9 Things You Need to Know Before Getting A Pitbull Boxer Mix

Pitbull Boxer Mix is a cross of a Pitbull and a Boxer, also known as Bullboxer Pit, or Boxer Pitbull Mix. It's a medium to large dog breed at about 20 to 26 inches tall, weighing between 50 to 80 pounds. This mixed breed lifespan is around 10 to 13 years.

This dog, if well socialized, is a joy to have around. She has tons of energy; she'll shower you with affection, and she shows an unwavering loyalty to her family.

I've put together some information on this designer breed, so read on to see if the Pitbull Boxer Mix will be the one to win your heart and if you can be the owner she needs.

Boxer Pitbull Mix Photos

1. She might not be a 50/50 mix

It is very common for this breed to be a multi-generation cross, meaning that you may not get a 50/50 mix. If you buy from a reputable breeder, they should be able to provide details of the dog's relatives. So your Pitbull Boxer Mix could have more attributes of one breed than the other, both in terms of physical appearance as well as character.

In terms of physical traits, as mentioned above its a medium to large dog who measures between 20-26 inches (50-66 cm) tall and weighs between 50-80 lbs (22-36 kg). She often has:

• A large, broad head
• A short muzzle
• The long legs and broad chest of the Boxer
• A short, smooth coat

As for colors, she can come in quite a range, including:

• Cream
• Brown
• Black
• White
• Black and tan
• Fawn
• Brindle

2. She needs plenty of exercise and lots of play!

Given that both the Boxer and the Pitbull were bred for use as working dogs, these breeds are very energetic, so your Boxer Pitbull Mix requires a lot of exercise. If she doesn't get enough, she can become hyper and frustrated, which will invariably lead to mischievous behavior such as chewing, barking and digging.

This dog is a perfect running partner – intense exercise like this will burn off her excess energy, and when you get her home, she’ll be calm and relaxed. This is what a well-exercised Boxer Pitbull Mix should look like:

The Boxer Pitbull Mix is very playful and will need lots of toys at home. Careful, though! With her strong jaw and love of chewing, this dogs can destroy a chew toy within minutes. You'd better make sure it's durable, otherwise you'll be racking up a huge bill in no time. When you take her out, take a ball or a Frisbee to play fetch. She will love it!

You should take her out for a brisk one-hour walktwice a day. If you are running, twenty minutes to half an hour should be enough. If your dog tires (you will notice her slowing or beginning to pant excessively) you should stop for a five-minute break and hydrate her. I recommend taking out a collapsible doggie bowl in which you can give her water.

A note on exercising your Pitbull Boxer Mix puppy

This advice on exercise applies to the adult dog only, as when large-breed puppies do too much running and ball-chasing this can cause long-term injuries. With your Pitbull Boxer Mix puppy, it is best to do lots of short walks and indoor play until she matures, at about 1 year – 16 months.

Watch this 11 week old Pitbull Boxer Mix. She is curious, playful, active, and absolutely, jaw-droppingly gorgeous.

3. Whatever the weather – not with this dog!

These dogs are short haired and don't possess a double coat, so they are sensitive to extreme weather conditions. If you live in a place where it gets to below-freezing temperatures, or it goes above 86 degrees (30ºC), I wouldn't recommend this dog for you.

In rainy weather, she will need a doggie coat to keep her warm. During summer months, it is best to take her out in the early morning or the evening when the sun is less intense. She may still need sunscreen, but make sure you purchase one without zinc oxide, as it is toxic for dogs.

4. She'll be your companion and your babysitter

If you're looking for a faithful and loving companion, look no further. The Boxer is well known as a great companion dog who is incredibly people-orientated and likes to be close to its ´pack´.

The Pitbull is also a very affectionate dog when well-socialized, who will lick you all over if you give her an inch. She was in fact bred for both work and companionship, and due to her gentle nature, is beginning to be used more and more as a therapy dog.

Both Boxer and Pitbull are also great with children, which makes them excellent family dogs. The Boxer is very patient and protective, while the Pitbull is solid, a people-pleaser and highly trainable.

So mix them together and what have you got? A companionable, affectionate dog who fits in perfectly with a family, wants a lot of attention and gives in return.

It is, of course, worth noting that as puppies they are going to be more hyper, and so their contact with children must be supervised. Also, your dog must be well-exercised to be around children, as if not she will be incredibly excitable and could knock over a small child.

5. She's a great guard dog, but be careful she doesn’t go overboard

If she takes after her Boxer relatives, the Boxer Pitbull Mix can be incredibly protective. Her guard dog instinct is strong, which can be useful if there is an intruder or attacker. These are courageous dogs who used to risk their lives baiting bulls, so have no doubt that she will defend you and yours if necessary.

If this instinct gets out of hand, however, it can become a problem. You must make sure that you socialize your Boxer Pitbull Mix from a young age with as many people as you can. Invite friends and neighbors to your home and provide her with a positive association by having the person give her a treat when they arrive.

As long as you train her well and stay consistent, this dog will be the friendliest dog around.

6. She might be too hands-on for older pets

Providing they are both socialized properly, both breeds can get on well with other animals, particularly Boxers. As for play style, Pitbulls can be rough and Boxers like to use their front paws when playing (much like a boxer… oh, that makes sense!), so if you have any older dogs already, this crossbreed might be a bit much for them!

7. She's highly trainable (if you're the leader)

These are intelligent dogs, which is no surprise, given that the Boxer is used in police and military work, as well as search and rescue. People are also beginning to look past the negative stigma around Pitbulls and realize their high intelligence and trainability, too.

These dogs can be stubborn, though, meaning that you need to be firm and consistent with them. As long as you are in charge, your Boxer Pitbull Mix should pick up basic commands quickly. Make sure you do enough repetition and provide rewards and lots of praise.

As puppies, they are boisterous and energetic little characters. You will need to be assertive in order to get their focus.

8. She is a moderate shedder

Though these dogs have a short coat, they are moderate shedders and will require a good grooming session once a week. They will probably lose more fur in the Spring, from April through May, so it may be a good idea to brush her twice a week during these periods. Doing this will keep your dog's skin and coat healthy, and the hairs out of your carpet!

She will also need her ears checked monthly, either at the vet or with a reputable groomer.

9. She is usually healthy but has some potential health concerns

The Pitbull Boxer Mix is generally a healthy breed, as both pure breeds are (as long as she gets sufficient exercise, of course) and as I mentioned in the intro it can live for up to 13 years. Having said that, it is always worth being informed on any potential health issues this breed can develop, so here are the main ones your dog could be prone to:

Cancer

While the majority of Boxers are healthy, they are at risk of an aggressive form of cancer called hemangiosarcoma, which occurs in the blood vessel cells. It can be difficult to detect, but signs can include weakness, a distended abdomen, difficulty breathing and weight loss. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, talk to your veterinarian as soon as possible, as this cancer can spread rapidly.

Hip dysplasia

This condition consists of a malformation of the hip joint, where it is unstable or loose in the socket. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals shows that this condition occurs in both breeds, although Pitbulls are more susceptible. Severe cases can lead to arthritic joints and lameness. Signs can include walking or running with an altered gait and reluctance to fully extend their rear legs or jump. Weight control helps enormously with this condition; keep her slim, as any excess weight will put stress on her joints.

Heart disease

The Boxer is prone to a heart problem called aortic stenosis, which in most cases of the disease the dog is born with. This disease causes narrowing of the aortic valve, which puts pressure on the heart. Symptoms can include rapid breathing or difficulty breathing, sudden loss of consciousness, and congestive heart failure. If your vet picks up a heart murmur, the diagnosis can be confirmed with an X-ray and a cardiac ultrasound.

Allergies

Pitbulls can have various allergies, so your Pitbull Boxer Mix may be susceptible. They can be treated with antihistamines, and in the case of skin irritation, you should use shampoos specifically designed for sensitive skin.

(With the serious health issues this crossbreed is prone to, it's never too early to do a search for ‘the best veterinarian near me‘.)

Conclusion

Are you a family with children without any older pets? Are you ready to dedicate your days to plenty of exercise and play with your new lively companion? Can you give her the consistent training she needs?

If the answer is yes to all of the above, you are more than ready to own a Pitbull Boxer Mix, and she will be more than happy to have you. If you're in two minds, there are plenty of other dogs who could be the perfect fit for you, so keep looking!