Shepherd Pit

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30-70 lbs
17-24"
United States
German Shepherd
American Pit Bull Terrier
German Sheppit
The Shepherd Pit is a hybrid mix between the German Shepherd and the American Pit Bull Terrier, or Pit Bull for short. He is a medium to large sized breed with the tendency of possessing the look of a bigger Pit Bull with the coloring of the German Shepherd. Although the Pit Bull and German Shepherd both have a bad reputation for being aggressive and hard to handle, the Shepherd Pit is a wonderful breed when in the hands of the right owner. He is hard working, intelligent, loyal, protective, and loving. He is eager to please and enjoys spending time with his family above all else. It is important to remember that neither parent breed does particularly well around children or other animals, so we must assume that the Shepherd Pit is going to be sensitive in these areas as well. Despite this fact, with early socialization and careful training, the Shepherd Pit can make a wonderful dog for those who are looking for a guardian and best friend.
purpose Purpose
Work and Companion Animal
history Date of Origin
2000's
ancestry Ancestry
American Pit Bull Terrier and German Shepherd

Shepherd Pit Health

Average Size
Male Shepherd Pit size stats
Height: 18-26 inches Weight: 40-90 lbs
Female Shepherd Pit size stats
Height: 17-24 inches Weight: 30-70 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Demodicosis
  • Panosteitis
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Pannus
  • Perianal Fistulas
  • Hemophilia
  • Degenerative Myelopathy
  • Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
  • Renal Cystadenocarcinoma and Nodular Dermatofibrosis
Minor Concerns
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Hemivertebrae
  • Von Willebrand's Disease
  • Cleft Lip or Palate
  • Footpad Disorder
  • Cervical Vertebral Instability
  • Cutaneous Asthenia
  • Idiopathic Epilepsy
  • Mitral Valve Dysplasia
  • Eye Conditions
Occasional Diagnoses
  • Patellar Luxation
  • Gastric Dilation Volvulus
  • Sebaceous Adenitis (SA)
  • Pulmonic Stenosis
Occasional Tests
  • Dna For Pra
  • Eye Examinations
  • Blood Tests
  • Full Physical Examination regarding joint movement around the hip and kneecap
  • DNA for VWD
  • Heart Testing

Shepherd Pit Breed History

The Shepherd Pit was created in the United States sometime during the early 2000's. Outside of that, however, we don't know much about why he was brought to be and for what purpose. It could be safe to assume, based on his parent breeds, that the Shepherd Pit was created in order to have the intelligence and loyalty of the German Shepherd, with the fearlessness and power of the Pit Bull. While both of these breeds, unfortunately, come with a negative reputation, there are a lot of really great things about them that contribute to the Shepherd Pit. The German Shepherd, for instance, has been used for generations as a police force dog and loyal companion. Originating in Germany around the 19th century and created specifically for his intelligence, good looks, and versatile skills, the German Shepherd was always a fan favorite. The first of this breed to reach America was brought over around the year 1906 and only a few years later in 1912, the German Shepherd was accepted by the American Kennel Club as an official breed. His popularity continued to grow and he enjoyed love from people everywhere as he lived his life helping people and showing off his skills. This popularity took a hit however during World War I when the breed was associated as a bad thing due to his ties with Germany. Even despite the criticism, the German Shepherd continued to serve humanity, aiding in the war by being messengers, scouts, and much more. After the war, the talented German Shepherd made his way to the big screen and through this method, his popularity rose again. American audiences adored the gorgeous, brave dogs who starred in some of the favorite films as they boosted their spirits and brought smiles to their faces. Because of this, the German Shepherd gained favor once again and he became the most popular breed around for quite some time. Ever since, German Shepherds have been used as showmen, working animals, and loyal companions for people everywhere. The American Pit Bull Terrier, or Pit Bull, was created for a rather unfortunate reason initially. As a combination of the Bulldog and Terrier breeds, the Pit Bull was an aggressive and fearless dog who people loved to use for dog fights. This was a very popular event in America during the time when there were no TV's or video games to keep people entertained; and therefore, dog fights ran rampant through the country. Thankfully, however, there were some people who saw the good and useful purposes that the Pit Bull had to offer. He was used on farms for families who needed a good ratter and a faithful companion. The breed helped to fight off dangerous creatures such as wild boars and bears, while also protecting their family from human threats as well. Pit Bulls were, and are, known for being good with people as long as they were raised correctly and socialized well. They have an affectionate and loyal nature that is hard to ignore. Their loyal nature even took them as far as being used as a representation of the United States on posters during World War I and to boost spirits, they were used in comic strips such as "Buster Brown". While the American Kennel Club does not recognize the Pit Bull as an official breed due to their unfortunate history, the United Kennel Club has had the breed registered since 1898. Despite his origin story and original purpose, the Pit Bull truly is a wonderful dog if he is given the proper chance to show the world his best side.

Shepherd Pit Breed Appearance

The Shepherd Pit can come in a number of different colors and tends to resemble that of a larger Pit Bull, with either a classic short muzzle, or a longer muzzle like the German Shepherd. The ears stand tall upon the head and have that well-known fold right at the tip that is easily recognizable as an American Pit Bull Terrier trait. The fur tends to lie short and close to the body like the Pit, but has a wider range of color variations due to the contribution of the German Shepherd. This breed has large, round eyes that can be seen in either a dark, light, or amber colored brown and always reflect their intelligence. With long tail, strong body, and sturdy head, the Shepherd Pit is an impressive combination of many amazing traits from both the German Shepherd and the Pit Bull. Due to his shorter coat, the Shepherd Pit tends to prefer warmer climates and sheds a moderate amount throughout the year.
Eye Color Possibilities
hazel Shepherd Pit eyes
Hazel
brown Shepherd Pit eyes
Brown
amber Shepherd Pit eyes
Amber
Nose Color Possibilities
black Shepherd Pit nose
Black
brown Shepherd Pit nose
Brown
isabella Shepherd Pit nose
Isabella
Coat Color Possibilities
brindle Shepherd Pit coat
Brindle
cream Shepherd Pit coat
Cream
fawn Shepherd Pit coat
Fawn
brown Shepherd Pit coat
Brown
gray Shepherd Pit coat
Gray
black Shepherd Pit coat
Black
Coat Length
coat
Short Medium Long
Coat Density
coat density
pin
Sparse Normal Dense
Coat Texture
coat texture
Shepherd Pit straight coat texture
Straight Wiry Wavy Curly Corded

Shepherd Pit Breed Maintenance

Due to a short coat and moderate shedding level, the Shepherd Pit is considered a low to medium maintenance level. Brushing a few times a month with a slicker brush will be more than enough to keep his coat clean and looking beautiful. If you are someone who is greatly bothered by dog hair around the house, you may need to brush the Shepherd Pit a bit more frequently (perhaps three times a week) to keep the shedding down. Otherwise, his short fur is always tangle free and easy to clean off with a quick shake. Bathing is also only necessary very infrequently, as the Shepherd Pit does not have a bad doggy odor. He may need a bath sooner if he gets into something that he shouldn't, but otherwise, this pooch doesn't need a lot of water time! Just be sure to clean the ears often to check for any debris and trim the nails every few weeks to keep the paws healthy. This routine is simple and easy to do, so if you are looking for a dog that is easy to maintain, the Shepherd Pit may  be the one for you.
Brushes for Shepherd Pit
Slicker Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper
Nail Clipper
Brushing Frequency
fur daily fur weekly fur monthly
Shepherd Pit requires weekly brushing
Daily Weekly Monthly

Shepherd Pit Temperament

As the Shepherd Pit has two parent breeds that are well-known for their fearless and very protective natures, it is important keep in mind that this hybrid breed is not for everyone. The naturally aggressive nature that follows the German Shepherd and Pit Bull is necessary due to the jobs that they were created to perform and if raised correctly, does not become a problem in day to day life. However, because of this background, the Shepherd Pit needs to have a well-experienced owner who knows how to train and how to handle many different kind of dog situations; such as proper dog park interactions, walks past other humans and dogs, as well as excellent training sessions that help to improve overall manners. Despite this fact, the Shepherd Pit is a very affectionate and loyal breed to his family members. He loves to play and have some kind of job that is his to perform. While not very noisy, he will bark when  necessary and is therefore an excellent choice as the silent guard dog. When having this breed around children, it is best to always maintain supervision and practice early socialization to ensure that the dog is used to such interactions from a very young age.

Shepherd Pit Activity Requirements

The Shepherd Pit is a very active breed that will require multiple outdoor play and training sessions a day. Training is especially important with this breed as he needs the mental stimulation to keep from getting bored, and to further improve his social interactions. Other activities that can be done with the Shepherd Pit may include a long jog or walk, biking, hiking, agility training, and playing around in the yard. By spending lots of time with the Shepherd Pit, you will not only create a bond and tire him out, but you will also ensure that he is an excellent dog to be around your loved ones and others who may come into his space.
Activity Level
low activity medium activity high activity
Low Medium High
Rec. Walk Mileage Per Week
16 miles
walk mileage
Minutes of Activity Per Day
180 minutes
activity minutes

Similar Maintenance Breeds to Shepherd Pit

Similarly Sized Breeds to Shepherd Pit

Shepherd Pit Food Consumption

Cups Per Day
3 cups
cup per day cost cup per day cost cup per day cost
Daily Cost
$1.20 - $1.40
food bowls daily cost
Monthly Cost
$34.00 - $45.00
food bag monthly cost

Shepherd Pit Height & Weight

6 Months
Male Shepherd Pit size stats at six months
Height: 15.0 inches Weight: 52.5 lbs
Female Shepherd Pit size stats at six months
Height: 14.0 inches Weight: 40.0 lbs
12 Months
Male Shepherd Pit size stats at 12 months
Height: 19.0 inches Weight: 67.5 lbs
Female Shepherd Pit size stats at 12 months
Height: 18.0 inches Weight: 50.0 lbs
18 Months
Male Shepherd Pit size stats at 18 months
Height: 23.5 inches Weight: 82.5 lbs
Female Shepherd Pit size stats at 18 months
Height: 22.0 inches Weight: 62.5 lbs
author-img

Written by a Siberian Husky lover Lyndsie Harris

Published: 12/20/2017, edited: 08/18/2021

More articles by Lyndsie Harris

Shepherd Pit Owner Experiences

Scamp
6 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He has a very strong personality as a goofball but also one of the most intelligent dogs I’ve had. Great with kids and other dogs, not with squirrels!
2 months, 3 weeks ago
Homer
6 Months
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Chew toy
Play
Walk
cuddle
Fetch
Homer is a very sweet boy who cuddles with me every time I get in bed. He loves affection, so much that he cannot be left alone for very long. Despite the stereotypes, he isn't aggressive at all, and is actually shy meeting people but quickly grows very friendly. He's quiet but very energetic, needs to be played with a few times a day, and gets along well with other dogs (and tries to get along with cats but they don't like him). Very loyal, loving, and kind.
1 year ago
Chubs
14 Years
5 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
An excellent mix! Very Loyal, Intelligent, Loving, just to name a few great qualities. Ours just recently passed. He was 13 years old, one week shy of his 14th Birthday. We were so attached to him and has been very difficult letting him go. He was fine earlier that day and when we came home, he had a hard time breathing. Rushed him to the ER, the vet said the humane thing to do is put him down 😭. He will be forever in our Hearts💖
2 years ago
Jazzmine
12 Months
9+ People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Relaxing
Hike
Swim
hide and seek
Cuddling
Car ride
At first, the man who sold me my Jazzmine told me she was a Labrador Cross German shepherd. So her training was not about always meeting new people or other pets... I was not the alpha... At 4months, she began to become more and more protective of me (i'm a very shy and quiet girl, and she knows it) even agressive with other dogs and eventually humans. At only 5months she was trying to bite.. I was desperate.. I took a few steps back with her. I am a traveller so my dog's everything to me, she is my bestfriend. I decided to quit everything and just go somewhere else with her.. I figured out a way to make things easier for her and for me. I spend hours and hours, days after days, weeks, months working with her and myself. Now she's 12months. I can go with her EVERYWHERE without a leash. She is so friendly with every animals, cats, rats, bunnies, dogs, etc. She is still nervous around certain people, but i know my Jazzmine now and I know what she really is (her REAL breed) so I can avoid what makes her feel too protective of me. I trained her to stay calm and quiet if a stranger come near me. I told her : ''Stay quiet and observe Jazz '' and she sit and wait. Long story short, she is my first dog and wasn't an easy one, but I learn so much along the way and what is most amazing is that I learned more about myself than I ever did before. She was worth it and if I had to go back in time I'll do t all over and over again, as long that we're together.
6 years, 4 months ago
Cooper
2 Years
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Playing fetch
Car rides
Go for walks
When i first got him i was a little nervous but this dog is definelty perfect. Hes always by my side and is am overall joy to have. If i hurt myself or get mad at something he runs in to make me feel better with lots of kisses. He might be the biggest baby ever ❤
5 years, 8 months ago
Bandit
2 Years
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
Walk
He is the nicest dog ever, he loves to cuddle and play with my kitten. I have two cats and he does great with them both. He does well with kids and other dogs. He sheds so much.. sooo much. He is very hyper and excited about meeting new people. He has a hard time with training but he was poisoned when he was 3 months old and he started having issue after that. He’s the best dog. And he smiles☺️
5 years, 5 months ago
China
2 Years
5 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Car rides
digging
playing with other dogs
This dog is very very very friendly. Shes always loving on someone, and shes usually nice to strangers unless there is no one around. I remember i let my friend in and went to the bathroom i came back out and she had him in a corner. So if you have company over make sure you introduce them to the dog and they should be fine. She doesnt like walks but thats only because her previous owners never took her on walks, but when we let her in the backyard she goes wild. She loves playing with doxie-pin. Shes almost always hyper but i also think thats due to her lack of willingness to walk. We need to break her in with a leash and i think she will be fine. She also has a tendency to get overwhelmed with all the people in our house and she will growl at anybody if they try to love on her while shes sleeping. Keep in mind though she came from a house with 13 dogs and no attention. Overall this dog is great. Just a hassle to train.
4 years, 8 months ago
Lala
1 Year
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Dog Parks
Car rides
Walk
We got Lala from our local animal shelter when she was about 5 months. We chose her because she was in a kennel with her mother & sister & she was very clingy to her mother, and i was hoping she would be that way with me, and she definitely is! Her previous owner was abusive and left her at the animal shelter then took her back twice! So needless to say Lala had trust issues. As soon as she came to her new home she ran straight under our bed to hide. Once i got her from under the bed, i held her in the blanket that i bought her that i rubbed on her mother so it would smell like her & i told her she had nothing to be scared of anymore and she fell asleep on my chest. Weve been 2 peas in a pod ever sense! She was fairly easy to house train! Got the hang of the pee pad system pretty well. Whenever she would pee or poo somewhere else we would place her on her pee pad. Her hardest obstacle was learning that the couch, her kennel, our bed, and our rugs were NOT pee destinations! But shes fine now, weve been accident free for over 6 months! Enrgy level is very high! Espically for a studio apartment! But we live at a very animal friendly apartment with no breed restrictions & 2 dog parks so theres plenty of pups to play with! Shes very friendly with big dogs small dogs bunnies frogs & pretty much animal, but she takes awhile to warm up to humans. When we have company over shes definetly more scared than aggressive, she'll express her anal glands or have an accident when stranger approach her in our home, but once she warms up to them shes laying in their lap begging for food lol. Im not sure how she is with children, however i am 6 months pregnant & her attitude has COMPLETELY changed for the better. With COVID-19 happening & me not working she has become the ultimate snuggle bug, especially when my husband isn't home. Lately ive been letting her sleep out of her kennel & shes does AMAZING! She sleeps curled up with my belly & if i get up to potty or for a late night snack she stays in the bed & waits for me to come back and cuddle her! I was worried about how she would act with the baby but, the protectiveness and loyalty shes shown with me during my pregnancy leaves me hopeful. Grooming, i feel that she sheds a lot, but ive only had one dog before; maltipoo which dont shed at all & my husband says her shedding is normal. Our apartment is fully grey wood & lala's hair is black so if i go a week without sweeping or dusting the house is a literal hair ball. Lala is a very sweet protective, & committed dog. She knows when it is time to play or time to cuddle with mommy, she is exactly the personality my husband and i were missing in our home and i wouldn't trade her for the whole world!
3 years, 12 months ago
Ace
3 Years
4 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Jogging
Fetch
Tracking
Shake
Learn a new trick
Tug-of-war
Live Ace. Very Intelligent dog ! Very energetic. Has energy that last forever. Always ready for runs and always happy around kids. Hard time listening around people sometimes and other dogs because he always wants to play. But overall he’s a loving animal.
3 years, 5 months ago
Odin
14 Months
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Wonderful pup. VERY vocal! Definitely thinks he can b alpha so thats our biggest challenge! Super smart easily trained already sits,lays, stays and working in treat on his muzzle. Potty training still semi work in progress seems to piddle(not full pee) when super excited) :( great with kids and cats and seems to love everyone. Overall hes a great addition to our family def more work and energy than our previous pit 💝but were learning together ;)
3 years, 5 months ago
sugar
1 Year
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
its been good but hard to train her
3 years, 5 months ago
Stella
4 Months
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
We rescued Stella from a not so good situation. She was very scared at first but that is starting to change. We are gaining her trust day by day. We have only had her for a week and in just that short time Stella has shown great potential. She is very intelligent. Our family is so lucky to be Stella's forever home!!!
3 years, 3 months ago
Truly
14 Years
3 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I rescued Truly at an estimated 3 years old from a local animal shelter. When we first met, we immediately bonded and she diplayed her sweetest and most playful side to sway me. After getting her home(i was single and living alone at the time) it took a few days to see the damage that had been done to her by previous owners. She was very agressive towards men, and very sensitive to high energy people or abrupt movements. She quickly developed a protective insitinct of me, which was appreciated, but knew we had to get it under control. Training and socialization with other dogs and people happened quickly, bu was challanging, Lots of long walks, leashed and unleashed(she was very good at staying close with me while walking in rual settings). Both with other dogs and people. She was happiest outside and with lots of exercise. She would always work to be the alpha dog amonst packs and sometimes it would include some physical "argumemts" with other dogs. I was lucky to have understanding and skilled friends with dogs to work through this. Then my future husband and his golden retriever joined our home. It was a long road for my husband to gain her trust, but eventually, they developed a healthy bond, and her and the golden became best friends. Then a baby! She did very well dispite her agressive nature and inexperience with children. She seemed to understand that my daugter was a part of me and was protective and not bothered by her. Though every intereaction was under close supervision. Truly never needed attention to health issues until a back injury that resulted in having to put her down at the age of 14. Until then, she played and was highly active all through her life. We had a special bond and would choose this breed again in a heartbeat. With children now, i would prefer to ontain this breed at a younger age, but part of me loved knowing I was able to give Turly a wonderful life after a very traumatizing one.
3 years, 1 month ago
Sweetie Pie
2 Years
1 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
pull toys are her favorite
running running running
She's the prettiest and always happy and excitable if you let her she'd lick you all day. My 1st dog so I lack in knowledge to train her properly but she's super smart and always ready for a challenge. She can be hardheaded at times but I love her to pieces. She wants constant attention and where ever I go I guarantee she'll underfoot.
3 years ago
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - New pet
Question

I’m getting a German Shepherd/Pitbull mix puppy in a few days and before I do, I’d like to know as much as I can about the breeds as possible. Food? Proper training? Exercise? Socialization? Thank you!

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Question - My pet
Question

Does a she point need regular dog grooming appointments? Are they supposed to be shaved a bit or no? Just a trim? Thank you.

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