Updated 27-06-2023

Australian Shepherd Pit Bull Mix Characteristics, Facts & Traits

It is a cross between the Australian Shepherd and the Pit Bull dog breeds that is known as an Australian Shepherd PitBull Mix dog. These pups acquired some of the greatest characteristics from both of their parents. They are energetic, loyal, and fast to learn new things. Mixed breeds of Australian Shepherd and Pit Bull are known as Aussie Pits or Pitbull Australian Shepherd Mixes.

If you're looking for a dog that will fit in with your family, look no further than these cute puppies. As a cuddling buddy and an alert system, the Austrian Shepherd PitBull Mix might just be what you've been looking for.

Here are all the characteristics and facts about Australian Shepherd Pit Bull Mixes that you'll ever need to know.

Highlights

  • Dogs that are a mix of Australian Shepherd and Pit Bull are referred to as Aussies. Like their Australian Shepherd or Pit Bull parents, they are not full-blooded breeds.
  • Blue merle, black, red merle and cream are the primary hues of Aussie Pits. Some of their coats are all the same colour, while others have a variety of hues.
  • Allergy to Australian Shepherd Pit Bull Mixes is not guaranteed. Fortunately, their coats can be groomed easily. A thorough brushing once a week should suffice. As the seasons change, be prepared for them to blow their jackets.
  • As a result of their attention and energy requirements, Aussie Pit Bulls may choose to live as a solitary pet.
  • • They have a lot of stamina. It's important that your dog gets at least one long walk each day, as well as a couple nice, energetic play sessions and shorter walks. If they become restless, they may become destructive.
  • The lively nature of Aussie Pits necessitates that children be taught how to approach and play with a larger dog. Rough play can result in injury to young children. Always keep an eye on your children's activities.

Characteristics

Social Appearance 

Adaptability

As a common misconception holds, only dogs that are small qualify as apartment pets. It's not uncommon for tiny dogs to be too rambunctious to live in a high-rise apartment. Being quiet, low-energy, peaceful indoors, and friendly to other neighbours are all ideal characteristics for an apartment dog. To give your dog some privacy in your apartment, you can get a crate from this site.

Sensitivity Level

While some dogs are unfazed by a sharp correction, others take offence at even the most innocuous of looks. If you have a loud or forceful owner, an erratic schedule, or a dog that is more "easygoing," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," you should consider getting one of these breeds. How many kids do you have? Do you host a lot of parties? Do you participate in a garage band? Go with a dog that is less sensitive.

Intensity

It doesn't matter if your dog has a lot of energy or not, a robust dog does everything with vigour: they strain on the leash (until you train them not to), they push over barriers, and they even eat or drink with huge large gulps. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. When it comes to temperament, a low-vigor dog prefers a more laid-back attitude to life.

Potential for Playfulness

There are certain dogs that are always looking for a game, while there are others that are more stoic and reserved. Playful dogs are adorable, but how many games of fetch or tag do you plan on playing each day, especially if you have children or other dogs that can serve as playmates.

Personality Appearance

Intelligence

Sheepdogs, which were intended to herd animals and require a high level of intelligence and attention, need mental exercise just as much as dogs raised to gallop all day do. Without cerebral stimulation, they'll make their own work often with activities you despise, such as digging and chewing which you'll have to put up with. A dog's brain can be exercised through obedience training and interactive dog toys, as well as dog sports and occupations like agility and search and rescue.

Energy Level

Dogs with a lot of energy are always eager to get to the action. A canine job, such as retrieving game for hunters or herding animals requires a lot of stamina; these dogs were originally designed for that purpose. These animals require a lot of movement and mental stimulation, and they're more prone to jump, play, and explore any new sights and smells.

An energy-sucking dog is one who prefers to laze around and doze off the day away. If you're looking for a dog, think about your own level of activity and lifestyle, and whether you'll find a feisty, lively dog exhilarating or irritating.

Easy To Train

Those canines that are easier to train are better able to quickly make the connection between a cue (such as the phrase "sit"), an action (such as sitting), and a reward (such as earning a treat." Dogs that are more difficult to teach require more time, patience, and repetition.

A "What's in it for me?" mentality is common in many breeds, therefore if you want them to desire to comply with your commands you'll need to employ rewards and games.

Family Affection Level

Affectionate With Family

Even if they've been nurtured by the same person since puppyhood, some breeds are stubborn and aloof; others form strong bonds with a single individual and are uninterested in anybody else; and yet others lavish affection on the entire family. A dog's level of affection isn't solely determined by its breed; dogs who were reared in a household with other people are more likely to be affectionate toward them.

Kid-Friendly

Having a blasé attitude about screaming, running youngsters, and being gentle with children are all characteristics of a dog that is good with children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking It is widely accepted that boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are excellent pets for families with young children (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, being little, sensitive, and prone to snapping, aren't always the most family-friendly of dogs.

Dog Friendly

Friendship with dogs and friendship with humans are two very different concepts.. It's not uncommon for dogs to attack or try to dominate each other, even if they're known as "lovebugs" by their owners. There are other considerations besides the animal's breed. Dogs who were raised with their littermates and mother for at least six to eight weeks and who spend a lot of time playing with other puppies have a higher chance of having good social skills as adults.

Physical Appearance

Amount of Shedding

Having a dog in your home means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the house. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely between breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can use a de-shedding tool to keep your house a little cleaner

Drooling Potential

When they come over to say hello, drool-prone dogs may leave huge, wet patches on your clothes and drape ropes of slobber down your arm. Dogs that are less likely to drool may be better suited to those who are more concerned about cleanliness than those who are more relaxed about drooling.

Easy To Groom

Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and gone, while others require frequent bathing, cutting, and other grooming in order to remain healthy and clean. If you don't have the time or money to take care of a dog that requires a lot of grooming, think about hiring someone else to do it for you instead.

Exercise Needs

Even a leisurely stroll around the neighbourhood can be enough exercise for certain breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.

These breeds may put on weight if they don't get enough exercise, and their pent-up energy may manifest itself in unwanted behaviours like barking, chewing, and digging. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, may want to consider a high-energy breed that requires a lot of exercise.

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed

Weight

30 to 85 pounds

Lifespan

10 to 16 years

Height

17 to 23 inches

History 

There is a lack of information on how Australian Shepherd Pitbull mixed breeds came to be, just like modern designer canines. Look into the history of their parent breeds Australian Shepherds and American Pitbull Terriers to learn more about them.

To gain breed status, the Australian Shepherd had to travel across the globe. In the early 1800s, they had their start in the Pyrenees Basque region. When Basques moved to Australia, they brought along their devoted herding dogs. Other herding breeds, such as Border Collies, were used to breed these dogs. It wasn't until the Basques set ship for America that the Basques' dogs were once again present. The name Australian Shepherd dogs was coined by California ranchers who claimed that they were Australian canine breeds.

The American Pitbull Terrier, on the other hand, was developed in Great Britain in the 19th century. Breeders of the Old English Bulldog aimed to produce bull-baiting dogs. Pitbull dogs descended from a combination that may have included a number of terrier breeds.

Thousands of Pitbull owners and their dogs migrated to the United States after bloodsports were outlawed. They have a negative reputation because of their past as fighting dogs. So much so that in an effort to distance themselves from their previous tarnish, the American Kennel Club renamed the breed "American Staffordshire Terrier." Pitbull aficionados, on the other hand, realise that these dogs may be wonderful pets when they are nurtured in a loving and caring environment

There is a good chance that Australian Shepherd PitBull Mix puppies have been around for a long time. However, it's possible that designer breeds were first intentionally bred in North America in the late 1990s. As a result of seeing the Australian Shepherd's nice disposition and qualities and wanting the loyalty and strength of Pitbull, they decided to create the Aussie Pitbull combination.

Personality and Temperament

Sweet, nimble, affectionate, friendly, and lively are just a few adjectives to describe the Australian Shepherd Pitbull Mix. A mix of Australian Shepherd and American Pitbull Terrier, they have a very outgoing and outgoing demeanor. As a result, the dominant parent breed may have an effect on the features of the resulting Australian Shepherd Pitbull hybrid. This active mixed-breed dog gets along well with the rest of the household. However, if they aren't properly exercised, they can become quite violent.

Australian pit bulls can be very well-behaved if they are socialised at an early age. They are a highly clever and hard-working breed. However, they require a close relationship with their owners and excel at the role of a watchdog. They are extremely nimble and vivacious. If properly supervised, an Australian Shepherd Pitbull mix can be a nice companion for children, especially infants.

Care

For the most part, the Australian Shepherd Pitbull mix is a rather easy dog to care for.. As with purebred dogs and other hybrids, all you need to do is keep three things in mind at all times, and this dog will be fine!

Diet, grooming, and exercise are the three things you need to focus on. You'll have a beautiful and healthy dog once you've done the basic minimum in these areas. Let's take a closer look at these important areas.

Health

As a dog owner, you need to be prepared for the costs of maintaining a dog like this one. In spite of the fact that these dogs can survive for up to 16 years in some situations, they can be pretty sick most of the time.

Many health problems can be found in German Shepherds even though they originate in some of the hardest-working dogs in the world.

Here are some of the common health problems of the Aussie Pitbull mix:

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

This condition is known as hip and elbow dysplasia, which refers to the misalignment of a ball and socket joint. Hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia are two possible locations for this disorder to manifest itself in a dog (elbow dysplasia). Dysplasia of the hips and elbows can lead to postural degeneration and uncomfortable movement.

Cataracts

Cataracts are the most common eye problem in the Aussie Pit mix. When a dog is diagnosed with a cataract, its vision will become clouded over time. Cataracts can eventually lead to blindness if they are not addressed.

Epilepsy

It is not known if the Australian Shepherd/Pitbull hybrid can develop epilepsy because neither breed is known to be prone to it. Seizures and twitching are common symptoms of this illness, which can occur at any time. It is fortunate that epilepsy can be controlled with therapy and medication.

Bloat

This is a life-threatening syndrome characterised as gastric dilation-volvulus, popularly referred to as bloat. When a dog's stomach becomes swollen, this is known as gastroparesis. Overeating and eating too rapidly are the most common causes of bloating.

It's not uncommon for an Australian Shepherd Pitbull Mix to have these issues. It also includes some relatively modest issues, such as skin disorders and allergies. This means that if your dog is having trouble breathing, coughing a lot, or just seems to have itchy skin, you should try to figure out what's going on.

Recommended Health Test

  1. Yearly Eye Exam 
  2. Yearly Physical Examination

Nutrition

Australian Pit Bull Terrier hybrids are energetic medium-sized dogs. Even if this dog is a couch potato at times, it can still burn a lot of calories. To keep up with its busy lifestyle and proper growth, though, the Aussie Pit requires the right kind of diet.

For the most part, the ideal food for your Aussie Pit mix will be determined by how old it is. Dry dog food with a high protein content is the best option. To feed your dog a homemade diet, stick to white meat and vegetables. Green and English peas, as well as other types of peas, are great for your dog. You can serve this to your dog at every meal or serve it as a reward for good behaviour.

Grooming

The short double coat of the Australian Shepherd PitBull Mix is easy to care for. Regular brushing to eliminate dead hair will be sufficient, and you may not need to cut it at all in the near future. Like most dogs, he will shed more hair as the seasons change. Furthermore, bathing the Aussie Pit only when necessary is better for its skin and fur than bathing this dog regularly (for example, when he comes back from a particularly messy walk).

Exercise

If you're more of a couch potato, don't get an Aussie Pitbull. However, if you're willing to put in the effort, this crossbreed will help you meet your daily step goal! You must be prepared to provide your dog a variety of athletic activities such as agility, Frisbee, or obedience lessons before you adopt an Australian Shepherd PitBull Mix. It is important that you offer him responsibilities that make him feel like he is making an impact. His physical and mental well-being necessitate a long daily walk (at least an hour) as well as regular jogging and gaming sessions.

Training

Even with a great facility like the Aussie Pit, training may be challenging. Although he is quick to pick up new skills, he can also be stubborn. A lack of constant leadership can sometimes lead to the Aussie Pit taking the lead and establishing himself as the alpha dog. As a result, an experienced owner will be able to train this dog more effectively.

It is always better to reward excellent conduct rather than punish negative one, and always remain calm while training this type of dog. This breed of dog, which is prone to get overexcited, will benefit from your calming and reassuring presence.

Children and Other Pets

Australian Shepherd Pitbull Mixes, despite their loving and tolerant nature, may not be aware of their size. They're also a lot of fun to play with. Lower children are more prone to injury because of their smaller stature. Also, if you have children, make sure they know the right way to approach and play with a larger dog. Playtime will be more enjoyable if your Aussie Pit mix is taught not to jump and nibble on the heels. Always oversee your children's interactions with pets.

While the Australian Shepherd Pitbull cross can get along well with other dogs in the household, it is best to introduce them one-by-one. To ensure a smooth transition, begin socialising with them as soon as possible. When it comes to energy and attention, a Pitbull-Australian Shepherd mix may want to be the only pet in the household.

Nonetheless, many Australian Shepherd Pit mix dogs and cats get along nicely with one other. It all boils down to how much time and effort you put into socialising and training your pet.

Puppies

Although mixed breed dogs remain a contentious issue, their popularity is on the rise. If you're looking for the best of both worlds, a mixed-breed dog may be the answer.

Some people have taken advantage of this spike in popularity to make a quick buck. The effect is that puppy mills are now a reality. As a result of these facilities, both the mother and the puppy might be subjected to harsh neglect both physically and mentally.

Puppy mills are frequently the source of the adorable puppies you see displayed in pet stores. As a result of purchasing a puppy online, you may be contributing to a puppy mill.

Dog breeds Similar to Australian Shepherd Pitbull Mix

Here are some other breeds which share some characteristics with this crossbreed:

  1. Border Collie Labrador
  2. German Shepherd Pitbull
  3. Australian Shepherd Boxer
  4. Bull Terrier Australian Cattle Dog
  5. Shiloh Shepherd
  6. Husky Poodle mix
  7. Pitbull Golden Retriever Mix
  8. Blue Lacy Dog
  9. English Coonhound
  10. Australian Shepherd Corgi mix