Frequently Asked Questions
You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers!
How do I reserve a puppy?
It’s best to email me directly about current availability and any upcoming breeding plans. Inquiring individuals will be asked to complete an online puppy application. Once received, I’ll be in touch!
How much does a Tonka puppy cost?
Puppies are $3800, a price which reflects the excellent quality of Tonka Mini Bulls. Price is non-negotiable. All puppies are the same price regardless of sex, color, or show potential.
Do you require a deposit?
Deposits are voluntary and will be applied to the final purchase balance. Once the pups are four weeks old, approved applicants have the option of putting down a $300 deposit to hold a puppy, with the understanding that I reserve the right to return that deposit.
What health testing do you do?
Health testing is a vital piece of a responsible breeding program. All Tonka mini bull pups are born to health-tested parents and are health tested themselves. Every reputable Mini Bull breeder performs the following tests on their breeding stock and litters:
- Genetic testing for PLL (Primary Lens Luxation)
- Genetic testing for LAD (Lethal Acrodermatitis)
- Genetic testing for LP (Laryngeal Paralysis)
- BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) testing for hearing
- Heart Auscultation on puppies, Echocardiogram on adults
- UPCR testing for kidney function
Documentary evidence of the above test results is provided to every puppy buyer.
What colors do you breed?
I do not breed for specific coat colors. Markings vary between litters and between each individual puppy. Please familiarize yourself with the acceptable colors in our breed by consulting the AKC standard and the parent club website at MBTCA.net.
Do I get to choose my puppy?
I will assist my buyers in choosing the right puppy for your goals and lifestyle. Color or markings is the least important factor in determining proper placement. Please keep an open mind and trust me to help you bring home the best puppy for your unique circumstances. Puppies are evaluated and selected for their new families at approximately eight weeks of age.
How do I get my puppy from you?
I strongly prefer you to pick your puppy up from us in person, but if that is impossible, travel arrangements can be made.
What comes with my puppy?
Puppies are sent home with AKC registration, official pedigree, age-appropriate vaccines and deworming, microchip, health and vaccine records, GenSol and BAER test results and a custom puppy pack which includes a blanket, a toy, and a starter food kit. Pups also come with a lifetime of breeder support.
Do you offer a contract?
Yes. All owners are required to sign a contract. A written contract protects both you and me and ensures we have a shared understanding of the terms of your puppy purchase. Show and breeding homes will be asked to agree to a co-ownership as well. A copy of the contract will be supplied for review on request during the application process.
May I meet your dogs?
Yes! Please visit and meet our dogs. You and your family members are always welcome. If an in-person visit can’t be arranged, we will set up Facetime or zoom calls.
May I visit the puppies?
Puppy visits are limited due to health concerns. Puppies are especially vulnerable once their mother’s immunity wears off and vaccines are not administered until between 6-8 weeks of age. But exceptions are sometimes made to help with socialization. However, you will have lots of photos and videos to enjoy!
Will my MBT get along with other dogs?
While our Mini Bulls coexist in our multi-dog, multi-breed, mixed species home, some do best in a single pet household. Mini Bulls are terriers, and can exhibit dog reactivity or aggression and varying levels of prey drive, which is why proper socialization and early positive training is important. Only consider a mini bull if you are aware of these challenges and are prepared to deal with them constructively if they arise. If you own multiple pets and are not willing to potentially crate and rotate, mini bulls may not be the right breed for you.
Are MBTs good with children?
In a word, yes! Minis make wonderful companions for families with children. But puppies and children must be taught clear boundaries with one another, especially during the teething stage. And small children should never be left unsupervised with a Mini Bull of any age. The average Mini Bull is cheerful, outgoing, and energetic and often engages in rough play, especially as a youngster. Consistent, patient training and providing structured opportunities to socialize will help your pup become a well-mannered and loyal pet.
Is my lifestyle a good fit for a Mini Bull?
As Anita Bartell wrote, “His sense of humor and natural ebullience can sometimes lead to clownish antics … but any ‘acting up’ should always be completely good-natured. Minis just want to have fun!” I couldn’t agree more. Mini Bulls are fun-loving, loyal companions. They are forever by your side and always up for an adventure! All terriers share similar traits; they are determined, stubborn, feisty and tenacious. This is why mini bulls do best with confident owners who understand and respect their needs. They flourish when provided a consistent routine, opportunities to exercise and plenty of socialization. They are highly intelligent and have lots of drive and that alone can present challenges, which is why they are not the best breed for an inexperienced dog owner.