Pocket pittie dogs are a popular breed, but they're not actually a separate breed - they're a mix of a pitbull and a smaller dog breed, often a terrier or a Chihuahua.
They're often referred to as "pocket pitties" because of their small size, but they can still grow up to 20 pounds and live up to 15 years with proper care.
One thing to keep in mind is that pocket pitties can be prone to health issues due to their mixed heritage, so regular veterinary check-ups are a must.
Their small size also means they require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
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Pit Bull Puppies
Welcoming a Pit Bull puppy into your home can be a life-changing experience. They're known for being energetic and protective, making them a great fit for active families.
You can expect your Pit Bull to be highly trainable due to their intelligence. This breed ranks high in trainability, so with consistency and patience, you can teach them to behave well.
As a responsible owner, it's essential to be aware of potential health problems that may arise from their parents. However, by feeding them correctly and providing enough exercise, you can help prevent or manage these issues.
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Puppies
Welcoming a Pit Bull puppy into your home can be a thrilling experience, but it's essential to be prepared for their high energy level. They're medium-sized dogs that require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Pocket Pit Bulls and Pitbulls are intelligent breeds that thrive on training and early socialization. This means you'll need to invest time and effort into teaching them good behavior and manners.
As a breed, Pit Bull puppies can inherit health problems from their parents, so it's crucial to work with a reputable breeder who shares information about the puppy's health. Make sure to ask about the puppy's parents or siblings to get a sense of their overall health.
Pit Bull puppies are active dogs that require a lot of attention and exercise. They're perfect for families who enjoy outdoor activities and can provide them with the physical and mental stimulation they need.
Pit Bull puppies can be more expensive than other breeds due to their exclusivity and high demand. Be prepared to spend a bit more to get a healthy and well-bred puppy.
Puppy Price
A pureblooded American Pit Bull Terrier can cost about $1,000 if you buy it from a reputable breeder.
The price of a Pocket Pitbull puppy is significantly higher, ranging from $1,500 to $2,000.
Some people might think that's a lot to spend on a puppy, but for many, it's worth every penny for the companionship and love they bring to our lives.
Here's an interesting read: Pocket American Bully Puppy
Temperament and Intelligence
Pocket Pits are incredibly intelligent and trainable, making them a joy to work with.
They're highly social dogs that thrive on interaction and attention from their family members.
Their friendly and loving nature makes them great with children and other pets, but early socialization and training are crucial to ensure they behave well in public.
As a breed, Pocket Pits are naturally protective of their families, but this can be managed with proper training and socialization.
They're brave and curious dogs that love to explore their surroundings, and they'll be eager to meet new friends.
Their intelligence and loyalty make them excellent watchdogs, but they can be overly protective if not trained to differentiate between threatening and non-threatening situations.
With proper training and care, Pocket Pits can be sweet and gentle companions that bring joy and love into your life.
Good Family Dogs?
Pocket Pitbulls make excellent family dogs, especially for families with older kids who understand how to treat a dog safely.
They are deeply devoted to their families and can develop behavior problems if not given enough attention. With proper socialization, they can grow into well-behaved pets.
Interactions between dogs and children should always be supervised, especially with small kids who might not know how to treat a dog properly.
Pocket Pitbulls can get overexcited and boisterous around children, so it's best to wait until your kids are a bit older to introduce them.
They are very loyal and protective of their families, making them excellent guard dogs, but with the right socialization, they can also be sweet with strangers.
It's essential to remember that Pocket Pitbulls can accidentally knock over small kids due to their strong and energetic nature.
With the right training and socialization, they can make a great first pet for families who have the time to spend with them.
Never leave your children with your dog unsupervised, as things can quickly escalate and your dog might get too excited and accidentally injure your child.
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Pet Compatibility
Pocket Pitbulls are generally best suited as an only pet, but with proper socialization, they can live with other dogs similar in size or larger. They have a strong prey drive and may not be safe around cats, smaller dogs, and pocket pets.
If you do decide to introduce a Pocket Pitbull to other pets, make sure to supervise interactions closely and ensure the dog is well-trained and socialized. This will help prevent any potential conflicts or harm to the other animals.
Pocket Pitbulls are excellent family dogs and love children, earning them the nickname "nanny dogs" due to their caring nature. However, it's recommended to wait until your children are a bit older to introduce the Pocket Pitbull, as they can get overexcited and boisterous.
Here are some key things to consider when it comes to pet compatibility with a Pocket Pitbull:
Pit Bull Ownership Essentials
As a Pocket Pitbull owner, it's essential to understand their needs to raise a healthy dog. Pocket Pitbulls require a lot of daily activities due to their high energy level, so make sure to provide them with enough exercise.
They are highly trainable, but early and consistent socialization is a must. This breed is known for being loving and playful, but they can be protective if they feel you're in danger. They also have a strong prey drive and may not be suitable for households with smaller pets.
Here are some pros and cons of owning a Pocket Pitbull:
- Size: Their compact size makes them suitable for apartment living or households with limited space.
- Loyalty: They are very devoted to their owners.
- Intelligence: They are smart and trainable, making them great dogs for dog sports.
- Affection: They are extremely affectionate toward their family members.
However, they may be subject to breed-specific legislation, and they could be banned in certain areas. They also may inherit certain health problems from their parents, so regular check-ups with a veterinarian are crucial.
Pet Ownership: Pros and Cons
Pet ownership is a big responsibility, and it's essential to consider the pros and cons before bringing a new furry friend home. One of the biggest advantages of owning a Pit Bull is their loyalty - they are very devoted to their owners.
These dogs are also incredibly intelligent and trainable, making them great for dog sports. Their small size, known as Pocket Pitbulls, makes them suitable for apartment living or households with limited space.
However, it's crucial to note that Pocket Pitbulls may be subject to breed-specific legislation, and they could be banned in certain areas. This is a significant con to consider before bringing one home.
Their high energy level requires a lot of daily activities, so you'll need to make sure you can provide the exercise and stimulation they need. Early and consistent socialization is also a must with these dogs.
On the plus side, Pocket Pitbulls are extremely affectionate toward their family members, making them wonderful companions. However, they may inherit certain health problems from their parents, which can be a concern for some owners.
Here are some key pros and cons to consider:
- Size: Suitable for apartment living or households with limited space
- Loyalty: Devoted to their owners
- Intelligence: Smart and trainable
- Affection: Extremely affectionate toward family members
- Breed-specific legislation: May be subject to bans in certain areas
- Energy level: Requires a lot of daily activities
- Socialization: Early and consistent socialization is necessary
- Health issues: May inherit certain health problems from parents
Owning a Dog
Owning a dog can be a incredibly rewarding experience, but it's essential to be aware of the responsibilities and challenges that come with it. Pocket Pit Bulls, in particular, require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
They're highly intelligent and trainable, making them a great fit for active families who can provide the necessary attention and care. To ensure a happy and healthy Pocket Pit Bull, it's crucial to feed them correctly and provide enough exercise.
Socialization is key, especially for Pit Bulls, which can have a reputation for being aggressive. However, they're actually easy-going dogs that thrive on positive reinforcement and praise. A reward-based training approach is an effective way to train a Pocket Pit Bull, using treats and praise to encourage good behavior.
Early and consistent socialization is a must, as Pocket Pit Bulls can be wary of strangers and other animals. They do best as an only pet, but with proper training and socialization, they can live with other dogs of similar size or larger. However, it's essential to supervise interactions with smaller animals, as their prey drive can be strong.
In terms of pros and cons, Pocket Pit Bulls are suitable for apartment living due to their size, and they're extremely loyal and affectionate towards their owners. However, they do require a lot of daily activities to keep them happy and healthy, and breed-specific legislation may apply in certain areas.
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FAQs
Q: Are Pit Bulls aggressive?
A: No, Pit Bulls are often misunderstood and are generally friendly and outgoing.
Q: Can Pit Bulls be good family dogs?
A: Yes, with proper training and socialization, Pit Bulls can be wonderful family pets.
Q: Do Pit Bulls require a lot of exercise?
A: Yes, Pit Bulls need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Q: How often should I walk my Pit Bull?
A: Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, including a daily walk.
Q: Can Pit Bulls be left alone for long periods?
A: No, Pit Bulls are social animals and require regular attention and interaction.
Q: How can I prevent my Pit Bull from getting into trouble?
A: Provide plenty of toys, training, and mental stimulation to keep them engaged.
Q: Can Pit Bulls be trained?
A: Yes, Pit Bulls are highly intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement training.
Q: Do Pit Bulls make good guard dogs?
A: Yes, their loyal and protective nature makes them a great addition to families who want a watchdog.
Health and Care
As you consider bringing a Pocket Pitter into your family, it's essential to be aware of the potential health issues they may face. Hyperthyroidism is a common problem in this breed.
Proper care can help prevent or manage many of these issues. Regular veterinary check-ups can help catch any potential problems early on.
Hip dysplasia is another concern, which can lead to arthritis and mobility issues if left untreated.
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Lifespan
A Pocket Pitbull's lifespan is a significant aspect of their health and care. On average, they live between 11 and 13 years.
Providing adequate care is crucial to ensure they live a long and healthy life. This involves giving them a healthy lifestyle consisting of a proper diet and adequate exercise.
Male Pocket Pitbulls can reach their full physical and reproductive potential by around 12 to 15 months of age. This is when they can mate with and impregnate fertile female dogs.
Females, on the other hand, can reach sexual maturity as early as six months, but some may take up to two years to develop fully.
Health and Conditions
As a responsible pet owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential health issues that can affect your Pocket Pit Bull. Inherited hypothyroidism is a common health problem in this breed, which can lead to skin and ear problems, as well as eye conditions such as cataracts and cherry eye.
Hypothyroidism can be caused by a deficiency of the thyroid hormone, and it may produce signs such as infertility, obesity, mental dullness, and lack of energy. Fortunately, it can be treated with medication.
Regular vet checkups are crucial to catch any health issues before they become untreatable. A reputable breeder will do health checks on both parent breeds and will not crossbreed if there is a chance of passing on any severe issues to offspring.
Pocket Pit Bulls are also prone to hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, which can lead to arthritis and mobility problems. Genetic heart problems are another potential issue, so it's essential to have your dog's heart checked regularly.
Here are some of the common health issues that can affect Pocket Pit Bulls:
- Hypothyroidism
- Brachycephalic airway syndrome
- Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia
- Genetic heart problems
- Allergies
- Eye conditions such as cataracts and cherry eye
Remember, buying from a reputable breeder and keeping an eye on your dog's health can greatly reduce the chances of your dog suffering from these health issues.
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Exercise and Training
Pocket Pits are extremely active dogs and need at least an hour of hard exercise every day. They enjoy walking, hiking, or jogging with their owners, which helps improve their bond and keeps them both happy and healthy.
Their high energy levels can make them bored, anxious, or destructive if they don't get enough physical and mental exercise. A minimum of 2 to 3 hours of exercise per day is recommended, or an hour of intense activity like a run.
To channel their energy in a productive way, get them an interesting toy like the KONG Floppy Knots Dog Toy. Pocket Pits also need mental stimulation, which can be achieved with interactive dog toys.
Early and lifelong training and socialization are crucial for Pocket Pits. They're intelligent dogs that can learn quickly, but they need patient and persistent training. Positive, reward-based training methods are effective, and they respond well to verbal praise and treats.
Their confidence and independence mean they need to recognize you as their leader for them to be obedient. This requires training and socialization, and clicker training can be an effective way to achieve this.
Exercise
Exercise is essential for Pocket Pit Bulls, and they need at least an hour of hard exercise every day. They thrive on activities like walking, hiking, or jogging with their owners.
Their high activity levels require off-leash time to run around and burn off energy. Pocket Pit Bulls can get bored, anxious, or destructive if they don't get enough physical and mental exercise.
These energetic dogs need a minimum of 2 to 3 hours of exercise per day, or an hour of intense activity like a run. Without ample playtime, they can become highly destructive.
To keep your Pocket Pit Bull happy and healthy, you should engage in activities that improve your bond, like exercising together. Playing games like "fetch" can also keep them mentally stimulated and prevent boredom.
Pocket Pits are sensitive to sun and heat, so exercise them during cooler parts of the day and provide shade and water breaks. Their short noses and flatter faces make them prone to overheating.
Remember, these dogs are meant for active people, and they'll thrive in households that can provide them with the exercise and attention they need.
Training
Training your Pocket Pit Bull is a vital part of their development and can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your dog.
Early and lifelong training and socialization are essential for your Pocket Pit Bull. They don't have much room for behavioral error when it comes to how society views and treats them. Focus on using positive, reward-based training methods.
These dogs respond well to positive reinforcement training, including verbal praise and reward-based training such as treats. They are powerful dogs, so ensure they respond to your calling their name before training them in a public space.
Clicker training is an effective way to train your Pocket Pit Bull. It involves using a clicking device that makes a sound whenever you want the dog's attention. Tailor the sound to whatever command you want the dog to execute, and reward them with treats.
Pocket Pitbulls are highly perceptive of your emotions. Avoid displaying negative emotions around them, as they can pick up on it. Show your excitement and praise them when they do something right or put in effort.
Reward-based training is an effective way to train Pocket Pits. It involves rewarding the dog with a treat whenever they follow instructions correctly. Since Pocket Bullies love treats, they will be quick to understand the things that get them rewarded.
With time and consistency, your Pocket Pit Bull will learn to execute commands and behave well in polite company. They need early and consistent socialization and training to make sure they know how to behave around other dogs and people.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big do pocket bully Pit Bulls get?
Pocket bullies typically weigh between 30-50 pounds and stand 12-16 inches tall. They are significantly smaller than standard pit bulls.
How much is a pocket pitbull?
A pocket pitbull typically costs between $1500 to $2000. This investment brings years of love and affection to your family.
Do pocket pitbulls have health problems?
Yes, Pocket Pitbulls are prone to breed-specific health issues, including hip dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies, inherited from their purebred parents. With proper care, they can still live a relatively long life of 11-13 years.
Sources
- A post shared by Dax & Dobby 🐾 (@bigolpitties) (instagram.com)
- cataracts (webmd.com)
- Allergies (vcahospitals.com)
- hypothyroidism (vcahospitals.com)
- Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia (aspengrovevet.com)
- Pocket Pitbull Dog Breed Health, Grooming, ... (petguide.com)
- Pocket Pitbull - Top Breed Guide (animalcorner.org)
- allergies (petmd.com)
- Pocket Pitbull - Small But Fascinating Dog (worlddogfinder.com)
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