The American Bulldog Pitbull Mix, often called the “Bullypit,” is an energetic, protective, and loyal hybrid. A crossbreed of the American Bulldog and American Pit Bull Terrier, this powerful canine brings together the best traits of both parent breeds. Known for their muscular build, strength, and affectionate nature, Bullypits are gaining popularity among dog owners who seek an active and devoted companion.
Read on to learn about the Bullypit’s temperament, physical traits, health, exercise, grooming, and more. By the end, you’ll have a better idea if this remarkable crossbreed is the right fit for your family and lifestyle.
The Bullypit at a Glance
| Breed Summary | American Bulldog Pitbull Mix Quick Facts |
| Size | Medium to large |
| Height | 20-24 inches (51-61 cm) |
| Weight | 40 to 80 pounds (18 to 36 kg) |
| Lifespan | 10-13 years |
| Coat Type | Short, smooth coat. |
| Colors | Black, tan, red, yellow, gray, golden, cream, and white |
| Temperament | Loyal, energetic, protective |
| Exercise Needs | At least 1 hour daily |
| Shedding | Low shedding |
| Trainability | They require a confident handler |
| Best For | Experienced, active dog owners |
Overview: What Is a Bullypit?
The Bullypit is a relatively new addition to the designer dog world, likely originating within the last few decades. Mixing the athleticism of the American Bulldog with the strong-willed, loyal nature of the American Pit Bull Terrier, the Bullypit has quickly won over the hearts of many dog enthusiasts.
While their exact origin remains unclear, Bullypits typically inherit the muscular build, broad chest, and short, smooth coat that characterize both parent breeds. Their size ranges from medium to large, with an average height of 20 to 25 inches (51 to 64 cm) and weight between 70 to 120 pounds (32 to 54 kg).
The Parent Breeds: American Bulldog and American Pit Bull Terrier
Understanding the parent breeds of the Bullypit—the American Bulldog and American Pit Bull Terrier—can give you valuable insight into the traits and characteristics that make up this unique crossbreed. Both breeds have strong, muscular builds and a history tied to working roles, but they also bring distinct qualities to the mix. Let’s take a closer look at each breed to better understand what influences the Bullypit’s temperament, appearance, and overall personality.
American Bulldog
The American Bulldog is known for its muscular build, intelligence, and versatility as a working dog. This breed originated in England as a powerful dog used in bull-baiting, but it transitioned to being a hardworking farm dog in America. Immigrants brought the Bulldog to the U.S., where it developed into a farm dog used for hunting, guarding, and herding.
There are two main types of American Bulldogs:
- Johnson Type: Often called the “Bully” or “Classic” type, this variety is known for its large, bulky build and wide chest.
- Scott Type: Also called the “Standard” or “Performance” type, this variety is more athletic, with a leaner build and greater agility.
American Bulldogs typically stand between 20 to 28 inches (50 to 70 cm) tall and weigh 60 to 120 pounds (27 to 54 kg). Despite their muscular appearance, they are affectionate, loyal, and generally friendly with family members.
American Pit Bull Terrier
The American Pit Bull Terrier, also rooted in bull-baiting history, is a breed that’s well-known for its strength, agility, and loyalty. Despite their reputation, they can be gentle and loving family pets when properly trained and socialized. These dogs have a strong prey drive, which is why early training and socialization are essential for this breed.
Pit Bulls are typically 17 to 19 inches (43 to 48 cm) tall and weigh between 30 and 85 pounds (14 to 38 kg). Their coats come in a range of colors, including the popular Blue Nose (grayish-blue color) and Red Nose (copper-colored) variants. They have broad, flat heads, powerful jaws, and a sleek, muscular build.
Physical Characteristics of the Bullypit
Bullypits inherit a blend of physical traits from both parent breeds, resulting in a powerful and intimidating appearance. They usually have a broad chest, a robust back, muscular legs, and a solid stance. Their heads are broad and flat, often with a short muzzle, and their ears can be either floppy or rosebud-shaped.
Their coats are short, smooth, and fine, requiring minimal grooming. Bullypits come in a range of colors, including black, tan, red, yellow, gray, golden, cream, and white. Depending on the coat color of the Pit Bull parent, a Bullypit may have a blue or red nose.
Size and Growth
Both male and female Bullypits typically grow to a height of 20 to 24 inches (51 to 61 cm) and weigh between 40 and 80 pounds (18 to 36 kg). They reach their full size by 12 to 15 months, at which point they become sturdy, athletic dogs. Due to their size and activity level, Bullypits are best suited for homes with ample outdoor space, such as a large, fenced yard. For more information on suitable breeds for families, you can explore the Best Large Dogs for Families.
Temperament and Personality of the Bullypit
Bullypits are known for their loyalty and protectiveness toward their families. They have an affectionate side and form strong bonds with their owners, but they also have a protective streak that makes them excellent guard dogs. With consistent training and socialization, Bullypits can be friendly and even playful with children and other pets, but they are best suited for experienced dog owners due to their strength and dominant personality.
Key Traits:
- Protective: Bullypits are highly protective and naturally watchful, making them excellent guardians for the family.
- Energetic: This mix has high energy levels and thrives in active households that can provide regular exercise.
- Affectionate: Despite their intimidating appearance, Bullypits can be very affectionate and crave attention from their family.
- Intelligent: Bullypits are quick learners, but they can be independent and stubborn, which may require consistent training.
Training Tips: Start training and socialization early, ideally from eight weeks old. Use positive reinforcement, as these dogs respond well to rewards and praise. Due to their dominant nature, they require a confident handler who can establish boundaries and provide firm, consistent guidance.
Exercise and Activity Requirements
Bullypits are highly active dogs that require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily physical activity helps to curb any potential behavioral issues caused by boredom, such as chewing or excessive barking.
Aim for of exercise per day, which can include walks, playtime in a secure yard, and interactive games like fetch. They also benefit from mentally stimulating activities, like treasure hunts, training sessions, or puzzle toys.
Exercise Tips:
- Avoid high-impact activities for puppies, as their growing joints are prone to injury.
- Bullypits love outdoor adventures and are great companions for activities like jogging, hiking, or agility training.
- Only take your Bullypit to dog parks if they’re well-socialized, as they can be cautious or aggressive with unfamiliar dogs.
Taking Care: Feeding and Nutrition
A high-quality diet is essential for a Bullypit’s health, supporting their muscular build and energetic lifestyle. They thrive on a diet curated from Best Dog Foods for Active Dogs. Feed them 2½ to 4 cups of premium dry dog food daily, divided into three to four meals to help prevent gastric torsion, a common issue in large breeds.
Look for dog food rich in protein and Omega-3 fatty acids to support muscle mass, and consider foods containing chondroitin or glucosamine to support joint health. Avoid foods with excessive grains, as some Bullypits are prone to grain-related allergies. If you have the resources, a raw food diet is also a good option.
Grooming and Maintenance
Bullypits have low grooming needs due to their short, smooth coat. A quick brush twice a week is usually sufficient to remove loose hairs and keep their coat shiny. During shedding season, they may need more frequent brushing. Bathe them only when necessary, as over-bathing can strip their skin of natural oils.
Additional Grooming Needs:
- Teeth: Brush their teeth two to three times a week to prevent dental issues.
- Nails: Trim their nails every few weeks or whenever they start clicking on the floor.
- Ears: Check and clean their ears weekly to prevent infections, especially if they have floppy ears.
Health and Lifespan
With proper care, the Bullypit typically has a lifespan of 10 to 13 years. While generally healthy, this breed can be prone to certain health conditions inherited from their parent breeds.
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia: A common joint problem, particularly in larger dogs. Supplements like glucosamine can help.
- Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome: Due to their short noses, Bullypits may experience breathing difficulties, especially in hot weather.
- Skin Allergies: This breed may be prone to skin allergies, particularly to certain foods and environmental factors.
- Hypothyroidism: This thyroid condition affects metabolism and can lead to weight gain.
- Heart Disease: Regular vet check-ups can help monitor and manage any heart conditions.
For more information about common health issues in mixed breeds, visit VCA Animal Hospitals’ guide to dog health at https://vcahospitals.com/.
Finding a Bullypit: Buying vs. Adopting
If you’re interested in a Bullypit, you can either purchase one from a reputable breeder or adopt from a shelter. Be prepared to invest between $1,000 and $2,000 for a Bullypit puppy from a breeder, with prices varying based on factors like the breeder’s reputation, parent lineage, and demand.
Annual costs for a Bullypit, including food, medical care, and other essentials, range from $510 to $650.
Here are some tips to ensure you choose the right breeder:
- Avoid Irresponsible Sources: Steer clear of purchasing from pet stores or online sellers where breeding practices may be questionable. Puppies from unethical breeding programs often lack proper socialization and may have health or temperament issues.
- Seek Specialized Breeders: Look for breeders who have expertise in Pitbull or Bulldog mixes. Reputable breeders prioritize the health and temperament of their dogs and ensure proper care for the puppies.
- Check for Ethical Standards: Ask potential breeders about their breeding practices. Reputable breeders will provide health clearances, a clean living environment for the puppies, and opportunities to meet the parent dogs to assess their temperament.
- Explore Trusted Options: Consider breeders known for their high standards, such as Hustle Line Kennels in Memphis, TN. They specialize in Pitbull and Bulldog mixes and are a great starting point for finding a well-bred American Bulldog Pitbull mix.
Adoption Options: Rescue Organizations
Many Bullypits end up in shelters due to misconceptions about their breed. Adoption offers a second chance to these lovable dogs, often at a fraction of the cost.
- Shaw Pit Bull Rescue (Columbus, MS)
- Bad Rap (Oakland, CA)
- Mid-America Bully Breed Rescue (Kansas City, MO)
- Fresno Bully Rescue (Sanger, CA)
Is the American Bulldog Pitbull Mix Right for You?
The American Bulldog Pitbull Mix can be a loyal, protective, and loving family member, but they require a dedicated, experienced owner who can meet their needs. Bullypits are best suited for active households that have the time to commit to regular exercise, training, and socialization. To help make a decision about adding a similar breed to your family, you might want to consider the key differences in American Bully vs American Bulldog.
Pros:
- Loyal, protective, and family-friendly
- High intelligence and quick learners
- Minimal grooming needs
Cons:
- Can be aggressive without proper training
- Not suitable for first-time dog owners
- High exercise requirements
For the right owner, a Bullypit can be a loving, devoted companion and a fantastic guard dog. Do you have experience with a Bullypit, or are you considering bringing one into your home? Share your thoughts or questions below!