Are German Pit Bulls healthy?
German Pit Bulls can be prone to some of the same common health issues their German Shepherd and Pit Bull parents are prone to, including:
- Hip and/or elbow dysplasia: Hip and elbow dysplasia are two of the most common skeletal diseases seen in dogs. They are similar diseases in which either the hip or elbow joint has grown abnormally or is misshapen. The abnormal shape prevents the joints and sockets from properly meeting one another, resulting in rubbing and grinding instead of sliding smoothly. Unlike in hip dysplasia, where the main problem is joint instability, elbow dysplasia often results in pieces of bone and/or cartilage breaking loose and irritating the joint tissues. Over time, the rubbing from dysplasia can cause a variety of issues, such as pain, lameness, and secondary osteoarthritis. Surgery can fix the joint if diagnosed before the onset of arthritis. If you are rescuing a German Pit Bull, have them checked out by a vet to see if they have or are prone to getting dysplasia.
- Allergies: Bully breeds may be at higher risk for allergies and skin conditions, such as dermatitis. Pets with allergies may exhibit excessive itchiness, skin irritation, redness, hair loss, hot spots, and diarrhea. Causes of an allergic reaction may be food, environment, or fleas.
- Patellar luxation: German Pit Bulls are at higher risk for the condition known as patellar luxation, which occurs when slight abnormalities in the knee cap cause the knee joint to slide out of place, leading to pain and occasional lameness.
Your vet is your best resource for any health concerns. It’s important to remember that even though this breed might have an increased risk for certain health conditions, that doesn’t mean they will develop them. Mixed-breed dogs are often healthier than purebred dogs because of greater genetic diversity. Your veterinarian can help you keep an eye out for possible health problems with regular checkups.