Last Updated on September 8, 2021 by Marco C.
In recent years there are some very unusual hybrid breed combinations occurring, sometimes with unexpected or incredible results! However, when it comes to Bulldogs there have been some very successful crosses, including American Bulldogs mixed with German Shepherd Dogs. Let’s take a look at what an American Bulldog mixed with German Shepherd might turn out like!
What Is An American Bulldog And German Shepherd Mix?
Crossing two pedigree breeds to make a designer dog isn’t a new concept. Dog lovers have been breeding these dogs, known as hybrids, for many years. However, in recent years there has been a flurry of new hybrids in the dog world, including the American Bulldog Crossed with a German Shepherd!
This interesting hybrid generally referred to as an American Bulldog Shepherd, is rapidly increasing in popularity. To understand what this hybrid will look like, we need to know a bit more about these two breeds.
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German Shepherd Dog
The German Shepherd Dog is a large breed of dog, more often recognized as a guard dog or service dog than family pet. However, they are gentle and kind-natured dogs if trained correctly. They have a strong, lithe, and muscular physique, with a broad and thick chest, strong neck, and powerful hindquarters.
German Shepherds have a broad head which tapers to long pointed muzzle. The dark, almond-shaped eyes are kind and they have an alert expression, with large ears which stand upright.
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American Bulldog
The American Bulldog is a stocky and muscular dog. They are a medium-large-sized breed, standing 20 to 28 inches tall and weighing in at 60 to 120 pounds. The American Bulldog is renowned for its athletic ability, particularly its skill at jumping a great height!
American Bulldogs are fierce in appearance, but in reality, they are gentle and loyal. They are energetic dogs with high exercise needs. American Bulldogs can make a good family pet but need careful training to counteract their hunting and fighting instincts.
Learn more about: Breed Profile: American Bulldog Mix With A Pitbull
So, what happens when these two breeds are crossed? This process is called creating a hybrid – a dog which is half one breed and half another. The aim is to keep the most desirable characteristics of each breed.
An American Bulldog Shepherd will be a thick-set and powerful dog, normally midway in size between the two breeds. The coat will be thicker and denser than the Bulldog, but not as long as the German Shepherd.
When it comes to personality, remember that the American Bulldog Shepherd comes from two breeds which were originally bred for hunting, herding, and protection. So your hybrid will very likely be a loyal dog, but may also be overprotective at times.
The face of the American Bulldog Shepherd can be very cute and endearing in appearance. The best examples of this hybrid have the wide smiling mouth of the Bulldog and the erect, alert ears of the German Shepherd.
Is A Bulldog Shepherd Mix A Good Pet?
It is important to remember that this hybrid consists of two breeds which were bred for hunting, protection, and fighting. Although many decades of careful breeding have aimed to reduce these instincts, they still require careful handling and training.
If this is your first experience in owning and training this type of dog, it is a good idea to have someone on hand to advise you. Look for a dog trainer with experience with these breeds to help you understand the best training methods. Putting the time and effort in from the start will give you the best chance of avoiding any aggression problems.
However, in the right hands, a Bulldog Shepherd mix can make a fabulous family pet! These are good-natured dogs which are loyal and eager to please. They can be quite protective, so need to be well socialized as puppies to prevent any problems later in life.
With good training, your Bulldog-Shepherd hybrid will become an integral part of the family. It will have high exercise needs, so is best suited to an active household with a secure outdoor area. They need at least two hour’s exercise per day, ideally split into two sessions. This exercise could be a walk on the leash or playtime in the park or a secure yard or garden.
How Much Does A Bulldog Mixed With German Shepherd Cost?
Before buying a Bulldog mixed with German Shepherd, it is important to do your research first. Look for a reputable breeder who selects the best parents to breed from.
The price will vary according to the quality of the puppy and the health status of the parents. The cheapest puppy is not always the best one, as you may end up with a dog with multiple health problems and huge veterinary bills. It is vital to research the health problems of both breeds before buying a hybrid puppy.
Once you have brought your hybrid puppy home, there are other costs to take into account. Your puppy will need vaccinations and a microchip, and it is also worth investing in a good pet insurance policy. Puppy training classes are vital if you want to ensure that your American Bulldog Shepherd is well trained and socialized.
Bulldog German Shepard Mix Health Problems
One of the biggest causes for concern with this hybrid is hip dysplasia. Both the American Bulldog and the German Shepherd Dog are prone to this debilitating lifelong condition.
Choose a reputable breeder who health tests their breeding stock for hereditary conditions. This should include hip and elbow dysplasia screening as well as an eye and heart examination.
Summary
So, as we have learned, an American Bulldog mix with a German Shepherd Dog can give you a fun-loving hybrid which makes a great family pet. However, as with all Bulldog mixes, they need careful handling and training to avoid any aggressive tendencies. They also have high energy needs and can be big, powerful dogs.
We would love to hear about your experiences with American Bulldog Shepherds – have you ever owned one? Perhaps you are thinking of buying an American Bulldog Shepherd puppy but have a few questions you’d like us to answer? Add a comment below this post and we’ll get back to you!
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