The choice to add a dog as part of your family is a big decision and for many people, the breed Pitbull is an especially attractive option because they are loving, loyal, and often misunderstood. Prior to becoming an owner, it is important to have a clear understanding of the cost involved. There are several types of Pitbulls including American Pitbull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and American Staffordshire Terriers, these dogs also have specific care terms, in regards to this breed that impacts the long-term cost of the dog.
Before adopting or buying a Pitbull, it’s important to know the true cost involved to be a responsible pet owner. Along with purchasing costs, there can be ongoing costs for training, health, and well-being that can add up over time. There are a number of misconceptions that prospective owners tend to have about the costs, like thinking purebred dogs are fixed and exorbitantly expensive, or that rescue dogs are free. For the dog to have a happy and healthy life with the human companion, we need to dispel myths and provide a real cost perspective.
What is a Pitbull?
“Pitbull” is not a breed but a term used to describe more than one breed, which usually have a similar body structure originally because of their bulldog and terrier heritage. Some of the most recognized “Pitbull-type” breeds are the American Pitbull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and sometimes the American Bully. There are still differences in size, shape of head, and overall conformation despite looking to have a strong jaw and similar muscular structure, as each breed will have breed standards and requirements that vary.
Well bred and socialized Pitbulls are contrary to common belief fantastic pets due to their intelligent, loyal and loving nature. Pitbulls are called “nanny dogs” due to their gentle nature with children and are very people oriented dogs. While this breed is very gentle, they do require regular training, early socialization, and responsible ownership due to their strength, high energy and known dog-dog aggression which in some lines has been selectively bred. Pitbulls are ideal for active homes with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Average Price of a Pitbull Dog in Major Indian Cities
Here is the list containing prices of Pitbull Dog price in various cities in India:
City | Average Price Range (INR) |
Delhi | ₹28,500 – ₹44,500 |
Mumbai | ₹35,000 – ₹1,00,000 |
Bangalore | ₹30,000 – ₹1,00,000 |
Chennai | ₹25,000 – ₹95,000 |
Hyderabad | ₹27,000 – ₹92,000 |
Kolkata | ₹28,000 – ₹80,000 |
Pune | ₹25,000 – ₹1,00,000 |
Ahmedabad | ₹26,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
Jaipur | ₹30,000 – ₹85,000 |
Lucknow | ₹22,000 – ₹50,000 |
Read More: Husky Dog Price in India | Pomeranian Dog Price | German Shepherd Price
Factors That Influence Pitbull Prices
The price of a Pitbull dog in India is dependent on a number of different factors. To properly budget and make choices, potential dog owners need to know and understand the following factors.
- Breed Type and Lineage: The price of the different “Pitbull” breeds can vary, such as the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Bully and Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Also, a dog from a champion bloodline, pedigree, or imported will be much more expensive due to the perceived quality, health and standards to breed type.
- Age of the Dog (Puppy vs. Adult): Due to the high need for socialization and training in puppies, they are usually more expensive than adult Pitbulls. Nevertheless, adult dogs of good temperaments or performance histories that are trained will demand higher prices. Adoption fees for adult dogs are usually reduced by rescue organizations.
- Location (Metro vs. Small Town): Pitbulls are usually more expensive in larger cities like Bangalore, Delhi, and Mumbai than they are in smaller towns. The explanation for this is usually due to demand, the higher cost of breeders in cities, and a higher cost of living in general.
- Reputable Breeders: Dogs that are from reputable and ethical breeders that believe in the soundness of temperament, health, and genetics usually will cost more. Many reputable and ethical breeders factor the costs of proper care, health tests on the parent dogs, quality puppy food, and breeders demonstrating ethical breeding practices into their price.
- Training and Certification: Of course, a Pitbull that has gone through socialization classes, formal obedience training, or has certifications (Canine Good Citizen for example) will cost more. While a professional trainer provided this type of value, the owner will save time and money on their initial training because of it.
- Color and Coat Type (i.e. Red Nose, Blue Nose): Some rare or much wanted coat colors, like, Red Nose, (reddish-brown coat with a red nose) or Blue Nose, (a diluted black), can substantially increase a Pitbull’s price. The visual appeal of these coat colors is often significantly restricted therefore, these coats are always in high demand which raises their value.
- Vaccination & Medical History: If the Pitbull puppy or adult comes with an extensive vaccination, dewormings, and a clean bill of health from the veterinarian, it will increase the price. This eliminates immediate veterinary costs for the buyer by guaranteeing the initial required medical services were performed.
Pitbull Adoption vs Buying from a Breeder
When considering bringing a Pitbull into your home, there are basically two choices you have: adopting from a rescue group or purchasing from a breeder. The cost is often a major consideration. If you find that in India an adoption can cost anywhere from ₹2,000 to ₹10,000, then you will find that a breeder typically starts at ₹25,000, and can run well over ₹1,00,000 especially by coat colour that is rare or bloodlines.
There are also other advantages to adopting. First, it is more affordable with the expense typically covering the first round of vaccines, deworming, spay/neuter surgery, and sometimes even microchip, which can really save you money on vet care. More importantly, adopting a pitbull means you are helping reduce the number of homeless pets and you are giving a deserving dog a second chance at a forever home.
Several reputable adoption organizations and rescue groups in India work tirelessly to provide homes for dogs including Pitbulls and Pitbull mixes. The Voice of Stray Dogs (VOSD), the Kalyani Animal Welfare Foundation, Second Chance Sanctuary India, the Blue Cross of India and People for Animals (PFA) are just a few examples of such organizations. These organizations provide a safe and humane way to add a Pitbull to your family and typically have a comprehensive adoption process to ensure dogs find loving homes.
Are Pitbulls Legal in India?
The legal status of Pitbulls in India is currently a complex and evolving situation, given some recent recommendations made by the central government. While there is no official nationwide ban in place, the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying have issued an advisory to state and local governments regarding dogs. The advisory raised concern over the increasing number of dog attacks, specifically for some so-called “dangerous” breeds, and advised that “23 specific breeds of dogs,” including the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and American Bully, and the related crossbreds and mixes, were to be banned from being imported, bred, or sold.
As stated in the advisory, physical owners of Pitbulls and breed-restricted dogs on the recommended list may generally keep the dog as long as they have a current registration for the dog and the dog is sterilized (to avoid procreating) and the owners usually must keep current vaccination records.
In India, general dog ownership-related laws back-deduction included more general legislation than breed-specific legislation (BSL). In most major cities, the owner must register with the local municipal authority. This typically requires that the owner supply information regarding breed, age, and current vaccination history (as it relates to rabies). The owner is legally responsible for the care of their dog on the behalf of the dog and all owners should ensure their dogs have food, water, shelter, and medical care.
Is a Pitbull the Right Dog for You?
When determining if a Pitbull is the right breed of dog for you, you need to take into careful consideration your lifestyle and ability to meet their uniquely personalized needs.
- Lifestyle Compatibility: Pitbulls are happiest as part of a busy home where they spend lots of time involved as a family member. As a breed they can become bored and do not do well when they lack interaction and mental stimulation so they may not be the breed for you if you typically lead a sedentary lifestyle or frequently travel for long periods of time away from home. They are a breed with a strong desire for company, and are very people-oriented.
- Space and Exercise Needs: Although Pitbulls are a large breed, they can live in a variety of environments including apartments as long as their exercise needs are met. Pitbulls require plenty of exercise every day; think running, jogging, walking, fetch or playtime in a well-fenced yard. Pitbulls often require at least 60 to 90 minutes of dedicated exercise on a daily basis to be healthy and well-behaved. If their energy is not released appropriately unwanted behavior will result.
- Handling Strong, Active Breeds: Pitbulls are strong, powerful dogs who have energy. This means that they need to be managed and trained from puppyhood to control their strength, especially when on a leash. If their energy goes unchecked, it can become intolerable. In light of how society perceives them, any potential owner has to be ready to devote time and effort into positive reinforcement training to ensure their dogs are manageable and well-managed.
- Factors for First-Time Dog Owners: A Pitbull can be an important but challenging option for first-time dog owners. They are trainable, as their intelligence and desire to please helps them learn new skills. They must be trained with consistent, firm but fair leadership because, like many breeds, they are strong and stubborn. To be successful in understanding their needs and building a strong, positive bond with a Pitbull, I highly recommend first-time owners have professional training to help navigate this process. A successful relationship involves commitment to ongoing socialization, as well as understanding breed nuances.
Tips for Buying a Healthy Pitbull Puppy
Exploring Pitbulls: “Pitbull” refers to many breeds, for example the American Bully and American Pit Bull Terrier. Although inaccurate descriptors do exist, they are generally loyal, loveable pets with the ability to be exceptional pets with training and socialization experiences.
- Cost Insights: Costs can vary quite a bit in India (higher in cities, like Mumbai than Lucknow), depending on breeder, bloodline, and breed (e.g. Blue Nose), anywhere from ₹22,000 to over ₹1,50,000. Adoption can cost significantly less, in the range of ₹2000 to ₹10,000.
- Legality in India: Although there are no national bans, as per government guidelines, states are advised to prohibit breeding and sale of 23 specifically designated breeds as ferocious dogs, Pitbulls being one of them. Some cities are implementing this guidance regarding existing owners with sterilizations and licenses required. And all owners are responsible for control of a leash and good behavior assessment of their pet.
Conclusion
Having the opportunity to welcome a Pitbull into your life is an exciting prospect. However, before you adopt, you will want to consider your options in a realistic manner and be appropriately prepared for the amount of time and work that you will need to invest into the adoption process. Every part of the decision needs to be considered carefully as just one part of the process – the initial purchase cost – varies widely between the cost of adopting at a shelter to the cost of buying from a reputable breeder, and typically costs do not stop there – think of it as the beginning of the costs of care, training, or possible legal actions, etc. By dispelling the common myths and misconceptions, understanding the various levels of cost, and focusing on responsible ownership – if you take time to follow the local rules and regulations and ensure appropriate training – you will be more assured that you will have a happy, healthy and harmonious life with your Pitbull as a loyal, loving companion.
FAQs
1) Are Pitbulls aggressive?
Pitbulls are not naturally aggressive. Like any reliance on breed, they depend on socialization, training and genetics. When Pitbulls are raised with love in the right environment with proper training, they can be very affectionate, loyal and wonderful companions.
2) What causes some Pitbulls to be so expensive?
Some reasons for the price of Pitbulls are rare colors (such as “Blue Nose”), champion bloodline history, and quality bloodlines. A legitimate breeder will justify a higher price due to quality care and health testing.
3) Can you raise a Pitbull as a family pet?
Yes, absolutely! Pitbulls are eager to learn and act; they are smart. They can be excellent family pets and bond incredibly well, including with children, if properly socialized at an early age and positively reinforced repeatedly.
4) What is the monthly cost of owning a Pitbull?
Depending on the cost of living in India, the budget is between ₹9,000 and ₹17,000 per month. This amount can include a premium food diet, routine medical care with a veterinarian, toys, grooming, and training if considered. Costs can be higher with medical emergencies.
3) Is it safe to have a Pitbull with children?
An appropriately supervised dog and child with training, and early socialization can be safe. Pit bulls are often gentle and tolerant of children, yet at the same time, it is always prudent to handle everyone respectfully.