The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) is a well-known medium-sized, stout dog with a short coat and smooth, well-defined musculature. This breed combines strength and athleticism.
Around the turn of the nineteenth century, dog enthusiasts in England, Ireland, and Scotland began experimenting with Bulldog-Terrier crosses searching for a dog that combined the terrier’s gameness with the Bulldog’s power and agility. Consequently, a dog was created that personified all of the attributes associated with great warriors: strength, unflinching courage, and kindness toward family members. These bull-terrier hybrids were brought to the United States by immigrants.
Today, the American Pit Bull Terrier demonstrates its flexibility by competing effectively in Obedience, Tracking, Agility, Lure Coursing, Dock Jumping, and Weight Pulls, in addition to Conformation.
All these attributes make ABPT quite expensive. So, due to the American Pit Bull Terriers’ popularity, the pure lines may cost way more than some designer dogs. Furthermore, their litters are quite small.
In case you’ve been wondering how much an American Pit Bull Terrier costs, you’ve arrived at the correct spot. Throughout this guide, we will not only discuss the cost of an American Pit Bull Terrier puppy, but we will also discuss how much it will cost you to raise one as well.
Finding a breeder for this particular breed of dog can be a challenging task. Given the fact that many of these dogs must be imported from countries such as Poland and Finland, the costs of these dogs are likely to be greater than those of other canine breeds.
To save you time, here’s a concise summary of everything you need to know:
How Much Does an American Pit Bull Terrier Puppy Cost?
The American Pit Bull Terrier is a breed of dog that originated in Finland and is recognized for hunting virtually any animal. This dog may grow between 15 and 24 inches and weigh between 22-78 pounds, depending on the breed. Depending on the breeder, the area, and other circumstances, the price of this dog will fluctuate.
It has already been discussed that the cost of the American Pit Bull Terrier is greater due to the increased demand, smaller litter sizes, and difficulties encountered during the breeding and whelping procedures.
Take a look at the following table, which displays the pricing ranges for several dog species:
| The minimum price of an American Pit Bull Terrier puppy | $1000 |
| Maximum price of an American Pit Bull Terrier puppy | $1500 |
| Price range | $1000-$1500 |
| The average price of an American Pit Bull Terrier puppy | $1250 |
Factors Affecting American Pit Bull Terrier Cost
Multiple factors go into the pricing of your American Pit Bull Terrier:
Coat Color
Some coat colors are more requested by American Pitbull Terrier lovers than others. Read here our article about the Merle American Pitbull Terrier price & cost.
Lineage
In addition, the puppy’s parents will be charged for the service. The cost of your American Pit Bull Terrier pups will be higher if they originate from champion studs and females, as opposed to pups that come from non-champion dogs.
Breeders
Responsible breeders with the dog’s best interests at heart will provide gentle, loving care to the puppy until it is at least 12 weeks old. These breeders thoroughly vet prospective customers to ensure that they would be able to provide a suitable home and lifestyle for the American Pit Bull Terrier. In addition to offering health assurances, properly screening their dogs before mating, and even making themselves available to the puppy’s owners develops a health issue; all of these might impact the price.
Size of the litter
A breeder who deals in American Pit Bull Terriers will want to get the most money possible out of his or her investment. If the litter size is small, they will charge a higher price per pup to make up for the costs of artificial insemination, C-section births, health check guarantees, and other expenses that will be incurred.
Where to Buy your American Pit Bull Terrier From
In the United States, there are very few breeders of the American Pit Bull Terrier. You can get in touch with those breeders that keep them. One such breeder is Red Wood Kennels. They have been training, showing, and breeding American Pit Bull Terriers for over a decade.
The website Pit Bull Rescue Central also helps owners find the recuse American Pit Bull Terrier puppies/dogs.
You may also look for American Pit Bull Terrier puppies on Facebook if you want to. Existing and prospective owners may find a wealth of information about the breed through a Facebook page called American Pit Bull Terrier. It has numerous members who have posted photographs of their American Pit Bull Terriers with the group. Owners rather than breeders can obtain information from them regarding their American Pit Bull Terrier’s genetic lineage from their breeders.
Let us now discuss the essential equipment and materials you will need to purchase for your American Pit Bull Terrier once you have decided on a puppy and a breeder.
Basic Supplies your American Pit Bull Terrier will Need and Approximate Costs
Grooming tools
Your veterinarian or breeder can provide you with information on the grooming brushes and tools your wrinkled dog will require. Keeping the wrinkles clean and free of moisture and bacteria is essential for their health. Fungi and germs may be removed from the wrinkles by wiping them with antiseptic wipes.
In addition, apply nourishing creams, wrinkle balms, or oils on your pet’s skin folds to keep them from becoming dry, itchy, or red. In addition, specific nose treatments can be used to keep its compressed nose from becoming dehydrated.
Bathe your canine once a month with a mild-cleaning shampoo and pat it dry with a microfiber towel to keep him healthy. A nice doggie toothbrush and paste, nail grinders/clippers, and ear-eye wipes are all smart investments as well. The price of this grooming equipment is between $100 and $150.
Food and water bowls
For your American Pit Bull Terrier’s water and food bowls, make sure they are made of strong stainless steel. These should not be able to tip over and must be of sufficient size for your American Pit Bull Terrier to be effective. The cost is around $20.
Bed and crate
To assist your pup in his potty training, look for a heavy-duty crate. Include an inside chew-proof bed for your American Pit Bull Terrier to make his or her stay more comfortable.
Harnesses, collars, and leash
When walking this lively dog, a nylon harness that is both weatherproof and chew-proof is necessary. Choose one that corresponds to the age of your pet. The starting fee is twenty dollars. Collars and leashes would also be required. You should expect to pay at least $28 for the collar and $35 for the lead or leash if you pick leather.
Here is a table with a summary of the dog supplies you will need for your American Pit Bull Terrier, as well as an estimate of the expenses:
| Item | Cost |
| Collar-leash set, harness | $20-$50 |
| Food-water bowls | $8-$10 |
| Baby gates to limit your pet’s entry in parts of your house | $40 |
| Treat dispenser toys | $10 |
| Plush bed | From $25 |
| Collapsible crate | $55 |
| Mats for containing food messes | $10 |
| Kong toy | $10 |
| Grooming tools – wrinkle creams, antiseptic wipes, brush, comb, dental supplies, shampoo, nail clippers, etc. | $150 |
| Poop bags | $10 |
| Potty pads for indoor training | $10 |
American Pit Bull Terrier Training Costs
Training is critical if you want to avoid behavioral issues with your American Pit Bull Terrier, such as aggression, fear, separation anxiety, etc.
There are several sorts of canine education available, including basic puppy training, obedience teaching, destructive chewing instruction, and anxiety reduction training, from the most highly acclaimed professional dog trainers.
Conduct an Internet search for the best dog trainers in your area to locate them. Additionally, suggestions from friends and neighbors are feasible.
Furthermore, you will have the option of personalized training, group training, or board-and-train sessions. Each of these carries its own price tag.
- Private sessions – You may bring your American Pit Bull Terrier to the trainer’s office or arrange for the trainer to visit your house or a dog park. These documents include guidelines on how to teach your dog properly. Private dog training sessions can cost between $45 to $120 per hour, depending on your location, the trainer’s expertise, and other variables.
- Group classes are somewhat less costly than private courses. They are also important in that your American Pit Bull Terrier will learn to mix with other puppies owing to their presence.
The following is a breakdown of the expenses associated with various dog training options:
| Group training (cost per class) | $15.00 to $50 per class |
| Private training (cost per session) | $45.00 to $120 |
| Dog boot camp (cost per day) | $45.00 (weekly about $500 to $1250) |
| YouTube videos | $0.00 |
| Board-and-train | $2000.00 |
American Pit Bull Terrier Food Costs
A high-quality dog diet rich in Omega necessary fatty acids to avoid skin disorders, proteins to maintain muscular strength, and anti-oxidants to boost immunity is required for American Pit Bull Terriers.
It is preferable to feed your American Pit Bull Terrier puppy the same food that the breeder gave during the first few weeks of its life. Later on, with the assistance of your veterinarian, determine the precise dietary requirements of your dog. American Pit Bull Terriers can weigh between 22 and 78 pounds and grow between 15 and 24 inches tall at the withers, depending on the breed.
The American Pit Bull Terrier is prone to putting on weight, as is the Russian Bear Dog. The weight gain of even a few pounds can result in various health problems; therefore, it is critical not to overfeed this medium-sized dog.
When it comes to feeding your American Pit Bull Terrier, follow these guidelines:
- Feed your American Pit Bull Terrier a high-quality kibble or dry dog food to keep him healthy. To maintain its 50-pound weight (average), an adult American Pit Bull Terrier will require three cups of food each day. This can be divided into two to three small meals.
- If your pet likes wet or canned food, feed it 2 2/3 cups or three cans of food each day. This can also be divided into three small meals.
- Adjust the amount of food given to your pet based on his or her age, weight, overall health, and personal choice.
Here is a complete table that shows the estimated monthly expenditures of feeding American Pit Bull Terriers:
| Type of food | Approx. monthly quantity | Approx. monthly price |
| Kibble/dry food | 90 lb. to 100 lb. | $30 |
| Wet/canned food | 115 lb. | $210 |
| Raw, freeze-dried food | 2500 nuggets per month/50 bags of 14 oz. each | $500+ |
| Raw food | 32 lb. | $60 |
| Dog treats | Rarely | $20 |
Comparison of Dog Food for American Pit Bull Terriers
Many skin problems in American Pit Bull Terriers may be avoided by feeding them high-quality, balanced food that is easy on their skin. You can seek kibble with protein sources like chicken, turkey, fish, and lamb to supplement your diet.
American Pit Bull Terriers perform best on hypoallergenic, low-grain, or limited-ingredient meals.
If your American Pit Bull Terrier develops a skin allergy due to one or more of these proteins, you may want to explore switching to meals that include new proteins such as emu, duck, venison, bison, rabbit, and other game meats. It will take time for any new diet to produce noticeable benefits, so be patient.
As previously said, you should check on your pet’s weight and overall health regularly. If your veterinarian recommends it, swap the diet or adjust the portion quantities accordingly.
In the following table, you will find a comparison of the finest dog meals for American Pit Bull Terriers, as well as their pricing per pound.
| Name | Features | Cost |
| Bully Max | Triple-checked food, higher calories (so you can feed less), 5-star rated performance food, contains real meat as the first ingredient. | $5/lb. |
| Royal Canin Dog Food For Adult Breed
|
Tailor-made kibble with brewer’s rice, oats, and real chicken. It contains essential oils and fats to maintain wrinkles. EPA and DHA to support joints | $2.85/lb. |
| Wellness CORE RawRev Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, High Protein Dog Food
|
Natural ingredients, high-protein, freeze-dried turkey, ideal for dogs with sensitivities. Supports healthy skin and coat. Promotes leaner body and helps in weight loss. It also contains glucosamine for healthy joints. | $4.75/lb. |
| Purina Pro Plan High Protein, Gravy Adult Wet Dog Food
|
Made with real lamb. Contains real vitamins, minerals, and omega-6 fatty acids—the optimum fat-to-protein ratio for ideal weight. | $2.28/lb/ |
American Pit Bull Terrier Medical Costs
APBT are generally tough dogs. You are more likely to obtain health guarantees and other perks if you purchase your pet from a reputed breeder. Breeders that practice ethical breeding test their American Pit Bull Terriers thoroughly before mating them with other American Pit Bull Terriers. This significantly reduces the probability that puppies may develop genetic or inherited health issues.
Regardless, each American Pit Bull Terrier owner will be responsible for outstanding medical bills for their canine partner. Several vaccinations will be necessary throughout your little dog’s first year of life. These include core vaccines or mandatory immunizations that can help dogs avoid deadly illnesses caused by parvovirus, canine influenza, distemper, and other diseases carried through the environment.
Depending on your veterinarian’s recommendations, additional non-core vaccines such as the Lyme disease vaccine, rattlesnake vaccine, and similar vaccines may be recommended.
Additionally, you must follow a deworming regimen repeated every 2-3 months or as directed by your veterinarian. Bear in mind that fleas and ticks should be avoided at all costs since they may contain dangerous parasites.
The following tables explain the costs of core and non-core vaccinations and the puppy ages at which they should be provided.
Core vaccine costs
| Core vaccine | Age of puppy | Cost |
| Distemper | At least three doses are to be given between 6 and 16 weeks of age. (2 doses to be given 3-4 weeks apart) | $15 to $25 |
| Parvovirus | Same as above | |
| Adenovirus, type 1 (CAV-1, canine hepatitis) | The intranasal vaccine may be boosted at one year. Your American Pit Bull Terrier will also need a booster one year after completing the initial series, then again, every three years. | $15-$50 |
| Adenovirus, type 2 (CAV-2, kennel cough) | Between 6 weeks to 16 weeks, at least three doses. | $15-$50 |
| Rabies 1 and 3 years | It can be given as early as three months of age. States have laws about this core vaccine | $35 to $50 |
Non-core vaccine costs
| Non-core vaccine | Age of puppy | Cost |
| Parainfluenza | Administered at 6-8 weeks of age, then every 3-4 weeks until 12-14 weeks old. Depending on the manufacturer’s recommendation, a booster may be needed after a year and re-vaccination every three years. | $15-$35 |
| Bordetella bronchiseptica (kennel cough) | Two doses of injection or one dose of intranasal vaccine given based on manufacturer recommendation | $15-$50 |
| Lyme disease | Given at nine weeks and repeated after 2-4 weeks | $20-$40 |
| Leptospirosis | Two doses at least 2-4 weeks apart. The first dose is around eight weeks. | $15-$35 |
Most veterinarians estimate that the total cost of DAPP and rabies vaccinations will be between $75 and $100. There is no guarantee that these charges will cover flea and tick spot treatment, deworming medication, and non-core vaccination fees.
In addition, depending on your location, you may require flea and tick protection.
The following table provides an estimate of the cost of several types of flea/tick medications based on their ingredients:
| Name | Cost per year |
| Shampoo + flea comb | $20-$40 |
| Weekly flea dip + flea and tick collar | $40-$150 |
| Spot treatment | $150-$200 |
| Additional costs like flea extermination of the house | $500 |
Some more routine medical costs
| Name of test | Cost** |
| Routine checkup | $50 and $250 |
| Spaying or neutering | $160-$200 |
| Physical exam | $45 – $55 |
| Fecal exam | $25-$55 |
| Heartworm test | $45-$50 |
| Dental cleaning | $70-$400 |
| Allergy testing | $195-$300 |
Emergency care costs
| Name of test | Cost** |
| Bloodwork | $80-$100 |
| X-ray | Up to $200 |
| USG | Up to $500 |
| Hospitalization | $600-$3500 |
| Emergency surgery | Up to $2000 |
Common Inherited Diseases in American Pit Bull Terriers
Cleft Lip or Palate
Your Pit Bull is more likely to be born with a cleft lip or palate than other breeds. A cleft lip or palate is an opening in the lip or roof of the mouth. While minor errors may not require treatment, more major problems require surgical correction to avoid consequences which usually cost around $2000.
Blindness
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a hereditary condition in which the eyes are genetically predisposed to degenerate towards blindness. Unfortunately, American Pit Bull Terriers are slightly more prone to have this problem than other breeds. While PRA is not painful, it is also incurable. Early signs such as night blindness or dilated pupils often occur between three and five years of age in dogs carrying the faulty gene. This illness can be diagnosed genetically. PRA is incurable, so we can not estimate its cost. You may have to replace both eyes of your dog.
Hip Dysplasia
You’ve certainly heard of hip dysplasia, a genetic condition that causes the hip joints to develop abnormally and results in arthritis; it is prevalent in American Pit Bull Terriers. You may observe that he is lame in his hind legs or that he has difficulties rising from a lying position. In severe and life-threatening forms of hip dysplasia, surgery may be recommended. Bear in mind that obese dogs may acquire arthritis years sooner than normal-weight dogs, resulting in unnecessary pain and suffering. Treatment of Hip Dysplasia usually costs around $3000.
Knee Complications
Your Pitbull’s kneecap (patella) may become dislocated (called patellar luxation). He sprints, picks up one of his rear legs, and skips or hops for a few steps. Then he kicks his leg out sideways to reposition the kneecap, and he’s back to normal. If your friend’s issue is minor and affects only one leg, he or she may not require much therapy beyond anti-inflammatory medicine. When symptoms are severe, surgery to realign the kneecap may be required to prevent it from popping out of position, which costs around $4000.
Thyroid Diseases
Pit Bulls are predisposed to hypothyroidism, a disorder in which the body does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Dry skin and hair, susceptibility to other skin disorders, weight gain, fearfulness, hostility, or other behavioral changes can all be signed. Typically, treatment is simply: replacement hormones are administered by tablet, which usually costs around $3000.
Ichthyosis
Dry, flaky, itchy skin is a frequent problem in many dogs, but Pit bulls are particularly prone to ichthyosis, a severe peeling skin disorder. This condition, so named for the huge dry flakes that resemble fish scales, typically manifests itself very early in life, with most afflicted puppies being born with abnormal skin. Numerous palliative therapy options, such as specific shampoos and fish oils, provide varying degrees of comfort, usually costing around $2000.
Nerve Disorders
NCL, or Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis, is a degenerative neurologic condition that affects various breeds, including your American Pit Bull Terrier. Clinical indications often manifest in puppies between the ages of one and three years. Early on, rear leg weakness and imbalance are possible. It can proceed to complete weakening of all four limbs, and some dogs may even lose their vision. There is no effective therapy available for this condition at the moment, although a genetic test is available. Dogs with the mutation should not be bred, as it is easily passed on to subsequent generations. So there is no permanent cure for this condition; that’s why we can not estimate its treatment price.
Balance Issues
The cerebellum is the brain region responsible for balance and coordination. Cerebellar Abiotrophy is a hereditary neurologic disorder that affects a subset of canine breeds, including American Pit Bulls. The condition often manifests itself during early puppyhood, with susceptible dogs exhibiting symptoms between the ages of 6 and 16 weeks. Affected canines lose their perception of space and distance and become uncoordinated as a result of this ailment. Breeding dogs should not be employed if they have this heritable problem. Balance issues usually cost around $10000 in terms of treatment.
Urinary Stones
If your Pit Bull has a hereditary disorder known as Hyperuricosuria (HU), his urine will include an increased amount of uric acid. Uric acid works as a fertilizer for the formation of bladder and, occasionally, kidney stones. While a DNA test is possible to determine the precise mutation linked with the condition, once stones are present, they must frequently be surgically removed. By testing early, the vet can determine whether this poses a danger to his health and initiate proper nutritional therapy to avoid complications. Without a DNA test, the vet may propose routine urine tests, x-rays, or ultrasound to ensure he is free of these uncomfortable stones.
UIT surgery to remove stones usually costs around $3000 to $5000.
Pet Insurance for American Pit Bull Terriers
Your American Pit Bull Terrier will bring you much joy and happiness, and as a good pet parent, you will want to ensure that it receives the best medical care possible.
You will face difficult decisions as a Pit Bull owner, but pet insurance can give you peace of mind if your pet becomes ill or injured.
Depending on the plan, certain pet insurance policies cover up to 90% of expenditures and eligible veterinarian fees. Additionally, customizable plans are available to match your financial requirements, as well as flexible accident, routine care, and sickness coverage for your American Pit Bull Terrier.
When researching plans, use caution because they may vary greatly. Inquire about completely customized plans that include coverage for accidents, fractured bones, lacerations, automobile accidents, and other calamities. Additionally, a good insurance policy should cover illnesses such as cancer, diabetes, allergies, rheumatoid arthritis, and skin problems. Certain plans even cover medical bills, hospitalization costs, and physical rehabilitation.
Here is a table outlining the many types of pet insurance and their prices and advantages.
| Name of insurance | Cost | Pros | Cons |
| Farmer’s Pet Insurance | Start at $16/month | Founded in 1928. Received excellent rating by Better Business Bureau. Has 24 x 7 claims reporting. | Some users reported higher premium rates. |
| Figo Pet Insurance | Plans average at $1.50/day | Sometimes they give 100% reimbursement. The company offers three flexible plans | Your American Pit Bull Terrier might need an enrollment exam. |
| Lemonade Pet Insurancehttps://www.lemonade.com/pet | Start at $10/a month | Hassle-free digital claims processing, lightning-fast claims payment powered by AI. | Pricing increases nearly five times over your pet’s lifetime. |
| Trupanion | $38/month for $1000 deductible. | 90% coverage, no payout limits | Requires a one-time fee for new members, does not cover pets over 13 years. |
Additional Costs of Raising an American Pit Bull Terrier
Travel costs
Depending on your area, where you live, and the services you want, boarding your American Pit Bull Terrier or hiring a pet sitter can easily cost up to $200-$500 per week. It is somewhat less expensive to board a pet than to hire a pet sitter. Take note that some boarding facilities ask that you get your dog tested and vaccinated for kennel cough and other health concerns before allowing your pet to stay with them. If you decide to travel with your pet, you can anticipate paying at least $125 to $250 in-plane for one-way transportation.
Grooming costs
Grooming is necessary for American Pit Bull Terriers regularly in order to keep their wrinkles at bay. Skin problems and irritation might result if you do not follow these instructions. Keep the skin folds free of dirt and oil by using creams, oils, or wrinkle pastes. Additionally, you may occasionally take your dog to a professional groomer for a haircut. Groomers often charge between $30 and $50 for basic grooming services like bathing, tail-pocket cleaning, anal gland expression, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and other similar services, depending on where you live.
Dog walker/daycare
If you are too busy to walk your American Pit Bull Terrier, you might want to consider hiring a professional dog walking service instead. This is critical to maintaining your lively dog healthy and happy at all times. Additionally, if you have to be away from home for more than 4-6 hours, you can enroll your pet in daycare services. The cost of a 30-minute walk may range between $10 and $20, while the cost of day-boarding can range between $12 and $38 each day.
Key Takeaways – How Much Does an American Pit Bull Terrier Cost?
Here is a short overview of the monthly and yearly expenses associated with your American Pit Bull Terrier.
First-year cost
The first year’s costs of having an American Pit Bull Terrier are approximately twice as high as the subsequent year’s costs due to breeder or adoption fees. Breeders charge an average of over $1250 for a healthy American Pit Bull Terrier pup. You will also spend around $120 per year on food, followed by vet expenses (regular checkups, immunizations, and spaying/neutering). Additional expenses will include dog toys and treats, a dog license, microchipping, and health insurance for your dog. As a result, the overall expense of owning an American Pit Bull Terrier during the first year might be around $2000.
Annual costs
Most American Pit Bull Terrier owners spend their money only on food and treats, routine vet appointments, flea and tick medications, health insurance, dog-walking services, deworming, and other basic needs for their animals. These expenses amount to $1000 every year, which is approximately half the first year’s cost.
Lifetime cost
The American Pit Bull Terrier has an average life expectancy of 10-14 years. So based on a $1000 yearly cost, the total lifetime expenditures of owning an American Pit Bull Terrier can reach $12,000. If your pet is in good health, this is a reasonable assumption. You should budget between $1500-$2000 per year for medications, surgery, and diagnostic testing in the case of canine health issues like cancer, skin or eye disorders, joint difficulties, or arthritis.
Having an American Pit Bull Terrier is an extremely costly endeavor. Plan your finances so you can provide your pet with the best care possible.
