Pointer Pit
The Pointer Pit is a cross between the American Pit Bull Terrier and the Pointer. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Pointer Pit. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
American Pit Bull Terrier
The American Pit Bull Terrier is a medium-sized, solidly built dog that combines strength, athleticism, and agility in a compact, muscular frame. Males typically stand 18 to 21 inches at the shoulder and weigh 35 to 70 pounds, while females measure 17 to 20 inches and weigh 30 to 60 pounds. The breed presents a powerful, well-defined musculature without appearing bulky or overdone. The body is slightly longer than tall, with a deep, broad chest and well-sprung ribs that provide ample heart and lung capacity. The back is strong and level, flowing into a slightly sloping croup, and the tuck-up is moderate. The overall impression is one of tremendous strength and athletic capability contained within a medium-sized package. The head is the breed's most distinctive feature, appearing large in proportion to the body but fitting well with the muscular neck and shoulders. The skull is broad and flat between the ears with prominent cheeks due to well-developed jaw muscles. The muzzle is broad and deep with a well-defined stop, and the jaws are strong and well-developed, capable of considerable gripping power. Eyes are round to almond-shaped, set low and wide apart, and can be any color except blue in most registries. Ears are set high and may be natural or cropped, with natural ears being semi-prick or rose-shaped. The coat is short, close, smooth, and glossy, requiring minimal grooming and lying flat against the well-muscled body. All colors and color patterns are acceptable except merle, including solid colors, brindle, and combinations with white markings. The tail is thick at the base, tapering to a point, and is carried as a natural extension of the topline when relaxed and slightly elevated when the dog is alert or moving. The legs are straight with heavy, round bone and well-arched, compact feet. The rear legs are muscular with moderate angulation. The breed moves with a confident, springy gait that demonstrates both power and agility.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Despite their powerful appearance, well-bred and properly socialized American Pit Bull Terriers are typically friendly and outgoing with people, including strangers. However, the breed can exhibit animal aggression, particularly toward unfamiliar dogs, a trait stemming from their historical background. Early and ongoing socialization is essential, and owners should be prepared to manage interactions with other animals carefully. They require significant daily exercise and mental engagement to channel their abundant energy constructively. With responsible ownership that includes proper socialization, training, and supervision, the American Pit Bull Terrier demonstrates why so many enthusiasts are devoted to this loyal and loving breed.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Heart disease, particularly congenital heart defects and cardiomyopathy, has been documented in the breed and warrants cardiac screening for breeding dogs. Eye conditions including cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and hereditary cataracts can affect vision. Cerebellar ataxia, a neurological condition affecting coordination and balance, occurs in some bloodlines. The breed may also be predisposed to demodectic mange, particularly in young dogs or those with compromised immune systems. Dental disease can be problematic if regular dental care is not maintained. Maintaining a healthy weight, providing appropriate exercise, and scheduling regular veterinary examinations help ensure these athletic dogs enjoy long, healthy lives.
Pointer
The Pointer, also known as the English Pointer, is a medium to large-sized sporting dog that exemplifies elegance, athleticism, and functional beauty. Males typically stand 25 to 28 inches at the shoulder and weigh 55 to 75 pounds, while females measure 23 to 26 inches and weigh 44 to 65 pounds. The breed presents a lean, muscular physique built for speed and endurance in the field. The body is slightly longer than tall, with a deep chest that reaches nearly to the elbows and well-sprung ribs that provide ample lung capacity for sustained work. The head is one of the breed's most distinctive features, characterized by what enthusiasts describe as a dish face profile created by a concave muzzle and pronounced stop. The skull is moderately broad with a distinct furrow between the eyes. The muzzle is long and square in profile, with well-developed nostrils suited for scenting game at considerable distances. Eyes are round and intense, typically hazel or brown, conveying an intelligent and kindly expression. Ears are set at eye level, thin and silky, hanging close to the head and reaching nearly to the lower jaw when drawn forward. The coat is short, dense, and smooth with a pronounced sheen, lying close to the body and providing protection from field conditions without requiring extensive grooming. Accepted colors include liver, lemon, black, and orange, either solid or in combination with white in various patterns including patches, ticking, and roaning. The neck is long and muscular, flowing smoothly into sloping shoulders. The tail is thick at the base, tapering to a fine point, and is carried on a line with the back or slightly higher when moving. Feet are oval with well-arched, close-set toes and thick pads suited for covering rough terrain. The overall impression is one of power and grace perfectly balanced for the demands of upland bird hunting.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament The breed's energy level is exceptionally high, particularly in dogs from working lines, requiring substantial daily exercise to maintain physical and mental well-being. Without adequate outlets, Pointers may become restless, destructive, or develop behavioral problems. They excel in field trials, hunt tests, and various dog sports that engage both their physical capabilities and keen minds. Generally friendly with other dogs and people, they may appear reserved rather than effusively friendly with strangers. Their prey drive is strong, necessitating careful supervision around small animals. Show-bred Pointers tend to have somewhat lower energy levels than their field-bred counterparts, though all require active homes committed to providing significant daily exercise.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Eye conditions including progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and entropion have been documented in the breed. Osteochondritis dissecans, a joint condition affecting growing puppies, can cause lameness and may require surgical intervention. Some bloodlines carry hereditary sensory neuropathy, a neurological condition, and X-linked cerebellar ataxia has been identified in the breed. Deafness, both congenital and acquired, occurs occasionally, particularly in predominantly white dogs. Dental abnormalities including missing teeth or malocclusion are sometimes seen. Regular veterinary care, maintaining appropriate body condition, and providing suitable exercise help ensure these athletic sporting dogs enjoy their potentially long lifespans in good health.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Pointer Pit may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the American Pit Bull Terrier and Pointer to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.