The German Shepherd Pit Bull is a cross between the German Shepherd and American Pit Bull Terrier breeds. Energetic, Medium to large, and loyal, these dogs inherited some of the most suitable traits from both of their parents.
These breeds are friendly when they have proper socialization training, and they’re loyal to a fault. Both parent breeds are hardworking dogs. Due to their athletic build and superior intelligence, they are often tasked with police work and guarding.
An apartment wouldn’t do for these dogs. German Pit needs large houses with yards to run around. If given definite works, you’ll have one happy dog. However, when under-stimulated, these dogs can develop behavioral problems and become destructive.
Agility, Conformation, Field Trials, Hunting Tests, Obedience, Rally
Complication in breeding
No
No
Litter Size
6 to 8 puppies
6 puppies
Lifespan
9 to 13 years
10 to 15 years
Other Names
Alsatian, Deutscher Schaeferhund
Pudel, Caniche
German Shepherd Pit BullMix Personality
Commonly, a female German Shepherd and a male Pit Bull are crossed to get a German Pit offspring. The German Pit matches more its Pitbull parent, with a short muzzle and a broadhead, while some may also possess a longer muzzle, just like the German Shepherd. Additionally, they prefer warm environments due to their shorter coat. Shedding happens throughout the year but moderately. Overall, the German Pit has a lean and muscular physique.
The parents of this crossbreed are powerful and fearless; that is why it’s essential to note that this dog is not suitable for everyone. However, if trained correctly, the naturally aggressive character of these dogs can be reduced. Despite this negative temperament, the German Pits are loyal and affectionate to their family members. This breed can be great for children with proper socialization, making them a terrific option as a family companion pet.
Friendliness Overview
Affection level
Medium to High
Family-Friendly
High
Kid-Friendly
High
Pet-Friendly
Medium
Strangers-Friendly
Medium to High
Adaptability Overview
Good for New Pet Owners
Medium
Good for Apartment Living
Medium to High
Sensitivity Level
Medium to High
Tolerates being alone
Low
Cold Tolerance
Medium
Heat Tolerance
Medium
German Shepherd Pit BullMix Temperament
It is hard to predict the accurate temperaments of a designer dog, just like their appearance, as they could inherit any configuration of their parents’ character. German Shepherds are intelligent, energetic, loyal, and protective, while Pit Bulls are faithful, devoted, and affectionate. You can expect a German Pit to exhibit any of these traits.
When trained correctly, a German Pit is incredibly affectionate. Unfortunately, they may try to dominate other pets and can desire to be the pack leader. However, they are well-mannered in a house with proper training, exercise, and socialization. These positive impacts are imperative to controlling their domineering instincts.
Although a German Pit can entertain itself, they mostly relish being around their people and craves affection and attention. As a result, the German Pit makes excellent family dogs.
German Shepherd Pit BullMix Exercise Needs
Proper training is essential for a German Shepherd Pitbull mix. As mentioned, they are very dominant and quick learner dogs, which can manifest into aggressive or stubborn behavior. Therefore, they demand consistent attempts to train efficiently. In addition, they require at least 90 minutes of exercise every day to keep them healthy and fit.
Exercise Needs Overview
Energy Level
Medium to High
Exercise Needs
Medium to High
Playfulness
High
Intensity
Medium to High
German Shepherd Pit BullMix Training
Proper training and socialization should start when she is a puppy,usually as early as seven weeks old. However, don’t let this hinder you from adopting an adult dog. You can still train an adult dog, but you may face difficulties that require additional commitment and dedication.
Always use positive reinforcement, even if they are showing stubbornness. Positive reinforcement increases the bond you share with your dog and enables you to develop a connection based on respect and trust.
Trainability Overview
Easy to Train
High
Intelligence
High
Prey Drive
Medium
Tendency to Chew, Nip & Play-bite
Medium to High
Tendency to Bark or Howl
Medium
Wanderlust Ability
Low to Medium
Attention/Social Needs
Medium to High
German Shepherd Pit BullMix Grooming
German Shepherd Pitbull is an excellent option if you’re looking for a breed with easier grooming requirements. However, they need low-to-medium maintenance due to their short coat and moderate shedding.
Due to their inclination for sensitive skin, a German Pit should only be given baths when required and not more than once a month. Due to their inclination for sensitive skin, a German Pit Bull should only be given baths when required and not more than once a month. Over bathing can eliminate natural oils and cause dry skin. It’s also important to use shampoos designed for sensitive skin types, as they will be less harsh on their skin.
Ear cleaning is essential, especially if bent or flopped over, as this lessens air circulation and can cause ear infections. In addition, their nails should be trimmed every few weeks to keep their paws clean and healthy. This should start at a young age to avoid fear or aggression towards grooming routines later in life.
Grooming Overview
Amount of Shedding
Medium
Tendency to Drool
Low
Tendency to Snore
Low
Easy to Groom
Medium
German Shepherd Pit BullMix Health
German Shepherd Pitbull Mix is susceptible to health issues that are common to their parents. Therefore, regular health check-ups are vital to identify and cure potential health conditions.
Health Overview
Basic Health
Medium
Weight Gain Possibilities
Medium
Size
Medium to Large
Patellar Luxation: This is the slipping of the knee cap from its location in the legs. Symptoms are that the dog might feel uncomfortable while walking or running and kick their leg to set the knee cap back on its position. Patellar luxation and mild symptoms on one leg can be treated with medication.
Hypothyroidism: A disorder in the thyroid gland that is considered to cause obesity, hair loss, epilepsy, lethargy, dark skin patches, and other skin conditions. This disorder can be treated with medication and a proper diet.
Epilepsy: This isan inherited disorder for which the reason is unknown. Canines may undergo seizures one or the other time but seem completely normal in between the events.
Bloating: Gastric Dilatation or bloating is a disorder in the digestive system. The stomach spins, dilates, and twists, creating a lot of pain for the affected dog. This condition will also destroy the blood vessels and prevent blood flow to major organs, leading to organ failure.
Heart Disease: Heart Diseases might create abnormal heart rhythm and murmurs. This disease can be diagnosed through an ECG or an X-ray. Therapy depends on the cause and ranges from medication, dental care to weight control.
Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a hereditary disorder caused when the socket part of the hip does not entirely fit the ball portion driving to joint dislocation. This disorder may happen at birth or in early life. When the affected dog ages, hip dysplasia can further evolve into arthritis. This life-threatening disease can be cured through hip replacement surgeries or medications.
Allergies and Skin infections: Few German Shephard Pitbull mixes suffer from various allergies, ranging from food allergies to contact allergies. Regular checking and grooming your dog after outdoor visits can avoid this condition.
Von Willebrand’s Disease: A hereditary blood disorder that conflicts with its clot ability. The chief symptom is excessive bleeding after injury or surgery. Other symptoms include nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or bleeding in the intestines or stomach. Unfortunately, there is no proper treatment for this condition, and a blood transfusion from normal canines’ blood is the only treatment.
Parvovirus: This disease is mainly seen in pups under 16 weeks of age when exposed to unclean and crowded places. Parvovirus causes vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, dehydration, and fever. Excessive dehydration could affect blood circulation in your canine.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A collection of eye diseases affecting the retina’s slow deterioration. In the beginning stages of this condition, dogs become night-blind. As it progresses, they lose their sight during the daytime as well. However, most dogs slowly adapt to their short or complete vision loss as long as their home surroundings remain the same.
Megaesophagus: Megaesophagus is a congenital disorder defined by an expanded esophagus in dogs. It hits the esophageal motility that brings the food from mouth to stomach. Symptoms include weight loss, anorexia, vomiting, and bad breath.
Kidney Disorder: Kidney stones or bladder stones are the most common problems with the German Shepherd Pitbull mixes caused by kidney infections, hormonal changes, dehydration, and changes in the diet. Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever, blood, and pus in the urine. Consult your vet to alleviate the health risks.
German Shepherd PitBullMix Diet and Nutrition
Feed your German Shepherd Pitbull Mix high-quality dog food or homemade food. Diet plans vary based on each dog’s size and health status. You can contact a veterinarian before preparing a diet schedule to formulate according to their nutritional requirements. For an adult German Pit, you can serve 2 to 4 cups of food twice a day.
German Shepherd Pit BullMix Living Condition
German Pits are active and have the potential to be destructive when they are bored. In addition, their temperament and size make them not fit for apartment living. The perfect living situation would add a spacious backyard to run around efficiently with a fence to help control their protective nature.
In general, German Pits require around 90 minutes of exercise every day, preferably briskly. However, physical exercise is not the only thing to consider with this breed. She is an intelligent breed who also demands a lot of mental stimulation. This can be accomplished through interactive toys and daily training exercises.
Mischievous behavior of Pitskies can be dramatically lessened with proper exercise. In the case of the German Pit Bulls, tendencies towards destructive behavior, aggression, digging, and excessive barking can surface when they find themselves with too much pent-up enthusiasm. They require more exercise than other breeds, but she has no problem cuddling up next to you and settling down once she is worn out.
Adding a German Shepherd Pit BullMix to Your Family
Things to Remember Before Buying a German Shepherd Pit BullMix
It is recommended to buy from local, reputable breeders as they guarantee the health and happiness of both the puppies and parents. They should provide health clearance documents along with gene tests for a vaccinated dog. So, you can be careful of the possible health diseases that can affect your puppy. Also, try to meet the parents to get a view of your puppy’s personality and temperament.
Cost of a German Shepherd Pit BullMix Puppy
A German Shepherd Pitbull Mix puppy from a responsible breeder will cost an average of around $800 to $1000.
