If you love a dog that’s confident, lively, and loyal, the Pitbull Doberman mix is a great choice. These handsome pups make energetic companions that thrive in an active environment.
So, what exactly is a Pitbull Doberman mix? A Pitbull Doberman mix is a designer breed that results from crossing the American Pitbull and Doberman Pinscher breeds. This crossbreed inherits traits from both its parent breeds. Due to its strong protective instincts, the Pitbull Doberman mix makes an excellent watchdog. However, this crossbreed may develop aggressive tendencies without proper socialization and training.
Crossbreeds usually combine the best of both worlds but they can also be a bit unpredictable. So, what exactly can you expect from the Pitbull Doberman? Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about this lively breed.
Doberman Pitbull Mix – Exercise and Training Requirements
As working dogs, both the Doberman and Pitbull have high energy levels.
A Doberman and Pitbull mix puppy will have the same exercise requirements her parents.
This means at least two vigorous walks per day and access to a secure backyard where she can run loose and play games like fetch and frisbee.
The best way to prevent a bored dog taking their frustration out on the furniture is by burning up their energy.
Both breeds are highly intelligent and used in the military, as well as finding use as police dogs, guard dogs, and therapy dogs.
A Doberman Pitbull mix dog likes lots of doggy jobs to do to channel that focus and feel purposeful.
If you can find dog classes near you specially tailored to working breeds, that’s a great place to start!
Finally, some people are still of the mistaken impression that dogs historically bred for aggression need to be “dominated” by their owner to keep them in line.
This is categorically not the case. Dominance theory has been widely and conclusively discredited.
Like all dogs, your Doberman Pitbull mix will respond best to patience, kindness, and positive reinforcement training.
Doberman Pitbull Mix – Health Issues
Next let’s look to Pitbull and Doberman health, to find out what conditions there offspring might be prone to.
The Doberman has a lifespan of 10 to 12 years – fairly average for a dog of their size.
Since they were bred for work, their health hasn’t been compromised by pursuing any kind of exaggerated appearance.
And breeders looked for healthy dogs to sire more good workers – so generally this breed enjoys a robust constitution.
However, like all pedigrees, there are some health conditions which affect Dobermans more frequently than the canine population as a whole.
The most prevalent amongst these are
The Pitbull’s lifespan is an average of 12 to 14 years.
This breed is also generally healthy but prone to
It is especially important that both parents of Pitbull Doberman mix puppies have been screened for the diseases they have in common – thyroid disease and hip dysplasia.
Tests for both of these should be arranged by the breeder with their vet.
There are also simple tests readily available to identify Dobermans which carry the von Willebrands gene, and Pitbull who carry the degenerative myelopathy gene.
When looking for Pitbull Doberman mix puppies, it is vital that you go to a reputable breeder who tests their dogs for genetic health disorders.
You should also be welcome to observe the living conditions and the health of the puppies.
Puppies under 12 weeks old should still be with their mom when you meet them.
For dog breeds with unpredictable temperaments, like the Doberman Pitbull mix, insist on meeting both parents before you commit to a puppy.
Heart Disease
Heart disease is a concern for many dog breeds including the Pitbull Doberman mix. Regular check-ups are recommended to ensure that any heart problems are detected early.
Maintaining a healthy weight is one way of minimizing cardiac disease. It is important to pay attention to your dog’s nutrition and exercise needs.
FAQ
What is a Doberman and pit mix called?
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