Bulldogs were bred for a sport known as “Bull baiting.” Whichever dog bites the nose of a bull first wins. To accomplish this, the dogs had to be brave. Pit bulls are another fearless dog breed. So, what happens when you cross an English bulldog with a pit bull?
An English bulldog/pit bull mix is one of the most playful and well-natured dog breeds. They are friendly towards humans and other animals. However, they can be stubborn like their pit bull ancestors. English bulldog pit bull mix is typically medium-sized dogs. However, they can be relatively short.
Even in the most passionate pet-loving communities, seeing an English bulldog crossed with a pit bull is not very common. So, finding information on the mix can be challenging. But, if you consider bringing one of these incredible dogs into your family, I recommend you keep reading.
English Bulldog Pit/Bull Mix Description
Crossing an English bulldog with a pit bull can yield different results almost every time. However, there are a few signature trademarks that you can spot on most dogs. For example, pit Bulls and bulldogs have very recognizable faces.
English bulldogs/pit bulls are typically very muscular dogs. However, they are not the tallest, standing at around 45 cm tall. Almost all of these dogs will have a white patch around their chest, and their face will resemble more of a pit bull than a bulldog.
That said, the dogs can have a very intimidating look, but their disposition is generally friendly, and they are not the most aggressive dogs, although that can depend on training. English bulldogs/pit bulls are powerful dogs with solid and athletic physiques.
English Bulldog Pit Bull Mix Temperament
Any mixed-breed dog will pick up traits from both its parents and ancestors. However, it is essential to remember that every dog is different. For example, your English bulldog cross pit bull might be different from the next, even if the difference is insignificant.
The primary reason is that it depends on which genes were the more dominant during the breeding process. However, the differences are minor in most cases. That said, let’s take a brief but essential look at the temperament of an English bulldog cross pit bull and its parents:
- English bulldog/pit bull mix temperament: These dogs are happiest in social environments, especially their family. Their playfulness is by far their most charming quality, making them revered as companions. While being somewhat submissive, these dogs are fearless and will try almost anything fun or dangerous.
- Pit bull temperament: Pit bulls are loyal companions that are not afraid to protect their families. These dogs are joyful and excitable. They can’t hide their excitement even if they want to, as you can see from their side-to-side wobble and tail wagging. That said, pit bulls can be stubborn.
- English bulldog temperament: These dogs are friendly, happy, playful, and curious. They are not afraid to be active and try new things. For example, most of the videos online of dogs surfing or skateboarding are bulldogs.
Surfing And Skateboarding Bulldog
Overall, English bulldogs/pit bull mix dogs inherit all the best traits from both breeds. However, as with all pit bull mix dogs, it is advisable to start training them at a young age.
Are English Bulldog Pit Bull Mix Breeds Good Family Dogs?
The Staffordshire bull terrier used to go by the nickname “nanny dog” because it used to look after children, and it did it really well. So not only were children safe, but they had a loyal friend and companion throughout the day.
English bulldogs are highly social dogs that love company, whether it be adults or children. The dog is typically medium-energy and easy to manage. , Not only are they inquisitive, but these dogs are well-natured and loving pets.
I mentioned earlier that an English bulldog/pit bull picks up all the best traits from both breeds. As a result, you will end up with a great family pet that is loyal, loving, protective, and an overall fantastic addition to any family.
It is essential to remember that every dog is different, and some might be as good as others when it comes to being a family dog. It is highly advisable that you start training early and teach your kids, if you have any, to respect the dog and not put it in uncomfortable situations. For example, hugging around the neck of any dog is always a no for any child
What Is The Average Size Of An English Bulldog Pit Bull Mix?
English bulldogs and pit bulls have significantly different body shapes. One is short, stocky, and muscular, while pit bulls are medium-sized dogs with athletic builds, at least in their younger years. That said, let’s take a closer look at the numbers:
- English bulldog/pit bull mixes average around 45cm tall for both males and females.
- Both male and female English bulldogs average between 30cm and 40cm tall.
- Pit bulls are the larger in the lineage averaging around 50cm tall. Again, this is for both males and females.
While the mix dog does not get as big as a pit bull, they are generally a lot more muscular, and this can be down to both breeds being relatively strong.
Many people think of these types of dogs as large ones and can be confused when they hear it is only a medium-sized dog. To put it in perspective, English mastiffs can grow up to 89cm tall, much larger than a pit bull, English bulldog, or a cross between the two.
English Bulldog Pit Bull Mix Health Issues
Most dogs have common health issues that get passed down through their genetics. The same can be said regarding English bulldogs/pit bulls. However, English bulldogs are known to have a few more health complications than most other dogs, and unfortunately, Those genes can also be passed down to the mixed dog.
Before we get into it, it is always advisable to take your dog to a vet if they are showing symptoms of any illnesses or even if you are unsure. That said, here are a few common health issues that English bulldogs/pit bulls may experience:
- Respiratory issues: This issue is typically passed down from bulldogs and is due to their short nose, which may cause trouble breathing.
- Reverse sneezing: This issue is not as severe as others. However, a vet should be seen if the problem becomes more frequent.
- Heart disease: Both pit bulls and English bulldogs can pass down genes that contribute to heart disease in the cross.
- Obesity: As your dog ages, they are more prone to obesity, which can lead to other complications. Keep an eye on your English bulldog/pit bull.
- Skin problems: Pit bulls suffer from a few skin conditions. One of the most troubling is eczema which can be quickly sorted out after a short visit to the vet, who will typically recommend a strict diet whenever eczema starts to flare up.
- Joint problems: Again, pit bulls tend to suffer joint issues, especially as they age. This is due to genetics and can be passed down to an English bulldog/pit bull.
The list of health issues these dogs have is longer than most other dogs, so it is advisable to have your dog checked out regularly. I can’t give you a specific time frame because it depends on your dog, but every six months to one year should be okay.
The Best Diet For English Bulldog Pit Bull Mix
English bulldogs/pit bulls don’t require any specific diet unless your vet recommends it. Remember every dog is different, and yours could have a few health conditions that require particular diets
That said, you must feed your dog enough. Remember, these dogs have a lot of energy; they also have a lot of mass and muscle in their bodies, so they burn calories faster than most other dogs.
A diet consisting of pellets and a little bit of canned food should be enough for your dog. However, you should give them around 1500 to 1800 calories per day. You can increase or decrease that amount depending on how much exercise the dog gets.
What Is The Lifespan Of An English Bulldog Pit Bull Mix?
The best way to understand the lifespan of an English bulldog/pit bull is to look at both its parents and their lifespan. This breed has an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years, but it varies significantly depending on whose genes were the most dominant when the dog was bred.
For example, pit bulls live up to between 12 and 14 years. English bulldogs can live up to 10 years, but many only make up to six years due to health complications.
When you mix these two breeds, one always hopes to get the life expectancy of the pit bull parent. However, if enough bulldog traits get passed down, life expectancy can decrease significantly.
Keeping Your English Bulldog Pit Bull Mix Healthy
A healthy dog is a happy dog. Also, knowing that these dogs can have complications, keeping them healthy is the best way to minimize any health risks. So, let’s look at how you can keep your dog happy, healthy, and strong.
Regular Exercise
Regular exercise allows your English bulldog/pit bull mixes to live healthier lives. It is important not to overdo it, though, as it could cause any underlying issues to flare up, such as joint issues.
I recommend taking your dog on a brisk 30 to 45-minute walk at least five times per week or as close to that as possible. Typically with all dogs, I like to run them at the end of the walk.
How far you run depends on your and your dog’s fitness level. Start with 200m and work your way up.
Good Diet
We already touched on what diet requirements English bulldogs/pit bulls have. It is crucial to ensure that you avoid foods that are toxic to dogs; these include:
- Chocolate
- Avocados
- Onions
- Sugar
- Fruits
- Corn
If you are unsure about a specific food type, you can research it before giving it to the dog. I should also add that giving your dog human food off the table can accelerate weight gain and cause obesity.
Dog Grooming
I am not saying you have to give your dog a manicure or pedicure, but good grooming is crucial.
With proper grooming, you can help prevent skin problems. Also, if the dog has a few skin issues, it will be easier to spot if it is well-groomed.
English bulldogs can overheat. If that trait is passed down to the mix dog, keeping its hair short is a small but valuable step you can take to prevent this.
A Healthy Environment
It is essential to ensure that your dog lives in a healthy environment and keeps them stimulated. Remember, bulldogs are inherently sociable animals. They love to be around humans and love activities.
Whether in humans or animals, stress can lead to significant health complications. So, it is best to keep your dogs away from situations that cause them stress. Doing this can be tricky as all dogs are different.
Some dogs feel stress due to uncontrollable situations, like thunder and lightning. Still, some might have abandonment issues or be overprotective, becoming stressed when they think their owner is hurt.
Are English Bulldog Pit Bull Mix Power Breeds?
Not everyone should own a pit bull. This is because they are power breeds that require special attention and a certain aura around them. A pit bull can be stubborn, and if they feel they can be the alpha, they will take a chance to try and assert their dominance, especially at around five years old.
English bulldogs, on the other hand, are not power breeds. They are relatively docile, but that does not mean they are submissive. These dogs also need to be well-trained in the same way as pit bulls.
A few things keep an English bulldog from being a power breed, such as their weight class. However, it is essential to remember that their jaw strength could put them in the category of a power breed, but no, they are not.
An English bulldog/pit bull mix should be treated as a power breed. It would be best if you asserted that you are the alpha when they are young. They are almost as powerful, if not more so than pit bulls. However, they are not as aggressive as pit bulls and not as hard to manage.
Conclusion
English bulldogs are among the most popular dogs in the world, especially in the United States. They are fun-loving animals, and when you cross them with a pit bull, they get all the best qualities from both breeds, making them one of the most sought-after dogs in the world.
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