Pitbull Cross With American Bulldog: Complete Mixed Breed Guide
Everything about the pitbull cross with American Bulldog: size, temperament, health risks, coat care, cost.
The pitbull cross with American Bulldog — sometimes called an American Bulldog Pitbull Mix, Bullypit, or American Bullpit — is one of the most physically imposing designer crosses in the bully breed family. Both parent breeds share muscular builds, loyalty, and a history rooted in working-class American life, but combining them produces dogs that vary considerably in size, drive, and social tolerance. This guide breaks down what prospective owners actually need to know before bringing one home.
Parent Breed Breakdown: What Makes This Mix
Understanding a mixed-breed dog starts with understanding each parent. The two breeds behind this cross are frequently confused but are genetically and physically distinct.
| Trait | American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) | American Bulldog |
|---|---|---|
| AKC Recognition | Not AKC-recognized; UKC-recognized since 1898 | AKC Foundation Stock Service since 2019 |
| Weight Range | 30–65 lb (14–29 kg) | 60–120 lb (27–54 kg) |
| Height | 17–21 in (43–53 cm) | 20–28 in (51–71 cm) |
| Original Function | Bull-and-terrier sports, farm work, companionship | Catch dog for feral cattle/hogs, farm guardian |
| Dog Tolerance | Variable; many show same-sex aggression | Moderate; can be dog-selective |
| Human Aggression | Atypical; breed standard penalizes it | Atypical; reserved with strangers but not aggressive |
| Lifespan | 12–16 years | 10–15 years |
The APBT is the smaller, more agile parent — a true terrier at heart with high play drive and a tendency toward dog selectivity. The American Bulldog is substantially larger, more powerful, and was bred to physically catch and hold livestock. Both are deeply loyal to their families and respond well to positive reinforcement training. Neither breed is inherently human-aggressive, and both score well on the American Temperament Test Society (ATTS) evaluations, with APBTs passing at approximately 87% and American Bulldogs at roughly 84%.
Size and Physical Appearance: How Big Will This Mix Get?
Because the parent breeds differ by as much as 55 lb (25 kg), the size range of a pitbull cross with American Bulldog is genuinely wide. You cannot predict exact adult size from a puppy, but you can establish boundaries.
| Measurement | Low End (APBT-dominant) | Average | High End (Bulldog-dominant) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Weight | 40–55 lb (18–25 kg) | 60–85 lb (27–39 kg) | 90–110 lb (41–50 kg) |
| Adult Height (at shoulder) | 18–20 in (46–51 cm) | 21–24 in (53–61 cm) | 25–27 in (64–69 cm) |
| Time to Full Size | 12–14 months | 14–18 months | 18–24 months |
Most dogs from this cross land in the 60–85 lb (27–39 kg) range. Males tend toward the upper end, females toward the lower. Expect a broad chest, muscular neck, and a head shape that falls somewhere between the APBT's wedge-shaped skull and the American Bulldog's broader, more brachycephalic (short-muzzled) profile. Muzzle length varies — some individuals inherit a moderate-length muzzle, while others lean toward the shorter Bulldog side, which has implications for heat tolerance (more on that below).
Generation Types: F1, F1B, and Multigen Explained
- F1 (First Generation): One purebred APBT parent × one purebred American Bulldog parent. Maximum genetic diversity. Traits are least predictable in appearance but often benefit from the widest gene pool.
- F1B (Backcross): An F1 mix bred back to one of the parent breeds. For example, an F1 Bullypit × American Bulldog produces offspring that are 75% Bulldog and 25% APBT. This pushes traits closer to the backcross parent.
- F2 (Second Generation): Two F1 mixes bred together. Trait expression becomes more variable — you can get puppies in the same litter that look dramatically different from each other.
- Multigen (F3+): Multiple generations of mixed-to-mixed breeding. Very uncommon for this particular cross. Most "Bullypits" on the market are F1 or accidental first-generation crosses rather than part of a deliberate multigen program.
Note: Unlike Poodle-based designer breeds (Goldendoodles, Labradoodles), there is no established multigen breeding community for the pitbull cross with American Bulldog. The vast majority are F1 crosses or unintentional litters.
Temperament: What to Expect (and What You Can't Predict)
Temperament in mixed breeds is a spectrum, not a guarantee. Here's the realistic range based on the behavioral tendencies of both parent breeds and reported experiences from owners and trainers.
- Deeply affectionate and bonded with family members
- Confident and stable in new environments
- Good with children when properly socialized from puppyhood
- Responsive to positive reinforcement training
- Playful and athletic without being hyperactive
- Tolerant of other household pets with gradual introductions
- Dog-selective or same-sex aggressive (common in both parent breeds)
- High prey drive toward cats, small dogs, or wildlife
- Guarding tendencies over food, toys, or territory
- Separation anxiety if left alone for long hours
- Stubbornness during training if methods are punitive or inconsistent
- Over-arousal in high-stimulation environments (dog parks, crowded areas)
What's consistent across most individuals: high human-orientation (they want to be with you), physical strength that demands leash training from an early age, and a sensitivity to their owner's emotional state. What varies wildly: tolerance of other dogs, prey drive intensity, and energy level. One puppy in a litter might be a couch potato; another might need 90+ minutes of structured activity daily.
Training Approach
Both parent breeds are intelligent but can be willful. Force-free, positive reinforcement methods work best — treat-based motivation, clicker training, and reward-based leash walking. Aversive tools like shock collars, prong collars, or alpha rolls are counterproductive with bully breeds and can escalate fear-based reactivity. If your dog shows leash reactivity toward other dogs, work with a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) or a veterinary behaviorist (DACVB) who uses desensitization and counter-conditioning protocols.
Coat, Shedding, and Grooming Needs
Neither parent breed is hypoallergenic, and this mix is no exception. If you have dog allergies, this cross is not a suitable choice.
| Trait | APBT-Influenced | Bulldog-Influenced |
|---|---|---|
| Coat Length | Short, smooth, single coat | Short, smooth, may have slightly denser undercoat |
| Shedding Level | Low to moderate year-round | Moderate; seasonal increases |
| Colors | Brindle, black, blue, red, fawn, white, patchwork | White, brindle, fawn, red, piebald |
| Skin Folds | Minimal | Possible mild facial folds requiring cleaning |
| Hypoallergenic? | No | No |
Grooming Routine
- Brushing: Once or twice weekly with a rubber curry brush (such as a Kong ZoomGroom, ~$8–$12) or bristle brush to manage loose hair and distribute skin oils.
- Bathing: Every 4–8 weeks, or as needed. Use a gentle, dog-formulated shampoo (oatmeal-based for sensitive skin). Over-bathing strips natural oils and worsens shedding.
- Skin fold care (if inherited): Wipe facial folds with a damp cloth or veterinary-recommended wipe 2–3 times weekly to prevent yeast or bacterial infections.
- Nails: Trim every 2–4 weeks. If you hear clicking on hard floors, they're too long.
- Ears: Check and clean weekly with a veterinarian-approved ear cleanser, especially if the dog has semi-prick or rose ears that trap moisture.
Health Considerations: Hybrid Vigor vs. Reality
Let's address the hybrid vigor myth directly. The concept of heterosis (hybrid vigor) suggests that crossbreeding reduces the risk of inherited disorders by widening the gene pool. There is some evidence for this — a review in the Merck Veterinary Manual notes that outcrossing can reduce the incidence of recessive genetic diseases concentrated within closed breed registries. However, hybrid vigor does NOT eliminate health risk. Both parent breeds share overlapping predispositions, and any puppy can inherit conditions from either side.
Conditions to Screen For
| Condition | Inherited From | Prevalence/Notes | Screening Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hip Dysplasia | Both breeds | OFA reports ~15–20% of American Bulldogs rated dysplastic; APBTs somewhat lower but still prevalent | OFA/PennHIP radiograph ($200–$400) |
| Elbow Dysplasia | Both breeds (more common in Bulldogs) | Can cause front-leg lameness by 6–12 months of age | OFA elbow radiograph |
| Allergies (atopic dermatitis) | Both breeds — highly prevalent | Environmental and food allergies cause chronic itching, ear infections, hot spots | Clinical diagnosis; allergy panel ($300–$600) |
| Demodectic Mange | APBT (genetic immune susceptibility) | Demodex mite overgrowth; localized or generalized | Skin scraping by veterinarian |
| Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) | Both breeds carry the SOD1 mutation | Progressive spinal cord disease; onset typically 8+ years | DNA test via Embark or OFA (~$65–$200) |
| Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) | American Bulldog (if short-muzzled) | Breathing difficulty, heat intolerance, exercise limitation | Veterinary airway assessment; functional grading |
| Hypothyroidism | American Bulldog | Weight gain, lethargy, coat thinning; manageable with medication | Full thyroid panel ($100–$200) |
If purchasing from a breeder, request proof of OFA hip and elbow scores for both parents, a DM genetic test result, and a veterinary health certificate. A responsible breeder will provide these without being asked. Always consult your veterinarian about an appropriate screening schedule for your individual dog.
- Sudden hind-limb weakness or dragging of rear paws (possible DM or spinal issue)
- Labored breathing, blue-tinged gums, or collapse after exercise (possible BOAS or cardiac event)
- Swollen, rigid abdomen with unproductive retching (GDV/bloat — life-threatening emergency)
- Rapidly spreading hair loss with crusted skin lesions (generalized demodicosis)
Exercise, Nutrition, and Daily Care
Exercise Requirements
Expect to provide 60–90 minutes of structured activity daily for an adult in good health. This should include:
- Two leash walks of 25–40 minutes each
- Mental stimulation: puzzle feeders (Kong Classic, ~$15; Outward Hound Nina Ottosson puzzles, ~$12–$25), scent work, or short training sessions
- Controlled play: flirt pole sessions (5–10 minutes), swimming, or structured fetch
- Avoid off-leash dog parks if your dog shows any dog reactivity — this is not a breed mix that universally thrives in unstructured multi-dog environments
Nutrition
Feed an AAFCO-certified complete-and-balanced diet appropriate for your dog's life stage. For a 60–85 lb (27–39 kg) adult, expect to feed approximately 1,200–1,800 kcal/day depending on activity level. Look for a named animal protein as the first ingredient (chicken, beef, lamb) and a guaranteed analysis showing minimum 22% protein for adult maintenance.
Given the high allergy prevalence in both parent breeds, be prepared to trial limited-ingredient or novel-protein diets (e.g., venison, duck, or salmon-based formulas) if your dog develops skin or GI symptoms. Always transition foods over 7–10 days.
Cost: Purchase Price, Ongoing Expenses, and Where to Find One
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy from responsible breeder | $800–$2,500 | Health-tested parents, take-back clause, early socialization |
| Rescue/adoption | $50–$400 | Many bully-breed rescues have this mix; often already spayed/neutered and vaccinated |
| First-year veterinary costs | $500–$1,200 | Vaccinations, spay/neuter, heartworm test, baseline screenings |
| Annual ongoing costs (food, preventives, vet) | $1,200–$2,400 | Higher if allergy management is needed |
| Pet insurance (monthly) | $45–$90/month | Varies by provider, deductible, and breed classification |
| Training (group classes or private) | $150–$600 | Puppy socialization class + basic obedience minimum |
Adoption vs. Breeder
This mix is extremely common in shelters and breed-specific rescues. Organizations like ASPCA-affiliated shelters, local SPCA chapters, and bully-breed rescues (such as Biggies Bullies or Bullies to the Rescue) frequently have American Bulldog and pitbull-type mixes available. Adopting gives you a dog whose adult temperament and size are already known, and it sidesteps the ethical concerns around deliberately producing designer mixes without health testing.
If you choose a breeder, verify they perform OFA health testing on both parents (not just "vet checked" — that's a different and much lower standard), provide a written health guarantee, and have a take-back clause requiring the dog be returned to them if you can no longer care for it.
Who Is This Mix Best Suited For?
The pitbull cross with American Bulldog is not a first-time-owner dog for most households. Here's an honest assessment of fit:
- Experienced dog owners familiar with strong, powerful breeds
- Active households that can commit to daily structured exercise
- Homes with fenced yards (minimum 5-foot fence; some individuals are athletic jumpers)
- Families with older children (8+) who understand dog body language
- Single-pet households or homes with one opposite-sex dog
- Owners willing to invest in professional training and socialization
- Rural or suburban areas with fewer BSL restrictions
- First-time dog owners without mentorship or trainer support
- Apartments or condos with strict breed/weight restrictions
- Homes where the dog will be left alone 8+ hours daily
- Households with multiple same-sex dogs
- Families wanting an off-leash dog park dog
- Anyone unable to manage a 60–110 lb dog on leash
- Areas with active BSL prohibiting pitbull-type or bulldog-type dogs
Frequently Asked Questions
What two breeds make up this mix?
The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) and the American Bulldog. These are distinct breeds — the APBT is a medium-sized terrier-type dog (30–65 lb), while the American Bulldog is a large working mastiff-type dog (60–120 lb). They share some ancestry but are not interchangeable.
How big will a pitbull cross with American Bulldog get?
Most adults weigh between 60–85 lb (27–39 kg) and stand 21–24 inches (53–61 cm) at the shoulder, though individuals can range from 40 lb to over 100 lb depending on which parent they take after. Growth typically completes between 14–24 months.
What will the temperament be like?
Expect a loyal, people-oriented dog with moderate to high energy and variable tolerance of other animals. Most are affectionate with their families and eager to please, but dog selectivity and prey drive are common. Early, ongoing socialization using positive reinforcement methods is essential.
Is this mix hypoallergenic or low-shedding?
No. Both parent breeds have short, shedding coats that produce normal levels of dander. This mix is not suitable for allergy sufferers. Shedding is low to moderate year-round with seasonal increases.
What health issues might this mix inherit?
Key concerns include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, allergies (atopic dermatitis), demodectic mange, degenerative myelopathy, and — if the dog inherits a shorter muzzle — brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). Responsible health screening of parent dogs reduces but does not eliminate these risks.
How much does a pitbull cross with American Bulldog cost?
From a breeder, expect $800–$2,500 for a puppy with health-tested parents. Through a rescue or shelter, adoption fees typically range from $50–$400. First-year veterinary and supply costs add another $800–$1,800. Annual ongoing costs run $1,200–$2,400 depending on health needs.
Are pitbull crosses good with children?
Both parent breeds are known for affection toward their families, including children, when properly socialized. However, any dog of this size and strength requires active supervision around young children. Teach children to respect the dog's space (no hugging, no approaching during meals or sleep), and always model calm interactions. Never leave any dog unsupervised with children under 10.
Tom Renshaw
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
