How to Raise American Pit Bull Puppies

American pit bulls are a popular dog breed to keep as pets, but they are polarizing animals because of their reputation as aggressive dogs. Some localities even place restrictions on the ownership of American pit bulls, which is a favorite breed in dog fighting, a practice that is illegal in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and U.S. territories, according to the America Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. However, others argue that pit bulls make good pets if raised correctly. If you own a pit bull, you can follow a few steps to make sure your dog grows up happy, healthy and friendly.

Instructions

    • 1

      Keep the puppies in a wire kennel at night, and then take them outside to on a leash to use the potty. Don't give the puppy a chance to roam about unsupervised, as it will defecate or urinate in areas you won't want it to.

    • 2

      Feed the puppies on a tight schedule. Settle on three times a day when you want to feed the puppies and take the bowl when they are finished. If they don't eat for 20 minutes after you put the bowl down, remove the food and wait until the next feeding time.

    • 3

      Start weaning the puppies after they've spent their first three or four weeks on their mother's teats. Buy some food designed especially for puppies at your local pet store. Look for food that is high in calories and nutrients to help the puppies grow without supplements. Pour warm water on the food and let it soak until it is soft enough that the puppies an lap it up. Remove the food 15 minutes after serving it to the puppies, even there is some left over. Gradually reduce the water added. Start leaving a bowl of food with no water alongside the regular serving after a few of these feedings. Don't feed the puppies milk anymore, as it can cause indigestion.

    • 4

      Feed the dog that is the most calm and submissive first. Excited puppies should not feed until they emulate the calm behavior of the puppies that you have allowed to start feeding, according to dog behavior specialist Cesar Milan.

    • 5

      Start walking the puppies one at a time, and practice keeping them calm and submissive while on the walk. Keep a tight rein on the leash and gently but firmly guide the dog back to your side if it gets excited or attempts to go out ahead of you. As you master this technique, add a second dog to the walk, and then a third, and so on, always making sure they are calm and following your lead at all times. This helps them recognize that you are the leader.

    • 6

      Talk with the veterinarian to determine the optimum time to give the puppies their vaccinations. Some puppies can get their shots at six weeks, some at nine weeks and some not until 18 weeks or more. Dogs need shots to protect them from diseases like rabies, parvo and hepatitis.