A Mastiff Pitbull mix denotes a hybrid between the Pitbull and Mastiff, both of which originate from England. If you are wondering whether the mixed breed is good for you as a companion doggie, you will find this article very helpful.
To begin with, there is immense bias when it comes to the parents of the Pitbull Mastiff mix. This is mainly due to their enormous size and past history. But that is what it is – past! Some people even argue that the mix would stand unchallenged if there were dog prisons. And it might be true.
In our opinion, however, early and proper training can make this crossbreed between the most feared breeds an excellent companion. So, let us walk together as we learn more about the Mastiff Pitbull mix.
Table of Contents
What do you call a Pitbull mixed with a Mastiff?
The cross between a Pitbull and an English Mastiff is popularly known as the Pit Mastiff or an American Masti-Bull. The mixed breed is liked for its affectionate and loyal nature.
History of the Breed
The history of the Pitbull Mastiff mix breed is vaguely known as with other designer dogs. However, it is thought that the Mastiff Pitbull mix dog was intended to lessen the drooling potential of Mastiffs. Therefore, the mix is less slobbery as compared to both parents.
In another case, Pitbull Mastiffs were bred to provide protection since both parents are famous for their protective nature which makes them excellent guard dogs. Either way, the mixed breed can be a good companion with proper and adequate training.
Parents
What do we know about the parents of a Pitbull Mastiff?
The English Mastiff – A large dog breed, the Mastiff’s history dates back to more than 2000 years ago in Britain where it was used as a guard dog and fighting dog. They are said to have been bred from heavily-built dog breeds and you can tell from their stature.
Mastiffs are well-known for their good-natured character as well as bravery, calmness, affection, majestic, and protective temperament. They are less aggressive and are great protectors thus good family dogs. The AKC recognized the Mastiff as a dog breed in 1885.
Male Mastiffs approx. 26 inches in height with a weight of 160 to 230 lbs. while females are at least 27.5 inches tall with a weight of 120 to 160 lbs. These dogs are prone to common health issues such as hip & elbow dysplasia, bloat, cystinuria, and osteosarcoma. Their lifespan is between 6 and 12 years.
Pitbulls – Like Mastiffs, Pitbulls have their origin in England and were first bred for use in cruel blood sports known as bull baiting. They were bred from Old English Bulldogs. Upon their arrival in America, they were used as working dogs and later became guard dogs. People still fear them for their past but they do well with early socialization and proper training. And although the UKC recognizes them as a breed, they are not recognized by the AKC.
Pitbulls may possess a stubborn streak but are very affectionate, gentle, obedient, brave, strong-willed, friendly, comic, and loyal which makes them good companions.
Male Pitbulls are usually about 18 to 21 inches tall and weigh 30 to 60 lbs. while females stand 17 to 20 inches in height with a weight of 30 to 50 lbs. Common health issues in Pitbulls include kneecap dislocation, hip dysplasia, degenerative myopathy, skin problems, and congenital heart defects. They have a lifespan of 8 to 15 years.
Overview
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Weight | 100 to 140 pounds |
| Height | 25 to 29 inches |
| Child-friendly/ Pet-friendly | Good with training & exposure |
| Coat Type | Short & fine |
| Coat Color | Tri-colored, bi-colored, or Brown, black, white, red, or brindle |
| Shedding | Moderate to Heavy shedders |
| Temperament | Extremely energetic, playful, friendly, devoutly loyal & loving |
| Lifespan | 7 to 12 years |
Appearance
What does a Pitbull Mastiff look like?
This strong, powerful, and cute Pitbull Mastiff mix can differ greatly in appearance depending on which parent’s genes they inherit the most. The breed of Pitbull will also affect the resulting mixed breed pup. Overall, the Pit Mastiff will have a sturdy physique with a broad head, and a rather squared nose that that of the Mastiff parent.
The Pitbull Mastiff mix average weight is somewhere between 100 and 140 lbs. but it will be very hard to predict how big they will be. However, you can expect them to have an average height of 25 to 29 inches. Their coat will be short and fine like both parents with a solid color, tri-colored, or bi-colored (brindle).
Check the Mastiff Pitbull mix puppy pictures below
Temperament
When it comes to Pitbull Mastiff mix characteristics, it is hard to tell how they will behave, but the mixed breed will take from both parents or favor one more. Pit Mastiffs can be physically intimidating but are extremely affectionate and gentle.
Like both the Mastiff and Pitbull parents, the Pit Mastiff will be loyal and very affectionate. You will admire the sweet-natured and friendly character, but this may be bad news for you. Why say so, you may ask. Because this means that they are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. That means they can develop destructive behaviors.
You will love the Pit Mastiff’s strong guard-dog nature and protective trait which guarantees safety in your house. Unfortunately, the mixed breed is not friendly with other dogs, especially unfamiliar ones. So, make sure they are introduced at a young age.
Nutrition
Pit Mastiffs thrive best on a balanced dog diet that is made from premium ingredients because. Being a giant dog breed, they have specific protein and calcium requirements such as dietary fats and a variety of vitamins and minerals to keep them healthy.
As we mentioned earlier, this crossbreed between a Mastiff and Pitbull is very huge. Therefore, feeding them 4 ½ cups of high-quality kibble divided into 2 or 3 meals a day is ideal for your adult dog. Visit your vet to help with the best type of food for your canine buddy.
Training & Exercise
While Pit Mastiffs are smart, the Mastiff parent is reputable for being strong-willed. The mixed-breed can be stubborn so training a Pitbull Mastiff mix can be a little hectic. As such, you should be patient and maintain a consistent training schedule of short and fun sessions. And since they are strong and possess bossy behavior, they need a poised trainer. It is good to seek help if you can’t do that.
As with other mixed breeds, use positive reinforcement instead of treats to prevent overfeeding because Pit Mastiffs are prone to obesity. You should begin training from puppyhood combining it with socialization training.
Which Pitbulls are energetic, Mastiffs are not. So, your Pit Mastiff would do fine with just one hour of exercise daily. It is good to keep in mind that this crossbreed can be unpredictable when around other dogs. We, therefore, recommend that you walk them on a leash.
Health Issues
Being a mixed breed, the Pit Mastiff tends to be healthier than purebreds due to the diversity in genetics. However, they are susceptible to certain health problems inherited from their parents. These include hip dysplasia, bloat, kidney disease, and obesity.
Exercising your doggie as required will help keep them fit.
Life Expectancy
The lifespan of a Pitbull Mastiff mix is between 8 and 12 years.
Grooming Needs
Unlike some mixed breeds, the Pit Mastiff has low grooming maintenance and needs. They are average shedders. Ensure you brush them occasionally and only bathe them when you smell a doggy stink.
Your Pitbull Mastiff’s nails should be trimmed regularly either by a professional groomer or do it yourself. Clean their ears to clear wax and debris and brush their teeth regularly.
Cost and Maintenance
If you find a trustworthy breeder, the Pitbull Mastiff mix price is somewhere between $600 and $2,000. The cost will depend on the parent’s pedigree. When it comes to maintenance, the Pitbull Mastiff comes with a big financial responsibility as any giant dog breed out there. Why do we say this? These dogs eat a lot of high-quality dog food and require high medical and upkeep expenses.
Where to Adopt or Buy
Unless you know a reputable and reliable breeder, it is not recommended that you buy a Pitbull Mastiff. You rather would adopt from a local rescue shelter near you.
FAQs
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Hi there! My name is Alex Landy, one of the co-founders here at Our Pets HQ and a parent to a small-breed Yorkie. I am a published author of two books on dog breeding and currently write on various pet-related blogs about caring for dogs. I am a parent of two daughters and live outside Boston where I spend a lot of time with family and serve in different breeding clubs. You can reach me at alex@ourpetshq.com
