Pitbulls have a history of bull-baiting, which has given them a bad reputation. However, with the right owner, these dogs make incredible companions. Known for their loyalty, affection, and fearlessness, Pitbulls are a great choice for those looking for an active and fun furry friend to add to their family. To ensure a well-rounded and loyal guardian, it is recommended to get a Pitbull from a reputable breeder and socialize it from a young age.
Pitbulls come in various shapes and sizes and can cost anywhere from $50 to $5,000 on average. This wide price range can be broken down into one-time costs, ongoing care supplies, vet visits, food, and insurance expenses per month to give a clear idea of the total cost of owning and maintaining a Pitbull. Additionally, tips on reducing expenses will be shared to help make owning a Pitbull more affordable.
Let’s dive in!
Bringing Home a New Pitbull: One-Time Costs
While Pitbulls are not inexpensive, they do not have to break the bank either. The cost of acquiring a Pitbull depends on factors such as the breed, lineage, and whether the dog is obtained from a shelter or a professional breeder. In addition to the initial cost of purchasing the dog, there are additional expenses for setting up and buying supplies like tags, collars, microchips, toys, and a complete veterinary checkup. These one-time costs are relatively small compared to the overall expenses of owning a Pitbull. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in terms of costs when getting a Pitbull:
Free
Many shelters and adoption centers offer Pitbulls for free, especially for dogs that have been waiting a long time for a new home. If no shelters in your area offer free Pitbulls, consider asking friends and family who may have Pitbull puppies available for adoption. It’s essential to conduct a background check on the dog before bringing it home to ensure it doesn’t have any serious health or behavioral issues.
Adoption
Adoption centers and rescue organizations typically charge $50–$600 for a Pitbull, depending on factors like breed, age, and pedigree. This fee is reasonable and provides an opportunity to give a homeless animal a new life. While adopting a Pitbull can be more cost-effective, there is some uncertainty about the dog’s background and behavior despite the information provided by shelters.
Breeder
Getting a Pitbull from a reputable breeder can cost between $500 and $5,000. The price varies based on the dog’s health and lineage. For a Pitbull with a premium lineage, the cost can go up to $50,000. It’s essential to ensure that the dog was bred as a family pet, trained and socialized from a young age, and screened for any health issues before making a purchase.
- The dog was bred as a family pet, not a fighter
- The dog was trained and socialized since it was a pup
- The pooch’s mom and dad were screened for health issues
- It doesn’t have any severe health conditions
Initial Setup and Supplies
Regardless of where you acquire your Pitbull, there are essential supplies and veterinary expenses to consider. Collars, tags, and microchips are relatively affordable, while items like brushes, litter boxes, bowls, and toys are even cheaper. However, X-rays, ultrasound checks, and teeth cleaning can be costly. Some adoption centers and breeders may cover costs like sterilization and chipping, so it’s worth checking for such benefits.
Additionally, some adoption centers and breeders may cover expenses like sterilization, chipping, and other initial costs.
List of Pitbull Care Supplies and Costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| ID Tag and Collar | $15–$25 |
| Dog License | $10–$20 |
| Spay/Neuter | $50–$200 |
| X-Ray Cost | $75–$260 |
| Ultrasound Cost | $200–$550 |
| Microchip | $40–$55 |
| Bed/bedding | $50–$75 |
| Teeth Cleaning | $100–$300 |
| Nail Clipper (optional) | $10 |
| Brush (optional) | $5–$10 |
| Poop scoop and bags | $20–$50 |
| Toys | $10–$80 |
| Leash | $15–$35 |
| Dog Crate | $80–$450 |
| Food and Water Bowls | $15–$25 |
How Much Does a Pitbull Cost Per Month?
The monthly cost of owning a Pitbull can vary based on factors like the dog’s health, activity level, grooming needs, and food quality. On average, most Pitbull owners in the United States spend slightly over $300 per month on their furry companions.
Health Care
Pitbulls are generally healthy dogs but may be prone to specific medical conditions like allergies, hip dysplasia, and cataracts. Monthly health care costs can range from $80 to $280 depending on the dog’s health status. Regular grooming, insurance, food, vet visits, and medications are common expenses that dog parents need to budget for. The first 6–12 months of owning a pet can be more expensive due to initial medical procedures and vaccinations.
Food
Pitbulls do not require excessive amounts of food, but it’s crucial to provide them with high-quality, balanced meals costing around $50–$60 per month. Treats should not exceed $10–$15 per month. Consulting with a vet can help determine the best diet for your Pitbull to prevent obesity, which is common in this breed.
Grooming
Professional grooming services for a Pitbull can cost up to $55 per session. However, learning basic grooming techniques like brushing, bathing, and trimming can significantly reduce monthly grooming costs to $5–$10. Regular grooming practices like brushing the coat, teeth cleaning, nail clipping, and bathing are essential for maintaining your Pitbull’s hygiene and health.
Medications and Vet Visits
Regular flea treatment, deworming, and veterinary check-ups are necessary for keeping your Pitbull healthy. Monthly costs for medications and vet visits can range from $35 to $80 for a healthy dog, but may increase if the dog requires additional medical attention due to health issues.
Pet Insurance
Consider getting pet insurance to cover unforeseen medical expenses. Depending on the coverage, pet insurance can range from $30 to $100 per month. Comprehensive insurance plans offer better protection but come at a higher cost compared to accident-only coverage.
Environment Maintenance
Invest in essential items like poop scoops, bags, blankets, bedding, and cage liners to maintain a clean and comfortable environment for your Pitbull. Monthly costs for these items can vary but typically range from $5 to $20. Additionally, provide entertainment through toys and activities to keep your Pitbull mentally stimulated and physically active.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Poop scoop | $5/month |
| Plastic poop bags | $5/month |
| Blankets and cushions | $10/month |
| Bedding | $15/month |
| Puppy pads | $10–$15/month |
| Cage liners | $5–$10/month |
Entertainment
Pitbulls enjoy spending time with their owners and engaging in playful activities like walks, jogs, and playing with toys. Basic toys like balls, Frisbees, tug-of-war toys, and treat dispensers can provide mental and physical stimulation. The cost of entertainment toys can range from $5 to $50 per month, depending on the variety and quality of toys purchased.
Total Monthly Cost of Owning a Pitbull
Owning a Pitbull requires financial commitment to provide quality care, grooming, food, and regular vet check-ups. On average, monthly costs for owning a Pitbull range from $210 to $725, with most owners spending around $300 per month. It’s essential to invest in quality food, consider pet insurance, and prioritize grooming to ensure your Pitbull’s well-being and happiness.
Additional Costs to Factor In
In addition to basic care expenses, Pitbull owners should consider additional costs like behavioral training, pet sitters, emergency treatments, and potential household damage. Behavioral training can cost around $250 per year, while pet sitting services typically range from $250 to $300 per week. It’s advisable to have savings of $100–$200 for emergency vet visits and unexpected expenses related to your Pitbull’s health and well-being.
Owning a Pitbull on a Budget
Owning a Pitbull on a budget is possible by adopting from a shelter or finding a free Pitbull from friends or family. Learning basic grooming skills, preparing homemade meals, and taking advantage of discounts on pet supplies can help reduce costs. Exploring different pet insurance plans and negotiating for lower grooming and vet costs can also contribute to saving money while providing quality care for your Pitbull.
Saving Money on Pitbull Care
- Use auto-ship discounts: Set up a subscription for monthly pet food orders to receive discounts from pet stores.
- Try building a DIY toy: Create homemade toys, bedding, or crates to save on expenses.
- Go to vet shelters for pet care: Consider seeking veterinary care from rescue centers and shelters to save on medical expenses.
Final Thoughts
Owning a Pitbull can be a rewarding experience, but it comes with financial responsibilities. Before bringing a Pitbull into your home, consider the initial costs, monthly expenses, and additional factors like insurance and emergency savings. Whether you choose to adopt or buy a Pitbull, prioritize providing quality care, food, and grooming to ensure a happy and healthy life for your furry companion.
Image Credit: Anna Krivitskaya, Shutterstock
Featured Image Courtesy: Anna Krivitskaya, Shutterstock