Shepherd Pit

Dog Breed Profile

Shepherd Pit History

The Shepherd Pit is a hybrid, or designer, crossbreed. The name “Shepherd Pit” is sometimes used to describe the mixed-breed offspring of a pit bull and a shepherd. The origins of this hybrid are unclear. It is sometimes said to be a cross between a pit bull and a cattle or sheep herding dog, but there is some debate about this. Some believe a pit mix and a shep mix is the original combination, and others are convinced a shep was crossed with a pit decades ago. The pairing of a shep with a pit produces a pup that has some characteristics from each parent. The shep pups tend to be taller and leaner than the more muscular, athletic, and compact pits, and they tend to be smarter and more obedient than the more stubborn and aggressive pits.

Time of Origin

2000s

Country of Origin

United States Of America

Ancestry

American Pit Bull Terrier, German Shepherd

Shepherd Pit Physical Characteristics

The Shepherd Pit is a medium-sized, stocky, muscular, and athletic hybrid of the Pitbull and the German Shepard. This breed has many of the characteristics of the two breeds that were used to create the Shepherd Pit including their temperament and appearance. The Shepherd Pit has a thick, short, and rough coat that is white, red, or black and their eyes are almond-shaped. They have a strong snout and a calm temperament.

Eye Colors

Hazel, Brown, Amber

Nose Colors

Black, Brown, Isabella

Coat Colors

Brindle, Cream, Fawn, Brown, Gray, Black

Height Range

Male Height Range: 18 – 26 inches

Female Height Range: 17 – 24 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 40 – 90 lbs

Female Weight Range: 30 – 70 lbs

Shepherd Pit Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

10-14 yrs

Shepherd Pit Health Concerns

Demodicosis, Panosteitis, Hip Dysplasia, Pannus, Perianal Fistulas, Hemophilia, Degenerative Myelopathy, Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency, Renal Cystadenocarcinoma and Nodular Dermatofibrosis, 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

Shepherd Pit Temperament and Behaviour

The Shepherd Pit is a highly intelligent, protective, and active breed of dog. They are quick to learn and eager to please, which make them a great candidate for training and learning new tricks and commands. They are loyal to their family and wary of unfamiliar people and animals. They are generally good with children, but should be supervised when around them and younger children.

Shepherd Pit Activity Requirements

Shepherd Pits are a high-energy, medium-sized dog that is known for its strength and stamina. They are a herding dog hybrid that is highly trainable and intelligent. While a Shepherd Pit can be content to lie around most of the day, they do require regular mental and physical stimulation. They are best suited to homes with a secure, fenced yard where they can run around and get plenty of exercise and attention. If you are looking for a lively companion, a Shepherd Pit may be the right dog for you. These intelligent, strong-willed dogs need lots of love and attention.