The Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix is a unique cross between two very different breeds – the muscular, energetic Pitbull and the giant, gentle Great Pyrenees. This hybrid dog combines some of the best traits from both parent breeds, making a loyal and protective pet.
But before bringing one of these crossbreeds home, it’s important to understand their background, appearance, temperament, health issues, exercise needs, training tips, and more.
Origins of the Pitbull Great Pyrenees Mix
Crossbreeding dogs has become increasingly popular in recent years, allowing people to enjoy some of their favorite qualities from different purebreds in one pet. The Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix is no exception.
The Pitbull descends from bulldogs and terriers bred for bull baiting and dog fighting in the 19th century. Despite their controversial past, modern Pitbulls have gained popularity as family companions due to their intelligence, athleticism, and affection for people.
On the other hand, Great Pyrenees dogs hail from the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain, where they worked as livestock guardian dogs protecting flocks from predators for centuries. Their immense size, thick fur coats, and patience made them ideal protectors.
While the origins of the Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix itself remains undocumented, this cross likely emerged within the last 20 to 30 years amidst the designer dog craze. Breeders likely wanted to blend the Pitbull’s devotion and courage with the Great Pyrenees’ protectiveness and composed nature.
Appearance of Pitbull Great Pyrenees Mixes
Since the Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix comes from two extremely different looking breeds, their appearance can vary dramatically between litters.
In general, these designer dogs tend to be large to giant in size, ranging from 50 to over 100 pounds at maturity. They usually have a broad, brick-shaped head with a medium-length muzzle, floppy ears, and a sturdy body on fairly long legs.
Their coat also combines features from both parent breeds. Most inherit a short, smooth single coat from the Pitbull. But some may have longer, thicker fur with a fluffy mane around the neck from their Great Pyrenees parent. Coat colors include black, brown, white, brindle, and merle.
Overall, the Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix makes an impressive looking canine companion with their large, muscular frame and unique coat markings. Those looking for a fierce yet cuddly guard dog may find this crossbreed fits the bill!
Temperament of Pitbull Great Pyrenees Crosses
Considering their parent breeds were both working dogs with guarding instincts, Pitbull Great Pyrenees mixes tend to be loyal and protective. However, thanks to the Great Pyrenees influence, these hybrids usually have a gentle, patient nature when properly socialized.
The Pitbull side of these dogs makes them energetic, affectionate, and highly attached to their owners. They thrive when included as part of the family. Pitbull Great Pyrenees mixes can also be quite playful and mischievous.
From their Great Pyrenees parent, these crosses inherit calmness, independence, and attentiveness. They make excellent watchdogs, sounding the alarm when strangers approach but rarely becoming aggressive without cause.
With early socialization and training, the Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix develops into a wonderful family companion – loyal, lively, and loving with his human pack while remaining wary of unfamiliar visitors. This combination makes them exceptional guardians.
Exercise & Training Needs of Pitbull Great Pyrenees Mixes
As the offspring of two large, working breeds bred for endurance, Pitbull Great Pyrenees crosses have abundant energy reserves to burn. Be prepared to provide this mix with at least 60 to 90 minutes of exercise per day. They particularly enjoy having a spacious, securely fenced yard to run around in.
Mental stimulation through obedience training, agility courses, tracking exercises, or interactive dog toys will also help prevent boredom and destructive behaviors in Pitbull Great Pyrenees mixes left alone too long. Consistent leadership and early socialization are essential for these hybrids to behave appropriately around children, strangers, and other animals.
Their moderate to high intelligence and eagerness to please owners does allow Pitbull Great Pyrenees mixes to be fairly trainable if handled firmly yet gently. Positive reinforcement works better than punishment with these sensitive crosses. Establish yourself as a calm, consistent pack leader to get the best results training this hybrid dog.
Grooming Needs of Pitbull Great Pyrenees Crosses
Thanks to the low-maintenance coat inherited from their Pitbull parent, Pitbull Great Pyrenees mixes only require occasional brushing and bathing. More frequent grooming may be necessary during seasonal shedding periods. Trim their nails as needed to avoid cracking or overgrowth.
Be sure to regularly check and clean their floppy ears to prevent painful, costly ear infections. Their facial folds may also need wiped out routinely. Establish these grooming routines early on so your crossbreed tolerates handling more easily as they mature.
Health Issues Facing Pitbull Great Pyrenees Mixes
All breeds face certain genetic health conditions. By understanding the predispositions of the Pitbull and Great Pyrenees, owners can provide better preventative care and catch issues early on in a Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix.
Some concerns to remain aware of include:
- Bloat – a life-threatening stomach condition common in large, deep-chested breeds like Great Pyrenees dogs and their crosses. Feeding them smaller, more frequent meals rather than one large daily portion can reduce their risk.
- Hip and elbow dysplasia – malformed hip and elbow joints leading to arthritis and lameness. Have their joints evaluated and keep them lean to minimize discomfort.
- Allergies – both Pitbulls and Great Pyrenees tend to suffer from allergic skin diseases and ear infections. Keep their skin and coats well-maintained.
With lots of love and proper veterinary care, a Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix can enjoy a long, healthy life of 10 to 14 years. Monitor them closely for any emerging conditions and have them screened for breed-specific illnesses.
Finding a Pitbull Great Pyrenees Mix Puppy
For the best chance at a happy, healthy Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix puppy, work with responsible breeders focusing on temperament and health in their litters. Avoid unethical operations like puppy mills or backyard breeders merely trying to profit off trendy crossbreeds.
Expect to spend $500 to over $1000 for a Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix pup depending on breeding quality and location. These popular designer dogs often have lengthy waitlists as well. But the extra patience, cost, and research pays off with finding a phenomenal four-legged family member!
Be sure the breeder health tests their breeding stock, deworms and vaccinates puppies, and offers some kind of health guarantee. Also ask to meet at least one parent dog to get a better idea of the pup’s eventual temperament and appearance.
Pitbull Great Pyrenees Mixes as Pets – The Pros & Cons
Pros of Owning a Pitbull Great Pyrenees Mix:
- Excellent family guard dogs
- Intelligent and trainable
- Low grooming requirements
- Energetic and fun-loving attitude
- Loyal and affectionate pets
Potential Drawbacks of the Pitbull Great Pyrenees Mix:
- Large size requiring more living space
- Moderate to high exercise needs
- Tendency for aggression with other animals
- Guarding instincts make them wary of strangers
- Prone to certain health problems like bloat
For experienced owners able to properly train and exercise them, Pitbull Great Pyrenees crosses can make delightful pets. Their playful nature combined with protectiveness suits them well for active households. But first-time owners may find them a handful.
Overall, these designer dogs carry great qualities from both their Pitbull and Great Pyrenees parents once their needs are all met. They thrive with owners able to offer them plenty of attention, activity, socialization and training. A well-rounded Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix will be the ultimate canine companion!
Frequently Asked Questions About the Pitbull Great Pyrenees Mix
Answers to some common questions about Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix dogs:
How big do Pitbull Great Pyrenees mixes get?
Most Pitbull Great Pyrenees mixes reach 50 to 100+ pounds at mature size.
Do Pitbull Great Pyrenees mixes shed?
Yes, they shed moderately year-round and more heavily during spring and fall shedding seasons. Their grooming needs remain relatively low overall though.
Are Pitbull Great Pyrenees good family dogs?
Yes, when properly trained and socialized early on, Pitbull Great
Pyrenees mixes can make exceptional family companions. They form deep bonds with their owners and can be gentle and patient with children. However, small kids shouldn’t be left alone unsupervised with any large dog.
Are Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix good guard dogs?
Yes, the Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix tends to be quite protective and loyal, sounding the alarm when strangers approach their home or family members. Their large size and powerful appearance alone also serves as a deterrent to intruders even if they have a friendly temperament.
What health problems do Pitbull Great Pyrenees mixes have?
Some potential health issues to look out for in a Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix include hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, allergies, and skin problems. Reputable breeders will screen their breeding dogs for these breed-associated conditions to reduce risk, but they cannot guarantee the puppies will be free from genetic illness.
How should I train my Pitbull Great Pyrenees puppy?
Use positive reinforcement training methods with your Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix puppy from a young age. Socialize them thoroughly to many people, animals, places, sights and sounds. Establish yourself as a capable pack leader through firm yet gentle handling, consistency and setting clear boundaries.
What type of exercise does a Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix need?
Plan to provide your Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix with 60-90 minutes of vigorous activity daily. Interactive games, hiking, running beside a bike, or playing fetch are great outlets for their energy. Make sure they have access to a securely fenced yard as well. These high-energy designer dogs need an active lifestyle and plenty of mental stimulation too.
I hope this additional information on the Pitbull Great Pyrenees mix helps provide more insight into these unique crossbreed dogs! Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions.
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