# Puppies: Tips Before Buying > What to consider before buying a Staffordshire Bull Terrier puppy: questions for breeders, documents, genetic tests, pedigree, timing and real costs. Informed choices and useful questions **Basic principle:** A quality puppy from a serious breeding costs more initially, but saves thousands in health and behavioral problems. Choosing the breeder is the most important decision. ## What to ask the breeder - **Parents:** temperament, show results, mandatory genetic tests (L-2HGA, HC), specialist exams (PHPV eyes, heart). Ask to see certificates. - **Pedigree:** bloodline, complete genealogy and kennel club documentation. A puppy without pedigree is not purebred. - **Development:** food used since weaning, deworming done, microchip, first vaccinations with health booklet. - **Socialization:** experiences the puppy has had, exposure to household noises, handling, crate, car. - **Contract and guarantees:** written sales conditions, health guarantees, repurchase clauses, guaranteed after-sales support. ## Evaluating time and lifestyle A Staffordshire Bull Terrier puppy requires constant daily presence, structured routines and lots of patience. Realistically consider your work hours, available home space, vacation management and actual family support. Plan a reference dog trainer experienced with the breed from the start. 💡 Reality check In the first 3-6 months, the puppy will require attention comparable to a small child. If you work full-time away from home, seriously consider alternative solutions (dog sitter, family dog, dog daycare). ## Real costs to budget - **Vet first year:** check-ups, antiparasitic prophylaxis, vaccines, possible emergencies. Minimum budget: €500-800. - **Food:** quality premium food appropriate for growth. Monthly budget: €80-120. - **Training and activities:** puppy classes, dog trainer, enrichment toys, quality leash gear. Budget: €300-600. - **Insurance and registrations:** mandatory liability insurance, registry enrollments. Annual budget: €100-200. - **Initial equipment:** crate, bed, bowls, harness, leashes, toys. Initial budget: €200-400. ## Positive signs of a good breeding - **Total transparency:** gladly shows genetic tests, specialist exams, complete genealogies of parents. - **Well-maintained environment:** puppies raised at home or in clean, spacious, stimulating area. No dirty cages or neglected dogs. - **Questions for you:** a serious breeder wants to understand where the puppy will go, asks many questions about your family, experience, lifestyle. - **After-sales support:** availability to follow the family even after delivery, reachability for advice, owner group. - **No rush:** invites you to visit multiple times, meet the parents, see more litters. Doesn't push for immediate sale. ## Red flags: warning signs to avoid ⚠️ Avoid those who... - ❌ Sell puppies without pedigree or "with optional pedigree for extra payment" - ❌ Don't show the parents or say they're "not available" - ❌ Have no genetic tests or say "not needed because my dogs are healthy" - ❌ Deliver puppies before 60 days of age - ❌ Always have puppies available of all ages (puppy mill) - ❌ Propose delivery at service stations or third-party locations instead of at the kennel - ❌ Prices well below the market average for the breed ## Essential genetic tests for Staffy The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has hereditary predisposition to some conditions. A serious breeding ALWAYS tests breeding stock for: - **L-2HGA** (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria): severe neurological disease. Mandatory DNA test. - **HC** (hereditary cataracts): lens opacity leading to blindness. Mandatory DNA test. - **PHPV** (persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous): eye anomaly. Specialist eye exam. Always ask to see original certificates, don't settle for "I'll tell you verbally". Tests cost money and a serious breeder does them. ## Final checklist before deciding ✅ Verify you've completed everything - I've visited the kennel in person or via detailed video call. - I've seen both puppy's parents (at least the mother). - I've received and verified: pedigree, genetic tests, health booklet, written contract. - I'm clear on the time commitment (6+ hours daily in first months). - I've prepared the budget: €2,000-3,000 first year all included. - I've identified a trusted vet and dog trainer. - I've prepared the home: crate, pen, bed, bowls, toys, leash gear. - The whole family agrees and is aware of the commitment. 🐾 Breeder's advice At our Del Piccolo Diavolo kennel, we always provide complete documentation (pedigree, certified genetic tests, vaccination plan, guarantee contract) and remain available for lifetime support. A breeder who disappears after the sale is not a serious breeder. ### Related articles - [Initial feeding: portions, frequency and transition](/en/puppy-initial-feeding/) - [Home socialization: guided first experiences](/en/puppy-home-socialization/) - [First vaccinations: schedule and practical tips](/en/puppy-first-vaccinations/) - [L-2HGA and HC genetic tests: what they are and why they matter](/en/staffy-genetic-testing-l2hga-hc/) --- Fonte: https://delpiccolodiavolo.it/en/puppy-buying-tips/