Full Grown Great Dane Pitbull Mix: Size, Lifespan, Price & More

The Great Dane Pitbull mix, also known as a Danepit, is an intriguing large breed dog hybrid. While still a relatively rare mix, the Danepit or Danebull is gaining popularity as an affectionate family companion.

In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about what to expect from a full grown Danepit, including size, appearance, personality, care requirements, and more.

About the Great Dane Pitbull Mix

The Danepit is a cross between the gentle giant Great Dane and the muscular yet playful American Pitbull Terrier. Great Danes are one of the tallest dog breeds, known for their calm and loyal nature. Pitbulls are powerful yet friendly canines bred as family pets. When these two large breeds are mixed, the result is a large dog with unpredictable traits that will likely take 1-2 years to fully mature.

Size of a Full Grown Danepit

At maturity, a Great Dane Pitbull mix will be substantially bigger than the average dog. Fully grown Danepits can reach:

• Length: 2-3 feet
• Height: 24-36 inches
• Weight: 80-150+ pounds

Size can vary greatly depending on which parent breed traits the puppy inherits more strongly. In general, female Danepits will be on the smaller end of these ranges while males can reach the upper limits. Owners should expect a very large dog that will require ample living space.

Appearance of a Mature Danepit

The full grown Danepit's appearance is as unique as its heritage. Common traits include:

• Molosser body type - tall, muscular, and broad-chested
• Large, broad head
• Erect ears or floppy ears
• Short or long coat
• Brindle, fawn, gray, or reddish brown fur
• Strong jaws and legs
• Expressive face

With such varied parent breeds, no two mature Danepits will look exactly alike. Owners can expect a majestic appearance that demands attention wherever they go.

Personality of a Full Grown Danepit

In terms of temperament, the fully grown Danepit often inherits the kind and gentle nature of the Great Dane with the playful energy and loyalty of the Pitbull. Common traits include:

• Affectionate with family members
• Friendly toward strangers but may be wary at first
• Intelligent and eager to please
• enjoys activities and games
• Generally calm indoors but will need daily exercise
• Bonding nature forms strong attachments
• May be protective of their territory and owners

With socialization from a young age, the mature Danepit typically makes a loving family companion. Consistent positive training is still required to handle their large size.

Price of a Danepit Puppy

Because they are not a recognized breed but a hybrid, Danepit puppies are often only available from private breeders rather than rescues. The price can range from $400-$1500 depending on the dog's pedigree, size, color, and gender. Be wary of cheaper options which may indicate a puppy mill situation.

Adopting an adult mixed breed Danepit from a shelter may cost $50-$300 depending on the facility. This is an excellent option for saving a dog in need while getting a sense of its mature personality traits.

Feeding a Full Grown Danepit

As a large breed dog, the fully grown Danepit has significant caloric and nutrient needs to support its size. Owners should consult their vet but generally:

• High-quality dry or canned dog food formulated for large breeds
• 3-4 cups, divided into 2 meals daily for adults
• Fresh, clean water available at all times
• Occasional treats can be given in moderation
• Consult vet about supplements if required

It's important not to overfeed as this can lead to obesity, joint problems, and other health issues in large dogs.

Lifespan of a Mature Danepit

With proper care, the average Great Dane Pitbull mix can live 10-13 years. Some may surpass this, while poorly bred dogs or those with health complications may have shorter lifespans. Regular vet care helps the Danepit enjoy its senior years happily.

Health Concerns for Full Grown Danepits

Like all dogs, the mature Danepit is susceptible to certain conditions. Common issues include:

• Hip dysplasia - frequently seen in large breeds
• Elbow dysplasia - common orthopedic problem
• Obesity - overfeeding predisposes dogs to weight gain
• Eye diseases - cataracts, retinal dysplasia seen in Danes
• Bloat/Gastric Dilatation Volvulus - lethal without medical care
• Heart disease - seen in some Great Dane lines

Good breeding, feeding a premium diet formulated for size, and routine vet care helps Danepits stay happy and healthy into old age.

Caring for a Mature Danepit

Owning a fully grown Great Dane Pitbull mix is a serious responsibility. Daily care includes:

• Brushing fur 1-2 times weekly to remove loose hair and check for fleas/ticks
• Clipping nails as needed when they click on floors
• Cleaning ears weekly to prevent infection
• Brushing teeth 2-3 times weekly to support oral health
• Bathing only when truly required to avoid stripping natural oils
• Regular vet checkups and preventive care

As a large dog breed, the mature Danepit will also require:

• A home with a fenced-in backyard for outdoor play and exercise
• At least 1-2 hours of walking, jogging, or playing daily
• Sturdy leash to control its strength during walks
• Dog-proofed home free of hazards like open windows
• Training to handle with manners and commands

Cost of Owning a Full Grown Danepit

Raising a Great Dane Pitbull mix from puppyhood to adulthood incurs significant expenses including:

• Puppy/adoption fees: $400-1500
• Spay/neuter surgery: $200-400
• Collar, leash, ID tags: $30-50
• Crate, food/water bowls: $50-100
• Bedding, toys: $30-50 periodically
• Heartworm, flea/tick prevention: $50-80 monthly
• Annual checkups, vaccinations: $200-300 yearly
• Unexpected medical costs if injured or ill

Owners can expect to invest $1000-2000 per year in food, supplies, preventive care and occasional medical costs for a healthy adult Danepit.

Behavior Changes as a Danepit Matures

As the Great Dane Pitbull mix grows into adulthood, its behavior and temperament will continue developing. Owners should anticipate the following:

• Calmer demeanor - puppy energy levels decrease as the Danepit ages past 2 years old
• More affectionate nature - bonding with family deepens over time
• Better obedience - repetition of training strengthens commands
• Settling indoors - less need for constant attention and stimulation
• Maturing intelligence - problem solving skills improve through training
• Territorial instincts - may become more protective of home/owners

Socialization throughout puppyhood helps ensure the mature Danepit remains friendly with people and other pets. Consistent training keeps senior dogs mentally stimulated.

Notable Traits of a Fully Grown Danepit

Some distinguishing characteristics that stand out in the adult Great Dane Pitbull mix include:

• Majestic size - massive but gracefully proportioned body
• Sturdy build - strongly muscled chest, thick limbs, broad paws
• Wise expression - intelligent eyes and dignified demeanor
• Variegated fur - uniquely marked brindle or merle coat
• Distinctive markings - pronounced facial wrinkles or large ears
• Protective nature - instinct to guard closely bonded family
• Gentle strength - immense size belies its calm temperament

By fully maturing, the Danepit's imposing yet lovely traits fully emerge in a one-of-a-kind large breed dog.

When is a Danepit Considered Fully Grown?

Most veterinarians and breeders consider a Great Dane Pitbull mix to reach full adulthood between 18-24 months of age, though some late bloomers may continue filling out their frame until age 3. Common signs a Danepit has matured include:

• Reaching its projected maximum weight and height range
• Fusing of growth plates in long bones seen on x-ray
• Genitals fully descended in males
• Coat changing texture as puppy fluff disappears
• More settled temperament with decreased chewing/nipping
• Full set of adult teeth come in

By two years old, owners can expect their Danepit's behaviors and health care needs to stabilize as it completes its growth into adulthood.

Is a Great Dane Pitbull Mix a Good Family Pet?

When properly trained and cared for, the mature Danepit generally makes an excellent family companion. However, owners must consider:

• Needs daily exercise suitable to its large size
• Sheds moderately year-round and seasonally blows coat
• Drools more than average due to lip size
• Not suitable for apartments due to space requirements
• Cost of owning a large breed with specific needs
• Potential reactivity if not well-socialized as a puppy

Danepits bond closely to their people but may overwhelm small children. Fenced yards, patient families, and early training are keys to its success as a family pet.