Bully Dog Breed Guide: Characteristics, History, and Care

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Posted Oct 7, 2024

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Group of Students Bullying a Classmate
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The Bully Dog Breed Guide is a must-read for anyone considering bringing one of these lovable companions into their family.

Bulldogs have a rich history dating back to the 13th century when they were bred as fighting dogs in England.

Their distinctive physical characteristics, such as their wrinkled skin and pushed-in faces, make them easily recognizable.

Breed Characteristics

The Bully dog is a large and muscular breed, with males weighing up to 110 pounds.

They have a short, easy-to-maintain coat that comes in various colors such as fawn, brindle, and white. Their broad chest and well-sprung ribs make them appear even more imposing.

History

The American Bully breed has its roots in various parts of the United States, particularly in Virginia and Los Angeles, California.

Established in the mid-1990s, this breed was purposefully developed as the ultimate family companion through meticulous selective breeding. The desired characteristics were achieved by combining those of the UKC American Pit Bull Terrier and the AKC American Staffordshire Terrier.

Credit: youtube.com, Where Every Dog Breed Came From

The American Bully's origins are distinct from that of the American Pitbull Terrier, despite some confusion between the two breeds. This breed is also known as the Bully Pit, Bullypit, and Bully Pitbull.

To fully understand the American bully dog breed, you need to go back to its history, which originated in the US between the 1980s and the 1990s.

Related reading: Bully Pitbull Terrier

Size

The American Bully breed comes in various sizes, each with its own distinct characteristics.

The Pocket Bully is the smallest size, with males under 17 inches and females under 13 inches.

In terms of height, Standard and Classic American Bullies are similar to each other, with males up to 20 inches and females at 19 inches.

Personality

The American Bully is a confident and outgoing breed that thrives on human interaction.

They're highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. This breed combines the loyalty and stability of the American Pit Bull Terrier with the sociable and amiable temperament of the American Staffordshire Terrier.

Credit: youtube.com, American Bully Dogs 101; Everything You Should Know

American Bullies are great with children who can be a little rough at times - they'll tolerate their antics and take it in stride. They're also highly tolerant of kids, which makes them an excellent choice for families.

This breed is not inherently aggressive, but they will defend themselves if necessary. They're more likely to protect their family than start a fight.

Their friendly dispositions make them great service dogs, but they can be trained as guard dogs if needed. American Bullies are protective of their owners and property, which requires thorough socialization from an early age.

They love to please and are not prone to bumping or herding tendencies - this makes them relatively easy to live with. With proper training and socialization, American Bullies can become loyal and gentle companions.

Health and Care

The American Bully breed is generally a robust and healthy dog, but like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain health issues.

Credit: youtube.com, Weekly Dog Grooming Routine | American Bully Puppy Health And Grooming Care

Some common health concerns associated with the American Bully breed include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, skin allergies, heart disease, bloat, hypothyroidism, eye problems, and more. These conditions can lead to a range of symptoms, from arthritis and mobility problems to itching, rashes, and even life-threatening complications.

To ensure your American Bully stays healthy, it's crucial to provide regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, grooming, and dental care. A nutritious diet tailored to their age and activity level, along with access to fresh water and regular exercise, will also keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

Common health issues in the American Bully breed include:

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Skin Allergies
  • Heart Disease
  • Bloat
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Eye Problems

Regular veterinary check-ups and monitoring of their food intake can help prevent or manage these conditions, ensuring your American Bully lives a happy and healthy life.

Weight

As American Bullies age, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for their overall well-being.

Obesity can exacerbate existing health conditions, so it's essential to monitor their diet and ensure they're getting the right nutrients. Regular veterinary check-ups become increasingly vital to monitor for age-related ailments such as arthritis, dental issues, and heart problems.

A senior dog's diet should be specifically formulated to manage weight and overall well-being, lower in calories but packed with essential nutrients.

The XL American Bully dog breed comes in at a whopping 70 to 130 pounds of stocky muscle and bone structure.

Health

White and Tan English Bulldog Lying on Black Rug
Credit: pexels.com, White and Tan English Bulldog Lying on Black Rug

Regular nail trimming is essential for American Bullies to maintain their comfort and prevent health issues.

Some American Bullies may have finer, stiffer coats that require more frequent brushing to prevent matting and tangling, but regular nail trimming remains crucial regardless of coat type.

Brushing your American Bully with a soft bristle brush can help remove loose hair and keep their coat healthy and shiny, especially for those with short, smooth coats.

Dental care is also important for American Bullies, with regular teeth brushing necessary to maintain good oral health.

Health

Health is a top priority for American Bullies, and unfortunately, they can be prone to certain health issues.

Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and skin allergies are some common health concerns associated with this breed. These conditions can lead to arthritis, mobility problems, lameness, pain, itching, rashes, and skin infections.

Regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations are crucial for monitoring and maintaining the American Bully's health. A nutritious diet tailored to their age and activity level is also essential to prevent obesity, which can contribute to hip dysplasia.

Side View of a Red-Tiger Bulldog
Credit: pexels.com, Side View of a Red-Tiger Bulldog

Some health issues that require attention include heart disease, bloat, hypothyroidism, eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and hotspots resulting from parasites, allergies, or over-grooming. These conditions can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Here are some common health issues associated with American Bullies:

  • Hip dysplasia: Improper hip joint development that can lead to arthritis and mobility problems.
  • Elbow dysplasia: A developmental disorder of the elbow joint that can cause lameness and pain.
  • Skin allergies: Can lead to itching, rashes, and skin infections.
  • Heart disease: Cardiac issues such as heart murmurs and valve problems.
  • Bloat: A potentially life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself.
  • Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland that can lead to various health issues.
  • Eye problems: Cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and other conditions.

By being aware of these potential health issues, you can take steps to prevent or manage them and ensure your American Bully lives a happy and healthy life.

Exercise and Training

The bully dog requires some serious exercise daily - at least 60 minutes of physical activity is a must for both Pitbulls and American Bullies.

Both breeds are intelligent and thrive on varied routines to keep them entertained, with Pitbulls being more agile and active than their American Bully counterparts. This means you'll need to mix up the activities to prevent boredom and keep your furry friend engaged.

Socialization Needs

The American Bully breed dog is a naturally social animal that loves being around people.

Early socialization is key to teaching your American Bully how to react in a healthy way around other dogs and animals, preventing undesirable behavioral issues like aggression.

As pack animals, they need to learn how to interact with others from a young age.

Exercise Needs

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The American Bully and Pitbull require at least 60 minutes of exercise daily.

This may seem like a lot, but trust me, they thrive on physical activity! Their intelligence and agility demand a varied exercise routine to keep them entertained.

Their love for games like tug and fetch is no secret - it's an excellent way to give them more action and keep them on their toes.

Younger, more energetic dogs may even require more exercise-related activity to stay happy and healthy.

Trainability

The trainability of Pitbulls and American Bullies is a crucial aspect to consider when deciding which breed is right for you.

Both dogs must be socialized from day one, with Pitbulls requiring even more attention in this area due to their dog fighting past.

Pitbulls are incredibly responsive to training, making them a joy to work with. However, American Bullies can be stubborn and require an experienced owner who can coax the best out of them.

Training is necessary for both breeds, especially considering the sheer strength that an American Bully can possess if not trained properly.

Both Pitbulls and American Bullies require at least 60 minutes of exercise daily to keep them happy and healthy.

Prerequisites to Pet

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Before diving into exercise and training, make sure you've met some essential prerequisites to pet an American Bully.

Research is key: Do a thorough review of the traits, requirements, and possible health problems of the breed to ensure it's a good fit for your lifestyle. This will help you prepare for what's ahead.

Visit the breeder or adoption center in person to get a sense of the dogs' living conditions and socialization. Meeting the dogs or pups is crucial to understand their temperament and personality.

Prepare your home by creating a safe and comfortable space for your dog. If adopting a young pup, make sure you're ready with necessary supplies like food, bowls, a bed, and grooming tools.

Family and Living Situation

Bulldogs are social animals and thrive on companionship. They love being part of a family and can become very attached to their owners.

In fact, bulldogs are known to be excellent with children if they're raised together from an early age. This is because they have a calm and gentle nature that makes them a great match for kids.

As for living situations, bulldogs don't require a huge amount of space, but they do need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. A small backyard or even just a daily walk can provide them with the physical activity they need.

Organizations

Credit: youtube.com, ABKC classes: Determine what class your bully belongs in

American Bully Organizations can be a valuable resource for finding reputable breeders and rescues.

You can find reputable dog breeders who are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions through organizations like the American Bully Breed Organizations.

These breeders screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide lifetime support. This ensures that you're bringing home a puppy that's been raised with care and attention to detail.

If you're considering adopting an American Bully, you can also check out rescue groups like Koa Bully Rescue and Sanctuary, Friends to the Forlorn Rescue, or Make a Stand Bully Rescue.

These organizations have well-behaved and affectionate pets waiting for a loving home. They often give dogs a second chance at a happy life, providing them with love and care that they might not have received otherwise.

Here are some reputable American Bully Breed Organizations you can look into:

  • American Bully Breed Organizations

Note: Unfortunately, the provided article section examples do not contain detailed information about other organizations beyond the ones mentioned.

Myths and Facts

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Bully dogs are often misunderstood, but let's set the record straight.

The idea that bully dogs are naturally aggressive is a myth - they were actually bred to be gentle and calm companions.

Their original purpose was to guard families and homes, not to attack people or other animals.

Many believe that bully breeds require lots of exercise, which isn't entirely true - while regular physical activity is great for them, their actual needs are relatively moderate.

A daily walk and some playtime should suffice.

Some think that bully dogs are inherently lazy, but this couldn't be further from the truth - they were bred to work hard and protect their families.

Their energy levels might be lower than those of other breeds, but they're still capable of plenty of activity.

Comparison and Information

The American Bully is a muscular and confident breed, known for its loyalty and protective nature.

This breed is a blend of strength and gentleness, making it a popular choice for families and dog enthusiasts alike. The American Bully's characteristics are well-suited for households with children, as they are generally gentle and loving towards kids.

Credit: youtube.com, Pit Bull vs. American Bully: What's the difference?

Originating in the United States, this breed has a unique history that sets it apart from other breeds. By understanding what makes the American Bully so special, you can make an informed decision about whether it's the right fit for your family.

The American Bully breed page provides comprehensive information on the breed's characteristics, care needs, and history, helping you understand what makes this dog breed so unique and loved.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 4 types of American Bullies?

There are actually 5 types of American Bullies: Standard, Classic, XL, Pocket, and Extreme. The original four categories have since been expanded with the addition of the Extreme type.

Are bully dogs expensive?

American Bullies can cost between $1000-$5000 or more, depending on factors like quality and breeder reputation. Adopting from a rescue or shelter is often a more affordable option.

What kind of bulldog is bully?

Bully is an English Bulldog. He's registered with the American Kennel Club.

Why are they called bully breeds?

Bully breeds are a group of terriers known for their tough origins as guard dogs and fighters. They got this name because they were strong enough to take on bulls in various roles.

Are XL bullies aggressive?

XL Bullies are not inherently aggressive; they're often protective but also known for their loyalty and affection

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  3. stress, high temperatures, dental problems, allergic reactions, or nausea (vets-now.com)
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  6. Koa Bully Rescue and Sanctuary (koabullies.com)
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  17. "No dogs are banned in Ireland but 11 are on restricted list" (independent.ie)
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  19. "Von eigenem Hund zerfleischt: Mann stirbt nach American-Bully-Angriff" (berliner-kurier.de)
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  25. "Man arrested after 11-year-old girl attacked by American XL bully crossbreed in Birmingham" (sky.com)
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  27. "Woman, 83, dies after being attacked by dog" (caerphilly.observer)
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  29. "Tragic dogwalker may have been 'mauled to death by own bulldog'" (standard.co.uk)
  30. "Dog walker Natasha Johnston died from neck bites in Caterham attack" (bbc.com)
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  32. "How killer American bully XL dogs became dangerous 'weapons'" (thetimes.co.uk)
  33. "Breed Standards: American Bully - United Kennel Club (UKC)" (ukcdogs.com)
  34. "Pit Bulls and the Hip-Hop Culture" (madison.com)
  35. "🐾American Bully – Race description: Character &Co" (dogbible.com)
  36. "American bully dogs bred as lovers, not fighters" (sfgate.com)
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  38. "The American Bully XL and the problems with banning dog breeds" (bigthink.com)
  39. American Bully Association (americanbullyassociation.com)
  40. European Bully Kennel Club (ebkc.org)
  41. American Bully Kennel Club (theabkcdogs.org)

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