! We can tell you anything from How Much is a Roll of Stamps, to How Much Does Salmon Cost, How Much Do BET Award Tickets Cost or How Much do Utilities Cost for an Average Apartment in 2023?
So, why not go ahead and search our site with your questions?
Ok, back to…
Final Thoughts
Overall, owning a pit bull can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it also comes with significant financial considerations.
The price you pay for your pitbull will depend on its age, health, and behavior, as well as the owner’s lifestyle. However, in total, the potential annual cost of being a pit bull parent can range between $1,500 and $6,500 per year.
So, from initial purchase prices to ongoing expenses, it is important to budget for all of the costs involved to ensure your pup gets the best care possible.
Happy pit bull parenting!
