5 Pit Bull Hybrid Breeds You Should Know About
Known for their energy and great loyalty, these so-called ‘nanny dogs’ make excellent companions for those looking for a protective and loving pet. These large, muscular dogs have unique beauty and character, but they need responsible owners. In this article we’re going to share some pit bull hybrid breeds with you – don’t miss it!
Despite the misconception of them being aggressive animals, in recent years these dogs have become even more popular, especially among those looking for a unique and distinctive breed. However, before adopting one of these beautiful dogs, it’s important to get to know some of their characteristics and needs, to make sure they’re the right pet for you and your lifestyle.
Popular pit bull hybrid breeds
According to a study published in The Veterinary Journal, when it comes to pit bull hybrid breeds, identification based on appearance alone can be challenging. And even more so when one considers that mixed-breed dogs have outnumbered purebreds among owners.
Each mixed-breed dog has a unique background that can affect their behavior and care needs. For example, some hybrids may have a natural tendency to be more protective or aggressive, while others may be more sociable and friendly.
Here are some of the most common mixes to be aware of.
1. Pitsky
The pitsky is a recent breed and is believed to have originated in the United States as a result of a pitbull and husky mix. Although there’s no exact record of the first crossbreeding of these two breeds, breeding began around the 1990s and became popular in the year 2000.
Pitsky dogs are noted for combining the loyalty and protective temperament of the pit bull terrier with the energy and stamina of the Siberian husky. They tend to have a dense, soft coat, which can come in a variety of colors, including black, white, grey, brown and red. And the fact that they have eyes of different shades gives them a very distinctive appearance.
They tend to be an energetic, friendly and sociable breed. They’re intelligent dogs and need adequate mental and physical stimulation to avoid boredom and anxiety. They’re also very protective animals and can be good watchdogs if patiently trained.
2. Pitweiler
This is one of the most well-known pit bull hybrid breeds, as it’s a crossbreed with a Rottweiler. Pitweilers are usually large dogs, with an average height of 50-60 cm (20 to 22 inches) and a weight of 30-45 kg (66 to 99 pounds). They have a short, glossy coat which can be either black, brown, or grey.
Personality-wise, these dogs are usually very protective of their family, but can also be stubborn and dominant if poorly trained. They’re intelligent dogs and need early training and socialization to help them develop a balanced personality and prevent them from becoming aggressive.
3. Beagle bull
This is the name given to the hybrid breed obtained by crossing an American pit bull terrier and a beagle. The beagle bull is a medium-sized dog, with an average height of between 30 and 40 cm (12 to 16 inches) and a weight of between 13 and 23 kg (28 to 50 pounds).
They have a rounded head and droopy ears, like a beagle’s, and a muscular body structure, like a pit bull terrier. Their coat is short and dense, and can be of various colors, including black and white, brown, and tricolor.
They’re very affectionate and loyal to their families. They’re also intelligent and quick learners, making them easy to train. The bull beagle is an active dog and needs regular exercise and a proper diet to maintain its health and well-being.
4. Pitador
The pitador is a medium to large sized dog, with an average height of between 50 and 65 cm (20 to 26 inches) and a weight of between 25 and 40 kg (55 to 88 pounds). It’s the result of a cross between an American pit bull terrier and a Labrador retriever. They have a broad, rounded head, large eyes, and droopy ears. Their coat is short and dense and can be black, brown, or yellow.
It’s one of the most affectionate and gentle pit bull hybrid breeds, and gets along well with children and other animals. They can be a great addition to any home if provided with proper training, socialization, diet, and exercise.
5. American bully
This is one of the most popular hybrid breeds in recent years due to its muscular appearance and unique personality. It’s bred by crossing several types of pit bull breeds, including the American pit bull terrier, the Staffordshire bull terrier, the American Staffordshire terrier, and the English bulldog.
The American bully has a large, broad head, small eyes and small, erect ears. Its coat is short and shiny, and can be a variety of colors, including white, black, brown, brown, blue, and grey. They’re affectionate and gentle dogs, and get along well with children and other animals if socialized from very young.
Learn more about pit bull hybrid breeds
Welcoming a new dog into your home is one of the best decisions you could make, and if you’re interested in pit bull hybrid breeds, there are plenty of amazing dogs out there waiting in shelters and kennels. So, arm yourself with as much information as you can, and give your future best friend all the care and attention they need to ensure their well-being.
All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.
- Hoffman, C. L., Harrison, N., Wolff, L., & Westgarth, C. (2014). Is that dog a pit bull? A cross-country comparison of perceptions of shelter workers regarding breed identification. Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science, 17(4), 322-339. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4160292/
- Olson, K., Levy, J. (2012). Inconsistent identification of pit bull-type dogs by shelter staff. The Veterinary Journal. Volume 206, Issue 2, November 2015, Pages 197-202. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S109002331500310X
This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.