Are you looking for a loyal and affectionate companion with a dash of power and strength? Look no further than the Great Dane Pitbull Mix. This unique crossbreed blends the Great Dane’s regal presence and the Pitbull’s athleticism, creating a one-of-a-kind dog that is sure to turn heads. Whether you’re an experienced dog owner or a first-time pet parent, the Great Dane Pitbull Mix is a breed that will steal your heart with its charm and loyalty. This article will explore the characteristics, temperament, and care of the Great Dane Pitbull Mix.
What is Great Dane Pitbull Mix with History?
The Great Dane is a very old breed, with roots dating back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Greece. They were originally bred as hunting dogs and were used to hunt boar and other large game. The breed was later refined in Germany, where it became known as the Deutsche Dogge or German Mastiff. Great Danes were eventually imported to the United States, where they became a popular show and companion breed.
The Pitbull Terrier, on the other hand, has a more recent history. They were initially bred in England for dogfighting but were later used as farm dogs and companions. The breed was eventually brought to the United States, where it gained popularity as a working dog and family pet.
The Great Dane Pitbull Mix likely originated in the United States, where breeders began crossing the two breeds to create a new hybrid with the desirable traits of both parent breeds. While major kennel clubs do not officially recognize the breed, it has gained popularity among dog lovers who appreciate its unique characteristics.
Characteristics of Great Dane Pitbull Mix
The Great Dane Pitbull Mix features unique characteristics from its parent breeds.
1. Appearance
The Great Dane Pitbull mix is a large breed, with a size that can vary depending on which parent it takes after more. On average, they can weigh between 60 to 100 pounds and reach 24 to 30 inches. They can stand up to 28 inches tall at the shoulder, making them an impressive presence.
The Great Dane Pitbull Mix has a short, smooth, or rough coat. The most common colors are fawn, brindle, black, blue, and harlequin (a pattern of black and white). Some Great Dane Pitbull Mix individuals can also have a merle coloration. This genetic variation also occurs in other breeds, producing a mottled or speckled coat with patches of blue or gray.
The head of the Great Dane Pitbull Mix is typically large and powerful, with a strong jaw and a broad forehead. These dogs can have the flop ears typical of Great Danes or the pointy ears typical of pit bulls.
2. Temperament
The Great Dane Pitbull Mix is a loyal and protective breed that can make an excellent guard dog. They are also playful and affectionate with their families and enjoy spending time with their humans.
However, they can be wary of strangers and may require early socialization to prevent aggression toward other animals or people. They are energetic and need daily exercise and playtime to keep them healthy and happy.
3. Lifespan
The Great Dane Pitbull Mix has an average lifespan of 8-12 years, shorter than some other breeds. However, they can live a long and healthy life with proper care and attention.
4. Energy level
The Great Dane Pitbull Mix is a high-energy breed that requires regular exercise to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. They enjoy walking, running, playing fetch, and swimming. Without enough exercise and activity, they may become bored and destructive.
5. Family-friendly
The Great Dane Pitbull Mix can make a great family pet, as they are often gentle and playful with children. However, as with any dog, they should be supervised around young children and properly socialized to prevent any aggressive behavior.
6. Protective
The Great Dane Pitbull Mix is a naturally protective breed that will defend its family and home from perceived threats. This trait makes them excellent guard dogs, but it also means they may require proper training and socialization to prevent aggression toward strangers or other animals.
7. Diet
As a large and active breed, the Great Dane Pitbull Mix has a high energy requirement and will need a diet with enough calories and nutrients to meet their needs.
Depending on a dog’s age, degree of physical activity, and health, the amount of food it consumes may vary from 3 to 6 cups of dog food per day. A high-quality, protein-rich food is also essential to help support their muscle development and maintain overall health.
This breed is prone to bloat, which may develop when a dog consumes food too quickly. If you see that your dog is inhaling its food, get a slow feeder for it.
8. Training
The Great Dane Pitbull Mix can be challenging to train due to their stubborn nature. However, they can learn obedience commands and proper behavior with patience and consistency. Positive reinforcement training methods are recommended, as harsh or punitive training methods can lead to fear or aggression in this breed.
9. Exercise
The Great Dane Pitbull Mix is an active and energetic breed. They require regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. These dogs need around 30 to 40 minutes of exercise each day. Daily walks and playtime are great ways to burn off excess energy and maintain physical fitness. They also enjoy running, hiking, and swimming so they can be a great companion for a nature-loving family.
Great Dane Pitbull Mix Price
The price of a Great Dane Pitbull Mix can vary depending on various factors, including the breeder, location, and demand for the breed. On average, the cost of a Great Dane Pitbull Mix puppy can range from $500 to $1,500.
It’s important to research and finds a reputable breeder breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies. Avoid purchasing from puppy mills or backyard breeders, as these dogs are often raised in poor conditions and may have health or behavioral issues.
Additionally, owning a Great Dane Pitbull Mix comes with additional expenses beyond the initial purchase price. You must budget for food, vet care, training, and other supplies, which can add up over time. It’s important to ensure you can provide a stable and loving home for your new pet before making the decision to bring one into your family.
Grooming tips for Great Dane Pitbull Mix
The Great Dane Pitbull Mix has a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. Here are some tips to keep your dog looking and feeling their best:
- Brushing: While they don’t require frequent brushing, it’s still a good idea to brush your Great Dane Pitbull Mix once or twice a week to remove any loose fur and keep their coat shiny. Use a soft-bristled brush or rubber grooming mitt to avoid damaging their sensitive skin.
- Bathing: Bathing your Great Dane Pitbull Mix once every three months should be sufficient unless they get particularly dirty or smelly. Use a mild dog shampoo and rinse thoroughly to avoid any residue. Make sure to dry them off completely, especially in cooler weather.
- Nail trimming: Trim your dog’s nails regularly, about once a month, to prevent them from getting too long and causing discomfort or injury. If you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself, your veterinarian or a professional groomer can help.
- Ear cleaning: Check your Great Dane Pitbull Mix’s ears regularly for any signs of redness, irritation, or wax buildup. Use a gentle dog ear cleaner and a soft cloth or cotton ball to clean the inside of their ears, being careful not to go too deep.
- Teeth cleaning: Dental hygiene is important for your dog’s overall health. Brush their teeth with a dog-specific toothpaste and toothbrush or provide dental chews or toys to help keep their teeth clean.
Health Concerns
While this breed is generally relatively healthy, owners should pay attention to some health problems more likely to happen to their pets than others.
Hip Dysplasia
This genetic disease can cause severe or modest changes to your dog’s hip joints. This problem occurs when the ball section of the femur is misaligned with the hip socket of the pelvis, resulting in a painful and costly condition to cure.
Cardiomyopathy
This cardiac condition primarily comes from the Great Dane lineage. It results in irregular heartbeats and causes the dog to faint, collapse, or even die unexpectedly. It may be managed with medicine, allowing the affected dogs to live a quality life.
Cancer
This breed is prone to getting several types of cancer, such as bone cancer. Once again, this mostly comes from the Great Dane side of the mix.
Many canine cancers are curable if detected early. However, it may need expensive chemotherapy or possibly amputation of limbs. As with other breeds, regular vet visits, adequate care, and diet can help improve the quality of their life.
Conclusion
The Great Dane Pitbull Mix is a powerful and affectionate breed that makes an excellent family pet. They require regular exercise, playtime, early socialization, and obedience training to ensure they become well-adjusted and obedient dogs. Regular veterinary check-ups and a well-balanced diet are essential to keep them healthy and happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.What is a Great Dane and Pitbull mix called?
The Great Dane and Pitbull mix is also known as a “Danebull,” a cross between a Great Dane and an American Pit Bull Terrier.
A Danebull generally has the body of a Great Dane with the head of an American Pit Bull Terrier, though some may have features of both breeds. They typically have short, thick fur, usually brown, black, or brindle. They typically weigh between 70-100 pounds and stand around 24 inches tall at the shoulder.
2. What is the lifespan of a Great Dane and Pitbull mix?
Great Dane and Pitbull mixes are generally healthy dogs with an average lifespan of 8-10 years. They may be prone to certain health conditions such as hip dysplasia, heart disease, and allergies, so it is essential to keep up with regular vet visits to ensure your dog stays healthy.
3. Is The Great Dane Pitbull Mix Good With Kids?
The Great Dane Pitbull mix can be a great companion for families with children as long as the dog is adequately socialized and trained. This breed is known for being friendly and affectionate with its family.
They are known for being very intelligent, which makes them easy to train. This breed can also be quite protective of their owners, so it is essential to ensure they receive the proper socialization and obedience training from an early age.
4. Can a Pitbull have Great Dane puppies?
No, a Pitbull can’t have Great Dane puppies. The breeds differ in size, structure, coat, and temperament.
Pitbulls are medium-sized breeds that typically weigh 30-50 lbs and stand between 18-22 inches tall. Their coats are short and come in a variety of colors. Pitbulls are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature.
Great Danes, on the other hand, are a large breed that can weigh up to 175 lbs and stand up to 32 inches tall. They have long, silky coats that come in various colors and patterns. Great Danes are known for their gentle and friendly dispositions.
Due to the significant difference in size and structure between the two breeds, a Pitbull can’t have Great Dane puppies. However, if you’re looking for a large breed dog with a loyal and friendly disposition, you may consider adopting a Great Dane!
5. Do Dog Registries Recognize This Breed?
The Great Dane Pitbull Mix is a crossbreed; as such, it is not recognized by any significant dog registries, such as the American Kennel Club, the United Kennel Club, or the Canadian Kennel Club.
Some organizations do recognize mixed-breed dogs, such as the American Canine Hybrid Club, the Designer Dogs Kennel Club, the International Designer Canine Registry, and Designer Breed Registry, among others.
