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American Pit Bull Terrier puppies and dogs in Des Moines, Iowa

Looking for an American Pit Bull Terrier puppy or dog in Des Moines, Iowa? Adopt a Pet can help you find an adorable American Pit Bull Terrier near you.

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Adopt an American Pit Bull Terrier near you in Des Moines, Iowa

These American Pit Bull Terriers are available in Des Moines, Iowa.
We'll also keep you updated on Mia's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Mia

Mia

Pit Bull Terrier Mastiff

Female, Adult
Des Moines, IA
Size
(when grown) X-Large 101 lbs (46 kg) or more
Details
Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Mia is a stunning 2-year-old sweetheart weighing 74 pounds. With her fun-loving energy, happy demeanor, and beautiful green eyes, she’s sure to steal your heart!Mia’s story hasn’t been easy—she and her brother were left abandoned in their owner’s backyard after his passing. Despite this, Mia has remained a joyful and resilient girl who gets along wonderfully with other dogs and is always ready for playtime and affection.She’s got a fantastic temperament and would make a loving addition to any home that can match her lively spirit. If you’re ready to welcome a loyal, happy companion into your life, Mia is ready to bring her sunshine to you!IMPORTANT: Please read all below, especially if you live outside of Texas, which is where our rescue is located.Apply to adopt on our website: https://www.charmingpetrescue.org/adoptAll of our animals are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on shots.ALL of our animals are located in Boerne, TX, but transport after adoption is available to other states for a $300 fee for dogs or an additional fee varying by location for cats. If you are seeing our pets posted in your state, that's because you live near a transport stop, they are not currently at that location. Petfinder lists our pets as 'Out of Town' pets at other locations, and Adopt-a-Pet lists our location as a Transport stop. Those are currently the only options they offer to make this clear, so we put this description we've put at the bottom to explain it. You can read more about transport here: www.charmingpetrescue.org/transportWe understand transport is not an option for everyone, but we offer it at the cost we pay the transport company for those who wish to adopt from us.January 15, 2025, 6:09 am
We'll also keep you updated on Hank's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Hank

Hank

Pit Bull Terrier Mastiff

Male, Adult
Des Moines, IA
Size
(when grown) X-Large 101 lbs (46 kg) or more
Details
Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
*Meet Hank!**Hank is a handsome 2.5-year-old Mastiff-Pit mix with stunning light grey brindling and a big heart to match his 72 pounds. This playful guy has plenty of fun-loving energy and a personality that lights up a room.Hank’s life took a tough turn when his owner passed away, leaving him and his sister abandoned in a backyard. Despite his rocky start, Hank has shown nothing but resilience and love. He’s great with other dogs and would thrive in an active home where he can play, explore, and enjoy all the attention he craves.If you’re looking for a loyal companion with a big personality and even bigger heart, Hank might just be your perfect match!IMPORTANT: Please read all below, especially if you live outside of Texas, which is where our rescue is located.Apply to adopt on our website: https://www.charmingpetrescue.org/adoptAll of our animals are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on shots.ALL of our animals are located in Boerne, TX, but transport after adoption is available to other states for a $300 fee for dogs or an additional fee varying by location for cats. If you are seeing our pets posted in your state, that's because you live near a transport stop, they are not currently at that location. Petfinder lists our pets as 'Out of Town' pets at other locations, and Adopt-a-Pet lists our location as a Transport stop. Those are currently the only options they offer to make this clear, so we put this description we've put at the bottom to explain it. You can read more about transport here: www.charmingpetrescue.org/transportWe understand transport is not an option for everyone, but we offer it at the cost we pay the transport company for those who wish to adopt from us.January 15, 2025, 6:09 am
We'll also keep you updated on Phatgirl's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Phatgirl

Phatgirl

Pit Bull Terrier

Female, Adult
Des Moines, IA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Phatgirl!Phatgirl is a 2-year-old pittie with a heart full of love and 65 pounds of pure snuggle potential. She was found as a stray but has proven to be a shining example of resilience and sweetness. Now, she’s ready to find a forever family that will shower her with the love she deserves.Phatgirl is a social sweetheart who gets along great with dogs of all sizes and absolutely adores children. She’s crate trained, house trained, and leash trained, making her an easy addition to any home. While she loves canine companions and people, she prefers a cat-free household.This loving girl is smart, snuggly, and always ready to make your day brighter. Whether it’s learning a new trick or curling up on the couch for some quality cuddle time, Phatgirl is happiest when she’s with her people.If you’re looking for a sweet and loyal best friend who will fill your home with love, Phatgirl is the one for you. Are you ready to give her the forever home she’s been waiting for?IMPORTANT: Please read all below, especially if you live outside of Texas, which is where our rescue is located.Apply to adopt on our website: https://www.charmingpetrescue.org/adoptAll of our animals are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on shots.ALL of our animals are located in Boerne, TX, but transport after adoption is available to other states for a $300 fee for dogs or an additional fee varying by location for cats. If you are seeing our pets posted in your state, that's because you live near a transport stop, they are not currently at that location. Petfinder lists our pets as 'Out of Town' pets at other locations, and Adopt-a-Pet lists our location as a Transport stop. Those are currently the only options they offer to make this clear, so we put this description we've put at the bottom to explain it. You can read more about transport here: www.charmingpetrescue.org/transportWe understand transport is not an option for everyone, but we offer it at the cost we pay the transport company for those who wish to adopt from us.January 16, 2025, 10:22 pm
We'll also keep you updated on Sandy's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Sandy

Sandy

American Pit Bull Terrier

Female, Adult
Des Moines, IA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
- Once she has had time to warm up and feel comfortable, she is very sweet and loves being scratched and petted - Very playful, but is happy to chill out and get some snuggles when she's done playing - Enjoys a good nap on the couch and has the cutest snore - Loves to sit on the couch and watch the world go by outside her window - Recently went on a Dog's Day Out field trip and had a great time: "She loved the woods and was a great hiking buddy. She pulled on leash sometimes, but was pretty good most of the time. She did very well with passing hikers, joggers, bicyclists and skateboarders. She was so interested in everything we passed and noticed all the sounds and birds. When I took her to the house I am staying in, she looked really relaxed and started to really pay attention to me and to connect." - Walks and treats may be great ways to bond with her; does best with a harness on walks - Smart lady who already knows sit and shake - Seems to be potty trained, just remember any dog may take time to adjust to a new schedule and routine - Young, noisy or busy children can be too much for her (mature home recommended) - Tends to be very uncomfortable around other dogs and may not want other dog friends; needs to be the only dog in her home right now - The ARL's shelter software requires that we choose a primary breed for our dogs. Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable, so for most dogs we are only guessing at primary breed. We get to know each dog as an individual and do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, not breed label. Primary Color: Brown Brindle Weight: 58.5 Age: 2yrs 5mths 3wks
We'll also keep you updated on Bobbie's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Bobbie

Bobbie

American Pit Bull Terrier

Male, Young
Des Moines, IA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
HOW TO ADOPT: This dog is available for adoption by appointment. To schedule a time to meet this dog, please email fosterinquiry@arl-iowa.org.---- Can be a nervous boy, but is very brave and good at working through his fear - Loves to play outside and go on walks with his people; does great on a leash- Seems interested in toys, but is way more interested in just running around the yard with you - Will be your little shadow around the house - Super gentle when taking treats - Knows his name and is great at coming when you call him - Has done well in his crate in his foster home and will go to his kennel by himself if you leave it open for him - Has been working on potty training in his foster home - Would probably love a dog friend to play with in his new home - Has done very well with a young child in his foster home All adoptable dogs and puppies are spayed/neutered, microchipped and up to date on vaccinations (rabies and DA2PPV as appropriate for their age)The ARL's shelter software requires that we choose a primary breed for our dogs. Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable, so for most dogs we are only guessing at primary breed. We get to know each dog as an individual and do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, not breed label. Primary Color: Blonde Weight: 52.5 Age: 1yrs 9mths 0wks
We'll also keep you updated on Luna's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Luna

Luna

American Pit Bull Terrier

Female, Adult
Des Moines, IA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
- Loves people and companionship - Smart girl, knows sit and shake- Loves going on walks and does best with a harness- Needs a home without cats- All adoptable dogs and puppies are spayed/neutered, microchipped and up to date on vaccinations (rabies and DA2PPV as appropriate for age- The ARL's shelter software requires that we choose a primary breed for our dogs. Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable, so for most dogs we are only guessing at primary breed. We get to know each dog as an individual and do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, and not breed label Primary Color: Black Brown Weight: 52.4 Age: 3yrs 1mths 3wks

Or, how about these American Pit Bull Terriers in cities near Des Moines, Iowa

These American Pit Bull Terriers are available for adoption close to Des Moines, Iowa.
We'll also keep you updated on Marsay's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Marsay

Marsay

American Pit Bull Terrier Mixed Breed (Medium)

Male, 12 yrs 6 mos
Johnston, IA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Not good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Marsay is a 12 year old 60 lb pit mix looking for an active retirement home. Marsay is incredibly affectionate and still has the energy of a young pup! He loves to cuddle but also loves going for walks with his foster mom. He is house/crate trained. He does fine with most dogs one-on-one and after a proper intro; we haven't seen him with cats yet and require a meet with any resident pets before adoption. He does tend to guard resources (particularly food and high value toys/bones) so we are suggesting older kids in the home and a dedicated adopter willing to put some one-on-one training time in with him. He loves to meet new people and be part of the action! If interested in meeting Marsay, please apply at www.foreverhomedogs.org!All adoptions are $300 per dog for puppies under 1 year, $250 for adults 1 - 9 years old and $150 for senior dogs which include spay/neuter, micro-chipped and up-to-date on required shots. Senior dogs, at our discretion, are adopted out at $150 per dog because we know they will have less time with your family and may eventually have more needs as they get older. But we feel these dogs deserve to live out the rest of their lives as part of a loving family.
We'll also keep you updated on Duke's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Duke

Duke

American Pit Bull Terrier Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Male, Adult
Ankeny, IA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Great dog been in our family for 9 years. Big baby who just loves to cuddle and be around people. Great with kids and other dogs.
We'll also keep you updated on Neva's adoption status with email updates.
Special Needs
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Photo of Neva

Neva

American Pit Bull Terrier Boxer

Female, Young
Ankeny, IA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Not good with dogs, Good with cats, Needs special attention, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
We got Neva at the ARL in mid-December. Her breed and age are hard to pin down, but she is definitely a pit mix and is roughly 3 years of age. We love her so much and she loves people more than she can handle sometimes. She loves to snuggle and is great when we need a nap, but she is also bursting with energy. She loves fetch and tug of war! She does have the issue of wanting to bite hands when she's playing. It is more of an annoyance than anything, but something to work on. She gets overly excited seeing other dogs, so walks can be a bit challenging. She does have little accidents when she gets too excited meeting new people, but overall, she does seem potty trained when we're home. The reason for needing to rehome is because she does seem to have very severe seperation anxiety that usually results in accidents in her kennel. My wife and I work together and cant get opposite schedules so its been challenging. She is showing progress, but it will take time to get her there.
We'll also keep you updated on BELLA's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of BELLA

BELLA

American Pit Bull Terrier

Female, 3 yrs 5 mos
Ames, IA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
My name is Bella and I am a gray & white pit bull. I am a spayed female and I am 3 years and 5 months old. I am here because I was given up by my owner on 01/09/2025 due to the fact they just didn`t have time for me. They were my family for 2 years. I am used to staying inside during the day and inside during the night. I am potty trained. I am a medium energy dog and I can live with an owner with no prior pet owning experience. The shelter staff is not sure if I am used to being crated during the day. The shelter staff are still learning how I walk on a leash. Any sort of training can help dogs bond with their owners. The shelter staff are assessing what kind of training program would be best for me - every dog is different! I do not have a history of trying to escape the home or yard, but the shelter staff always recommends owners be mindful that I do not accidentally get out a door or escape the yard. The staff are trying to figure out if I will need a fenced in yard or not. I can be good with men, women, and children. I can be good with other dogs and I cannot live with cats. *High prey drive with small pets/cats.*All dogs are tested for heartworms and given flea preventatives. They are also tested for intestinal parasites and receive routine dewormings. Dogs are vaccinated against distemper, rabies, and bordetella, spayed/neutered before adoption, and have a microchip. Adoption fees include the initial automated registration of the microchip at the time of adoption.
We'll also keep you updated on BELLE's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of BELLE

BELLE

American Pit Bull Terrier

Female, 3 yrs 1 mo
Ames, IA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
My name is Belle and I am a black & white pit bull/mix. I am a spayed female, and I am 3 years and 1 month old. I was given up by my previous owners because they could not afford to take care of me. They were my family for 2 years. I am used to staying inside during the day and inside during the night. I am potty trained. I am a high energy dog and I can live with an owner with no prior pet owning experience. The shelter staff is not sure if I am used to being crated during the day. I am great about walking nicely on leash. I would do well with simple obedience training to help us bond and for us to learn how to communicate with each other. I do not have a history of trying to escape the home or yard, but the shelter staff always recommends owners be mindful that I do not accidentally get out a door or escape the yard. I would like a standard height fence to help keep me inside the yard. I can be good with men, women, and children. I can be good with other dogs, and staff are not sure how I do with cats.All dogs are tested for heartworms and given flea preventatives. They are also tested for intestinal parasites and receive routine dewormings. Dogs are vaccinated against distemper, rabies, and bordetella, spayed/neutered before adoption, and have a microchip. Adoption fees include the initial automated registration of the microchip at the time of adoption.
We'll also keep you updated on Malinko's adoption status with email updates.
Special Needs
Photo of Malinko

Malinko

American Pit Bull Terrier Boxer

Male, Young
Newton, IA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Not good with kids, Not good with dogs, Not good with cats, Needs special attention, Needs experienced adopter, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Malinko is a great dog he just needs someone who has time for him and time to train him. He needs to be socialized around cats and dogs and children. He has bitten in the past when he has gotten overwhelmed.

These pups are in Des Moines, Iowa too!

Below are our newest added American Pit Bull Terriers available for adoption in Des Moines, Iowa. To see more adoptable American Pit Bull Terriers in Des Moines, Iowa, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria!
We'll also keep you updated on Dinah's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Dinah

Dinah

Boxer Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium)

Female, Young
Des Moines, IA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Dinah is a 6-month-old terrier mix who’s the perfect blend of sweetness and fun. Weighing in at 30 pounds, she’s the ideal size for snuggling on the couch or joining you for an outdoor adventure.Dinah gets along wonderfully with everyone she meets, whether it’s dogs, cats, or kids. She’s already crate trained, house trained, and leash trained—talk about a star student!Her personality is a delightful mix of low energy and playful vibes. Dinah loves her playtime, but she’s equally content curling up next to you for some quality cuddle time. She’s an attentive girl who adores her person and is ready to shower her forever family with love and loyalty.If you’re looking for a sweet, well-mannered companion who will brighten your days, Dinah is the one for you! Apply to meet her today and see why she’s the perfect addition to your family.IMPORTANT: Please read all below, especially if you live outside of Texas, which is where our rescue is located.Apply to adopt on our website: https://www.charmingpetrescue.org/adoptAll of our animals are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on shots.ALL of our animals are located in Boerne, TX, but transport after adoption is available to other states for a $300 fee for dogs or an additional fee varying by location for cats. If you are seeing our pets posted in your state, that's because you live near a transport stop, they are not currently at that location. Petfinder lists our pets as 'Out of Town' pets at other locations, and Adopt-a-Pet lists our location as a Transport stop. Those are currently the only options they offer to make this clear, so we put this description we've put at the bottom to explain it. You can read more about transport here: www.charmingpetrescue.org/transportWe understand transport is not an option for everyone, but we offer it at the cost we pay the transport company for those who wish to adopt from us.January 25, 2025, 5:38 am
We'll also keep you updated on Shorty's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Shorty

Shorty

Boxer Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium)

Male, Young
Des Moines, IA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Shorty is the sweetest and most chill puppy you’ll ever meet. While he enjoys playing, his absolute favorite thing is soaking up love from his people. With an amazing temperament and a charming personality, Shorty treats no one as a stranger—he’s always ready to give out kisses to everyone he meets. He’s a 5.5 month old, 30 pound adorable boxer/terrier mix.Shorty is fantastic with other dogs, cats, and kids. He’s house trained and quickly learns new things. He recently got to go on a camping trip with his foster! They said he did amazing and he travels so well.If you’re looking for a loving, affectionate companion who’s ready to brighten your life, Shorty is your perfect match!IMPORTANT: Please read all below, especially if you live outside of Texas, which is where our rescue is located.Apply to adopt on our website: https://www.charmingpetrescue.org/adoptAll of our animals are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on shots.ALL of our animals are located in Boerne, TX, but transport after adoption is available to other states for a $300 fee for dogs or an additional fee varying by location for cats. If you are seeing our pets posted in your state, that's because you live near a transport stop, they are not currently at that location. Petfinder lists our pets as 'Out of Town' pets at other locations, and Adopt-a-Pet lists our location as a Transport stop. Those are currently the only options they offer to make this clear, so we put this description we've put at the bottom to explain it. You can read more about transport here: www.charmingpetrescue.org/transportWe understand transport is not an option for everyone, but we offer it at the cost we pay the transport company for those who wish to adopt from us.January 25, 2025, 5:38 am
We'll also keep you updated on Dennis's adoption status with email updates.
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Photo of Dennis

Dennis

Boxer

Male, Puppy
Des Moines, IA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Primary Color: Brown Weight: 27 Age: 0yrs 4mths 2wks

Search for an American Pit Bull Terrier puppy or dog

Use the search tool below to browse adoptable American Pit Bull Terrier puppies and adults American Pit Bull Terrier in Des Moines, Iowa.

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American Pit Bull Terrier shelters & rescues in Des Moines, Iowa

There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for American Pit Bull Terrier puppies in Des Moines, Iowa. Browse these American Pit Bull Terrier rescues and shelters below.

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

1.2 miles

Charming Pet Rescue - IA Transport Stop

Des Moines, IA 50309

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

2.7 miles

Animal Rescue League of Iowa Inc.

5452 NE 22nd St, Des Moines, IA 50313

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, farm animals, horses, rabbits, reptiles, small animals

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Rescue

6 miles

God's Dogs Rescue of TX for IA Transport Stop

Clive, IA 50325

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

6 miles

Polk County Humane Society (in Missouri) - Iowa Transport

11101 University Ave Ste B, Clive, IA 50325

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

6.8 miles

Forever Home Dog Rescue

Johnston, IA 50131

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

29.4 miles

Ames Animal Shelter

325 Billy Sunday Road, Ames, IA 50010

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, rabbits, reptiles, small animals

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Shelter

33.6 miles

Marion County Humane Society

1701 E Pleasant, Knoxville, IA 50138

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

34.2 miles

Boone Area Humane Society

228 W 16TH, Boone, IA 50036

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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Rescue

43.7 miles

Almost Home Animal Rescue - IA

Chariton, IA 50049

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

46.1 miles

Poweshiek Animal League Shelter

4167 20th St, Grinnell, IA 50112

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Want to learn more about adopting an American Pit Bull Terrier puppy or dog?

We've got all the info you need on adopting and caring for an American Pit Bull Terrier puppy. Check out the links below for everything you ever wanted to know about American Pit Bull Terrier puppies and adults.

American Pit Bull Terrier basics

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Where do American Pit Bull Terriers come from? How many types of American Pit Bull Terriers are there? From the history of the breed to question about average height, weight and size, brush up on these basic facts about the American Pit Bull Terrier.

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