Before You Adopt

Commitment

One of the biggest contributors to the plight of the pit bull is a lack of commitment by owners. Pit bulls live about 12-14 years. Much can change in your life in that amount of time, so it is important to be sure you are considering your new dog as a member of the family who will be with you through thick and thin.

Financial Responsibility

Dogs are expensive. Vet bills can be very expensive. Of course we do not want to think about anything bad happening to our dog, but be sure you are financially prepared to handle vet costs if your dog was to get sick or hurt.  Pet insurance is a great option to ensure quality, long-term care for your new dog.

Dog/Animal Aggression

If you have another dog in your home, be sure you are prepared to handle the situation if aggression issues arise between the two. Dog aggression can technically develop at any point in their lives and occasionally, multi-dog owners are forced to keep two dogs separated. It is never an ideal situation, however it is something to consider. Please also note that when adding a second dog to your home, you should adopt a dog of the opposite gender and the dogs should have an age gap between them. Both of these things can reduce the likelihood of dog aggression among housemates. Human aggression is NOT a trait in this breed.

Training

Be sure you are able to do some formal training with your new addition. It is important for bonding, socialization, and behavioral skills. Our contract does require formal training and we highly recommend continued training to reach the Canine Good Citizen level.

Breed Specific Legislation (BSL)

Make sure your city/town does not have breed specific legislation in place. If they do, be sure you are prepared to handle their particular regulations. We are happy to discuss this more case by case.

Puppy vs Adult?

This is a BIG question that many do not put enough thought into. So many people are so quick to jump right into adopting a puppy. Sure, puppies are adorable – but have you really put thought into everything else that comes along with a puppy? Puppies are a lot of work, much more than you often think about prior to bringing one home. You must also realize that puppies need a lot of training; you are starting from the beginning. Pit bulls and other large breed dogs grow very quickly. This means by 6-7 months you have a nearly full grown dog, with puppy mentality and puppy tendencies. They then enter adolescence, which can be a challenging period both physically and mentally. People often have the misconception that in order to have a good dog, you must raise one from puppyhood. This is false. A good dog also has much to do with genetics. Each dog is an individual being and should be judged that way. When you adopt an adult dog, that dog has passed our thorough temperament test (and often times a test at the shelter or facility they came from). Adult dogs have a more developed temperament since they are more socially mature and you are able to know what you are getting. A puppy can change as they go through maturity. Especially in homes where there are children or other pets (dog, cat, etc.) it is always advisable and wise to consider an adult pit bull.

The 3-3-3 Rule

The 3-3-3 rule in pet adoption outlines the typical adjustment phases a new companion experiences when transitioning to a new home. During the first 3 days, everything feels overwhelming and unfamiliar. They may show signs of fear, anxiety, or withdrawal, and basic needs like eating, drinking, and sleeping might be irregular. By the first 3 weeks, they begin to feel more comfortable as the environment becomes familiar. A routine starts to take shape, and their true personality begins to emerge, though quirks or behavioral challenges may also become noticeable. By the first 3 months, a sense of security and trust is established. They feel fully at home, bonds deepen, and they truly become part of the family. This rule emphasizes the importance of patience, understanding, and time, as it allows your new companion to adjust, feel secure, and thrive in their new environment.

A consistent routine helps your new pet understand what to expect each day, creating a sense of predictability that makes them feel safe and secure while fostering trust in you as their caregiver. Regular activities like feeding, walks, playtime, and grooming provide valuable opportunities to connect and interact, allowing your pet to associate you with care, fun, and comfort. When these routines include enjoyable moments, such as treats after training or cuddles after a walk, they reinforce positive associations, strengthening your pet’s emotional connection to you. Repeating daily activities also helps your pet learn your cues, tone, and body language, building a mutual understanding that deepens your bond and improves communication over time. Additionally, a structured routine promotes a sense of belonging, helping your pet feel like a valued part of the family as they recognize their place in the household and grow more connected to you and their new environment. By sticking to a routine, you not only provide stability but also create meaningful moments that nurture trust, love, and companionship.

See Breed Overview for more information.