The Ultimate Pitbull Boxer Mix Guide: Bouncy and Dangerous or Loveable Goof?

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The Pitbull Boxer mix is a cross between two extremely popular dog breeds.

Both Pitbulls, and Boxers, have captured the hearts of many people with their affectionate nature and playful attitude. Mixing these breeds creates a gorgeous family pet that might be perfect for you.

This breed is highly energetic and loves being out and about. They are an intelligent breed whose parents are both working dogs used in many different situations.

If you want to learn more about what it’s like keeping a Boxer Pitbull mix, read on…

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What is a Pitbull Boxer Mix? (Breed Overview)

Pitbull Boxer Mix

The Pitbull Boxer mix, also known as the American Bullboxer or Bullboxer Pit, is a cross breed.

Their parents are the American Pitbull Terrier and a Boxer.

Both the Boxer and the Pitbull are working dogs and, interestingly, they both have fighting pasts too. Fortunately, this horrific pastime is no longer condoned and both breeds have found new life. You may see these dogs working in search and rescue, guarding, helping the visually impaired and therapy.

With their high levels of intelligence and energy, you should expect to commit plenty of time to this dog. Luckily, their friendly affectionate personalities will make spending time with them a joy for you and your family.

Pitbull Boxer Mix Appearance

Pitbull and Boxer Mix

Your Pitbull Boxer mix is not likely to be an exact split of a Boxer and Pitbull.

They are probably going to lean more heavily in the direction of one or the other when it comes to appearance and personality.

This mix often has the broad head of the Pitbull with drooping ears and the long legs and chest of the Boxer. The muzzle is usually short but does not have the brachycephalic trait of the Boxer. This reduces the risk of respiratory issues which are common for purebred Boxers.

The coats of both parents are quite similar: short and smooth. You should expect a moderate amount of shedding (nothing excessive, but they will lose hair).

They have a large variety of coat colors which includes black, white, tan, fawn, cream, brindle, blue or any mix of these.

Size and Weight

As this is a cross breed, it is not always easy to predict exactly what size they will be. It is likely that your pup will be between 20 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. They will probably weigh between 50 and 80lb.

This dog is generally considered a medium/large breed.

Colors and Coat

The Pitbull Boxer mix has a huge variety of coat colors. Generally, Boxers are brindle, white or fawn. Pitbulls may be those colors or they could also be cream, brown, tan, black or blue.

So your pooch can have any mix of these colors or patches.

Their coat is very easy to look after – it will be short, smooth and only shed a little. As their coat is very thin, they will not be happy being out in freezing temperatures and will likely need a coat for most of the winter.

You should also be conscious about extreme heat as your pup may burn.

Pitbull

Pitbull Boxer Mix Temperament

Just like any cross breed, you don’t get a perfect 50/50 mix of both parents.

To understand the Boxer Pit mix’s temperament it is best to look at the personalities of each parent breed.

Both the Boxer and Pitbull have great characteristics, but they also have some not so desirable ones that it’s worth knowing about.

  • The Pitbull is an affectionate, loyal dog with a goofy streak. They turn into big babies around their family. They do have a protective nature which may be toned down with socialization or honed with training for guarding work. Whilst they have a bad reputation for aggression, this is not deserved – they passed the official temperament test with flying colors.
  • Let’s look at the Boxer now. They are a playful breed, which is bouncy and likes to play using their front paws (this is how they got their name). This does make them pretty jumpy which may be an issue around small children or older people who are not as steady on their feet.

Both Boxers and Pitbulls are energetic dogs that need plenty of attention. They will want to be around you all the time and if they are not then separation anxiety can become an issue. This dog can become destructive if left alone – think barking, chewing and digging.

They both have a protective nature that makes them loyal to the end. Their protectiveness may sometimes be an issue with strangers, so early socialization is very important.

This protective nature can be harnessed for good, as they make excellent guard dogs.

They can sometimes have issues with other dogs. The best way to combat any issues is to ensure they have plenty of puppy play dates and learn how to behave appropriately with other dogs.

A Pitbull Boxer Mix

Is a Pitbull Boxer Mix a Good Family Dog?

The Pitbull Boxer mix is an excellent family dog. Pitbulls were used as nanny dogs many years ago and the boxer has a natural patience and protectiveness perfectly suited to babysitting.

It’s always important to make sure any dog is well socialized with children at a young age so they can learn the right way to behave.

How to Train

The Pitbull Boxer mix is an incredibly intelligent dog. They have a natural ability to learn and want to please their human keepers.

They don’t respond well to any form of punishment. This may cause them to become fearful and actually makes them more likely to misbehave.

Positive reinforcement is the best way to combat any stubbornness whilst training. You should reward the behavior you want to see and ignore the behaviors you don’t. Consistency and repetition are also going to be important.

These pups are highly intelligent and should learn recall pretty easily. Having them off leash should cause you no problems. If you notice any aggression towards other dogs, it’s worth keeping them on a leash at all times.

Socialization is another task you will want to be consistent with. Whilst a puppy, they should be meeting new people and new dogs every day. This will help to reduce their natural protectiveness. It will also teach them dog manners and how to behave in different situations. Always monitor them when they are playing with children or other dogs.

These dogs need plenty of mental stimulation as they can become bored fairly easily.

With both parents being working dogs, they enjoy having a job to do. Providing them with puzzle toys is a good way of keeping their brains occupied. They will also enjoy more active games like fetch and hide and seek.

Pitbull Puppies

Caring for a Pitbull Boxer Mix

The Pitbull Boxer mix is a pretty intensive breed when it comes to care. They need attention for most of the day and around two hours of exercise. They are prone to several destructive habits if left alone for long periods of time.

Luckily, they have plenty of redeeming features.

They are extremely loyal and will protect you with their life. They don’t shed very much and do not need much grooming. This is an affectionate, loving dog that enjoys plenty of playtime.

Exercise Requirements

The Boxer Pit mix needs around two hours of exercise every day. This is a highly energetic dog that is going to need an energetic family to match them. You should expect to be completing two walks a day of around an hour each. One of these hours could be replaced with an agility class or a run.

These dogs make excellent running companions.

They will have no problem joining you for a half hour run.

Playtime in a backyard also counts towards their daily exercise. They will love this as being with you is definitely their favorite pastime.

Grooming and Shedding

The grooming for this dog is simple. They have a short coat that does not shed much. They will need light brushing once or twice a week to help get rid of the small amount of hair they lose. This will also keep their coat clean and healthy.

If they become particularly dirty or smelly, you should bathe them with dog-safe shampoo.

Their nails will need regular clipping. It’s often easier to take them to a professional groomer to do this as many dogs are not overly keen on this. Be sure to keep their teeth and ears clean as well and keep up to date with worming, flea treatment and vaccinations.

Known Health Problems

This mix breed is usually extremely healthy and should live a long, happy life. Of course, as with all dogs, there are some issues that can occur. Both Boxers and Pitbulls are susceptible to hip dysplasia.

Boxers have been known to suffer from a form of cancer called hemangiosarcoma. They may also suffer from heart conditions.

Make sure your vet checks them for any sign of a heart murmur.

Pitbulls suffer with allergies quite often and it’s important to check them regularly for any sign of skin irritations.

How Long Does a Pitbull Boxer Mix Live?

You should expect a healthy, well exercised Pitbull Boxer mix to live for 10 to 14 years.

Buyer’s Guide

If you are interested in keeping a Pitbull Boxer mix, it’s important that you check out the legalities of ownership. Unfortunately, owning a Pitbull or Pitbull cross is not legal in every state and some have a variety of rules and regulations about where they are allowed.

Due to this, many Pitbull crosses end up in shelters.

How Much Do Pitbull Boxer Mix Puppies Cost?

You should be looking to pay between $500-$1,000 for a Pitbull Boxer puppy.

Quick Breed Summary Table

Breed Characteristics
Size:20 to 26 inches
Weight:50-80lb
Lifespan:10-14 Years
Coat:Short and smooth
Color:Black, white, tan, fawn, brindle, blue and cream
Do They Shed:Yes but very little
Temperament:Friendly, affectionate, playful, loyal and protective
Intelligence:Highly intelligent
Socialization:Loves people but may have issues with dogs
Destructive Behavior:Prone to barking, chewing and digging
People Skills:Great with family but can be protective around strangers
Good with Children:Excellent with children but will need socializing
Activity Levels:High activity levels

Summary

The Pitbull Boxer mix needs a home where someone is around for most of the time. They suffer badly with separation anxiety and having people around is the best cure.

They love kids and will fit in wonderfully with an active family.

Whilst they can be a little over playful when young and love to jump, with the right training they do grow out of it.

Whether you are looking for a babysitter, a guard dog or a running companion, this dog ticks all the boxes. If you are able to commit yourself to training and socialization, you will have a friend for life in the Pitbull Boxer mix.

Have you kept this wonderful breed before? Let us know in the comments section below…