American Bulldog and German Shepherd Hybrid Mix Dog Breed Guide

Have you been thinking of getting a dog that is gentle and fearless at the same time but doesn’t know the breed to go for? The German Shepherd Bulldog mix is that versatile dog you need. It is reliable as a security dog as well as a pet.

Just as the name suggests, this breed of dog is developed from the cross of Bulldog and German Shepherd dog. The bulldog originated from England and was used to control cattle. Today in the US, bulldogs are still employed in farms and ranches. 

On the other hand, the German Shepherd is the offspring of a herding dog, and they are mostly used by the military and police. They are dependable for search and rescue operations, guide dogs, and even for companionship. Today it is a popular breed across the world.

About the German Shepherd Bulldog Mix   

This dog species is known for its calmness and curiosity. If you carefully watch them, you will in no time all in love with their adorable eyes and oversized paws. As they mature, their paws begin to fit them perfectly.

This dog species grows up to be big and smart. If you can spend some extra time training them, you will be amazed at their level of intelligence.

If you choose to purchase a puppy from any breeder, ensure that you get some essential information about the breeder. Questions like the training methods they employ for their puppies, how they have been feeding them and the state of health of the puppies, etc., must be brought forward by you. Ensure that you make these important queries so that you can get your mind prepared on what to expect once you take the puppy home.

Intelligence and Temperament of the German Shepherd Bulldog Mix

Most people are attracted to the hardworking nature of this dog breed, but they have much more than that to offer. They have a complex personality due to their high intelligence quotient. They are a reliable security dog due to their protective nature. 

Simultaneously, they are a big-hearted and thoughtful companion that makes them a reliable and endearing pet. With this dog, you can walk confidently on the street without having to any fear intruders.

To have a better understanding of what to expect with this dog breed, look at the parent breeds as they share personality traits of both species, i.e., American Bulldog and German Shepherd.

The German Shepherd is a confident and calm dog. They are homely and friendly with family and friends but suspicious of strangers. They love to play with familiar faces but may be aggressive against intruders. What more, they are easy to train and do not fear big animals like bulls.

The American Bulldog, on the other hand, is a bold, affectionate, and gentle dog when around family members and friends. However, they are aggressive with a stranger and do not fear big animals like bulls.

Are They a Good Dogs Breed for Families? 

Absolutely! The German Shepherd Bulldog Mix is an amazing dog for the family. All you have to do is inculcate some training and socialization skills into it. Their huge size makes it easy to fall a person of small stature when they get excited, but they are naturally calm with little children. 

If they get socialized into a family at an early age, you will be amazed at how adorable and friendly they can be. They are an energetic species that love to take part in fun activities. They can easily overwhelm a single person due to their energetic nature, so they are the perfect fun dog for an entire family.

Do They Get Along Well with Other Pets?

The German Shepherd Bulldog Mix is quite aggressive and sociable at the same time. They can easily get carried away due to an innate stubbornness, and that will be dangerous for other pets around. 

It is highly important that you inculcate the habit of respect into your German Shepherd Bulldog at an early age because they grow up to become big and difficult to control at that point. We will recommend that you do not keep multiple pets in the same house where you have this dog to easily get acquainted with the other pet and respect them as fellow part of the family.

Points to Note When You Own a German Shepherd Bulldog Mix

The decision to bring a new pet home is as important for the family as welcoming of a new born human. Therefore, adequate preparation has to be made for its arrival. For the German Shepherd Bulldog Mix, here are some things you need to take note of and not just get carried away by their charming look and fur.

Diet Requirements 

The German Shepherd Bulldog Mix is a significant addition to your life and home; you need to make proper provision for its food. Like every other animal, they require balanced nutrition for optimal growth and a healthy lifestyle. They eat both plant and animal-based meals, just like humans.

First, introduce them to kibble of high quality and supplement with veggies and fruits. Ensure you discuss with your vet before giving any food to your dog. Discuss salient issues like the size of their portion etc.

Try to alternate the food you give to them because, like humans, they will become bored with eating the same thing every time. When you feed your German Shepherd Bulldog Mix well, they won’t bother you during your meals. Give food that encourages weight management as too much weight will result in health issues in your dog. 

Exercise 

The German Shepherd Bulldog Mix is a very active and athletic dog breed. They require special attention and need to participate in regular exercises multiple times a day due to their size and degree of activity. Therefore, they are more suited for a large compound with enough space for them to play around; otherwise, they will be a nuisance inside the house. A bored dog will destroy properties and furniture and make unnecessary noise. You can also get them mentally engaging pet toys like a puzzle.

Training 

The German Shepherd Bulldog Mix Breed is not just a smart dog but also muscular and robust. It requires special training from our puppy stage so it can grow into an obedient and social dog. In case you do not have the time needed to offer the training yourself, or you don’t have any experience with training dogs, then consider contracting it to a professional trainer. 

The advantage of this is that they will grow up both physically and psychologically. It will be a bad experience having a gigantic dog like this without proper training as it will become a headache to you rather than the adorable pet it is designed to be. The German Shepherd Bulldog Mix love to take part in fun and intellectually engaging activities, so make sure you put that into consideration when training them yourself.

Grooming 

The frequency and style of grooming that this dog require depend on which of the parents it resembles. The American bulldog, for example, has a single coat and thus requires little grooming, while the German Shepherd is double-coated, a straight outer coat and a thick undercoat. 

Therefore, they have to be groomed multiple times every week, especially during spring when they shed. They generally require that you clean their ears regularly to prevent infection. Their nails also need to be cut off regularly. You have to brush your teeth once in a while for a fresher breath and healthy gum.

Health Concerns

Most hybrids are usually healthier than their purebred counterparts. The German Shepherd Bulldog Mix is a hybrid dog and is generally very beneficial. However, there are a few health concerns that they are prone to. Below is a list of minor and major health concerns.

Minor Conditions

  • Eye problems 
  • Panosteitis 
  • Skin allergies, 
  • Hip and elbow dysplasia

Serious Conditions

  • Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
  • Gastric dilatation-volvulus
  • Epilepsy

Female vs. Male

The females of the German Shepherd Bulldog Mix breed are  usually of smaller size and a more dependable companion than their male counterparts. The male is bigger and is sexually aggressive.

Conclusion

Are you thinking of buying a German Shepherd Bulldog Mix already? They are a devoted, intelligent, brave, and reliable companion. They are everything that this article has talked about and so much more. 

However, they are not a suitable species for someone who isn’t already used to raising and training a dog. This is because they require a lot of attention. Also, if you share the same apartment with neighbors, you may have to reconsider your decision.

However, if you have enough time on your hand to spare for training and have a large compound to yourself, you will enjoy this dog. Alternatively, you can hire a trainer who will come around frequently to give this gigantic dog the much needed training that it requires to serve you well.

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