German Shepherd Pit Mix: Your Complete Guide

German shepherd pit mixes go by many names. You might have heard others refer to these mixed breed dogs as the German pit, German sheppit, or Gerpit. Since these dogs are a cross between the German shepherd and the American pit bull terrier, they inherit unique characteristics from both parents that every prospective owner should know.

Our breed guide will walk you through everything about German shepherd pit mixes, covering their physical features, size, coat type, temperament, intelligence, care needs, and more. Read to the end to determine if a German shepherd pit mix is the right dog breed for you.

Quick Look at the German Shepherd Pit Mix

The chart below summarizes the main characteristics of the German shepherd pit mix. We’ll cover each point in more detail in the coming parts of the article.

Weight/Height	35-90 pounds / 18-24 inches
Coat Type	Short or medium-length coat
Grooming Needs
Shedding
Temperament	Protective, alert, confident
Good With Kids
Good With Other Animals
Intelligence
Easy to Train
Energy Level
Barking Habits
Lifespan	10-12 years

What Is the History of German Shepherd Pit Mixes?

Since German shepherd pit mixes are mixed-breed dogs, there surely have been crosses of German shepherds and American pit bull terriers throughout the years the purebred parents existed. However, it isn’t possible to determine exactly when a German shepherd and an American pit bull terrier were first crossed to create a German shepherd pit mix.

As for the purebred parents, the German shepherd, as the name suggests, is a sheepherding dog originating from Germany. The breed was developed by Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalryman and dog breeder. On the other hand, the American pit bull terrier is a descendant of the old English bulldog and was primarily utilized for hunting wild boar and other big game.

The distinct history of the parents gives the German shepherd pit mixes unique traits that affect much of their appearance and behavior. We’ll dive deeper into how the lineage of both parents affects German shepherd pit mixes below.

 What Do German Shepherd Pit Mixes Look Like?

Like the purebred American pit bull terrier parent, German shepherd pit mixes have a wide range of coat color potentials. They can be black, brown, cream, fawn, red, silver, white, and a combination of these colors, with markings throughout different parts of the body.

With this much variety in the coat colors, you’re sure to find a German shepherd pit mix that suits your preferences.

What Size Is a German Shepherd Pit Mix?

German shepherd pit mixes are large dogs that can weigh anywhere between 35 and 90 pounds while standing 18 to 24 inches tall at the withers. The ones that take after the German shepherd parent tend to be more on the heavier side.

What Is a German Shepherd Pit Mix’s Coat Type and Length?

Most German shepherd pit mixes have a short, smooth coat like the American pit bull terrier parent. However, some may have medium-length coats, though it is quite rare.

Despite this similarity to the American pit bull terrier parent, the most noticeable difference in a German shepherd pit mix’s coat is the texture. While an American pit bull terrier’s coat is bristly to the touch, German shepherd pit mixes tend to have a softer coat due to the slightly thicker undercoat.

This distinction enables German shepherd pit mixes to endure colder climates better compared to the American pit bull terrier, though not as well as the German shepherd parent.

What Is a German Shepherd Pit Mix’s Temperament?

German shepherd pit mixes are highly driven dogs with strong instincts to protect their territory and family members. They are naturally good guard dogs that become excellent protectors with minimal training and guidance.

However, their protective instincts can quickly become a liability for the owner if it isn’t managed properly. German shepherd pit mixes require early socialization and training to become well-rounded adult dogs.

With this in mind, the high drive of the German shepherd pit mixes doesn’t make these dogs an ideal breed choice for first-time owners. They are more suited for experienced dog owners who can handle a dog of this caliber.

While these are a couple of things to mention about the German shepherd pit mix’s personality, here’s more on their temperament.

Are German Shepherd Pit Mixes Good With Kids?

German shepherd pit mixes generally do well with kids, as they bond strongly with all family members. However, the large size of the German shepherd pit mix requires supervision when dogs and kids spend time together. A German shepherd pit mix getting excited and bumping into a young child can cause injuries that could have been prevented simply with an adult present.

These dogs are a better fit for families with older kids, but regardless of age, children in the family should learn how to behave around dogs. For instance, kids should be taught not to bother dogs while eating or act roughly with the dog.

Are German Shepherd Pit Mixes Good With Other Animals?

Whether or not a German shepherd pit mix gets along well with other dogs mainly depends on the amount of socialization they’ve received. If a German shepherd pit mix is properly socialized from a young age, they won’t view unfamiliar dogs as a threat unless there’s a reason for it. Therefore, how a properly socialized German shepherd pit mix gets along mainly depends on the behavior of other dogs, not the German shepherd pit mix.

With animals besides dogs, prospective owners of German shepherd pit mixes should keep in mind that these dogs have an incredibly high prey drive. Any small animal moving around, from cats and Guinea pigs to squirrels and hamsters, can trigger their instincts to chase. They aren’t the best dogs for households with prey animals.

Are German Shepherd Pit Mixes Aggressive?

German shepherd pit mixes have a natural aggression coming from their long lineage of hunting and sheepherding. They are territorial dogs that will do anything necessary to protect their space, whether it is a small yard or an apartment.

As you can expect, German shepherd pit mixes are naturally wary of strangers and take a while to trust unfamiliar faces, but with the owner’s affirmation that someone new means no harm, they are quick to leave their suspicion.

While they are among the most aggressive dog breeds, their natural aggression can be managed easily with adequate socialization and training. Again, owners of these dogs need to start socialization and training at a young age to ensure their dogs don’t act aggressively without a reason.

Do German Shepherd Pit Mixes Bark?

The territorial and protective instincts make German shepherd pit mixes bark more than the average dog. However, German shepherd pit mixes rarely bark excessively as they are confident dogs that use their powerful voice for a reason. They typically bark to alert their owner, such as when a stranger approaches the yard.

Even though they don’t bark constantly, German shepherd pit mixes are sure to make their voices heard. They have an incredibly loud and powerful bark that will make intruders think twice about what they’re doing.

These are excellent traits for those looking for a guard dog, but they make the German shepherd pit mix unsuitable for most people living in apartments. On top of their exercise needs and size, which can cause difficulties in an apartment setting, the loud bark of the German shepherd pit mix can lead to conflict with neighbors.

Are German Shepherd Pit Mixes Affectionate?

German shepherd pit mixes are affectionate with the family and show their loving side in various ways. While seeking physical contact and exposing the belly for pets is one way a German shepherd pit mix will do that, they also show their affection by being a loyal companion who stands by their owner’s side no matter what.

However, this affectionate side is reserved only for the people and animals a German shepherd pit mix knows. They tend to observe strangers and unfamiliar animals with suspicion. Having said that, German shepherd pit mixes are affectionate but only towards their family. It takes a while for these dogs to warm up and trust strangers.

Are German Shepherd Pit Mixes Intelligent?

The intelligence of the German shepherd pit mix is one of the reasons they make renowned guard dogs. For instance, they can distinguish an actual threat from something silly another dog would constantly bark at, making them reliable guard dogs.

However, the intelligence of this mixed breed isn’t only useful for guarding duties. They can be employed for various jobs, from search and rescue to sheepherding.

One last note about the German shepherd pit mix’s intelligence is it requires these dogs to engage their minds just as much as their bodies. They greatly benefit from mental stimulation, and incorporating mentally enriching activities is an excellent way to tire a German shepherd out for the day.

Are German Shepherd Pit Mixes Energetic?

German shepherd pit mixes are high-energy dogs with intense exercise needs. They require long daily walks with lots of playtime throughout the day to stay satisfied. As we mentioned above, incorporating mentally enriching activities with physical exercise is a great way to ensure your German shepherd pit mix gets enough exercise.

Owners of this mixed breed should treat exercise the same as feeding and other essential needs. German shepherd pit mixes are athletic dogs that require engaging their body every day to prevent boredom, which can lead to behavioral issues.

Considering the drive and athletic capabilities of the breed, they can cause a great deal of destruction to their environment, like damaging furniture and other household items. German shepherd pit mix owners should take their dogs for at least hour-long daily walks with short play sessions throughout the day to ensure they have an appropriate outlet for their energy.

Are German Shepherd Pit Mixes Easy to Train?

German shepherd pit mixes are generally easy to train with their intelligence and eagerness to please. These dogs don’t take much to pick up basic commands, provided they are motivated with lots of treats and praise during training.

Since German shepherd pit mixes are highly active dogs, owners of this mixed breed can incorporate advanced training types that will provide physical exercise, mental stimulation, and training at the same time, such as agility training, advanced obedience, and dog sports.

Are German Shepherd Pit Mixes Good Watchdogs?

German shepherd pit mixes make great watchdogs with their protective and territorial temperament. They need little to no training to become a top watchdog, as both parents have long been utilized for this purpose. If someone that shouldn’t be in or around their territory comes close, a German shepherd pit mix is sure to alert the owner.

German shepherd pit mixes can also become excellent protection dogs. However, training should be done by a professional – not by a novice or even an intermediate dog trainer. Otherwise, it can quickly spiral out of control due to their high drive and size.

Are German Shepherd Pit Mixes Good Service Dogs?

Whether or not a German shepherd pit mix can be a good service dog depends on the individual dog’s temperament. Because German shepherd pit mixes tend to be wary of strangers, they typically have difficulties standing on duty in different social situations. However, German shepherd pit mixes with calm and obedient temperaments can become service animals.

Nonetheless, most German shepherd pit mixes aren’t the best picks for service animal work due to having a high prey drive, the tendency to get distracted easily, and being inherently wary of strangers. Other jobs, particularly guarding duties, are more suitable for German shepherd pit mixes.

How to Care for a German Shepherd Pit Mix?

German shepherd pit mixes are fairly high-maintenance dogs that require an involved owner. The most important care need of a German shepherd pit mix, and perhaps the most difficult for some owners, is exercise. They are high-energy dogs that require plenty of daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. 

Daily exercise is an essential part of owning a German shepherd pit mix, just like feeding and providing them with fresh water. While exercise is crucial, German shepherd pit mixes have basic care needs like every other dog. Here’s what to know about caring for a German shepherd pit mix.

Do You Need to Groom a German Shepherd Pit Mix?

Most German shepherd pit mixes have minimal grooming needs with their short coats. Using a rubber grooming mitt once or twice a week to remove dead hair, you can maintain their coat in just a few minutes. The ones with medium-length hair also benefit from the same, though using a soft bristle brush can also be an option.

Besides coat care, German shepherd pit mixes have the same grooming needs as any other breed, such as paw care, tick prevention, regular bathes, and ear cleaning.

Do German Shepherd Pit Mixes Shed?

German shepherd pit mixes are low-to-average shedders. They don’t shed as much as a purebred German shepherd, though definitely a little more than the American pit bull terrier parent.

Although German shepherd pit mixes can be gentler on the allergies, they aren’t hypoallergenic like a poodle might be. This should be a consideration for those with pet allergies wanting to adopt a German shepherd pit mix.

What Health Problems Do German Shepherd Pit Mixes Have?

German shepherd pit mixes are generally healthy dogs with very few health conditions they are prone to develop. Namely, these are elbow and hip dysplasia and skin allergies. 

If you plan on adopting a German shepherd pit mix from a breeder, asking the breeder if they screen their breeding stock for elbow and hip dysplasia is critical to ensure your dog won’t inherit these health problems.

As for skin allergies, these conditions may develop in any German shepherd pit mix due to the pit bull terrier lineage. Some may be mild skin irritations, while others can be severe reactions to environmental pollutants.

How Long Do German Shepherd Pit Mixes Live?

German shepherd pit mixes typically live between 10 and 12 years, which is average for dogs of the same size and similar characteristics.

What Should a German Shepherd Pit Mix Eat?

A German shepherd pit mix should eat a high-quality diet appropriate for their size, age, and lifestyle. Depending on their weight, they should consume between two and a half to three and a half cups of dog food per day.

Alternatively, you can put your German shepherd pit mix on a homemade diet that involves raw or home-cooked meals, but a vet or an animal nutritionist should formulate it to ensure their diet has all the nutrients they need.

Is a German Shepherd Pit Mix the Right Dog for Me?

The German shepherd pit mix is a muscular dog with strong instincts to protect. They are the ultimate guardians with impressive physical abilities and are just as intelligent. These dogs require an experienced owner living an active lifestyle that can keep up with their dog’s exercise needs.

If you’ve had guard dogs in the past and know your way around socializing and training a dog for obedience, the German shepherd pit mix can be an ideal choice for you. The only consideration for experienced dog owners that would be a good match for a German shepherd pit mix is whether they have enough space.

Due to their tendency to bark loudly, they do better in spacious homes with yard access. It will not only eliminate worries about conflicts with neighbors, but it will also lead to an overall happier dog as German shepherd pit mixes have an inherent desire to protect and exercise; giving them a yard is an excellent way to satisfy their instincts.