Posted on 1 Comment

All About The American Bully

American Bully Breed

The American Bully is one of the newest and fastest growing dog breeds in the world. You may have started to see these dogs at your local park or on social media. When you see one, you’ll do a double-take – these dogs make a powerful impression on everyone they meet, not only with their short, muscular stance but also their goofy, friendly personality.

Is The American Bully The Same As A Pit Bull?

The American Pit Bull Terrier is its own breed recognized by the United Kennel Club, originating as early as 500 years ago. However, when people use the word “pit bull”, they’re usually referring to any square-headed, short-haired dog that can be a mix of any “bully” breeds like the Boxer, American Pit Bull Terrier, Cane Corso, Staffordshire Bull Terrier or American Bulldog. So, a Pit Bull is usually a mixed-breed dog of unknown origins that can have a wide variety of characteristics.

The American Bully, on the other hand, is a new breed that has only been recognized by the United Kennel Club since 2013. Like every other dog breed, it was created by combining the desired traits in existing breeds. The first American Bully dogs were foundationally bred with American Staffordshire Terriers and American Pitbull Terriers, along with other breeds to create a more stocky, muscular frame and flatter face – like the Olde English Bulldogge, French Bulldog, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

Physical Traits

The American Bully is bred to have a naturally muscular frame. Though they are high-energy dogs that excel in activities like flirt-pole, agility, weight-pulling, and hiking, which can all build additional muscle mass, they will be toned as long as they get sufficient exercise and a healthy diet.

They come in all colors, even ‘Merle’. However, according to the American bully kennel club website, ‘Merle’ color Bullys are outside of breed standard. According to the breed standard, they should have matching color eyes and legs that do not turn inwards or outwards. Though they are a brachycephalic breed, their muzzle should be slightly squared, not overly squashed, and should not interfere with normal breathing.

Sizes

There are four official American Bully sizes recognized by the American Bully Kennel Club and several more unofficial sizes.

Photo source: Depositphotos

The Classic American Bully 

The Classic has less exaggerated physical traits than the other varieties. Though stockier than an American Pit Bull Terrier, they have longer legs and a lighter build than the Standard.

Males: 17 inches – 20 inches (43 cm – 51 cm) at the withers.

Females: 16 inches – 19 inches (40 cm – 48 cm) at the withers.

The Standard American Bully

The Standard is very similar to the Classic, but with a stockier, more muscular body type.

Males: 17 inches – 20 inches (43 cm – 51 cm) at the withers.

Females: 16 inches – 19 inches (40 cm – 48 cm) at the withers.

The Pocket American Bully

The Pocket is the smallest of the American Bully varieties, but it is by no means a Toy dog. It is defined not by its weight, which is, on average, 60-80 pounds, but by its height. Their shorter legs make them appear even bulkier and stockier than other varieties.

Males: under 17 inches (43 cm) and no less than 14 inches (36 cm) at the withers.

Females: under 16 inches (40cm) and no less than 13 inches (33 cm) at the withers.

The XL American Bully

Males: over 20 inches (51 cm)  – 23 inches (57 cm) at the withers.

Females: over 19 inches (48 cm) – 22 inches (54 cm) at the withers.

You may also find breeders that offer “Xtreme” or “micro” varieties. These are not recognized by either the ABKC or UBC.

Temperament

The American Bully is a companion dog or family dog. Because they are bred with that intention, breeders can focus on creating dogs that have a stable, predictable temperament and are friendly towards both humans and other dogs.

Many bully-type breeds have a genetic predisposition to aggression towards other dogs, which is why acquiring a rescue pit bull with unknown origins can sometimes be a risk if you need a family dog. The American Bully, on the other hand, is intentionally bred to be playful and have a lower drive, and can be very sociable towards other dogs. Look for a breeder that creates dogs not only with the intentions of creating the best look but also, a stable temperament.

Ownership Requirements

The American Bully is ideal for families that want a high-energy dog that is kind towards children, yet alert and protective of their family. They’re just as happy to spend the whole day playing outside as they are to laze around on a couch with you.

Though some complexes have breed restrictions, an American Bully can live happily in an apartment, especially the Pocket variety. Their compact size allows them to be able to play indoors to fulfill their exercise requirements – a good, long game of tug-o-war can take place indoors.

Health Issues

The American Bully is a considerably sturdy dog with no major health issues. Their most prominent health concern is the risk of overheating. Like all brachycephalic dogs, they can suffer from breathing problems, particularly if they are not well-bred. It’s best to keep your American Bully inside your air-conditioned home, or if they are outdoors but have access to a dog house with air conditioning. During summer walks or hikes, take breaks, bring water and aim to avoid the middle of the day during peak temperatures.

Where To Get Your American Bully

Photo source: DTown Bullys

You likely won’t be able to find a purebred American Bully in a shelter or rescue because the breed is so new, and not yet very widespread. The best way to acquire a puppy is from a breeder that sells dogs that have their pedigree, which will show the dog’s lineage back to their great-grandparents.

Our partner, D-Town Bullys, is a Dallas-based Pocket American Bully breeder. You can have your pedigree puppy delivered anywhere in the world – check out D-Town Bullys on Facebook and Instagram.

Special thanks to D-Town Bullys for photos and information about this new, fast-growing dog breed.

1 thought on “All About The American Bully

  1. I just got an American Bully and based on your article, she’s a pocket bully.

    She’s a pocket with an exotic look—she’s Bolow’s granddaughter, Miagi’s great-granddaughter, and Bullseye’s great-granddaughter.
    Ron recently posted…7 Reasons Why You Should Own an American BullyMy Profile

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

CommentLuv badge