Doberman Pitbull Mix

The Doberman and Pitbull are both very famous dogs. But the doberman pitbull mixbreed dog is an exotic species of dog. Let us find out all about this unique species.

Ancestry

Doberman Pinscher and American Pit Bull Terrier

Lifespan

12-14 years

Average Size (both Male and Female):

• The average Doberman Pit Mix measures 22-28 inches from the ground.
• They weigh 35 ponuds to 80 pounds.

The Appearance, Temperament, Health, etc of this mix varies depending on which gene they inherit from the parents. It is thus highly unpredictable and only a broad generalization is possible looking at the various features of both the breeds.

Health Concerns

• The Doberman Pit mix is a healthy and robust dog because of their active and healthy ancestors.
• Cardiomyopathy, Hip Dysplasia, Aortic Stenosis, CVI (Wobbler’s Syndrome) are some of the major aliments that these dogs suffer.
• These hybrid dogs cannot be left alone for large periods of time as they are at a high risk of suffering from anxiety disorders.
• These dogs may also suffer from some skin aliments and appropriate precautions like use of some skin cream must be taken to avoid the same.

Appearance

• It is seen that this mix has the face and neck of a Pitbull and body shape of a Doberman.
• A Doberman Pitbull mix is generally a medium sized muscular dog.
• This mix has normally dense straight coat hair of short length and middle density.

Temperament

• The temperament of this mix will depend a lot on the genetic makeup of the parents and what the puppy inherits.
• It is a highly fickle exercise to exactly predict the temperament of the puppy even after knowing the parents because even the upbringing of the puppy will contribute towards its nature. But the real joy lies in not knowing and discovering your dog as it grows up.
• It is recommended that the puppy is not separated from its mother for the first 12 weeks to give it a stable and safe beginning.
• Both the parent dogs are aggressive dogs used historically for fighting. So, a lot of socialisation and positive reinforcement will be required while it is growing up, to overcome its aggressive nature and grow up to be a calm, confident dog who does not resort to violent behaviour at the merest of provocation.
• Also, do remember that they will always retain some amount of aggressiveness in their behaviour and will never be completely docile dogs.
• They have strong protective instincts and will prove to be wonderful guard dogs.

Exercise and Training Requirements

• Both the parent breeds are highly active dogs and were used as Military and Police dogs amongst other uses. The mix breed child will also thus inherit a high energy.
• It will need to be taken for a walk or run outdoors at least twice daily. They need at least 75 minutes of activity per day.
• An open backyard is also recommended for the owners of this mix, as a free run of the backyard or a chance to play games, will channel its energy into positive use and will discourage frustration from building up.
• As the parent breeds are both aggressive breeds trained to fight historically; this mix is not recommended for first time dog owners.
• A kind and gentle hand is required to train these dogs. The positive reinforcement training method to train these dogs is the best method.

Upkeep

• The care and maintenance of this dog is easy. It is not a fussy dog and will calmly undergo your various ministrations if he is used to them since he was a puppy. But any change in routine will be initially tough.
• The coat requires to be brushed about once a week except during the shedding season.
• A daily bath is not essential for this dog and even once a week will suffice.
• The nails on the other hand will be required to be trimmed regularly otherwise they have a tendency to get hard.
• They need about 3 cups of dog food daily.

Best Environment

• These dogs are best brought up on open farms or houses with an open backyard to allow them freedom of movement.
• The apartment style of life is not well suited for these dogs. They need open space to run about.

Disadvantages

• They are high energy dogs and require lots of outdoor space to run and play about.
• They are aggressive dogs inherently and may exhibit violent behaviour towards other people or animals and thus proper care must be taken.
• They cannot be left alone for long periods of time and are in need of constant companionship.
• They need a strong and dedicated training.