Affectionate and protective, this mixed breed is a great family dog. However, there are a few points you should know if you’re thinking about bringing one home. Here is your guide to all things related to the German Shepherd Bulldog:
What are the Predicted Aspects of the German Shepherd Bulldog?
- Height: 15 – 21 inches
- Weight: 40 – 73lbs
- Coat: Single or double coat, short to medium-length fur
- Level of Affection: High
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Dog Friendly: Yes, if socialized properly
- Cat Friendly: Yes, if socialized properly
- Preferred Climate: Moderate
- Shedding Levels: Moderate to High
- Trainability: Moderate
- Potential to Bark/Howl: High
Will German Shepherd Bulldogs Look Like Their Bulldog Parent?
You can expect quite a bit of variation with the physical traits of a German Shepherd Bulldog. This is because the parent breeds are very different from one another. The pups may favor one parent over the other or maybe some combination of the genes.
What Size Category will a German Shepherd Bulldog Be Placed In?
When fully grown, this mixed breed is likely to be bigger than a Bulldog but smaller than a German Shepherd. They are most likely to be classified as medium-sized dogs.
Your dog will most likely take after the leaner German Shepherd. They will maintain some of the muscular box-like physiques of the Bulldog, especially around the shoulders.
What Facial Features Will a German Bulldog Have?
Many German Bulldogs have a longer snout than their Bulldog parents, although it is not quite as long as that of a German Shepherd. The pup may favor either parent when it comes to the head shape, but it is quite common for it to be a mix of the two.
Will German Shepherd Bulldogs Have a Short Coat?
This mixed breed may have a single or double coat and the fur may be short or medium-length. A shorter coat will often be fine and smooth. Dogs with double coats may have longer, wavier hair on top. The coat underneath will be thick and dense.
This pup’s coat can be a wide variety of colors. This includes white, fawn, red, black, brown, grey, sable, liver, tan, and blue. A solid color is unlikely, but you may notice piebald patches or a brindle pattern.
The German Shepherd Bulldog mix is likely to have a darker snout. They may have the classic German Shepherd mask as well.
Are German Shepherd Bulldogs an Affectionate Breed?
German Shepherd Bulldogs are incredibly affectionate and loving dogs. If their German Shepherd genes are a bit stronger, you may notice that they take a while to warm up to you, but they will be completely loyal afterward. Unlike other breeds, this pup won’t play favorites and will love being around all members of the family.
This includes smaller children as well. They are great around little kids – kind and gentle. You should watch kids around this pup as they may end up taking more harassment than necessary. Don’t be surprised if this pooch is quite protective of younger ones.
The German Shepherd Bulldog may not tolerate being left alone for too long, but this does depend on which parent they take after the most. Those with German Shepherd tendencies can only be left alone for a few hours before they become destructive. Dogs with dominant Bulldog traits will hold up better and last longer by themselves.
When it comes to strangers, it can be difficult to know how the German Shepherd Bulldog will react. On the one hand, they may be completely warm and welcoming towards people that they don’t know. On the other, some dogs may be warier.
To avoid the latter reaction, make sure to socialize your dog at a young age. This will teach them how to get along with everybody.
For the most part, the German Shepherd Bulldog will get along with other dogs well. The key is an early introduction. They will take to dogs that they are raised with quite well. The same goes for cats and other pets in the household.
This isn’t always the case for strange animals, though. Getting your dog to frequently interact with other dogs, especially as a puppy will take away this aggression.
Do German Shepherd Bulldogs Have Many Health Issues?
Mixed breeds tend to be healthier than purebred dogs, but this doesn’t mean that they are immune to diseases and health conditions. To ensure that your pooch grows up as healthy and as happy as possible, you should know some of the common medical conditions that may crop up.
How Many Years Can a German Shepherd Bulldog Live For?
The lifespan of the German Shepherd Bulldog will depend on which breed they take after the most. Pups that are similar to Bulldogs will have shorter lifespans, while those who are more like German Shepherds may live longer. On average, this mixed breed may live between 9 to 14 years.
What Inheritable Diseases Can German Shepherd Bulldogs Develop?
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye conditions
- Bloat
- Skin conditions
If your dog has a flat face typically associated with Bulldogs, they may be at greater risk of developing Brachycephalic Syndrome. Fortunately, this is treatable and the treatment will depend on the severity of the symptoms and conditions.
Be mindful of your dog’s health by keeping track of any changes in their appetite, behavior, or energy levels. Always take your German Shepherd Bulldog to the vet sooner rather than later to avoid complications.
What are the Biggest Nutrition Concerns for a German Shepherd Bulldog?
It can be difficult to pinpoint the right dog food for a mixed breed such as a German Shepherd Bulldog. This is why it is best to speak to your vet about which food brand will have the optimal nutrients for proper growth and development.
You should track your dog’s growth as a puppy as they may take after their German Shepherd parent in size and physique. In this case, you may find that your puppy will grow rapidly from about 4 to 7 months and this process needs to be slowed down.
Your vet may suggest a high-quality, low-calorie diet, but this is something that you should clear with them first before putting your dog on this diet. Otherwise, high-quality dog food, complete with well-sourced ingredients and balanced nutrients will be the way to go.
If your dog has a physique closer to that of a Bulldog, obesity may be a problem. This, in turn, can cause joint problems. Due to this, always feed your dog based on the manufacturer’s instructions and according to their weight.
Don’t leave food lying out for your dog but have specific mealtimes instead. Keep treats and snacks to a minimum as well.
Are German Shepherd Bulldogs Very Physically Active?
The required level of activity will depend on which parent your German Shepherd Bulldog takes after most. If your pooch is taller, has a leaner physique, and tons of energy to spare, then consider walking your dog 30 minutes or more each day. For pups such as these, Frisbee and fetch can be a good break in the monotony.
In case your German Shepherd Bulldog is shorter and squatter, their range of movement can be more limited. A 15 to 20-minute walk at a reasonable pace should be more than enough. This should be adjusted according to your dog’s capabilities, though.
It should be noted that some German Shepherd Bulldogs may be quite lazy and certified couch potatoes. Getting them to go outside can be tricky but it is something you need to do every day or their risk of weight gain will go up.
Dogs that have more Bulldog characteristics don’t do well in heat or humidity. Due to this, you should never exercise your dog when it is hot. Make sure the temperature is cool and comfortable before you take them outside.
Do German Shepherd Bulldogs Need Extensive Grooming?
The level of grooming required will depend on the type of coat your German Shepherd Bulldog has. If it is a thicker, longer double coat, then your pup may shed more. To keep this under control, brush them several times a week.
Dogs with this coat may shed more excessively following cold months. The top solution is to brush your dog every day during this period.
If their fur is short, smooth, and a single coat, they will not require as much attention. Brushing them once a week should be enough.
Some German Shepherd Bulldogs may have the classic Bulldog wrinkles around their face. Take care, as these areas are especially prone to skin infections and conditions. Clean these areas often and always make sure that they are gently but thoroughly dried off.
You don’t have to bathe this breed too often. Once every few months or when their coat begins to smell is more than enough. Always use a gentle shampoo that is specifically meant for dogs.
What Environment Will German Shepherd Bulldogs Thrive In?
Dogs that are more similar to Bulldogs don’t do feel in either heat or cold. Due to this, they need to live in moderate environments. If you live in an area where the temperature can drop or rise quite drastically, keep your Bulldog indoors at all times.
Due to their size and moderate energy levels, these dogs can thrive in apartments and smaller dwellings. To compensate, though, you need to take them outside quite often. Try to do this several times a day.
How Can You Get German Shepherd Bulldogs to Respond to Training?
German Shepherd Bulldogs can be moderately easy to train. You will require some patience, though, as these pups may not learn tricks or commands right off the back. They require consistent training and you will need to work with them until they get things right.
The good news is that once this pup has learned a trick or command, they are unlikely to forget it. Your hard work will pay off.
These pups respond best to positive reinforcement so always reward good behavior and don’t punish them when they get things wrong. Some pups may be especially motivated by treats and this can be an effective training tool.
Are German Shepherd Bulldog Puppies Easy to Find?
German Shepherd Bulldogs are one of the rarer mixed breeds and you will have to find a breeder who specializes in these dogs. In some cases, you may be put on a waiting list, depending on availability.
Always choose a reputable breeder. Bulldogs, in particular, can suffer from various diseases and a good breeder will certify that previous generations of the parent are free from these health conditions. This will help to reduce the risk of these conditions developing in your dog, allowing them to enjoy a higher quality of life.
How Common Is It to Find German Shepherd Bulldogs in Shelters?
Not only is this mixed breed pretty rare, but they are also considered designer dogs which lessens the chance that they end up in shelters. You can check shelters that specifically take in German Shepherds and Bulldogs to improve your chances, however.
FAQs
Here are some of the more frequently asked questions regarding German Shepherd Bulldogs:
How Much is a German Shepherd Bulldog?
There is no set price for these puppies, but they may be priced at around $1,500 to $5000 depending on the breeder and availability.
How Big Do German Shepherd Bulldogs Get?
These dogs can grow up to 21 inches and weigh over 70lbs when fully grown.
Are German Shepherd Bulldogs Good Family Dogs?
These dogs are loving and protective and enjoy spending most of their time with their family.
This wraps up our guide to German Shepherd Bulldogs. You can now decide whether this pooch is a good fit for you and your family.
