At Bad to the Bone Kennels, we don’t believe in guessing. When it comes to placing our pit bull puppies, we focus on finding the right fit for both the puppy and the family. That’s why every litter goes through a full temperament evaluation around eight weeks of age. These evaluations aren’t about labeling or ranking, but about understanding. Each pup will go home with a family that truly matches their personality and needs.
[Male Pit Bill Puppy being tested for Nerve Strength/Resiliency - Pablito x Wild Child]
What We Look For
Each pit bull puppy is tested individually in our home. We’re paying attention to how they naturally respond to sights, sounds, and handling. These are the traits we evaluate:
-
Human Assertiveness – Do they approach boldly or hang back?
-
Human Focus – How easily do they make and maintain eye contact?
-
Confidence – Do they stay curious in new environments or become hesitant?
-
Motivation Level – What drives them—touch, toys?
-
Nerve Strength / Resiliency – How quickly do they bounce back from surprise?
-
Touch Tolerance – How do they react to gentle handling?
-
Energy Level – Are they more relaxed, steady, or high-drive?
-
Sound Sensitivity – Responses to noise.
-
Sight Sensitivity – Reactions to movement or visual novelty.
-
Prey Drive – Interest in chasing or engaging with motion-based toys.
-
Tenderheartedness – Sensitivity to tone, screaming, crying, etc.
-
Dog Friendliness – Reactions during play, meeting dogs, etc.
[Male Pit Bull Puppy being tested for Dog Friendliness - Pablito x Wild Child]
Why It Matters
Every pit bull puppy is unique and so is every home! Some families want an easygoing cuddlebug. Others are searching for a dog with energy and drive for sports or working roles. And some simply need a pit bull puppy who’s resilient and comfortable around kids or busy environments.
By getting to know our puppies this way, we can help guide placements that make sense for the long term—not just the go-home day.
A Better Start for Every Pit Bull Puppy
Temperament testing is one more layer of care we put into raising dogs with stability, confidence, and strong potential. These evaluations also give our puppy buyers a helpful starting point. You’re not guessing what your dog is like, as you already have a foundation to build on. We’re proud of the work that goes into this part of the process and even prouder of the trust it builds with the families who choose us.
Thanks for following along and being part of the journey!