Bullmastiff American Pit Bull Terrier Dog Breed

The Bullmastiff-American Pit Bull Terrier is a mixed breed, and thus is not an official member of any breed group. Neither does any info exist about these hybrids' specific origin, but bull and mastiff types have been interbred for decades, mainly to develop effective guard dogs--so this particular crossbreed has probably existed for decades. These big, imposing dogs are best suited as protectors of people and property, but with training and socialization they can be loyal, affectionate pets as well.

A few Bull Mastiff-Pit Bull mix facts: they're large- to giant-sized (but individual dogs can vary some in size depending on the size of the APBT parent), averaging 22 inches at the shoulders in height and 90 pounds in weight; they have short, smooth coats that only shed moderately; and they're pretty active, and will need a good bit of daily exercise.

Some advantages and drawbacks to owning a Bullmastiff mixed with Pit Bull:

In describing the Bullmastiff-American Pit Bull Terrier mix, a lot of contradictions and gray areas come into play. Some group this hybrid in the Bandogge (pit bull type x mastiff type) category--and while that description is technically correct, a lot of dog breed experts disagree. Whatever this mixed breed's classification, the Bullmastiff-PitBull is sure to be big, protective, and playful.

The Pit Bullmastiff has an interesting personality: it'll be friendly, playful, and affectionate with its human family members--but woe to anyone who tries to harm those people! Since both parent breeds were originally developed to be guard dogs (and with the APBT's long and unfortunate history of fighting), its Pit Bullmastiff offspring will be incredibly protective as well, and will need training early and often to avoid trouble. It's best if these dogs are also leashed at all times when in public to reduce the risk of confrontations with strange people and dogs. If these dogs learn proper manners, though, they'll be great, comforting additions to any family.

Another important bit of Bullmastiff-PitBull mix info is the dog's energy level. While these dogs can be decent snuggle-buddies, they're also incredibly strong and fairly energetic, and will need outdoor exercise on a daily basis.

The Pit Bullmastiff is big, powerful, and imposing, and can strike fear into the hearts of practically anyone at first glance.

Specifically what does a PitBull-Mastiff look like? The head is blocky, the ears medium-length and floppy, and the eyes are various shades of brown. The muzzle is usually short and wide, and the actual nose is black or brown (though the blue nose PitBull-Mastiff mix and the red nose PitBull-Mastiff mix are both possible). The chest is deep and wide, legs straight, shoulders extremely muscular, and the tail is medium-length and curved. Some owners choose to dock the tails or crop the ears, and sometimes both.

The Pit Bullmastiff coat is short and smooth, and comes in a variety of colors.

Protective, loyal, friendly, fun-loving, and sometimes aggressive if not properly trained, the Bullmastiff-PitBull mix temperament is one of devotion and boldness. These hybrids are incredibly affectionate with their loved ones, and will become very defensive of them if they face potential threats. Because of Pit Bullmastiffs' power and loyalty, obedience training and socialization (starting during puppyhood if possible) are absolute musts. These hybrids do get along great with kids, however, and they can socialize pretty well with other pets--though they might try to dominate other dogs, particularly ones of the same sex and similar size. It's best if Pit Bullmastiffs are raised alongside any children or household animals.

In regards to training: a Pit Bullmastiff will usually take pretty well to it, but it'll need a trainer who will take a firm leadership role. Overall, though, these dogs can learn tasks, tricks, and commands without too many repetitions. As with any breed, firm, consistent, reward-based training methods are best.

And as expected, Pit Bullmastiffs have terrific watch- and guard dog capabilities. They'll investigate unknown sights or sounds, and will probably be able to neutralize most any potential threat.

The Pit Bullmastiff, due to hybrid vigor (in which a crossbred dog inherits the healthiest traits from its parent breeds), is pretty healthy. Even so, large dog breeds are generally prone to more health issues; this hybrid in particular may suffer from structural problems like hip or elbow dysplasia, along with hypothyroidism and gastric torsion (or bloat). Potential owners are advised to ask breeders for health screenings for the dog and/or its parents, or they can have their own veterinarians do the screenings.

Life expectancy for the Pit Bullmastiff is 10-13 years.