Pitbull Poodle Mix: The Pit Boodle Guide

Pit bull dogs and poodles don’t really go together. We often think the pits are strong and aggressive. Meanwhile, poodles have an air of elegance about them.

But the pit boodle or the pitbull poodle mix breed actually exists. These designer dogs are rather unusual compared to the infamous Cockapoos. But they’re every bit as lovely, fierce, and loyal as their parent breeds.

If you wish to get a pit boodle, here are things you should know about them.

 

Pitbull Poodle Mix Highlights

  • Pit bull and poodle mix pups are also known as pit boodles.
  • The appearance of designer dogs is hard to predict. They can look more like one of their parents.
  • Pit boodles are medium-sized dogs depending on the type of poodle they’re bred from.
  • These dogs are highly intelligent and trainable.
  • Unlike their parent’s bad rep, pit boodle dogs are gentle and sweet.
  • Your dog may be a little shy around strangers if they are more like the poodle. Train them to be more social.
  • Bringing your pet to the vet regularly can help prolong their life.
  • The grooming needs of your dog will depend on their coat type and shedding. But bring them to a professional groomer every now and then.
  • You can get a pit boodle starting at $400.
  • Designer dogs aren’t recognized by major Kennel Clubs. But they are registered with the DRA.

Appearance

When it comes to designer dogs, appearance is one of the hardest to predict. Finding a 50% pit bull and 50% poodle is rare. Most of the time, the pup either looks more like a pit bull or a poodle.

One of the things you should know is that a pit bull is a type of dog and not a specific breed. There are four different breeds of dogs under this:

  • American Pit Bull Terrier
  • Staffordshire Bull Terrier
  • American Bulldog
  • American Staffordshire Terrier

However, when people say pit bull, they often mean the American Pit Bull Terrier. Pit boodles usually have APBT dogs as one of its parents.

There are also different types of poodles. There’s the standard poodle and a toy poodle which is smaller.

Size and Weight

Pitbull poodle mix breeds are around the same size as its parents. American pit bull terriers stand at 17 to 19 inches and weigh 30 to 85 pounds. Meanwhile, standard poodles stand at 18 to 24 inches and weigh 45 to 70 pounds.

Fur and Coat

It’s also hard to determine your dog’s coat. But consider the poodle’s thick and curly coat and the pit bull’s short and smooth type. It’s possible for your pit boodle to have a wavy coat due to this combination.

Possible colors include white, brown, blue, gray, fawn, tan, brindle, silver, apricot, or cream. Its parents’ colors can determine which color the pup will likely have.

History

Pitbull poodle mix breeds haven’t been around for a long time. Designer dogs have only grown popular in the last few decades. That said, it’s unsure when and why these dogs were bred.

But here are the origins of both the pit bull and the poodle.

American Pit Bull Terrier

APBTs have a bad reputation for being aggressive. But this is untrue, and it’s possible that they only got this rep for their bad history.

Pit bulls were originally used in blood sports. They were used for bear and bull baiting. Pitties had to fight for their survival. These dogs do have aggression, but it can be tamed, just like every other dog.

Today, a lot of people are still scared of this misunderstood dog. In fact, several states in the US have entirely banned the breed. Still, many individuals and groups continue to support pits.

Poodle

The poodle is the national dog of France. But they originated from Germany where they worked as retrievers of waterfowls. 

The pom-poms were the idea of hunters. They wanted the dogs to move freely in the water but still protect them from the cold. Hunters shaved the necks, legs, and tail. But left the hips, chest, and joint legs covered.

Today, poodles rank seventh on AKC’s breed popularity.

Trainability

With thanks to the poodle’s intelligence, your pit boodle is highly trainable. You should start when they’re still young pups. It’s easier for them to absorb new tricks and commands.

Positive reinforcement will make training much easier. Reward them with treats and praises. Never punish your dogs if they lose focus or don’t follow your commands. And since they’re very smart dogs, it’s best to make your training sessions creative and fun.

Exercise

Your pit boodle will require daily exercise. Around 45 to 60 minutes would be good. Since both parents are very active and energetic, it’s vital that you don’t miss a day. If they aren’t able to burn their energy, they can become hyperactive.

Pitbull Poodle Mix Temperament

Your dog’s temperament is also hard to predict. That’s because both parents have different personalities.

Pitbull poodle mix pups are loyal, active, fun loving, smart, and affectionate. These are gentle dogs, especially when it’s more like the pit bull. They are great around children and will bond closely with the family.

If your dog is more like a poodle, you can expect them to be a little shy around strangers. It’s best that you train them to be more social. They may or may not be aggressive, but it’s best to socialize them further.

Nutrition

Feeding plans differ from dog to dog. It should be customized with the help of a vet. This is to give your dog proper nutrition that suits their overall health and age.

But normally, an adult pit boodle will require two to three cups of high-quality dog food. Their calorie intake per day will depend on how active they are. Split their meals into two or three throughout the day.

Ensure they eat lots of proteins. Your dog should also have access to clean water at all times.

Health and Care

Your dog can live anywhere from 11 to 15 years. But they can live beyond those years if they remain healthy. It’s also best to get your pup from a reliable breeder. Doing so helps your dog avoid inheriting diseases their parents might have.

With that said, here are the most common health issues that affect pit boodles:

  • Allergies
  • Bloat
  • Cataracts
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Heart problems
  • Addison’s disease
  • Cancer
  • Epilepsy
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Thyroid problems
  • Juvenile renal disease

Bring your dog to a vet regularly to monitor their health.

Grooming

Your dog’s grooming needs will depend on their coat. But it’s highly likely that your dog will be a mild to moderate shedder. It’s best to brush their coats weekly to avoid matting and tangling.

If your dog is shedding moderately or a bit heavily, brush their coat daily. This helps tame the shedding.

For best results, bring your dog to a professional groomer every once in a while. You’ll know when they need it if they have long nails, unruly coats, and dirty ears.

Puppies

Standard poodles have an average litter size of seven pups. They can deliver two to 12 pups. You also have to consider that other types of poodles have different litter sizes.

Meanwhile, pit bulls normally deliver five to 10 puppies.

Price

Getting a mix pup starts at $400 and up. The more reputable the breeder, the more expensive they are. The price will also go up if they include accessories and medical needs.

Apart from the initial payment, you have to pay around $1000 to $1500 every year. These are for your dog’s medical and nonmedical needs.

You may also visit the local animal shelter to adopt a dog for free.

Breed Organizations

Since the pit boodle is not a purebred dog, they aren’t recognized by major Kennel clubs. But these dogs are registered with the Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA).

Before getting a pitbull poodle mix, know everything you can about them. This way, you’ll be more certain that they fit with your family.

About the author

Sarah Andrews

Hi I'm Sarah, dog lover and blogger. I was born into a dog-loving family and have been a proud doggy mommy ever since I can remember. I love sharing my dog knowledge and love being an active part of the dog-loving community.