Pitbull Terriers are one of the most controversial dog breeds in the world. German Shepherds, on the other hand, are among the most respected for their intelligence and loyalty despite themselves also having a bit of a volatile side. Given how fundamentally different these two breeds are, it is surprising just how well the German Sheppit mix works out.
A German Shepherd Pitbull mix is a mixed-breed dog developed by breeding between a female German Shepherd and a male Pitbull. Given the major differences in aesthetics between the two contributing mixes, it is a bit difficult to describe their appearance with a standard set of features. When it comes to personality, on the other hand, most of these mixed-breed dogs take the best features of both parents for a bold, intelligent, and deeply loyal companion.
If you are considering getting yourself a German Shepherd Pitbull mix, you need to know what to expect from its price, its maintenance needs, and its personality. Let’s take a look at all this and more that you should know before getting a German Sheppit Mix.
How Big Will A German Shepherd Pitbull Mix Get?
German Shepherd Pitbull mixes are commonly referred to as German Sheppit doggies or German Pits.
The size and physical appearance of these dogs are difficult to predict as they usually take random features from both parents. For some perspective, here are a few possible features you may get with your Sheppit pup.
Size And Build
German Shepherd Pitbull weight between 40 and 90 pounds and measure 17 to 26 inches when fully grown.
This puts them in the medium to large breed category, somewhere larger than your regular Pitbull and smaller than a standard German Shepherd. This size depends entirely on genetics, with large parents producing large Sheppits.
The build, on the other hand, is often very similar to that of the German Shepherd parent with a large but proportionate torso and strong legs. However, there are times when the dog takes after the more compact and muscular form of the Pitbull.
Skull And Facial Features
The best way to describe what a German Shepherd Pitbull mix looks like is that they have the body of a German Shepherd and the face of a Pitbull.
Like their terrier side of the family, German Sheppits tend to have large, wide-set eyes, a wide snout, and may even have forehead creases. The ears are usually droopy like the Pitbull’s but may also be long and perky.
Coat Type And Color
This depends on the parent’s coat type and color. The coats are usually either short or medium length and come in different colors, including single solid tones of brown, tan, and black or combinations of different colors.
How Long Do German Shepherd Pitbull Live?
A German Shepherd Pitbull mix will most likely live between 10 to 12 years.
This is more or less what you would also expect from the German Shepherd and Pitbull breeds. This mixed dog breed is very healthy. The few conditions they may have are those common to both breeds and include:
Skin Irritation
You may notice that your Sheppit is scratching a lot and may even develop complications like hair loss, bruising, and even skin infections. More often than not, these issues are caused by skin irritation from things like fleas and mites.
It can also be a result of allergies which both parent breeds commonly suffer from. These include allergies to pollen, some fabrics, ingredients in cleaning and grooming products, and even food allergies.
Hypothyroidism
This condition is marked by low levels of thyroid hormones in the dog’s body. As a result, metabolic functions are thrown into disarray. Some of the common signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism in these dogs include weight gain and coat changes, including alopecia.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Unfortunately, Progressive Retinal Atrophy is irreversible in dogs and affects both eyes. The first signs that you may pick up include your dog being suddenly nervous in the dark and constantly bumping into things.
Hip Dysplasia
This usually happens if the German Shepherd Pitbull mix ends up being large and built like the German Shepherd side. It causes abnormal formation of the hip joint resulting in compromised motility and increased risk of arthritis later in life.
How Much Does A German Shepherd Pitbull Mix Cost?
The average price of a German Shepherd Pitbull mix is $500.
This makes the Sheppit puppies among the most affordable designer doggies, especially in their size categories. However, the prices can be higher, particularly in locations where Pitbulls are banned or tightly regulated as stud fees subsequently get higher.
The Sheppit mix can also cost you upwards of $1,500 in cases where German Shepherds from prized bloodlines are used in the breeding.
Despite the possible markups, Sheppits are, for the most part, affordable. Here are a few reasons why.
The Contributing Parent Dog Breeds Are Common
The German Shepherd breed is one of the most common ones in the world. Pitbulls are also relatively common despite the tight regulations on their breeding and ownership in most parts of the country and of the world.
The fact that the parents are easy to find makes their mixed offspring quite affordable. It is also one of those breeds you might actually find in shelters for less than the $500 average price.
There Is Demand For The Sheppit Mix
Another reason why Shepherd Pitbulls are affordable is the fact that there is actually a demand for such breeds in the designer dog market. It may seem like an unusual pairing, but these dogs make for awesome companions and guard pooches.
Sheppit Mixes Are Relatively Easy To Breed
When developing the Sheppit, German Shepherds are more often used as females. This is because the German Shepherd dog breed is large and relatively healthy when it comes to pregnancy and delivery.
Such factors make mother Shepherds easier to be taken care of during this delicate time. Without many pregnancy complications to worry about, the Sheppit becomes very easy to breed.
Are German Shepherd Pitbull Mix Good Dogs? Temperaments Of German Shepherd Pitbull Mix
Most people assume that German Shepherd Pitbull mixes are problematic and even potentially dangerous dogs. This is because both parents are known for being very bold and confrontational, especially the Pitbulls.
Surprisingly, the German Sheppit is not a dangerous dog when raised correctly and shown affection. In fact, here are some of its main personality traits, so you know what you are getting yourself into.
Intelligent
German Shepherds are widely regarded as among the top 5 smartest dogs. And though many people may not realize it due to their reputation, Pitbulls are also pretty smart. You can therefore expect a very intelligent German Sheppit pup.
They also happen to be very eager to please. This combination of qualities makes them both easy to train and to live with.
Loyal
Sheppit mixes are also very loyal, which makes them ideal for their roles both as companion pets and guard dogs. They will form strong bonds with the people that show them the most love and attention.
Bold And Extroverted
German Shepherd Pitbull mixes are also very confident dogs. When socialized from an early age, they are very extroverted and will not hesitate to make new human and animal friends whenever the opportunity presents itself.
Level-Headed
Contrary to popular misconception, German Sheppits are not dangerous dogs, especially if there is no history of trauma in their background. The dogs are actually quite level-headed and tolerant, even of other pets.
However, socialization training is crucial to ensure this is the case.
Do German Shepherd Pitbull Mixes Shed? Grooming Tips For German Shepherd Pitbull Mix
German Shepherd Pitbull mixes can take after either parent’s coat type. This could be long or medium length from the German Shepherd size or short and dense like the Pitbull.
Whichever they end up taking after, they are unfortunately not hypoallergenic and may shed moderately to heavily.
Regular grooming is crucial to dealing with shedding, possible matting, odors, and much more. Here are a few key tips on how to take care of German Shepherd Pitbull mixes in terms of grooming needs.
Brush Their Fur Every Other Day Or Two
If the dog does not shed too heavily, you can get away with a shorter interval of twice every week. Otherwise, you will have to brush with a sleeker tool, like the FURminator Undercoat Tool, 3 to 4 times a week. This tool is ideal with its strong bristles being just what you need to get through the often incredibly dense coat.
For those few strands that still make it onto your floors, consider getting the iRobot Roomba i3+. This automated vacuum stands out as it is designed to work on pet dander, including fur.
Wash Them On A Monthly Basis
Sheppits can get stinky especially when they have skin issues like allergies and pest infestations. Washing on a monthly basis is a great way to offer relief while also managing any odors. Paws & Pals 6-In-1 Oatmeal Dog Shampoo is ideal for the job with its soothing formula and multi-functionality.
Invest In Dental Water Additives
To avoid bad odor and dental issues like cavities and gingivitis, invest in dental water additives for dogs. These contain natural ingredients, including herbs that help with everything from freshening the breath to reducing inflammation.
Related Questions
Can A Pitbull Kill A German Shepherd? Yes, a Pitbull can kill a German Shepherd. While German Shepherds are often larger, they are not always stronger than the very muscular Pitbulls. Pitbulls can also be particularly brutal and relentless in their attack which serves as a huge advantage in fights making them potentially more dangerous than the larger German Shepherd.
Can Pitbull And German Shepherd Live Together? Yes, a Pitbull and a German Shepherd can actually live together. However, it is not always a good idea given how dominant their personalities are. To improve the chances of success with this pairing, make sure to introduce the two to each other when they are young. It is also best to avoid having two males together as they are more likely to get into altercations in such pairings.
Should I Get A Pitbull Or German Shepherd? German Shepherds are the best choice when it comes to practical reasons like ease of training and maintenance. They also happen to get along better with children, which is awesome if you want a companion or a family pet. However, it all boils down to personal preferences as Pitbulls also have a lot to offer including a quirky and surprisingly affectionate personality.
