Purposely created mixed breed dogs from two pure-bred parents are known as designer dogs. The truth is that even though this is a new trend, they are doing what many dog breeders have done before them.
They are creating new breeds by breeding parents with certain traits or characteristics. This is how many of our current breeds came into being.
The Poodle Pitbull mix seems like a strange combination. The two breeds are vastly different. However, they combine to create a unique and affectionate breed that will likely gain in popularity as more people discover it.
History and Where the Poodle Pitbull Mix comes from
The Poodle Pitbull mix, affectionately known as the Pit Boodle, or simply Boodle, is a recently created breed. Like many designer breeds, exactly when and where they began is unknown.
However, both their parents have a rich history, which can give you greater insight into the Boodle.
Poodle History
The Poodle is the national dog of France, so you may think this is where they originated from. However, the first Poodles actually occurred in Germany.
In fact, Poodle comes from the German word Pudel, which means “to splash in water”. Poodles were originally bred to retrieve water fowl for hunters.
The dog would splash into the water, and bring the kill back to its owner. This also explains their eccentric coat. It may look strange or fancy, but it actually serves a purpose. It prevents the cold water from getting to the skin and lowering the Poodle’s body temperature.
Of course, some other breeds have a water-resistant coat as well, but they don’t resemble the Poodle’s coat. The Poodle’s coat is designed to provide water resistance and warmth, without limiting their mobility.
The curly or wavy coat can come in a rainbow of colors. There are 10 colors recognized by the AKC, and 18 non-standard colors.
There are three types of Poodle, and each has their own size and temperament. The Toy Poodle is the smallest, followed by the Miniature Poodle. The Standard Poodle is the largest Poodle.
Pitbull History
There are several separate breeds that are called Pitbulls. These include the American Pitbull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Bully, American Staffordshire Terrier, and the American Bulldog.
However, when people say Pitbull, they are usually referring to the American Pitbull terrier. We’ll focus on that breed here, but keep in mind that any of these breeds could create a Boodle.
The Pitbull has a storied and controversial history. They are descended from Old English Bulldogs, in England. Bulldogs were used for bull baiting. This required the dog to bring down a bull, as a form of entertainment.
In 1835, England outlawed the practice. Instead of giving up blood sports, participants began ratting and dog fighting. These events were held in pits, which kept the rats or dogs confined.
The larger size of the Bulldog was no longer necessary, so they were bred with Terriers. The result was very strong, yet smaller and more agile. This made them perfect for catching rats or fighting other dogs. Since they fought in pits, and originated from bulldogs, they were called Pitbulls.
While aggression towards other animals, including other dogs, was encouraged and even bred for, aggression towards humans was not. Dogs who showed aggression towards their owners were typically put down.
Dog fighting and ratting eventually lost popularity. Unfortunately, it still occurs underground in the U.S. The good news is, that Pitbulls found a place in the hearts and homes of dog lovers. They even proved themselves useful as guard dogs, and farm hands.
Poodle Pitbull Mix Facts
The Poodle Pitbull has one Poodle parent and one Pitbull parent. They are medium sized dogs. They are intelligent and friendly, at least with loved ones.
They are fairly high energy, and require daily exercise. They love to be close to their owners, and don’t do well if they are left alone for long periods.
Poodle Pitbull Mix Appearance
Some aspects of a Poodle Pitbull mix’s appearance are impossible to predict. This is because there’s no way to know which genes they will inherit from each parent.
Generally, mixed breeds will have some traits for each parent. However, they will typically look more like one or the other. This means your Boodle may look more like a Pitbull, or a Poodle.
Boodle Build
They may inherit the build of either parent. If they take after their Poodle parent, you can expect them to be lean, long, and graceful, with long legs.
If they inherit their build from their Pitbull parent, they will have a more muscular and square build. They may have legs that are slightly longer than most dogs of their size.
Coat and Color
The Poodle Pitbull mix will usually inherit a Poodle coat, at least partially. They will likely have a long, wavy or curly coat. However, their curls are usually looser than a Poodles, which makes grooming them easier.
Occasionally, they will inherit the short straight coat of their Pitbull parent.
Both parents can display a wide range of coat colors. It can be white, black, gray, or tan. They can also have a brindle coat, if their Pit parent has the brindle gene.
Poodle Pitbull Mix Price and Expenses
Many factors affect the price of a Poodle Pitbull. This includes the breeder, location, color and coat of the puppy, and the parents.
The price range varies widely. Some sources state prices range from $400-$800, while others claim you’ll pay between $1,500-$2,500 for a Poodle Pitbull.
Beware of anyone selling a Boodle much lower than other local breeders. However, you shouldn’t pay a high price and assume it means that they are better dogs, either.
You can also adopt a Boodle. They are difficult to find in shelters, but not impossible. If you adopt a Poodle Pitbull, you can expect to pay between $100-$500 in adoption fees.
Poodle Pitbull Mix Rarity
Boodles are a rare breed. They are relatively new, which means not a lot of breeders are breeding them. They may become more common if their popularity grows, and the word gets out about this odd but wonderful mix.
Poodle Pitbull Mix Life Expectancy
Poodle Pitbulls have a wide range in terms of life expectancy. They typically live between 9-15 years, which makes them a long lived breed.
Remember, how you care for your Boodle plays a large role in their longevity. A proper diet and plenty of exercise can extend their life, and their quality of life as they age.
Poodle Pitbull Mix Size and weight
The size and weight of the Poodle Pit depends on the size of the parents. They are considered medium sized dogs. When they reach maturity, a Boodle ranges from 15 inches to 24 inches in height. Their weight ranges from 30 to 70 pounds.
Toy Poodles grow up to 10 inches tall. They weigh 6 to 9 pounds. Miniature Poodles are 11-15 inches tall, and weigh 15-17 pounds. Standard Poodles are at least 15 inches tall, with 22 inches being the average height. They weigh 45-70 pounds.
Pitbulls are 17–21 inches tall, and weigh between 30-60 pounds.
A Toy Poodle Pitbull mix will naturally be much smaller than a Standard Poodle Pitbull mix. The size of the Pitbull also matters. A smaller Pitbull parent will produce smaller puppies than a Pitbull at the larger end of the scale.
Poodle Pitbull Mix Health
Poodle Pitbull mixes are considered healthy dogs. Mixed breeds can avoid some of the health conditions common to the breed. This is because some diseases require both parents to have a predisposition to the disease to pass it on. However, there are other conditions that they can inherit from either parent.
It’s also important to note that genetic screening can prevent some diseases. If a dog has the disease, then it is not bred. However, not all diseases can be screened for, and not all breeders go through the process.
Addison’s Disease
Addison’s disease is common in Poodles. It can be passed down to puppies, even when they are mixed with a Pitbull. Dogs with the disease do not produce enough cortisol.
Since cortisol is a stress hormone, Addison’s disease affects their ability to cope with stress.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia occurs in both Poodles and Pitbulls. Hip dysplasia causes the joint to be loose. It can cause pain and stiffness. Over time, it can affect their mobility. The risk is greater if they don’t get proper exercise and diet.
Skin Issues
Both Poodles and Pitbulls are prone to skin problems. Pitbulls can develop skin allergies. This can cause itching, frequent scratching or licking, and hair loss.
The Poodle’s thick coat makes them prone to skin issues, including allergic reactions. If not treated, it can lead to skin infections.
Obesity
Obesity can occur in any breed, but Poodles are more likely than average to develop the condition. Obesity can increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems.
Poodle Pitbull Mix Behavior/Characteristics/Temperament
The Poodle Pitbull is a playful, and friendly, at least with its friends and family. Their personality will vary slightly based on the Poodle parent.
Toy poodles are high energy and very friendly. The standard Poodle on the other hand, is reserved, and can seem aloof.
So a Boodle with a Toy parent may be more energetic and playful than one with a Standard parent.
You can expect them to be very loyal and intelligent. They also want to please their owners, which can help with training.
Are Poodle Pitbulls Agressive?
Pitbulls have a reputation for being aggressive. This is partly due to their history of being bred for fighting, and partly due to their intimidating appearance.
The truth is, Pitbulls are not more aggressive than the average breed if they come from a good bloodline. Particularly not towards humans. If their parents were fought, or bred for fighting, the puppies are more likely to be aggressive.
Chihuhas are the breed most likely to bite. Next are the English Bulldog and the American Bulldog. The Pit Bull is next, making it the 4th most likely to bite. German Shepard is the 5th most likely to bite.
Keep in mind that other breeds, including English Bulldogs and German Shepards, are also in the top 5. These are considered safe breeds, despite their aggressive tendencies.
It’s also important to note that these statistics do not take into consideration if the dog was provoked. Were they defending their home, or their owner from a threat? Or was the attack unprovoked?
The real issue with Pitbulls isn’t that they are one of the breeds more likely to bite. When Pitbulls are aggressive towards humans, the results are disastrous. 69-75% of fatal dog attacks in the U.S. involve Pitbulls.
Again, most Pitbulls, and most Boodles, are not aggressive. They are incredibly gentle, loving, and loyal. Proper training and socialization are essential for a happy and safe Boodle. It’s also important to be sure you are getting your Boodle from a reputable breeder.
How to care for a Poodle Pitbull Mix
It’s very important to care for your Boodle properly. You should also know what’s required for the breed before you decide they are the dog for you.
How much exercise do Poodle Pitbull Mixes need?
Both Poodles and Pitbulls need exercise. They are both high energy breeds, and are accustomed or bred for hard work. A Boodle has exercise needs similar to their parents, and require 1 hour of exercise each day.
They also need plenty of mental stimulation. Poodles are highly intelligent, and Pitbulls are believed to have above average intelligence as well.
For a Poodle Pitbull to be their best self, they must have both mental and physical exercise. Walking, swimming, and jogging are great ways to give them physical exercise.
You can play games with them, teach them commands or tricks, and give them puzzle toys to provide mental stimulation. You can also set up an obstacle course to give them both mental and physical stimulation.
Do Poodle Pitbull Mixes shed a lot?
This largely depends on the coat they inherit. If they have a Poodle coat, they need more grooming than if they have a Pitbull coat.
Ironically, if they have a Poodle coat, they don’t shed. If they have a Pitbull coat, they do shed.
Pitbulls are not heavy shedders, but they do shed. Poodles are considered non-shedding. Instead of a double coat common to many breeds, they have a single coat. Their hair can also grow for months, or even years, before losing a hair.
Do you need to groom Poodle Pitbull mixes often?
Again, it really depends on the type of coat they inherit. If they have a pitbull type coat, which is short, little grooming is required. They need a quick brushing a few times a week. This distributes oils and removes dirt from their hair.
If their coat is more like a Poodles, they will need daily brushing. You’ll also need to be sure that you are using a high-quality brush.
Do you need to train Poodle Pitbull Mixes a lot?
Yes, a Boodle does require plenty of training for a few reasons. Being a high energy breed means that they need to be trained properly. High energy dogs are more likely to get into trouble if they aren’t trained. They want to play or engage in activities, so they need to know what is appropriate.
They may also be more likely to jump on you, or your furniture, without adequate training.
Another reason is because Pitbulls can be aggressive. Pitbulls today aren’t usually aggressive, but proper training goes a long way to ensuring it’s not a problem. They must be taught how to act around strangers, and what behavior is appropriate.
Lastly, you must establish yourself as the head of the household. Training is one of the ways you can do this. Both the Poodle and the Pitbull can be head strong or stubborn. If you gain their respect, life with them will be much easier.
Poodle Pitbull Mix Diet
What you feed your Boodle will depend on their age and weight. Puppies are growing at a very fast rate, and they have different nutritional needs than adults.
Puppies should be fed a puppy food. After they reach 6 to 12 months, you can transition to an adult dog food.
It’s also a great idea to purchase a food that is designed for your dog’s size. Poodle Pitbulls are typically medium sized dogs, so food designed for medium-sized breeds is a good choice.
Be sure that the food you choose is high quality. Unfortunately, inexpensive foods may be harder to digest, and make allergies more likely to develop.
When choosing a food, you should look for one that has meat as the first ingredient. It should also contain meat or bone meal, grains, and healthy fats. Fruits and vegetables are also important in your pooch’s food.
You can choose to supplement their food with fish oil, digestive enzymes, probiotics, or fruits and vegetables. However, a quality dog food should meet their dietary requirements.
Are Poodle Pitbull Mixes good family pets?
Yes. Poodle Pitbulls are good family pets, despite the scary reputation of the Pit Bull. Interestingly, Pitbulls have long been known as the “nanny dog”.
As long as they are properly trained and have the typical friendly temperament, they are excellent with children. Poodles and Pitbulls, and Boodles, have a high need for attention, so they are a great choice for families.
They are very tolerant as well. Poodles can have a nervous temperament, but Pitbulls are typically calm and easy going. These traits can balance each other out, allowing them to go with the flow when around the family.
How do you buy a Poodle Pitbull Mix?
You have two options when buying a Poodle Pitbull mix. You can purchase a dog from a breeder, or adopt.
Adopting a Boodle
Adopting a Boodle is a great way to help a pooch in need. Providing a home for an unwanted dog is always worthwhile. However, you may struggle to find a Boodle to adopt.
You should also be aware that most shelter dogs are adults. Puppies are rarely given up for adoption.
If you want to adopt a Boodle, you can check your local shelters. You can also search for shelters that have only Poodles or Pitbulls. They are much more likely to have a Boodle than a typical shelter.
Purchasing a Boodle from a Breeder
If you want to purchase a Boodle from a breeder, you should have an easier time locating them. You can search online for Boodle breeders in your area.
You can also search websites that are specific to Poodles or Pitbulls. The Poodle Club of America has a Poodle breeder registry. The AKC also provides a list of Poodle breeders.
Pitbulls can be registered at the American Pitbull Terrier Registry. They have a registry of Pitbull breeders.
When purchasing from a breeder, it’s important to be sure they are ethical. An ethical breeder will put the health of their dogs as their first concern. Temperament should be the next concern.
So, they will only breed dogs who are healthy, and have a suitable temperament.
Beware breeders who focus heavily on appearance or color. It’s fine to prefer a certain color or coat. However, if a breeder is heavily focused on appearance, they may neglect health and temperament.
It’s a good idea to find a puppy that has a registered Poodle parent, but it’s not required. Boodles can’t be registered, so you can’t show them at most dog shows.
However, registration, particularly AKC registration, means the breeder has met important requirements, like health screenings.
If the Poodle isn’t registered, be sure to vet the breeder carefully.
You should also ask the breeder how they ensure the puppies are healthy. Have the parents been checked for health conditions, and undergone genetic testing? Have the puppies had their first vet visit?
Lastly, you should visit the pups home if at all possible. The conditions that the puppy lives in will tell you a lot about the breeder. You should also be allowed to meet the parents, as well as the puppies.