Pocket Pitbull Breed Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Key Takeaways
- Pocket Pitbulls are a mix of the American Pitbull Terrier and the Patterdale Terrier, giving them a compact yet muscular build.
- They usually grow 12–16 inches tall and weigh between 11–22 pounds.
- Their coats are short and smooth, sometimes wiry, and come in a wide range of colors like black, white, tan, gray, and brindle.
- Known for their affectionate and loyal nature, they’re playful companions and often gentle with children.
- They’re intelligent and trainable but need consistent guidance and at least an hour of daily exercise to burn off energy.
- With proper care, they live about 11–13 years, though they may face health concerns like hip dysplasia, allergies, and heart issues.
Pocket Pitbulls, also affectionately known as Pitterbulls, Mini Pits, and Pocket Bullies, are a hybrid dog breed. They are a cross between the American Pitbull Terrier and the Patterdale Terrier. While both parent breeds are considered purebreds, Pocket Pitbulls are not. They are considered to be a designer breed that is highly sought after.
According to the American Canine Association, designer dog registrations have increased by 60% since 2018, with compact breeds like the Pocket Pitbull leading this trend.
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Characteristic |
Details |
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Average Lifespan |
11-13 years |
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Height Range |
12-16 inches |
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Weight Range |
11-22 pounds |
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Exercise Needs |
60+ minutes daily |
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Training Success Rate |
70-85% |
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Average Cost |
$800-$4,000 |
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Popularity Ranking |
Top 15 Designer Breeds (2023) |
Where Did Pocket Pitbulls Come From?
Let’s first take a look at the parent breeds of the Pocket Pitbull, the Patterdale Terrier, and the American Pitbull Terrier.
Patterdale Terriers are considered to be one of the last true working terriers of today. They are known to be hard-working and possess high energy, and their desire to please their owner is only topped by their desire to hunt.
The breed originated in Northern England and was initially not considered to be “companion” dogs because of their usefulness in the field. Today, they are incredibly loyal pets when trained and given the proper mental and physical exercise.
American Pitbulls Terriers were first recognized as a breed in 1898 by the United Kennel Club (UKC). The name is applied to other bull-type breeds, such as the bull terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
Originally Pitbull Terriers were bred for hunting, specifically for the purpose of capturing and restraining semi-feral livestock. While they were expected to be aggressive as game-working animals, their aggression toward humans was not encouraged. Breeders would not choose to use those who displayed aggression to maintain their pleasant personalities.
Once in America, these breeds drew attention by their usefulness as well as good temper. Breeders wanted to maintain these qualities, especially those in the American Pitbull Terrier, yet at a smaller size more equipped for households rather than farms.
Origins and Heritage
Understanding the Pocket Pitbull starts with exploring its parent breeds' rich history. The Patterdale Terrier, originating from Northern England, stands as one of the last true working terriers of our time. According to the British Terrier Association, these dogs were responsible for a 40% increase in effective small-game hunting success rates during the early 1900s.
The American Pitbull Terrier, first recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1898, brings its own distinguished legacy. A 2023 Veterinary Behavior Study found that properly trained Pitbull-type breeds show a 95% success rate in temperament testing, challenging common misconceptions about the breed.
Characteristics of the Pocket Pitbull
Now that you are familiar with the pocket pitbull’s lineage, let’s look at the main characteristics of the breed, including its appearance and overall temperament.
Recent genetic studies by the Canine Genetics Institute indicate that Pocket Pitbulls inherit approximately:
- 60% of their muscle structure from American Pitbull Terriers
- 40% of their size determination genes from Patterdale Terriers
Health studies from 2023 Veterinary Reports show these dogs have:
- A 15% lower risk of hip dysplasia compared to standard Pitbulls
- A 25% higher likelihood of maintaining healthy weight ranges
- An 85% chance of reaching their full life expectancy with proper care
Appearance
Pocket Pitbulls are considered a small-to-medium hybrid breed, usually standing under 16 inches tall and weighing between 11–22 pounds. Their exact size depends on the genetics they inherit from their American Pitbull Terrier and Patterdale Terrier parents. Although they’re labeled “small,” Pocket Pitbulls still carry the muscular, athletic build of a Pitbull. They typically have a broad chest, powerful legs, and a sturdy, stocky frame that gives them a strong and confident appearance.
Their coat is usually short, sleek, and shiny. However, if they take after their Patterdale parent, it may be slightly longer and wiry. Pocket Pitbulls come in a wide variety of colors, including white, tan, cream, black, brown, and gray.
Temperament
Pocket Pitbulls inherit personality traits from both parent breeds. The American Pitbull Terrier is known for its loyalty, affection, and energy, while the Patterdale Terrier adds intelligence, determination, and drive. The result is a dog that is playful, alert, and deeply bonded with its family. Despite the stigma surrounding Pit-type dogs, Pocket Pitbulls are not naturally aggressive. In fact, with proper training and socialization, they are known to be loving, gentle, and even protective of children—traits that have earned Pitbulls the nickname “nanny dogs.” Many owners describe their Pocket Pits as affectionate companions that love to cuddle and even seem to “smile” back at their humans.
Unfortunately, misconceptions fueled by irresponsible breeding and illegal dogfighting have led to negative stereotypes and even Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) in some areas. However, growing awareness and access to proper training resources have helped shift this perception. Today, more people recognize that aggression in dogs depends on upbringing, environment, and owner responsibility, not on breed alone.
When trained, exercised, and cared for properly, Pocket Pitbulls make devoted, energetic, and family-friendly pets.
Will a Pocket Pitbull suit your household?
According to Dr. Sarah Johnson, VMD, from the American Veterinary Association: "Pocket Pitbulls represent one of the most successful attempts at breeding down a larger dog while maintaining its positive temperament traits. Our 2023 study shows a 90% satisfaction rate among owners who properly researched the breed before adoption."
Here are some major considerations to help you decide:
Training
Keep in mind that every breed has certain tendencies. Pocket Pitbulls have hunting and guarding tendencies that must be managed. Otherwise, there is a possibility to become territorial and aggressive towards strangers in your home.
According to Stanley Coren, a psychologist leading canine intelligence research, American Staffordshire Terriers are in the third tier of most intelligent breeds. This means they are “above-average and can learn new tricks in 15 to 25 repetitions and obey at least 70% of the time.” Pocket Pitbulls can tend to be stubborn, as they are very energetic, and that is a possibility for the lower score in obedience.
Health
Pocket Pitbulls are known to live for 11 to 13 years. They have a variety of health problems that can occur, as is the case with most breeds.
Some common issues are:
- Hyperthyroidism
- Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
- Hip Dysplasia
- Heart Disease
- Eye Related Issues
- Skin Allergies
Good quality food is imperative to maintain and prevent many of these issues. Pocket Pitbulls inherited skin irritations from their American Pitbull parent, so it's important to monitor any food allergies that may occur.
When looking to purchase a Pocket Pitbull, always go with a reputable breeder. Poor breeding can lead to a host of health problems.
Grooming
Pocket Pitbulls are what you would consider a “low-maintenance” dog when it comes to grooming. Seeing as their coat is short and naturally shiny, they do not require a lot of time or energy to maintain. Yet, it’s still important to brush their coat regularly and continue to check for skin conditions.
Exercise
Most puppies are very active, but Pocket Pitbulls will maintain their youthful energy for their lifespan. They require a significant amount of vigorous exercise and a minimum of one hour a day. It’s no surprise that they require a lot of outdoor time, as they were bred from working dogs that spent most, if not all, of their time outside.
Are You Ready to Own a Pocket Pitbull?
Despite not being purebred, you can expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $4000 for your new Pocket Pitbull puppy. When searching, speak with friends or members of the community for reputable breeders. If you are more interested in adopting, you may find that there are not many Pocket Pitbulls. If there are, they may not be the crossbreed that you’re expecting, as it is hard to ascertain pedigree in these cases.
This breed is a good match for anyone who is active and has the time to dedicate to them. Their small size is suitable for smaller living quarters, such as apartments, yet the best situation for a Pocket Pit is someone who has a yard or a dog park nearby. Pocket Pitbulls are also well suited for families because children also have just as much energy as they do. This makes them good companions for each other.
Despite their stocky build and aggressive look, Pocket Pitbulls are very dear to their owners. If you think this breed is a good match for yourself, you won't regret adding them as another member of your family.
Conclusion
The Pocket Pitbull offers an appealing option for those seeking the beloved characteristics of traditional Pitbulls in a more manageable size. While they require dedicated exercise, training, and attention, their loyal and affectionate nature makes them wonderful companions for committed owners. Understanding both the joys and responsibilities of ownership helps ensure a successful match between dog and family.
FAQs
1. What is a Pocket Pitbull?
A Pocket Pitbull is a hybrid breed created by crossing an American Pitbull Terrier with a Patterdale Terrier. They’re smaller than standard Pitbulls but keep the same muscular, athletic build.
2. How big do Pocket Pitbulls get?
They usually stand 12–16 inches tall and weigh 11–22 pounds, making them compact yet sturdy dogs.
3. Are Pocket Pitbulls aggressive?
No, they’re not naturally aggressive. With proper training and socialization, they’re affectionate, loyal, and gentle family dogs.
4. Do Pocket Pitbulls make good family pets?
Yes. They’re playful, protective, and often great with children, earning them the nickname “nanny dogs.”
5. How much exercise do they need?
Pocket Pitbulls are energetic and need at least 60 minutes of daily exercise, along with mental stimulation to stay happy.
6. How long do Pocket Pitbulls live?
Their average lifespan is 11–13 years, though they can be prone to health issues like hip dysplasia, skin allergies, and heart conditions.