German Shepherd Pitbull Mix
The German Shepherd Pitbull Mix is a mixed Dog Breed between the German Shepherd and the Pitbull. It is in effect a pitbull mixed with german shepherd. These can both be very protective dogs, although very sweet in their own right, so they should always be observed with caution. Continue reading below to see more information on the german shepherd Pitbull mix puppies, temperament, and german shepherd Pitbull mix puppies for sale.
While we really recommend that you acquire one through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their German Shepherd mixed with Pitbull puppy. That is, if they have any for sale. Always screen your breeders as much as possible to ensure that you are getting as high a quality dog as is possible. If intentionally bred, typically it is a German Shepherd Pitbull mix.
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Here are some pictures of the German Shepherd Pitbull Mix
German Shepherd Pitbull Mix History
Here is a brief history of both the Shepherd and the Pitbull. Being that this is a mixed breed dog, there isn’t a lot of history to it. However, we go more in depth to the history of both breeds.
As his name suggests, the German Shepherd originated in Germany, where he was created in the nineteenth century primarily by Captain Max von Stephanitz, who wanted to develop a dog that could be used for military and police work. The result was a dog that encompassed striking good looks, intelligence and versatility. World War I put a dent in the breed’s burgeoning popularity because the dogs were associated with the enemy. German Shepherds braved artillery fire, land mines and tanks to supply German soldiers in the trenches with deliveries of food and other necessities. After the war, movies featuring Rin Tin Tin and fellow German Shepherd Strongheart brought the breed back into favor. American audiences loved them. For a time, the German Shepherd was the most popular breed in the United States.
The terrier and bulls were created in England in the 1800s to take part in bear and bull baiting. As crazy as it sounds, this was a very popular spectator sport way back when. As archaic as it sounds, when it was banned dog fighting took its place. Being that their sole purpose was to fight, they were bred to be powerful, courageous, and aggressive. However, the aggression was only to be shown to other animals or later dogs. This is actually the case as they can be rather docile. Human handlers needed to know they could approach these dogs or reach into the ring and not get hurt. When they were brought to America they were bred to be larger and were used as farm dogs. They would help hunt, guard and be a companion.
Today this is a confident, strong but gentle dog when bred responsibly. He does not care his size makes him inappropriate for your lap and will do what he can to at least get his head there when it is time to relax together! He is alert but is not aggressive unless he has to protect you from a real threat. He loves people and having company and wants to be at the center of it all as much as possible.
Awesome videos of German Shepherd Pitbull Mix puppies
German Shepherd Pitbull Mix Size and Weight
PITBULL
Height: 19 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 35 - 65 lb.
Lifespan: 8 -15 years
GERMAN SHEPHERD
Height: 22 - 26 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 75 - 95 lb.
Lifespan: 10 - 14 years
German Shepherd Pitbull Mix Personality
The German Shepherd Pit Bull Mix is actually a rather calm dog for the most part, They can certainly be aggressive with people and aggressive with other dogs. It is extremely important that you socialize them as much as possible. That goes for all dogs, socialization is key to a well behaved dog! They will require a good deal of exercise and will appreciate having the ball thrown for them often. They will also enjoy long walks and hikes, which is easier on their joints than running. They won’t do well being left alone in the house for long periods. He is energetic and his behavior will be a lot better if you give him the exercise he needs.
German Shepherd Pitbull Mix Health
All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems as all breeds are susceptible to some things more than others. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. If they won’t do this, then look no more and don’t consider that breeder at all. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition.
The Pitbull mixed with German Shepherd might be prone to the following: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
Do not purchase a puppy from a breeder who cannot provide you with written documentation that the parents were cleared of health problems that affect the breed. A careful breeder and one who truly cares about the breed itself, screens their breeding dogs for genetic disease and breed only the healthiest and best-looking specimens. One of the most common health problems with dogs is obesity. Keeping this under control is your responsibility.
German Shepherd Pitbull Mix Care
Since both the Pitbull and the German Shepherd shed year round, you can expect your German Shepherd Pitbull mix to shed year round too. Make sure that you have a good vacuum around to clean up after them. You will also want to make sure that they are brushed several times a week to prevent shedding absolutely all over the place. Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. The more that you get them used to being brushed the more they will enjoy it. Make sure that you comb from head to tail and take it easy on them.
German Shepherd Pitbull Mix Feeding
A lot of times diet is done on a per-dog basis. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U.S. are overweight. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia.
A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet.