Last Updated on June 5, 2023 by Becky Roberts
. If you’re thinking about getting a dog, even if you have a particular breed in mind, there are many wonderful mixed breed dogs that could make wonderful pets. Pitbulls can be mixed with other breeds, which make them great companions.
Pitbull Mastiff Mix is a large-breed dog that will make a wonderful family friend. Because of their size and strength, this mix is often overlooked by shelter staff.
If you’re an experienced dog owner and want a loyal, affectionate, companion, then you might consider giving them the perfect forever home.
If you don’t have a lot of knowledge about the breeds, it is helpful to know what personality traits and lifestyle requirements they may have to help you make an informed decision about whether or not this dog might be right for your needs.
Breed Histories
When we talk about Pit Bulls, we will be referring to the most common breed associated with the term: the American Pit Bull Terrier. (APBT). A common term for bully breeds, such as the American Staffordshire Terrier or some Bulldogs, is ‘Pit Bull’.
The American Pit Bull Terrier originated in England in the 19th century. Because of their courage and strength, they were used in bull, bear, and dog fighting. At the end of the 19th century, the UKC classified the breed as the American Pit Bull Terrier.
In America, however, the breed was not recognized by the American Kennel Club because the enthusiasts wanted to concentrate on the breed’s companionable qualities and avoid the breed’s bad reputation as a fighting breed. In the 1930s the AKC recognized the American Staffordshire Terrier as a breed in its own right. This dog is very similar the APBT. Pitbull Terriers can also be confused with the American Bulldog .
The American Pit Bull Terrier’s reputation has been tarnished by their use as fighting dogs and power status symbols by unresponsible owners. This problem has been perpetuated by the introduction of Breed Specific Legislation in many States. They are now commonly banned in many states ..
If they come from responsible breeders and are socialized well,
APBTs make great family pets. This is also why they are often mixed with other purebreds like the Labrador to make the Labrabull, the husky to make the Pitsky and are also commonly crossed with boxers as well.
The Mastiff is another breed of dog that originates in England. However, their ancestors are much older. They were known for their strength and size, and they were often used in Roman Gladiatorial rings. Mastiffs and Bullmastiffs are both renownedly wonderful family dogs ..
In the 19th century, the Mastiff was bred predominantly as a working watchdog. Although they were used in fighting rings in the mid 19th century, when dog fighting and bull baiting became illegal, the breed enthusiasts focused on temperament rather than on aggression. Today’s Mastiffs are gentle and easygoing. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed way back in 1885, and they are also sometimes referred to as the Old English Mastiff or English Mastiff.
Appearance
This combination will make a powerful and large dog. The Mastiff is considered one of the largest dog breeds in the world and can weigh anything from 120 to a whopping 230 pounds. While Pit Bulls are a lot smaller, usually not weighing more than 70 pounds, they are still very muscular and powerful.
You can also have a dog that has a single, short coat. However, coat coloring can vary widely. There are many solid colors available for the APBT, including blue, red, black and fawn. Mastiffs are available in only three colors: apricot or fawn, and usually wear a black mask.
While both breeds are more square-faced, the Mastiff is much more slouchy. This trait can be passed on to your Pit Bull Mastiff Mix. You will experience more drooling.
Personality Traits
While every breed tends to have expected temperament traits, don’t forget that every dog is an individual, and also socialization and training play a big part in shaping your dog’s personality too.
Despite the size and strength of Pit Bull Mastiffs, the Pit Bull Mastiff mix is known for its love for people. They are both known for being steadfastly loyal, companionable and affectionate with their family.
While their size and strength might make them unsuitable for homes with young children, it is not impossible to keep them safe. Although they can be great family pets, parents should ensure that their children learn respect for the dogs in the household.
They should always give them space when they are eating and sleeping, and they should be taught how to interact appropriately. A child who isn’t respectful of dogs and their space can cause even the most patient dog to become irritable.
*American Pit Bull Terriers may have a high prey drive. If you want to bring them into a home with other small furries, be aware of their potential for aggression. They don’t always like other dogs, especially ones they don’t know.
Mastiffs, on the other hand, tend to be generally more friendly with other dogs, making them popular to cross breed with other dogs like labs. Some APBTs are happy to be part of a multi-dog family, as they love other dogs. It is important to remember that APBTs are not as well-known for their ability to get along with other dogs.
Training
While all dogs require proper socialization and training at an early age, Pit Bull Mastiff Mixes are more likely to need this.
*If they are not taught to walk on a leash properly, they can pull people over and cause injuries. They can become aggressive towards other dogs or you don’t have complete control over them while out walking. This could be dangerous and irresponsible. *) It can be very beneficial to teach your dog good loose-leash walking skills, and help them form new associations with other dogs. If they are reacting in an extreme way, it is best to work with a dog behaviorist who uses force-free training methods. They can help you develop a behavior modification program. This will usually involve desensitization and counterconditioning techniques. Your dog will learn that other dogs can be good and will reward you with a calm response.
Regardless of how much your Pit Bull or Pit Bull Mix loves other dogs, Breed Specific Legislation may require that any Pit Bull or Pit Bull Mix be muzzled when they go out in public. You may need to make sure your dog is comfortable wearing a muzzle. You can help your dog to become more comfortable wearing the muzzle for longer periods of time by teaching him to associate it with positive things, such as yummy treats.
Both breeds are known for their strong jaws and love to chew. It will be important that you provide them with plenty of appropriate, tough and interactive chew toys to satisfy this urge and to save them turning to your table leg or slipper instead.
The Mastiff may be more protective of their family than others and, if encouraged, they might start protecting their territory and family from strangers they consider a threat. This behavior is not recommended. Instead, it is better to encourage positive interactions between people.
Exercise
*The exercise requirements for your Pit Bull Mastiff Mix may vary. The APBT is a very athletic and energetic breed. This breed needs to be exercised at least once a week. They are a breed that enjoys plenty of activity and even enjoy dog sports like agility.
The Mastiff on the other hand does not require such rigorous exercise. As they age, they are often called lazy. Because of their size and jowls, they are not able to withstand high temperatures as well. If your mix inherits more of the Mastiff appearance, then care will need to be taken to ensure that they do not overheat during warm summer weather.
If you are considering taking on a Pit Bull Mastiff mix, be ready to get them lots of exercise, even if it is not necessary, but be willing to let them relax on the couch for the majority of the day.
Grooming
You don’t need to give your dog a rigorous grooming regimen. It won’t cost much to take your dog to the groomer, but a quick brush will do the trick.
Both breeds are moderate shedders. You should vacuum regularly and keep a lint roll handy for hairs that have embedded in your clothes. Other than that, you should have minimal grooming.
Health
Some breeds may be linked to certain inheritable conditions. They are less likely to develop these conditions if they come from responsible breeders.
It is helpful to know about the possible conditions these breeds are prone to. If you have a Pit Bull Mastiff mix, it is important to be aware that they may inherit conditions from either breed.
Pitbull Health Conditions
Skin Conditions
Canine Atopic Dermatitis
Canine Atopic Dermatitis is often associated with
APBTs. This skin condition is usually caused by allergies to the environment. This condition can vary in severity, and can sometimes be managed with medication and the exclusion of allergens. A specialist veterinarian dermatologist might recommend immunotherapy injections for severe cases. The dog is injected with a very small amount of the allergen, which causes the reaction gradually over time. This can make the dog less sensitive and reduce their severity. This will most likely be a permanent solution. However, the frequency of injections will decrease.
Demodex Mange
Demodex Mange can also occur in these dogs. Every dog has a few microscopic Demodex mites. Their immune system keeps them under control. Sometimes, the APBT may have an immune system that is not as effective at keeping the mites under control. This can lead to hair loss and skin irritations. This is often a condition that only affects a few areas of the body in puppies. They can recover from it. If the condition progresses to adult dogs, aggressive treatment may be necessary. These cases can have a very serious impact on quality of life and can lead to a guarded diagnosis.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a condition that APBTs (and other breeds) are more likely to develop. This happens when the hip sockets are not properly aligned and can cause arthritis and joint pain. The best ways to reduce the problem are to keep your dog at a healthy weight and manage the dog’s activities (no high-impact sports), as well as taking pain medication. Surgery may be necessary in severe cases to alleviate pain and mobility problems.
Hypothyroidism
*This refers to an underactive thyroid which can cause a decrease in metabolic rate. This can lead to rapid weight gain and lethargic dogs. It can also cause a loss of skin and coat condition. It can be very debilitating if it is not treated. However, once it has been diagnosed, medication can often be used to manage it.
Mastiff Health Conditions
Mastiffs can develop hip dysplasia. The following conditions are more common in Mastiffs:
Bloat
Also known as Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV), Gastric Torsion. This condition is most common in large, heavy-chested dogs. This can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening complications. The stomach becomes dilated and twists. Your dog should be seen by a vet immediately if they are showing signs such as a distended stomach, difficulty lying down, or unable to settle, or if they seem to be retching and cannot vomit. You can increase your chances of them surviving if they are seen as soon as possible.
While research is ongoing to determine the cause of this condition, it is suggested that large-breed dogs be given multiple smaller meals throughout each day. If they are prone to eating too much, it may help them to have a slower meal.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy & Heart Disease
They are more susceptible to Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Heart Disease, and will need to be screened by a qualified breeder.
Nutrition
If your Pit Bull Mastiff mix has the Mastiff size, it is important that they are not given too much food as a puppy. Dogs of large breed are often given too many nutrients while growing. This can lead to musculoskeletal issues as they age and may even cause hip dysplasia.
A high-quality, balanced diet is essential for dogs throughout their lives. Obesity is a huge problem for dogs in the United States, and it is suggested that over 50% are overweight. This problem affects all dogs, but larger breeds can be more difficult to manage. If your Mastibull is on the smaller side, you can have them eat food that’s engineered for Pit Bulls. If they take after their Mastiff parent, you’ll want to keep them on a food formula made for English Mastiffs.
Finding a Pitbull Mastiff Mix
We would urge you to adopt. Many dogs are in need of a forever home and there are many available rescues all over the country. Because Pit Bull-type dogs are often stigmatized, APBTs and mixed breeds can spend longer in shelters before finding a home. It can be very rewarding to adopt a rescue dog.
If you are worried about adopting a dog from an animal shelter without understanding their past, make sure to meet the dog every day and get to know their personality. You might also consider adopting a dog that is rescued from an organization that assesses the dogs in a foster home before they are adopted to their forever homes.
If you are looking to buy a Pit Bull Mastiff Mix, make sure you do your research. You will not find any registered breeders for this mixed breed. You must be allowed to view mum and her puppies together in a loving and safe home. They should be fully weaned at eight weeks of age and have had their first health check.
Final Thoughts
Pitbull Mastiff mixes are a great choice if you’re looking for a loving, loyal dog who will love you and be a part of your family. They are strong and can be averse to other dogs, so they may not be suited for apartment living.
You will need to think about bigger food bills. Also, be aware that your dog might be very active or a couch potato. You might consider getting another dog if you find it difficult to meet these requirements.
