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Pit Pei vs Saint Shepherd Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Shar Pit or St. Shepherd?

Compare the Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Shar Pit or a St. Shepherd? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Shar Pit, Sharpull Terrier, Shar Pei, Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier
St. Shepherd

Weight

What is the average weight of Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd?
40.5 pounds ( 18 kg )
122.5 pounds ( 56 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd
16.5 inches ( 41.9 cm )
29.5 inches ( 74.9 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Pit Peis or Saint Shepherds hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, neither Pit Pei nor Saint Shepherd are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd dogs?
Loving
Stubborn
Independent
Clownish
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Obedient
Loyal
Devoted
Strong
Willed
Aggressive
Reserved
Suspicious

Curious
Independent
Happy
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Obedient
Loyal
Gentle
Going
Social
Watchful
Quiet

Shedding Level

Do Pit Peis shed more than Saint Shepherds, or which breed sheds more, Pit Peis or Saint Shepherds?

Pit Peis are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

Saint Shepherds shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd breeds?
Shar-Pei and American Pit Bull Terrier

German Shepherd, Saint Bernard

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd?
ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd breeds first developed?
Unknown

2000s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd dogs?
Hazel
Brown
Amber

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd?
Blue
Black
Brown
Isabella

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd breeds?
Black
Gray
Brown
Red
Cream
Isabella
Fawn
Blue
Silver
White

Black
Brown
Pied
Sable

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd breeds?

Pit Peis have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Saint Shepherds have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd?
Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd?

5-8 puppies per pregnancy

A Pit Pei can have a litter of 5-8 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

6-10 puppies per pregnancy

A Saint Shepherd can have a litter of 6-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Pit Peis have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Saint Shepherds are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Pit Peis typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

The Saint Shepherd breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd breeds?
Hip Dysplasia
Hypothyroidism

Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
Renal Cystadenocarcinoma and Nodular Dermatofibrosis
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd?
Ear Infections
Elbow Dysplasia

Entropion
Ectropion
Pannus
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye)

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd breeds?
X-Rays
MRI
Physical Examination
ECG
Joint Fluid Sample
Blood Work
Full Chemistry Panel Tests and Blood Count

Eye Examination
Skin Evaluation
Blood And Urine Analysis
Diagnostic Imaging
Cardiac Test

Social Needs

Pit Pei vs Saint Shepherd social needs comparison

Pit Pei has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Saint Shepherd has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Pit Pei or Saint Shepherd?

Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd breeds are known to have moderate energy levels and normal sleep patterns, typically sleeping around 12-14 hours per day.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Pit Pei vs Saint Shepherd?

Roaming urge

Pit Pei vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Pit Pei or Saint Shepherd - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd entertained?
Playing fetch, Walking, Watching tv, Tearing up toys, Eating Snacks, Sleeping, Running, Park, Toys, Walks, Cuddling, Catch treats, Tug-of-war, Fetch

Fetch, Napping, Running, Walking, Tug-of-war, Hiking, Movie marathons, Frisbee, Walks, Hunting, Swimming, Traveling, Run, Tricks, Chase, Walk, Play keep away, Play, Playdate, Water play, Hide & Seek, Playing fetch, Hike, Tag, Walkin, Play time, Training, Sleeping, Swim, Brushing

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Pit Peis or Saint Shepherds?

Medium

Pit Peis are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

High

Saint Shepherds are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Pit Pei or Saint Shepherd walk each week?

9 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Pit Pei, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

18 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Saint Shepherd, it's at least 18 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Pit Peis or Saint Shepherds require more exercise?

45 minutes

In general most Pit Peis usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

90 minutes

In general most Saint Shepherds usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Pit Peis or Saint Shepherds?

The Pit Pei has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

The Saint Shepherd requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd dogs?

Weekly

Pit Pei should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Daily

Ideally, Saint Shepherd should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Pit Peis and Saint Shepherds?
Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Pit Pei or Saint Shepherd in cups?

2.5 cups

For an average 35-60 pound (16 - 27 kg) Pit Pei feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

4.5 cups

For an average 95-150 pound (43 - 68 kg) Saint Shepherd feed 4.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Pit Pei or Saint Shepherd?

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

The average cost of a Pit Pei is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

$4.50 - $5.60 / day

The average cost of a Saint Shepherd is somewhere $4.50 - $5.60 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Pit Pei or Saint Shepherd?

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a Pit Pei is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$134 - $168 / month

The average per month expenses of a Saint Shepherd is between $134 - $168. This makes an average of $1608 - $2016 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Sensitivity Level

How do Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd compare in sensitivity?

Pit Peis have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Pit Pei or Saint Shepherd?

Pit Peis and Saint Shepherds are dogs that do well in apartments with sufficient exercise, but they would really appreciate a small yard.

Child Friendly

Do Pit Peis or Saint Shepherds have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Pit Peis have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Saint Shepherds make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Pit Pei or Saint Shepherd?

Cat Friendly

Do Pit Pei or Saint Shepherd breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Pit Peis are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

Saint Shepherds are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Pit Pei or Saint Shepherd?

Pit Peis are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Saint Shepherds are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

How do Pit Pei or Saint Shepherd dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Pit Pei or Saint Shepherd?

Pit Peis are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Saint Shepherds are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Pit Pei and Saint Shepherd?

Pit Peis are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Saint Shepherds have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Pit Peis and Saint Shepherds compare?

Pit Peis are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

Saint Shepherds are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

Common match-ups