As far as muscular dog breeds go, the Pointer Pitbull mix is among the most handsome and muscular designer breeds you will meet. However, this mix offers a lot more than just muscle!
The Pointer Pitbull mix is a cross between two beloved breeds, the Pointer and the Pitbull. Although this designer breed is relatively new to the scene, its energy, affection, and intelligence is quickly winning the hearts of many.
If you are one of the thousands wanting to know more about the Pointer Pitbull mix, this article is for you. Keep reading to learn everything there is to know about the beloved Pointer Pit.
Breed Overview
| Height: | 17 – 28 inches |
| Weight: | 30 – 75 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 15 years |
| Coat Colors: | Brown, white, liver, lemon, black, orange |
| Temperament: | Energetic, friendly, intelligent |
| Suitable for: | Single-pet households; active individual; being a watchdog |
What Is a Pointer Pitbull Mix?
A Pointer Pitbull mix is a cross between a Pointer and a Pitbull. It is a muscular, medium-sized dog that is energetic, intelligent, and loyal. This designer breed is known for its strong prey drive, athleticism, and stamina, making it perfect for individuals with active lifestyles and as watchdogs.
This hybrid is also known as the Pointbull, Ponter Pit, or Pit-Pointer. These usually refer specifically to the English Pointer Pitbull mix.
However, this hybrid also has other variations, like the German Shorthaired Pointer Pitbull mix.
Like most designer breeds, major kennel clubs such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) do not recognize the Pointer Pitbull mix. However, this mix can be registered with the Dog Registry of America (DRA).
Pointer Pitbull Mix Origin and History
As a relatively new designer dog, there is not much information on the origins of the Pointer Pitbull mix. However, it is believed that the breed was first developed in the United States, where its parents are quite popular.
Despite the lack of official documents, one can learn more about the origins of a Pointer Pitbull with a brief history of its two parent breeds, the Pointer and the Pitbull.
The Pointer is a breed of dog that originated in England in the 17th century. Its original purpose was to assist hunters in locating game birds by “pointing” to their location, thus earning them its name.
The American Kennel Club recognized the Pointer as an official breed after gaining popularity in the United States in the late 1800s. Today, Pointers are still used as hunting dogs but are also kept as pets and show dogs.
On the other hand, Pitbulls are believed to have originated in England in the 19th century, where they were bred for bull-baiting and later dogfighting. The dogs were bred to have a muscular build and powerful jaws.
When Pitbulls were brought to America, they were used for hunting and as family pets. Many Pitbulls today are used as therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, and house companions.
As a mixture of these two powerful breeds, it is no surprise that the Pointer Pitbull mix is quickly gaining popularity today.
Pointer Pitbull Mix Appearance
The appearance of a Pointer Pitbull mix can vary depending on the individual dog’s genetic makeup. Some may take after one parent more than the other, and some may look like an equal combination of both.
However, some general characteristics are commonly seen in this breed mix.
Their head is usually broad and square-shaped, with a strong jawline and a muscular neck. Their eyes are round and expressive, and their ears may be floppy or erect. The tail is typically medium in length and tapers to a point.
Pointer Pit mix coats also vary, but they are often short and dense. Despite this, Pointer Pitbull mixes are moderate shedders.
Common Pointer Pit coat colors include black, white, fawn, brown, and sometimes a mix of these colors. Some may also have distinctive markings, such as spots or stripes.
If the Pitbull Pointer mix has dominant Pitbull genes, it may have a bulkier, more muscular look. On the other hand, if it takes after its Pointer parent more, it will be leaner and taller.
Pointer Pitbull Mix Size and Weight
The Pointer Pitbull mix is typically a medium to large-sized dog, weighing between 30 and 75 pounds and standing around 17 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder.
As mentioned earlier, they often have a muscular build and a strong, athletic appearance. Thus, responsible owners should give ample amounts of space and size-appropriate necessities to accommodate the size of a Pointer Pit.
Pitbull Pointer mixes usually reach this full size and weight at adulthood, between 18 and 30 months. This large range factors in the different maturing rates of both its parent breeds.
Pointer Pitbull Mix Temperament and Personality
Like most mixed dog breeds, the temperament and personality of a Pointer Pitbull mix can vary depending on the individual dog, the specific traits inherited from each parent breed, and of course, its environment.
One of the things that Pointer Pitbull mixes are particularly known for is their athleticism. Pointers are known for their speed and agility, while Pitbulls are renowned for their strength and stamina.
When you combine these traits, you get a dog that is highly active and energetic, making them perfect for physically-demanding activities like agility courses, frisbee, and long runs.
But Pointer Pitbull mixes aren’t just great athletes — they’re also incredibly loyal and loving pets. These dogs are friendly and affectionate, and they easily form strong bonds with their owners.
Aside from these, Pointer Pits are highly intelligent. They may have a stubborn streak at times, but with firm and consistent training, they are quite a trainable and obedient breed.
Check out this video of a well-trained Pointer Pitbull mix and see for yourself:
Of course, like any breed, Pointer Pitbull mixes have their challenges. They can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for too long, and they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
They also have a strong prey drive, which means they may not be suitable for households with small pets like cats or rabbits.
Although they can be good with kids, their size may be an issue with smaller children. Thus, any interactions between a Pointer Pit and small children should be properly supervised.
Pointer Pitbull Mix Lifespan and Health Issues
The lifespan of a Pointer Pitbull mix can vary depending on a number of factors, including genetics, environment, and overall health. However, on average, Pointer Pitbull mixes can live between 10 and 15 years.
Mixed dogs are often healthier than purebred ones, as the latter are more prone to inheriting disorders due to their limited gene pools. However, this does not mean that mixed breeds cannot inherit or develop health problems.
Here are some common health issues a Pointer Pitbull mix may face:
- Hip Dysplasia: Canine hip dysplasia is a common condition in dogs that occurs when the hip joint doesn’t form properly, causing abnormal wear and tear on the joint over time. This can cause limping, decreased activity, and even difficulty standing or walking. It is often seen in larger dog breeds like the Pointer Pitbull mix.
- Allergies: Canine allergies refer to an immune system response in Pointer Pits to certain substances — known as allergens — such as food, pollen, dust mites, and flea saliva. Common symptoms of canine allergies include itching, redness, inflammation, and hair loss.
- Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, which is essential for regulating metabolism. When this occurs, a Pointer Pitbull may experience weight gain, lethargy, hair loss, skin problems, and cold intolerance.
Thus, it is important to note that regular vet check-ups, proper nutrition, exercise, and mental stimulation can help to extend a dog’s lifespan and ensure they live a happy and healthy life.
How to Take Care of Your Pitbull Pointer Mix
Pet ownership is not all fun and games. Caring for a pet is also a serious responsibility that requires time, resources, and dedication.
To ensure that your Pointer Pit lives a happy and healthy life, note some of these care tips.
Food and Diet
When it comes to feeding a Pointer Pitbull mix, it’s important to provide a well-balanced and nutritious diet that meets this dog’s daily nutritional requirements.
As a general guideline, it is recommended to feed an adult Pointer Pitbull mix two meals a day, with each meal consisting of 1 to 1 ½ cups of high-quality dry dog food.
When selecting dog food, look for brands that use high-quality animal protein as the main ingredient, such as chicken, turkey, or beef. Avoid dog foods that contain fillers, by-products, or artificial preservatives.
The dietary needs of your Pointer Pitbull mix may vary depending on their age, weight, activity level, and overall health. It’s best to consult with a vet to determine the appropriate type and amount of food for your dog.
Cleaning and Grooming
Because of their short, dense coats, Pointer Pits are somewhat low-maintenance pets in terms of cleaning and grooming.
These moderate shedders only require brushing only once or twice a week to remove loose hair, dirt, and debris from its coat. Bathing, on the other hand, can be done only once every three months or just as needed.
Aside from these, ear cleaning and dental care should be performed regularly; to be more specific, at least once or twice a week. These will not only keep a dog clean but will also prevent possible health issues.
Finally, nail trimming and eye cleaning should be done as needed to ensure that your Pointer Pit goes about its daily activities as comfortably as possible.
Training and Exercise
Pointer Pitbull mixes are intelligent, active, and energetic dogs that require regular exercise and training to maintain their physical and mental health.
These dogs need at least 30 minutes of daily exercise. Take them for walks, runs, or hikes to burn off their energy. Also, consider activities that utilize their hunting instincts, such as scent work, tracking, and agility courses.
Toys and puzzles can also help stimulate your dog mentally and prevent destructive behaviors. Provide your dog with toys that are safe and appropriate for its size and breed.
When it comes to training, firm and consistent commands will curb the stubborn tendencies of this mixed breed. Once a trainer has established their authority over a Pointer Pit, training will be a walk in the park.
As with all dog breeds, positive reinforcement is the most powerful tool when it comes to proper training.
How Much Does a Pointer Pitbull Mix Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses
On average, a Pointer Pitbull mix can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,800 or more. This can vary depending on various factors, such as the dog’s age, location, breeder or rescue organization, and overall health.
Aside from the cost of obtaining a Pointer Pit mix, owners should also account for initial expenses for pet necessities, such as food, beds, leashes, toys, grooming essentials, vet visits, and the like.
For more information, take a look at this breakdown of the initial Pointer Pit puppy expenses below:
| Type of Expense | Cost |
| Food and Treats | $70 – $150 |
| Bowls | $10 – $40 |
| Toys | $30 – $100 |
| Beds | $40 – $300 |
| Collars and Leashes | $15 – $50 |
| Crates and Carriers | $50 – $500 |
| Grooming Essentials | $50 – $250 |
| Initial Vet Visits | $100 – $500 |
| Initial Vaccine Shots | $50 – $300 |
| Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications | $40 – $300 |
| Neutering or Spaying | $50 – $500 |
| Microchipping | $40 – $60 |
| Dog License | $10 – $20 |
| Other Essentials | $20 – $80 |
| Total Initial Cost | $505 – $3,150 |
Aside from the items listed above, miscellaneous expenses like pet sitters, pet insurance, and emergency medical funds should also be set aside.
As a medium to large-sized dog, some of a Pitbull Pointer’s necessities may be more expensive compared to smaller breeds. Thus, hopeful owners should be financially prepared before committing to a Pointer Pit.
Places to Find Pointer Pitbull Mix Puppies for Sale and Adoption
Since the Pitbull Pointer mix is a relatively new hybrid, it may be difficult to find breeders or rescues that specifically offer this mix. Still, you may find Pitbull Pointers for sale or adoption if you know where to look!
If you are in the market for buying a Pointer Pit puppy, several online resources can help you.
Here are some places where you can find a Pointer Pit puppy for sale:
- AKC Marketplace – The AKC Marketplace is an online platform that connects breeders with potential buyers looking for puppies. It offers a variety of dog breeds from reputable breeders who adhere to responsible breeding practices. If you find a Pointer Pit here, rest assured that it was bred and raised according to AKC standards.
- PuppyFinder – PuppyFinder is a website dedicated to helping individuals and families find furry companions like the Pointer Pit mix. The website allows users to search for puppies by breed, location, and price range.
- Lancaster Puppies – Lancaster Puppies is a website that connects prospective puppy owners with reputable dog breeders. The website has a user-friendly interface, allowing customers to search for puppies by breed, gender, and location.
For those leaning towards adoption, scrolling through adoption websites and inquiring at local shelters and rescue organizations is the path to take.
Here are some places where you can find a Pointer Pit mix for adoption:
- Petfinder – Petfinder is one of the largest pet adoption websites in the world, with over 11,000 animal shelters and rescues listing their adoptable pets on the site. To find a Pointer Pit mix here, use the site’s advanced search filters that allow users to search for pets by location, breed, age, and other characteristics.
- Pit Bull Rescue Central (PBRC) – Pit Bull Rescue Central is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming Pitbulls, bully breeds, and Pitbull mixes like the Pointer Pitbull. It is staffed entirely by volunteers who have a strong commitment to promoting responsible Pitbull ownership.
- About A Pit Rescue – This is another non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the lives of these misunderstood dogs by rescuing, rehoming, and rehabilitating Pitbulls and Pit mixes like the Pointer Pit. They also aim to educate the public about the true nature of these breeds while advocating for responsible pet ownership.
Before buying or adopting a Pointer Pitbull, potential owners should always research to ensure that the breeder or rescue organization adheres to ethical and responsible breeding standards.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Pitbull Pointer Mix
As you have learned from this article, Pointer Pitbull mixes can be wonderful pets, but like any breed or mix, they come with their own set of pros and cons.
Here are the advantages of owning a Pointer Pitbull mix:
- Loyal and affectionate: These dogs are known for being extremely devoted to their owners and often form deep connections with their families. Despite their muscular looks, they are affectionate at heart.
- Highly intelligent: Pointers and Pitbulls are smart breeds, which means that their mix can be easily trained and often excels in obedience and agility competitions, especially through positive reinforcement training.
- Excellent watchdogs: Pointer Pitbulls appear intimidating and are fiercely loyal to their loved ones. They are protective of their families and can be trained to be excellent watchdogs.
On the other hand, here are some disadvantages of owning a Pointer Pitbull mix:
- Excessive energy: While their energy levels can be a joy to those who can keep up with it, it can also be a burden for some owners who may not have the time or energy to exercise and entertain them sufficiently.
- Strong prey drive: Pointers are bred to hunt, so the mix may have a high prey drive. This means they may not be compatible with households that have small pets like rabbits or birds.
- Legal restrictions: Some states and countries have restrictions on owning Pitbulls or Pitbull mixes due to their reputation for aggression. Check with state regulations first before committing to owning one of these pups.
Owning a Pointer Pitbull mix can be rewarding for an owner who can provide the love and care they need. However, it’s also important to understand the challenges that may come with the breed before committing to one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Pointer Pitbull Mixes Good Family Dogs?
Generally, Pointer Pitbull mixes are loyal, affectionate, and intelligent dogs that can make great family pets.
Make sure to provide this dog with plenty of socialization, exercise, and positive reinforcement training to help it become a well-adjusted and well-behaved member of your family.
Are Pointer Pitbull Mixes Aggressive?
Although Pitbulls have a reputation for being aggressive, this stereotype is often based on misinformation. Pointer Pitbull mixes are generally loving, loyal, and gentle dogs when properly trained and socialized.
Do Pointer Pitbull Mixes Shed?
Pointer Pitbull mixes can shed, as both its Pointer and Pitbull parents are known to shed moderately. However, the amount of shedding varies from dog to dog and also depends on factors such as coat type and overall health.
Are Pointer Pitbull Mixes Hypoallergenic?
Pointer Pitbull mixes are not considered hypoallergenic. They are known to be moderate shedders, so owners should prepare for sizable amounts of loose fur and dander in their homes.
Final Thoughts
For those who are still convinced that Pitbull breeds are aggressive, just look at the Pointer Pitbull mix. Contrary to what people think, these mixed dogs are loyal, playful sweethearts that make excellent pets.
With the right training and care, Pointer Pitbulls can be everything you want in a furry companion and more.
They have the looks and the skills to be excellent watchdogs, the high energy levels to keep up with active lifestyles, and the sweet, affectionate temperaments to spark joy in anyone around them.
After learning about the wondrous Pointer Pitbull, would you consider getting one in the future? Let us know in the comments below!
