The pit bull boxer mix is a cross between two extremely popular dog breeds.
Both pit bulls, 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.
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What is a 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
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 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.
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 dog 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.
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.
If you’re like most dog parents (or parents-to-be), you care for your pet immensely. Having pet insurance could save you from the headaches of going to the vets with reimbursement for every vet bill from now on!
Exam fees are included, which saves you around $50-$250 per sick visit.
PetPlan covers injury and disease in every adult tooth — not just the canines.
Not all providers cover hereditary conditions linked to breed. PetPlan does.
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: | Prone to barking, chewing, and digging |
| 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.
More American Pitbull Terrier and Boxer Mixes
Want an American Pitbull Terrier mix or Boxer mix but aren’t keen on the Pitbull Boxer mix? Check out these other hybrid dog breeds:
American Pitbull Terrier Mixes
- German Shepherd Pitbull Mix
- Golden Retriever Pitbull Mix
- Pitbull Mastiff Mix
- Pitbull Lab Mix
- Rottweiler Pitbull Mix
- Pitbull Corgi Mix
- Pitbull Husky Mix
- Pitbull Dachshund Mix
I really want a puppy I’ve had a pitbull and a boxer they were the best I think one mix together would be great
My first, and best dog I have ever had or met! I can’t say enough of how friendly and approachable this mix is. They are particularly fond of children and will want to sleep next to them at night. Basically, like a big teddy bear for kids, but they do have a lot of energy when they are younger than 5 years during the day and when being walked. Great dog for a family who can give them attention especially when they are younger.
I have had many dogs over the past 40 years. My Boxer Pitbull mix is hands down the best dog l have ever had.
I have a 5 month old puppy Pitbull boxer. SHE IS SUCH AN AWESOME PUPPERS! She cracks me up all the time.
We have a 5 year old female Pitbull Boxer mix that was a rescue. She is smart and loving with our family and friends. She is a bit distant with strangers but that could be lack of socialization, we don’t know her history.She is very loyal and we could not imagine life without her.
I understand ours is the same way. Best dog ever. Definitely part of the family and always will be.
Es muy cariñoso juanchito leal un gran compañero, muy activo sobretodo leal.
I too had the best friend everin the mix breed who was so full of life and the only dog my sister love out of 10 dogs I’ve own over my life time. I just lost my Pip 7 days ago to a disease call Addison disease. Pip was only 5 years old, it’s not fair to have lost him so soon all my baby’s live at least 10 to 15 years this have been one of the worst time in my life to loss the best dog ever.
We have a female that just turned 7 in June. She is very protective and loyal. She is very calm and laid back but loves when her doggie cousins come to play with her. She will sleep for a day to a day and half after they are gone home. We couldn’t ask for a better puppy honestly.
Awww! I’m so sorry for your loss! Prayers up for you and your precious baby.
I have a 1 year old mix who was a rescue. He is so sweet. Whomever had him worked with him because he knows sit, lay down, shake my hand and come here. Hes so sweet and loyal. Very true about attention. We left him home in a kennel for 2 hours and came back and he hsd broken the tv,chewed up the bottom of doors. He knew he had done wrong so we didnt have to discipline. We just reaffirmed to him that was bad. No problems since. Hes our child and we love him dearly. Best mix breed we’ve ever had.
Hi All, I love this little mix. Does anyone know how to find them? I want to try to buy from a reputable group or a rescue type of place. I have done some searches but see things like boxer or just Pitbull.
just rescued a pit-boxer mix a few weeks ago and she is incredible. so friendly and good natured, wants to meet everyone, human or animal with her tail high and wagging. good around children too. I take her everywhere and get tons of compliments on how gorgeous she is but the real secret is what a good dog she is
The image on site looks just like my roxxie girl. Her dad a boxer and mom a pit. She is beautiful colors and markings. So energetic and perfect for for my family with 3 growing boys. She gets a good work out each day and plenty of chew toys to keep her busy. Crate training is a must. Learns very fast if consistent for a few days
Belle is a beautiful fawn pitoxer. She most definitely does not like being away from my side ever. If it were up to her she would never leave my side. She is the most affectionate loyal dog I have ever had the privilege to call my dog. She is more than just a dog to me. She is my best friend my companion and without a doubt protector. The alertness and intelligence of this mix breed will amaze you. Thier strength is incredible and it is pure joy watching all that muscle in motion chasing a frisbee or ball. Easily trainable but does not respond well at all to yelling or anything negative. Positive reinforcement is best with consistent praise of what you want and it’s best to totally ignore any behavior you don’t like. They want to please you so much that you will have no problem training them.
We have a boxer pit mix that our 20 year old son ( at the time ) brought home as an 8 week old puppy. My home husband was one of those “ I don’t want another damn dog “. The best of buddies now. He will need therapy if something happens to his pal. The sweetest, goofiest dog ever.
This is my very first pitbull boxer mix breed dog & he’s an awesome great dog & everything you’ve said about these dogs matches perfect to exactly how he is I would recommend this type of dog for anyone because he’s a loyal protective dog who loved & gets along great with kids of all ages & is very understanding & patient when it comes to kids I’m so happy I found this type of dog ????
I love our Thor! He is well over 80 pounds and still thinks he’s a lapdog. By far one of the best dogs I have ever owned. He is extremely protective of our whole family and has a loving, kind nature
I love my Sheba she is a boxer/pit mix – just turned 10 years on 9/25/2021. She weighs 70.3 pounds and a very active dog with so many puppy features. She loves to play, run and jump although she now has the onset of arthritis. The only issue I have every had with her is her skin…she is highly allergic. But with being on the correct diet and her monthly shots she is doing well. She has been my companion since I first brought her home. While I was going through chemotherapy she was always by my side. I couldn’t even take a shower without her laying outside the shower stall. Such a great girl! I hope that I have more than 4 more years with her. I will be heartbroken should something happen to her. Afterall, she was by my side when I was going through chemo and then again when I broke my back. I just outright love and adore my baby girl.
We had a Boxer Pit mix that lived a long healthy life of over 16 years. He was an absolutely beautiful pooch, inside and out. The first several years of his life, when out in public, folks would stop us to ask what breed he was, he was such a good looking boy and at that time had such a unique looked. We actually had several strangers ask us to breed him when we were out on walks and when he was still intact. He was gorgeous, yet looked fierce, but was the biggest sweetie you’d ever meet. He was out 55lbs lap dog throughout his life, and guests would want to take him home with them after meeting him. Like I said, he was such a sweetie. We’ve been considering getting another dog, and this combo breed is what we’re planning to get when we’re ready for another pooch in our life. There were only two issues our boy had in his life, one was hip dysplasia from about two years old on, but if he did have pain from it one would never know, as he was very stoic about it if he did. The other issue bothered him and was chronic, and that was ear infections. The yeast infections were by far the worst, and this is the only real negative about this breed that we experienced. He was very energetic the first two years and had some separation anxiety, which we handled by crate training during that time when we left the house. I wasn’t a fan of crate training prior to this, but I was also ignorant about it back then. Shortly after he trained two, he calmed down quite a bit, not so hyper and not so anxious.