The German shepherd Pit-bull Mix is a big mixed breed dog blending the Pit-bull with the German shepherd. He also goes by other names, including German Sheppit, German Pit and Shepherd Pit. This is a hybrid dog with an expected lifespan of about 10 to 12 years. Often used as a guard dog, the German shepherd Pitbull Mix is a powerful and fierce dog, which can only be tamed with proper training and early socialization.
Background
For the past 20 t0 30 years, there has been a sharp increase in the number of hybrid dogs. Also known as designer dogs, these dogs come with a hefty price tag and in most cases have little information available regarding their breeding background. When it comes to the German Pit, the aim was to combine the brains and loyalty of the German shepherd and the power and agility of the Pit-bull. However, you can never be too sure how the puppies turn out. You can get different personalities and looks. To get a better idea of the offspring, let’s look at some details of the parents.
The German Shepherd
The German shepherd dates back to the late 19th century and the early 20th century. In Germany, this dog was bred to herd the sheep, to drive them and safeguard them. The German cavalry officer who decided to design the breed was looking for an intelligent, skillful and athletic dog. He wanted the wolfish dog to also be a working dog so he reached out to the police and military regarding the idea.
This dog is rather reserved with strangers, intelligent but not protective and aggressive. He is completely loyal, easygoing and affectionate with his owner and family. He is a great watchdog, highly trainable, but does require sufficient physical and mental exercise or else he will get bored and start acting up. This dog also cannot stay alone for long periods of time.
The Pit-bull
The bulls and terrier were created in the 1800s in England for taking part in bull and bear baiting, which was quite popular back then. Because its purpose was to fight, this dog was bred as powerful, aggressive and courageous but only to other dogs and animals. Humans can easily reach out to the Pit-bull without risking their lives. At present, this dog is a strong, confident but gentle breed. He doesn’t care if his size is not fit for your lap and still likes to huddle up with his owner and relax. He likes to be the center of attention and loves being around people.
Appearance
The German shepherd Pit-bull Mix is a big dog, weighing around 65 to 85 lbs, and height measuring up to 18 to 24 inches tall. He can get his looks from either parent and will usually have half-bent ears and a short muzzle if he is more on the side of the Pit-bull. He has a short to medium coat which is thick and dense.
Exercise and Training Needs
This dog needs a high level of both physical and mental exercise to stay in best shape and behavior. A brisk walk twice a day, along with some playtime in the Dog Park or yard is recommended. You can also take your German pit on a long run or jog as he will surely love it. Remember to keep the pace slow when he is one year old since his legs are shorter. After that age, however, you can increase his pace.
This dog is not easy to train, and therefore not suitable for first time dog owners. You need to be strong and authoritative or the dog will try to dominate you. However, don’t give in and more than that do not take extreme measures. Use positive means of training, which he is sure to appreciate since he is smart. Socialize him at an early age and make sure you make him interact with other animals to create a better sense of acceptability.
Behavior with Other Animals and Children
As mentioned earlier, the German shepherd Pit-bull Mix can be quite aggressive with strangers, especially other animals if not trained and socialized at an early age. Children should also be taught to play with dogs safely and appropriately to prevent triggering their aggressive behavior and thus getting hurt.
Grooming Requirements
Since the German Pit is a little tough when it comes to training, you will need to instill in him good habits from a young age. This can include potty training, teeth brushing and hair brushing in order to avoid spells of aggression and lost temper. With the help of a wide-tooth comb, brush his coat from top to bottom.
Bathe him once a week, and especially during times of shedding. Also, check for ear infections and wipe his ears once a week, and brush his teeth thrice on a weekly basis. When it comes to nail trimming, it is best you hire a groomer to avoid cutting the nails too deep and hurting your dog.
Possible Health Concerns
It is important that you should request the medical history of the dog you are interested in from its breeder in order to eliminate room for possible fraud. However, you should know this hybrid dog is prone to the following health concerns:
- Allergies
- Skin Disease
- Hip Dysplasia: One of the most important reasons why you have to make sure he gets sufficient exercise.
- Heart disease
- Bloating
- Hypothyroidism
German Shepherd Pit-Bull Mix – Highlights At A Glance
Thinking of adopting a German Pit? Prior to going through the process, it is best if consider the following factors into consideration which hopefully will help you decide better.
- Other Names: Shepherd Pit, German Pit and German Sheppit
- Average Height: 18-24 inches
- Average Weight: 65 to 85 pounds (29.5 to 38.5kg)
- Average Yearly Non-Medical Expenditure: $500 to $600
- Average Size: large
- Breed Type: Crossbreed
- Major Health Concerns: Allergies, joint dysplasia, bloating, heart problems, EPI, DM, hypothyroidism
- A Wanderer or Roamer? Moderate
- Coat Type: Thick, dense, short or medium
- Coat Colors: tan, black, white, fawn
- Grooming Needs: moderate
- Safe for Children: Good to excellent with early socialization and proper training
- Shedding: Moderate
- Brushing Requirements: Everyday, if he lets you
- Good with Other Dogs: Moderate, provided that he is thoroughly trained and socialized- otherwise can be pretty aggressive
- Sensitive to Touch: highly sensitive
- Barking: quite frequent
- Average Price Of A New Puppy: $200 to $600
- Good Pet: Good to very good if socialized at a young age
- Suitable for Apartment? Not really since it is a pretty big dog and therefore requires quite a lot of room
- Suitable for First Time Dog Owners? This type calls for great knowledge and skill in handling, training and dealing with frequent dog aggression and nerves
- Training: Fairly good if the owner is experienced and knows what he’s doing
- Good with Other Pets? Good, only if raised with them
- Exercise Needs: Very high
- Tendency to Gain Weight: moderate
- Average Lifespan: 10 – 12 years
- Hypo-allergic: No
- Good Tolerance to Heat and Cold: Moderate to good
- Tolerance To Isolation: Low
- Average Yearly Medical Expenditure: $485 to $600
Also See:
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- German Shepherd Poodle Mix: Why To Adapt ? Facts about Shepadoodle
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