The Pit Bullmastiff Mix is a powerful and loyal companion that requires experienced owners who can provide the necessary care and attention. This breed is a cross between a Pit Bull and a Mastiff, resulting in a strong-willed dog that demands respect.
They can grow up to 26 inches in height and weigh between 100 to 160 pounds, making them a large and intimidating breed. Their muscular build and broad chest are a testament to their powerful ancestry.
Despite their size, Pit Bullmastiff Mixes are known for their gentle nature and affectionate personalities. They make great family pets, but their strong will can sometimes make them difficult to train.
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Puppies
Puppies are a big responsibility, especially when it comes to a Pitbull Mastiff mix. These dogs can weigh as much as 100 pounds by 12 months.
Before buying a Pitbull Mastiff pup, you should know that they are among the fastest-growing dogs out there. They can weigh as much as 30 pounds by 3 months, 70 pounds by 6 months, and 80 pounds by 9 months.
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You should be prepared to handle a big dog within no time. This means having enough space in your home for your new furry friend to grow and exercise.
Typically, puppies from breeders are expensive but will have proof of health. This comes in the form of health certificates from both parents.
It's essential to see the parents' health certificates before buying a pup. A reputable breeder will allow you to view the pup with the mother and even the father if they are around.
Before looking for a breeder, ask your vet for recommendations. They more than likely know good breeders and those to avoid.
You can also find reputable breeders by asking around your area. Just make sure to stay away from puppy mills and backyard breeders.
Legitimate breeders usually ask to visit your home to assess your capability of housing a Pitbull Mastiff puppy. They will try to observe if you are responsible enough to own such a dog.
For another approach, see: Bullmastiff Breeders
They Are Strong-Willed
Pitbull Mastiffs are incredibly intelligent, which makes them highly perceptive animals.
Their high levels of intelligence also give them a strong will, making them more challenging to train if you're not consistent and patient.
They love people and crave constant companionship, which means they need owners who can provide them with attention and interaction throughout the day.
Pit Mastiffs are not suited for owners who have busy schedules or are away from home for extended periods.
Their loyal nature makes them prone to separation anxiety, which can affect their mental and physical health.
Their energetic personalities require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
Owning Essentials
Owning a Pitbull Mastiff mix requires a lot of maintenance and attention.
You'll need to commit to regular training sessions to help your dog understand basic commands and behaviors. This is especially important for a breed that has guarding instincts.
Their exercise needs are also quite high, so be prepared to take them on daily walks and engage in playtime. Your Pitbull Mastiff mix will need plenty of physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
Researching the breed and spending time with them can help you prepare for the responsibilities that come with owning a Pitbull Mastiff mix.
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Comes in Different Varieties
The Pitbull Mastiff Mix comes in a variety of names, including the Bullmastiff Pitbull Mix, Pit Mastiff, and American Bandogge. This is because the terms "Pitbull" and "Mastiff" are used to describe a group of different dog breeds, rather than a specific breed.
The American Pitbull Terrier is one of the recognized breeds under the Pitbull umbrella, and it's known for its incredible loyalty. Pitbulls are high energy dogs that do well with active owners who can commit to training, socialization, and exercise.
The Mastiff group, on the other hand, is much larger, with fourteen different types of Mastiffs available. This means that the Pitbull Mastiff Mix can come in a wide range of varieties, depending on the specific breeds used in the cross.
Here are some of the different names that the Pitbull Mastiff Mix can go by:
- Bullmastiff Pitbull Mix
- Pit Mastiff
- Pitbull Mastiff Mix
- American Masti-Bull
- American Bandogge
This variety in names is due to the fact that Pitbulls and Mastiffs are terms used to describe a group of different dog breeds, rather than a specific breed.
For Experienced Owners
If you're an experienced dog owner, you know that Pitbull Mastiff mixes are best suited for you.
These dogs come with unique needs that require a deep understanding of working dogs and dogs with guarding instincts.
Their maintenance needs can quickly become overwhelming for novice owners, so it's essential to be prepared for the tasks at hand.
Training, exercise, socialization, medical care, grooming, and affection are just a few of the time-consuming tasks you'll need to undertake as a Pitbull Mastiff mix parent.
Researching and understanding their temperament, qualities, and needs can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and happy experience for both you and your dog.
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Families
If you're a family with young children, it's essential to consider the needs of a Pitbull Mastiff as they can be quite playful and heavy, which could harm tiny kids if left unsupervised.
They love cuddling and bonding with their owners, but this also means they require constant attention and care to ensure they're happy and healthy.
A Pitbull Mastiff is very loyal and will choose to trust you, but they expect the same level of loyalty and care in return.
As excellent guard dogs, they won't hesitate to protect you from harm, which makes them a great choice for families who value their safety.
Three Reasons to Get a Dog
Owning a dog can be a game-changer for your lifestyle and overall well-being. Here are three compelling reasons to bring a furry friend into your life.
First and foremost, dogs make excellent companions and can help you stay active. They need regular exercise, which means you'll get the daily physical activity you need to stay healthy.
Having a dog also means having a loyal protector by your side. They'll be there to defend you in times of need, thanks to their strong sense of protectiveness inherited from their parent breeds.
Lastly, owning a dog is relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. With a short coat that requires only occasional brushing, you'll have more time to focus on the fun stuff – like playing with your new best friend!
Finding a
Finding a Pitbull Mastiff Mix can be a rewarding experience, especially if you consider adoption from a rescue organization that has the dogs assessed in a foster home before they go to their forever homes.
Research is crucial if you plan on buying a Pitbull Mastiff mix, and you should only buy from a responsible breeder who allows you to see mum and her pups living together in a safe and nurturing home environment.
The breeder should not release the pups to their new homes until they are fully weaned and at least eight weeks old, and they should have had their first health checks too.
Taking the time to visit the dog regularly before adopting can help you get to know their personality and behavior outside of their kennel environment.
Care and Maintenance
The Pit Bullmastiff Mix is an active dog that requires regular exercise to stay healthy and well-behaved. At least 45 minutes to 60 minutes of activity per day is recommended to prevent obesity.
To keep your Pit Bullmastiff Mix's mind and body stimulated, you can engage in activities like fetching with a durable frisbee or chew toy. The West Paw Zogoflex Zisc Tough Flying Disc Dog Play Toy is a great option for fetching on land and in water.
Regular grooming is also essential for this breed. Their short coats require occasional brushing and bathing, but be sure to inspect wrinkles regularly to prevent dirt and pathogens from accumulating.
To care for your Pit Bullmastiff Mix's ears, brush their teeth at least two to three times a week, and check and wipe their ears once a week. Their nails should be trimmed carefully when they get too long, as their sensitive nails can be prone to cracking or splitting.
Here's a brief overview of the grooming needs of the Pit Bullmastiff Mix:
Nutrition
Feeding your Pitbull Mastiff Mix requires careful consideration to prevent obesity and ensure they receive the necessary nutrients for optimal health.
A big appetite doesn't mean they should eat all day, as this breed is highly susceptible to obesity. To prevent overfeeding, feed them 3-4 cups of dog food twice a day, or even better, divide their meals into four times a day.
Choose a high-quality dog food that mostly consists of animal protein, and look for premium large breed formulas with real meat as the primary ingredient to support their robust physique and energy levels.
Pitbull Mastiff Mixes need a lot of food to sustain their large bodies, ideally 4.5 to 6 cups of dog food a day. To reduce the risk of bloat, divide their meals into two to three meals spread throughout the day.
Aim for dog food with 25% to 28% protein to supply enough nutrients for strengthening their bones and joints. However, avoid giving them calorie-dense treats as they can lead to obesity.
Your Pitbull Mastiff Mix's dietary needs will change as they age. Puppies under a year old require food specifically designed for them, while older dogs need a gentle, senior dog food that's easy on their digestive system.
Here are some top dog food choices tailored to meet the specific requirements of your Pitbull Mastiff Mix:
- Blue Buffalo Wilderness Dog Food
- Wellness CORE Dog Food
- Nature’s Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Remember, a high-quality and appropriately portion-controlled diet is essential throughout their life to prevent obesity and musculoskeletal problems.
Exercise
Exercise is crucial for a Pit Bull Mastiff Mix, and the right amount can make all the difference in their behavior and overall health. If your dog takes after the American Pitbull parent, they'll need lots of exercise, such as long walks or runs, to burn off energy and prevent destructive behaviors.
A short walk may suffice if your Pitbull Mastiff takes more after their Mastiff parent, who are generally lazy dogs. However, even the laziest of Mastiffs still need some exercise to stay happy and healthy.
The ideal exercise time for a Pit Bull Mastiff Mix is at least 45 minutes to 60 minutes per day. This will help them stay active, avoid obesity, and even stimulate their minds to prevent boredom and unhappiness.
Here are some fun and durable toys to help you provide the right amount of exercise and mental stimulation for your Pit Bull Mastiff Mix:
- West Paw Zogoflex Zisc Tough Flying Disc Dog Play Toy – a durable frisbee for fetching on land and in water
- Monster K9 Indestructible Dog Ball – a 2.5-inch orange ball for playing and chewing
- Mammoth TireBiter Chew Toy with Rope – a durable chew toy and tug toy for playing tug-of-war
If your Pitbull Mastiff inherits more of the Mastiff appearance, be sure to take extra care to prevent overheating during warm summer weather. A short walk around the block a couple of times a day is not enough for this breed, and they'll need plenty of activity to stay happy and healthy.
Grooming
Grooming is a relatively low-maintenance aspect of caring for a Pitbull Mastiff mix. These dogs have short coats that require occasional brushing and bathing, but not extensive grooming needs.
You'll need to brush their coat at least two to three times a week, or daily during shedding season. This will help reduce loose fur and prevent matting.
Bathing your Pitbull Mastiff mix is not as easy as it is with smaller breeds, due to their massive size. You may need to hose them down in a yard or take them to a groomer. However, they only need a bath when they get filthy, which is not often.
Regular ear cleaning is crucial to prevent infections, especially since their ears are prone to moisture accumulation. You should check and wipe their ears once a week.
Trimming their nails is also essential, but be careful not to cut the nerves, which can be painful and cause bleeding.
In addition to these tasks, you'll need to brush their teeth at least two to three times a week to prevent dental disease. A canine tooth brushing kit or dental care kit can help make this process easier.
Here's a summary of their grooming needs:
- Brush coat 2-3 times a week, daily during shedding season
- Bathe every 6 weeks or when filthy
- Clean ears weekly
- Trim nails carefully
- Brush teeth 2-3 times a week
Health and Wellness
As a responsible pet owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential health concerns associated with your Pit Bull Mastiff Mix.
Regular vet appointments are a must to ensure your pooch stays in good condition. This will help identify any health issues early on.
Hip dysplasia, a common condition in large breeds, can lead to arthritis and mobility problems. A healthy lifestyle can help prevent or manage this condition.
Bloating, cancer, eye disease, skin disease, hypothyroidism, cardiovascular disease, and obesity are all potential health issues your Pit Bull Mastiff Mix may face. These health issues are mostly hereditary, but many can be helped or prevented through a healthy lifestyle.
A high-quality dog food made especially for large breeds is crucial for maintaining your dog's overall health. Be sure to feed your dog the right portions to prevent obesity.
At least an hour of vigorous exercise a day is essential for your Pit Bull Mastiff Mix. This will help maintain their physical health and prevent obesity.
Here are some potential health issues your Pit Bull Mastiff Mix may face:
- Hip dysplasia
- Bloating
- Cancer
- Eye disease
- Skin disease
- Hypothyroidism
- Cardiovascular disease
- Obesity
Training
Training a Pitbull Mastiff mix requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. They can be stubborn and strong-willed, so it's essential to establish dominance and show them you're in charge.
To begin training, start with short and sweet sessions, as they can get bored easily. Gentle training is a must, as they respond better to positive reinforcement and tender training sessions. This will gain you their trust and loyalty.
It's crucial to socialize your Pitbull Mastiff mix at an early age, as they can be aggressive towards other dogs if not properly trained. Working on good loose leash walking skills and helping them form new associations when they see other dogs can be extremely beneficial. In cases where their reaction is extreme, consider working with a qualified dog behaviorist that uses force-free training techniques.
To avoid unwanted aggression, surround your puppy with as many dogs as you can when they're young. Take them to the dog park, puppy classes, doggy day care – pull out all the stops. The more kinds of dogs they meet, the better – that means all ages, sizes, and breeds.
Here are some essential tips to keep in mind during training:
- Be a firm trainer and establish dominance over your Pitbull Mastiff mix.
- Use positive reinforcement and gentle training techniques.
- Praise them constantly for following the right orders.
- Work on good loose leash walking skills and help them form new associations with other dogs.
- Consider crate training to reduce potential fights amongst dogs in the home and to help reduce anxiety and stress in your dog.
These Are Large - Need Space!
They weigh between 100-140 lbs (45 – 63 kg), which means they need ample room to move around.
Given their size, a house and a garden are ideal for a Pitbull Mastiff to run and play in.
A flat just won't cut it - they need space to stretch their legs and get some exercise.
If you live in a small apartment, it's best to reconsider getting a Pitbull Mastiff.
A house with a yard is essential for this breed to thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big will a pitbull Bullmastiff mix get?
A Pitbull Bullmastiff mix can weigh up to 150 pounds or more due to its large parent breeds. Expect a sturdy and confident companion with a significant size to match its bold personality.
How much is a Bullmastiff pitbull?
The average price of a Bullmastiff puppy is between $1,000 and $2,500 from a reputable breeder. Prices may vary depending on the breeder's reputation and the puppy's pedigree.
Are pit bull mixes good dogs?
Pit bull mixes can make great pets, with most being friendly and peaceful due to proper socialization and care. However, as with any breed, individual temperaments can vary
Sources
- Pitbull Mastiff Mix Dog Breed Guide - Dogster (dogster.com)
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mastiff (wikipedia.org)
- Olson, K.r., et al. “Inconsistent Identification of Pit Bull-Type Dogs by Shelter Staff.” The Veterinary Journal, vol. 206, no. 2, 29 July 2015, pp. 197–202., doi:10.1016/j.tvjl.2015.07.019. (nih.gov)
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- 12 Things You Should Know About The Pitbull Mastiff Mix (yourdogadvisor.com)
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