Grey Pitbull: Facts, Appearance, Genetics & Pictures (2024)

The grey Pitbull is a stunning dog sought after by many dog enthusiasts. This dog’s unique coat appearance, along with its intelligence and loving disposition, make it a great companion and work dog.

Pitbulls have been infamous for their aggressive behavior due to their past as fighting dogs. Fortunately, nowadays, Pitbulls are loved by families as affectionate and loyal pets.

Pitbulls can be challenging to recognize, though, as it is an umbrella term pertaining to Pitbull-type breeds, such as the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and the American Bully.

With this in mind, what breeds can sport grey coats? Is the grey Pitbull a different breed? If you want to learn all of these and more, you’re on the right page. Here, we’ll uncover everything about grey Pitbulls!

What Is a Grey Pitbull?

A grey Pitbull is a color variant of the Pitbull breed — not a separate breed. The color of this dog results from a recessive gene that dilutes the black pigment. Their bluish-grey color appears on their eyes, nose, coat, and toenails. Pitbulls with this characteristic are considered grey Pitbulls.

The build, coat length, and face shape of grey Pitbulls are all the same as with other Pitbulls. Likewise, grey Pitbulls do not significantly differ regarding intelligence, gentleness, and independence.

However, its blue or grey color makes them stand out among other Pitbull-type dogs. The reduced pigmentation creates a mesmerizing appearance that may come with markings and other-colored patterns.

Are Grey Pitbulls Rare?

Yes. The recessive gene that causes the grey color results from an uncommon mutation in Pitbulls. Genes that dictate the coat color are usually dominant, often giving Pitbull dogs one solid and non-diluted color.

However, this is different with grey Pitbulls. Remember that grey Pits are supposed to be black, but their unique mutation makes the black appear washed blue or grey.

Unfortunately, reduced or lack of pigmentation may come with some health issues, which will be discussed later. Thus, breeders usually shy away from purposely breeding this type of Pitbull.

Because of the scarcity of grey Pitbulls, they are one of the most in-demand variants of the breed. More often than not, their rarity inevitably hikes up their price.

Grey Pitbull Appearance

Pitbulls are medium to large dogs that can stand from 14 to 23 inches tall and weigh between 24 and 70 pounds. You may be wondering why these numbers vary greatly.

Remember that Pitbull is a loose term for different breeds. American Bullies can grow to be extra-large dogs, while the other breeds — American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier — are medium-sized.

When it comes to other physical features, grey Pitbulls have rounded, wide-set eyes. It is also common for grey Pitbulls to have blue eyes, especially during puppyhood.

However, as a grey Pit ages, its eye color gradually turns into black or dark blue.

Depending on its parents’ genes, the coat of a grey Pitbull may have different patterns. The usual is solid grey with a white accent coat on its chest.

That said, it can also be brindle or striped with a darker or lighter color than its base coat. The grey shade may also have hints of fawn, resulting in a beautiful grey Pitbull with a red nose.

Another interesting fact about grey Pitbull is that they are born with wrinkles on their foreheads. This distinct feature disappears when they mature, though.

Grey Pitbull Coat Color Genetics

As mentioned earlier, the grey or blue color results from a mutation. However, there is more to it than simply the dilution of pigments.

Specifically, the gene responsible for the black or tan color in Pitbulls is called the dominant K Locus gene.

Depending on how it is expressed, the body produces eumelanin or pheomelanin, causing black or reddish and yellowish colors, respectively. The K Locus interacts with other genes to produce tan or fawn colors.

The grey and blue color is a muted version of the black coat. This happens when the grey Pitbull puppy inherits two copies of the recessive D Locus gene that dilutes the original black pigment.

Generally, the genetics behind the coat color of dogs can take a lot of work to follow. If you are curious about what genes are present in your Pitbull, you may choose to perform DNA testing on your dog.

Do Grey Pitbull Puppies Change Color as They Grow?

Yes, grey Pitbull puppies can change color as they grow. Their coat pattern may also change as they become adults.

For example, a grey coat may change into a darker shade of grey or black. Alternatively, a change from dark to light shade may also occur. It ultimately depends on the pigmentation.

The color change in the coat usually starts when the puppy is 12 weeks old. At 6 to 12 months, your Pitbull’s coat color will be entirely different from when it was born.

The rate of change varies, but some Pitbulls only achieve their final coat color once they are two years old.

You may be asking why it changes in the first place. Usually, the reasons are natural causes and genetics. However, if coat color changes abruptly, it may indicate signs of skin disease, medication, poor nutrition, and sun exposure.

As previously mentioned, the eye color of your grey Pitbull may also change as it matures. This change is usually from a light color to a darker one. If you notice your dog’s eyes changing from dark to light, you should consult a vet.

Grey Pitbull Temperament and Personality

Pitbulls have been known to be violent and dangerous dogs. This belief stems from the fact that Pitbulls have been used in rattling, bull-baiting, and dog-fighting, dangerous dog sports that are now banned.

The muscular and intimidating build of Pitbulls also adds to this wrong belief. In reality, grey Pitbulls are sweet and loving companions.

They are smart, which makes them easy to train for functional roles. They help in police work, and as family pets, they can be protective of their owners.

Additionally, they are very friendly and may even crave your attention. However, they may get too excited interacting with children. Hence, it is better to supervise them or fix this behavior in training.

Like any other breed, your grey Pitbull’s temperament directly results from how you raised and treated it. Aggression and problematic behaviors arise when dogs are abused and neglected.

Watch this video to see the fun of having a grey Pitbull as a pet:

Grey Pitbull Lifespan and Health Issues

The average lifespan of a grey Pitbull is 12 to 16 years old. If you have a healthy lifestyle for your pet, this number can go up to 18 years old.

Grey Pitbulls are generally healthy and resistant to diseases. Health conditions often arise with poor diet and lack of physical and mental stimulation. In some cases, however, it may be inherited.

Below are some of the health issues you may need to watch out for in your grey Pitbull:

• Skin Problems: Grey Pitbulls have short coats. Thus, their skin is more exposed to their environment. They are at risk for sunburns, itchiness, dryness, allergic reactions, hair thinning, and even tumors.
• Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is a condition of a hormonal imbalance in your grey Pitbull’s body due to problems in its thyroid gland. Lethargy, thin and patchy coat, and weight gain are some of its symptoms.
• Hip dysplasia: Misalignment of the femur to its socket causes hip dysplasia. Its symptoms are pain, reduced movement, and face lameness. In this case, it is suggested that you consult your vet. Untreated hip dysplasia can cause arthritis and loss of muscle mass.
• Heart Disease: Congenital heart diseases are inherited from the parents of your grey Pitbull. The most common case is aortic stenosis, wherein the heart’s aortic valve narrows, impeding proper blood circulation. The symptoms are usually not apparent, but your vet should notice a heart murmur.

To avoid inherited health conditions, purchasing your grey Pitbull from a reputable breeder is recommended. Make sure that all health tests are passed before taking home a puppy.

How Much Does a Grey Pitbull Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses

A Blue Pitbull puppy may cost between $2,000 and $10,000, depending on the parents’ bloodline and the breeder’s reputation. Professional breeders may change more than this.

Grey Pitbulls with red noses can cost less. You can expect to pay $800 to $5,000. Grey Pitbulls with blue noses are more in-demand than red-nosed ones.

Aside from the actual price of the puppy, there are expenses you need to know if you plan to get one.

The table below is the breakdown of first-time expenses when you buy a grey Pitbull puppy:

Remember that these are just the initial costs of owning a grey Pitbull. You should also set aside money for recurring expenses such as food and trips to the vet.

You can cut costs by buying bulk, making do-it-yourself toys, or cooking homemade dog food. What matters the most is the comfort and safety of your furry companion.

Places to Find Grey Pitbull Puppies for Sale and Adoption

It is challenging to look for places where you can find grey Pitbull puppies for sale. This is not surprising as the stunning appearance of a grey Pitbull is a big hit among dog lovers. Moreover, the color itself is rare.

Check out these places where you can possibly purchase a grey Pitbull puppy:

• AKC Marketplace – Run by the American Kennel Club, AKC Marketplace boasts a complete and extensive record of reputable breeders. You may search for the breed you’re looking for on this website to see if there are breedings offering grey Pitbulls.
• Finest Pitbulls Made (FPM) – Pitbulls from this breeder come from world-renowned bloodlines. They occasionally have rare-colored Pitbull puppies, such as grey. FPM, located in Tennessee, ensures that all puppies have undergone basic training, complete health screening, and official registration. Grey Pitbull puppies cost $2,500 to $3,500 from this breeder.
• Trevinos Puppies – Located in western Arkansas, this breeder has raised Pitbulls for 20 years. They sometimes get rare Pitbull puppies in their litter, such as grey Pitbulls. The price for a grey Pitbull puppy ranges from $3,000 to $4,500.

Because grey Pitbulls with blue eyes are rare, puppies may not be immediately available in these places. Alternatively, you can choose to adopt from rescue organizations or shelters.

In this way, you will get your grey Pitbull for a lower price while helping support a cause.

Here are some rescues and shelters where you may find grey Pitbull puppies for adoption:

• Bobbie’s Pitbull Rescue and Sanctuary – This organization was established in 2016. They aim to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome Pitbulls to qualified owners. Adoption is not on a first-come-first-serve basis but instead based on the qualifications of the potential owner.
• Pitbull Rescue Central – This group is entirely made up of volunteers. Their team includes professional veterinarians, dog lovers, and educators that advocate for wellness and education campaigns about Pitbulls. You may sign up on their page to adopt a grey Pitbull.
• The Love Pit Dog Rescue – This non-profit organization rescues, trains, and rehabilitates Pitbulls. The adoption fee costs $200 to $350, which covers microchipping, basic training, age-appropriate vaccinations, and spaying or neutering. You can apply to their site to adopt a grey Pitbull.

Whether you buy from a breeder or adopt from a shelter, remember that every dog deserves a loving home. Ensure that you treat your grey Pitbull puppy as a family member.

Best Dog Names for Your Grey Pitbull Puppy

After getting yourself an adorable grey Pitbull puppy, you must be excited to name it. For a rare blue-eyed grey Pitbull, you want to take advantage of unique and fun names for your new companion.

Below are some dog names you may want to call your grey Pitbull puppy:

• Ash
• Coal
• Ember
• Smokey
• Blue
• Beau
• Skye
• Arya
• Astra
• Jupiter

You can also be creative with names and make one on your own. The name of your grey Pitbull puppy can have something to do with its beautiful blue or grey color, muscular stature, or personality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Are Grey Pitbulls Called Blue?

Grey Pitbulls are called blue mainly because of the bluish-grey color of their coat. The muted black pigment appears to be ash with hints of blue shade. Generally, it is described as a color that ranges from silver to charcoal.

Do Grey Pitbulls Have Blue Eyes?

Grey Pitbull puppies are born with captivating blue eyes. However, this eye color gradually turns into a darker shade of brown or black. Despite this, it can still look like midnight blue, which complements its coat color.

Are Grey Pitbulls Dangerous?

No. Grey Pitbulls are often mistaken for being aggressive, but this is only because of their history in dog fighting and their muscular body. They were originally raised to be aggressive on command.

However, grey Pitbulls are now known as sweet and affectionate companions. Every dog raised in a loving and caring environment is sure to be gentle.

What Is the Rarest Color for Pitbulls?

Tri-colored Pitbulls are the rarest type of Pitbulls. It becomes even rare when one of its colors is blue or grey. This is because it requires mating two dogs that are both grey Pitbulls.

Merle Pitbulls are also hard to come across. However, as the merle coat pattern is unnatural for a purebred Pitbull, these dogs are often mixed breeds.

Final Thoughts

Grey Pitbulls with blue eyes are indeed mesmerizing dogs. They are one of the many colors that a Pitbull dog can sport. Contrary to the infamous belief that they are aggressive, grey Pitbulls are affectionate and protective creatures.

Their unique color is a result of genetic mutation. These dogs have stunning blue eyes at birth that gradually become darker as they mature. Grey Pitbulls are generally healthy, especially if they are taken to the vet regularly.

So, are you planning on adding this one-of-a-kind Pitbull to your family? Share with us your thoughts about grey Pitbulls by leaving a comment below!