Pit Pei Dog Breed

As a Pitbull-Shar Pei mix, the Pit Pei is not an official member of any breed group. This crossbreed's true origin is unknown, though it's possible Pit Peis were developed during the designer dog craze in the U.S. in the late twentieth century. These dogs are typically used as family pets (and sometimes as guard/protection dogs); as such, they will make loyal, loving additions to the right families--but owners will definitely need to be prepared to deal with a Pit Pei's dominant temperament.

A few Pit Pei facts: the breed is medium- to large-sized (height at the shoulders averages 19 inches, and weight 55 pounds), with short- to medium-length coats in a variety of colors; Pit Peis often have loosely wrinkled skin, a trait inherited from the Shar Pei. Here are some good (and not so good) qualities of these strong-willed dogs:

PROS:

• Fiercely loyal and protective
• Intelligent
• Athletic and strong
• With early socialization, good with kids and most other pets
• Excellent watch/guard dog abilities
• Low barking tendencies
• Moderate grooming requirements

CONS:

• Can be extremely stubborn and dominant
• Early and frequent socialization with people and animals is a must
• High tendency for obesity
• Difficult to train
• Socializes poorly with other dogs; tends toward dominance and aggression
• Moderate to high exercise requirements
• Sheds a good bit
• Aloof, even aggressive around strangers

One word that definitely defines a Pit Pei, both in body and temperament: strong. This Shar Pei-Pitbull mix is the offspring of two breeds that have histories of fighting and protection, so it's no surprise that Pit Peis are instinctively fearless and dominant. These dogs are muscular and agile, and will protect their loved ones to their death if required.

That said, Pit Peis can be extremely loving--if taught correctly from puppyhood. These Shar Pei-Pit mixes are fairly well-balanced if they're raised with kids and other pets, and are shown plenty of affection from a young age. If they're treated with lots of respect and TLC as puppies, they'll grow into affectionate dogs, and will be very loyal, protective members of the household.

If treated harshly, though? Look out. A Pit Pei will be a mean, dangerous animal if it's subjected to tough discipline while young, and will be aggressive towards strangers, other animals, and even family members. They key to a well-behaved Pit Pei is gentle socialization--as early in the dog's life as possible.

Pit Peis are fairly active, but a huge amount of exercise is not required. It is recommended that they get at least some daily exercise, though; if bored or restless, Pit Peis can turn destructive (which is not a good thing!), and they tend to gain weight easily. A long daily walk can work wonders for these dogs.

Protective, affectionate, active, loyal, stubborn, and at times aggressive, the Shar Pei-Pitbull mix temperament is one of confidence and strength. Dogs of this breed are born protectors, and will need to be treated properly from puppyhood to ensure decent behavior. They're typically pretty good with kids and most other animals--other dogs, though, are an exception. Since both their parent breeds have been trained as dog-fighters, Pit Peis are instinctively dominant around other dogs, and will make sure to exert themselves as the leaders--often by showing aggression. Socialization--early and often--is an absolute requirement for these animals.

Training a Pit Pei, unfortunately, is often difficult. Though they're often willing to please, Pit Peis are hard-headed--and if they don't want to learn tasks or commands, they won't be forced to do it. Gentle, consistent training methods might work, but under no circumstances should a Pit Pei be treated harshly. Those who try to force their Pit Peis to learn new skills do so at their own peril.

This stubborn and dominant temperament, however, makes the Pit Pei a superb watchdog. Though they won't necessarily bark at a potential threat, they will instead physically neutralize it--and odds are, they'll be successful.

Pit Peis are typically pretty healthy, often because of hybrid vigor (in which a crossbred animal takes on the healthiest traits of its parent breeds). Some Pit Peis are prone to health issues like cancer, heart problems, hypothyroidism, and bloat; other minor health problems may include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and various allergies.

Life expectancy for these dogs is 10-12 years.