Are you considering bringing a Sharpei Pit Mix into your home but unsure if this unique hybrid is the right fit?
With their distinct appearance and loyal nature, the Sharpei Pit Mix is a fascinating blend of two powerful breeds, but they come with their own set of needs.
Whether you’re a dog lover seeking an unusual breed or a first-time dog owner curious about their temperament and size, you’re in the right place.
This article will walk you through everything from their behavior to training tips, helping you understand if this breed mix will suit your lifestyle.
Let’s dive into what makes the Sharpei Pit Mix so special, and how you can ensure a happy, healthy life for your furry companion.
What is a Shar-Pei Pit Mix?
The Shar-Pei Pit Mix is a crossbreed between the Shar-Pei and the Pitbull, two breeds known for their strength, loyalty, and distinctive looks. This mix typically inherits the wrinkled skin of the Shar-Pei and the muscular build of the Pitbull, giving it a one-of-a-kind appearance.
These dogs are medium to large-sized, often weighing between 40 and 60 pounds. They have a strong, confident demeanor, but don’t let that fool you—they can be loving and protective companions when raised in a caring environment.
Appearance: Coat and Eye Color
The Shar-Pei Pit Mix’s coat color can vary based on their lineage. Common colors include black, brown, fawn, blue, and brindle.
Their coat is typically short and coarse, requiring minimal grooming. As for eye color, they often have almond-shaped eyes, ranging from dark brown to amber. The combination of the Shar-Pei’s wrinkles and the Pitbull’s strong frame gives them a striking, memorable appearance.
History: The Ancestry of the Shar-Pei Pit Mix
The Shar-Pei Pit Mix is a relatively new breed, combining two well-known dog lineages: the Chinese Shar-Pei and the American Pitbull Terrier.
The Shar-Pei originated in China, where it was initially bred for hunting, herding, and protecting livestock. This breed is known for its deep wrinkles and blue-black tongue.
On the other hand, the American Pitbull Terrier was developed in the United States, primarily for working, guarding, and companionship. Known for their muscular build and loyalty, Pitbulls have a controversial but deep-rooted history in the U.S. The Shar-Pei Pit Mix inherits qualities from both sides, making them unique companions.
How Big Do Shar-Pei Pitbull Mixes Get?
On average, Shar-Pei Pit Mixes stand between 17 to 21 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 40 and 60 pounds.
Of course, size can vary depending on genetics, but you can expect a sturdy, medium-to-large dog that has a powerful build. They’re compact enough to fit in most homes comfortably, but they aren’t lap dogs.
Temperament: What to Expect from a Shar-Pei Pit Mix
Temperament is key when choosing any dog, especially when bringing a mix into your home. Shar-Pei Pit Mixes are often loyal, protective, and affectionate with their family.
However, they can also be a bit stubborn, especially regarding training. This breed tends to form strong bonds with their owners, making them excellent guard dogs, but they need socialization from an early age to get along with other animals and strangers. If raised in a nurturing environment, they can be great family dogs that thrive in an active household.
Is a Shar-Pei Pit Mix Good with Kids and Other Pets?
This breed can be affectionate and loyal, but their protective nature requires extra attention around children and other pets.
Early socialization is crucial to ensure your Shar-Pei Pit Mix is comfortable in different environments. When raised properly, they can coexist with kids and pets, but it’s essential to supervise interactions and provide proper training.
How to Train a Shar-Pei Pit Mix
Training a Shar-Pei Pit Mix can be a bit of a challenge due to their independent and sometimes stubborn nature. These dogs respond best to positive reinforcement methods, like treats, praise, and play. Early training is essential, especially focusing on commands and socialization. Be patient, and remember that consistency is key.
Exercise and Activity Needs
Shar-Pei Pit Mixes are moderately active dogs. They don’t require endless hours of exercise, but they do need regular walks and playtime to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. A daily 45-minute walk, along with some time to run in a secure area, will usually meet their needs.
Health Issues: What to Watch Out For
Like all dogs, Shar-Pei Pit Mixes can be prone to certain health problems. Here are some common issues you may encounter:
- Skin infections: Due to their wrinkled skin, inherited from the Shar-Pei side.
- Hip dysplasia: Common in medium-to-large breeds.
- Allergies: Can be environmental or food-related.
- Eye problems: Such as entropion (where the eyelid rolls inward).
Regular vet checkups, a proper diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage and prevent these issues.
Food Consumption for a Shar-Pei Pit Mix
Shar-Pei Pit Mixes need a balanced diet to support their active lifestyle. Puppies should be fed 3-4 small meals per day, while adults should have 2 meals per day.
As adults, they typically consume 2-3 cups of high-quality dog food each day, split between meals.
Recommended Puppy to Adult Diet:
- Puppies: Look for a puppy-specific kibble rich in proteins and DHA for brain development.
- Adults: High-protein, grain-free food options work best. Foods rich in omega-3s help maintain skin and coat health, especially for dogs prone to allergies.
Best Food for Pit Pei:
Look for pitbull dog food brands like Blue Buffalo, Wellness Core, or Orijen, which provide a balanced diet that supports muscle development and overall health.
Breed Maintenance: Grooming Needs
While the Shar-Pei Pit Mix has a short coat, their wrinkled skin needs extra attention. Weekly brushing helps remove loose hair, and you’ll need to clean between their skin folds regularly to avoid infections. Regular baths, ear cleaning, and nail trimming are also important to keep them in good health.
Where to Find Pitbull Mixed with Shar-Pei Puppies
If you’re interested in adding a Shar-Pei Pit Mix to your family, it’s best to look at breed-specific rescues or shelters. You can also check with reputable breeders who specialize in mixed breeds. Be sure to ask for health clearances and meet the puppy’s parents if possible to get a sense of temperament.
Final Thoughts
The Shar-Pei Pit Mix is a unique breed with a lot to offer the right owner. While they may require extra attention when it comes to training and socialization, their loyalty and affectionate nature make them a rewarding companion.
Whether you’re an experienced dog owner or someone looking to welcome a new pet into your life, understanding the needs of this breed mix will help you build a strong bond with your new best friend.
FAQs
1. Are Shar-Pei Pit Mixes good for first-time dog owners?
They can be, but due to their stubborn nature, they’re better suited for owners with experience in training and handling strong-willed dogs.
2. How long do Shar-Pei Pit Mixes live?
On average, they live between 10 and 14 years, provided they receive proper care and regular vet checkups.
3. Do Shar-Pei Pit Mixes shed a lot?
No, their short coats don’t shed excessively, but they do shed moderately throughout the year.
