The Pocket Bully is a small but mighty breed, weighing in at around 40-60 pounds and standing between 10-14 inches tall.
They're a hybrid breed, created by crossing a Pitbull with a Pug or a Boston Terrier, which can make them a great choice for city dwellers or families with smaller living spaces.
Pocket Bullies are known for their affectionate and playful personalities, making them a great companion for those who want a loyal friend.
Their short coats require minimal grooming, but they do need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy, which can be as simple as a daily walk or playtime in the backyard.
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Temperament and Personality
Pocket bullies are incredibly gentle and affectionate dogs, making them a great addition to any family. They bond strongly with their owners and are eager to please.
Despite their muscular build, pocket bullies are surprisingly friendly and outgoing, getting along well with children and other pets when socialized properly. In fact, they're often described as patient and sweet-tempered, even tolerating rowdy behavior from kids.
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Their intelligence is another notable trait, making them highly trainable and adaptable to different environments. Positive reinforcement learning is especially effective in satisfying their craving to please their owners.
Here's a comparison of the temperaments of micro bullies and pocket bullies:
Overall, pocket bullies are loving and crave affection from their owners, making them a great choice for families with children.
What Is Temperament?
Temperament is a vital aspect of a dog's personality, and understanding it can make a huge difference in how you interact with your Pocket Bully. Temperament refers to the unique combination of traits that make up a dog's behavior, such as their energy level, affection level, and how they react to new situations.
Pocket Bullies are known for their affectionate nature, and they bond strongly with their family members. They are also extremely gentle dogs, making them a great choice for families with children. In fact, they are often described as "lap dogs" because they love to snuggle up and be close to their owners.
Take a look at this: American Bully Behavior
One of the key things to remember about Pocket Bullies is that they are highly trainable. They are intelligent dogs that thrive on mental stimulation and can learn a wide range of commands and behaviors. However, they can also get bored if their training or activities become too repetitive.
Here are some key temperament traits of Pocket Bullies:
- Affectionate: Pocket Bullies bond strongly with their family members and love to show affection.
- Gentle: Despite their muscular build, Pocket Bullies are incredibly gentle and make great family pets.
- Intelligent: Pocket Bullies are highly trainable and thrive on mental stimulation.
- Curious: Pocket Bullies are naturally curious and love to explore their surroundings.
- Playful: Pocket Bullies are energetic and love to play, making them a great choice for families with kids.
Overall, Pocket Bullies are a wonderful breed that make great companions for families and individuals alike. With their affectionate nature, gentle disposition, and high trainability, they are sure to bring joy and love into your life.
Do Bark?
Pocket bullies aren't particularly vocal dogs, they're not excessive barkers and don't use their voices to communicate often. However, they will alert bark if something is out of the ordinary.
They may also bark when experiencing boredom or anxiety, and barking is more prominent in pocket bullies that are left alone for excessive durations.
In fact, pocket bullies tend to be quiet dogs, making them suitable for apartment living.
Care and Grooming
Pocket bullies are relatively low-maintenance dogs, but they still require regular care and grooming to stay healthy and happy. Their short coats need to be brushed 1-2 times a week to remove loose fur and dirt.
To brush their coat, use a firm bristle brush, which will help maintain its glossiness and minimize shedding. You can also use a pin brush or rubber glove for grooming.
Pocket bullies need their nails trimmed regularly, ideally monthly, to prevent overgrowth. They also require regular ear cleaning to prevent infections.
In addition to coat care, pocket bullies need their teeth brushed regularly to maintain overall hygiene. Use a dog toothpaste specifically designed for their teeth.
Their short coats don't require frequent bathing, but they may need it every few months depending on their activity level and coat condition. Use a dog shampoo formulated for sensitive skin to prevent skin issues.
Here are some essential grooming equipment you'll need for your pocket bully:
- Canine nail clippers
- Ear wipes
- Eye wipes
- Dental mouth rinse
As a general rule, brush your pocket bully's coat weekly, and more often in spring and fall when they shed more. They may also need bathing every other month, depending on how dirty they get.
Health Issues
Pocket bullies are generally healthy dogs, but like any breed, they can be prone to certain health issues. Hip and elbow dysplasia are common problems, which can cause pain and arthritis.
Regular veterinary care is crucial to manage these health issues effectively. You should bring your pocket bully for check-ups every six months to catch any serious health problems early.
Pocket bullies may develop eye problems such as ectropion and entropion. Respiratory problems are also a concern, particularly brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS).
Micro bullies, which are similar to pocket bullies, can also develop joint problems, trouble breathing, and heart disease. They are more susceptible to heat stress, especially in hot regions.
Some common health issues in pocket bullies include skin problems, breathing issues, joint problems, and eye conditions. Skin problems can be exacerbated by allergies to common foods.
Here are some specific health issues to be aware of:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Congenital heart disease
- Eye issues (ectropion, entropion, etc.)
- Respiratory problems (BOAS, etc.)
- Skin problems (eczema, yeast infections, etc.)
- Breathing issues
- Joint problems
- Eye conditions
With proper care and attention, pocket bullies can live a long, happy life of 10 to 14 years.
What Should Eat?
When it comes to their diet, pocket bullies are relatively low-maintenance, but they still require a balanced and nutritious meal.
Pocket bullies should eat dog food that's suitable for their age, size, and activity levels.
You can choose between kibble or canned food, depending on your preference and your dog's needs.
The amount of food they need depends on their weight, and it should be between one and one and a half cups.
If you're considering a homemade or raw diet, it's essential to consult with your veterinarian first to ensure they get all the necessary nutrients.
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Exercise and Training
Pocket bullies are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. They learn quickly and thrive on positive reinforcement, such as praise and treats.
To get the most out of their trainability, focus on using gentle corrections and rewarding good behavior. This approach will help them feel secure and motivated to learn. With consistent training, you can see significant progress in just a few weeks.
In terms of exercise, pocket bullies require moderate activity to stay happy and healthy. Aim for at least 30 minutes of daily exercise, which can include activities like walking, running, or swimming. As they get older, they'll need more exercise to keep them satisfied.
Here are some specific exercise ideas for your pocket bully:
- Walking, running, and swimming
- Playing fetch and games like hide and seek, tug of war, finding treats, and hiking
- Participating in strength-demanding dog sports like weight pull (with careful monitoring to prevent heat exhaustion)
Exercise Requirements
Exercise Requirements can vary depending on the type of Bully you have. For Micro Bullies, a short walk and some playtime in the yard or at a dog park will keep them content and in shape.
Pocket Bullies are a bit more energetic, but still relatively easy to please when it comes to exercise. A couple of walks in a day and a few minutes running around the house are enough for them.
Exercise needs can also change as your Pocket Bully grows. Adult Pocket Bullies require at least 30 minutes of daily exercise, which can include activities like walking, running, or swimming. More energetic puppies need about 60 minutes of exercise each day.
Here's a breakdown of exercise requirements for different types of Pocket Bullies:
Exercise can be as simple as a walk or as fun as playing fetch and games like hide and seek. Pocket Bullies enjoy a variety of exercises and play activities, so you can mix things up to keep them engaged and happy.
Trainability
Pocket bullies are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. They learn quickly and thrive on praise and rewards.
Using harsh corrections can actually do more harm than good, so it's essential to focus on positive reinforcement techniques. Praise, treats, and playtime are all effective ways to encourage good behavior.
With consistent training, you can help your pocket bully master basic obedience in just a few weeks. This is especially true if you start training early and make it a fun, enjoyable experience for both of you.
Socialization is also crucial for pocket bullies, as it helps them develop a well-adjusted temperament. Introduce them to new people, environments, and situations from a young age to set them up for success.
For serious behavioral issues like aggression towards other dogs, it's best to seek the expertise of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can provide personalized guidance and help you address the issue effectively.
Breed Characteristics
The Pocket Bully breed is known for its stocky, muscular build, with a broad appearance that's quite fascinating. They stand at around 16 to 19 inches tall and weigh between 30 to 50 pounds.
Their compact and shorter stature makes them appear much smaller than they actually are. They have a thick, wide head characteristic of bullies, broad chests, and short, stocky legs.
Here are some key breed characteristics of the Pocket Bully:
Their natural floppy ears can be cropped or left alone, and they come in a variety of colors, including black, fawn, red, gray, white, golden, and variations of these colors.
Explore further: American Bully Colours
What Is the History of?
The American Bully breed has a fascinating history that dates back to the 1980s. It was developed from a mix of American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and bulldog-type dogs.
Breeders focused on eliminating aggression and establishing the desired temperament and physical traits by the 1990s. The American Bully Kennel Club was formed in 2004, and the breed standards were set.
The breed was developed to be a companion and family dog, with a more laid-back personality than the traditional Pitbull. The goal was to add more bulk to the Pitbull's lean, athletic body.
The American Bully breed was initially classified into four sizes: pocket, classic, standard, and XL, with the pocket size being the smallest. This classification was established to distinguish between the different sizes of the breed.
The Pocket Bully, a subcategory of the American Bully, was developed to balance strength and power in a relatively small frame. It was not created to be like other "teacup" dog breeds.
The Micro Bully, another subcategory, emerged in the past few decades as a smaller and more compact version of the American Bully. It was created by crossing various bulldog and terrier breeds to achieve a specific appearance and temperament.
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Size and Features
The Pocket Bully is a medium-sized dog breed, standing between 13 and 17 inches tall at the withers. They are known for their stocky, muscular build, which makes them appear much smaller due to their broad appearance.
Their weight can vary, but they typically weigh between 30 to 45 pounds. This compact size makes them a great companion for families or individuals who live in apartments.
The Pocket Bully has a short, glossy coat that's smooth to the touch. They shed moderately all year, so regular brushing is necessary to maintain their coat's glossiness and spread around the natural oils.
Their coat comes in a variety of colors, including white, red, fawn, brindle, black, and blue. Some Pocket Bullies even have unique patterns like brindle with stripes of brown, black, and gray.
Here's a breakdown of the Pocket Bully's size and features:
Their broad appearance is often a point of fascination, and rightly so. It's what makes Pocket Bullies the beloved breed they are today.
Banned in the UK?
The UK has some strict rules regarding certain breeds of dogs. In the UK, XL Bully dogs are subject to specific regulations due to the Dangerous Dogs Act.
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As of December 2023, XL Bully dogs must be kept on a lead and muzzled in public. This is a significant change that affects owners of these dogs.
From February 1, 2024, it will be a criminal offense to own an XL Bully dog in the UK without a Certificate of Exemption. This exemption is required for all XL Bully dog owners.
The consequences of owning a banned breed in the UK are severe, including fines, imprisonment, and the dog being put down.
Breed Recognition and Registration
The Pocket Bully is a recognized breed, acknowledged by the American Bully Kennel Club, although not universally accepted by all kennel clubs.
The American Bully Kennel Club and the United Kennel Club consider the Pocket Bully one of the three distinct sizes of the American Bully breed.
Is a Recognised Breed?
The American Bully Kennel Club recognizes the Pocket Bully as a distinct breed. Some owners may find recognition by kennel clubs important for the assurance of a breed's pedigree and lineage.
The American Kennel Club, however, does not universally accept the Pocket Bully as a recognized breed. This discrepancy highlights the varying opinions among kennel clubs.
According to the United Kennel Club, the Pocket Bully is classified as one of the three distinct sizes of the American Bully breed. This classification suggests a level of acceptance, but not universal recognition.
Do I Need to Register?
Registering your Pocket Bully offers numerous advantages, such as tracking its pedigree, verifying a legal and well-established lineage, and contributing to local animal control and shelters through the registration fee.
You have the option to register your Pocket Bully with either the UK Bully Kennel Club (UKBKC) or the American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC).
The process of registration involves filling out a form and submitting it with required documents and payment.
The exact documents required might vary depending on the registration organization, so it’s advisable to check their specific requirements.
The registration process may take around 3-4 weeks.
Choosing a Pocket Bully
If you're considering bringing a pocket bully into your family, socialization is key. They need exposure to new situations, environments, people, and other animals throughout puppyhood and teenage years to become well-behaved dogs.
A good home for a pocket bully includes owners who can provide lots of attention and love. They crave interaction and will work hard to please their owners.
If you're often away from home, a pocket bully may not be the best fit. They don't like being left alone and can become destructive if neglected.
To ensure a smooth transition, consider the following:
- Provide plenty of socialization opportunities for your pocket bully.
- Be prepared to invest time and attention in your dog's training and development.
- Make sure you have the financial resources to cover vet bills and consider pet insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a pocket bully worth?
The cost of a Pocket Bully can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on factors like age, health, and temperament. Prices may be higher for show-quality or breeding-quality dogs.
Are pocket bullies aggressive?
Pocket bullies are generally not aggressive, but may become so if they're not properly socialized. Proper socialization is key to raising a well-behaved and confident pocket bully.
How big will my pocket bully get?
Your pocket bully will typically grow to be 13-17 inches tall and weigh between 30-45 pounds. With proper care, they'll develop a muscular and proportionate body.
What is an American pocket bully?
The American Pocket Bully is a hybrid breed resulting from the cross between an American Pit Bull Terrier and an American Staffordshire Terrier. This small but loving companion is known for its affectionate and loyal nature.
Are pocket bullys rare?
Yes, pocket bullys are a relatively rare designer breed, making them a unique and sought-after companion. Their rarity is due in part to their relatively new status as a breed.
Sources
- heat exhaustion (akcchf.org)
- Micro vs. Pocket Bully: A Guide to Miniature Pitbulls (tryfi.com)
- American Bully Kennel Club (theabkcdogs.org)
- Pocket Bully: Essential Breed Insights and Care Tips (cbtdogbehaviour.com)
- Skin fold pyoderma is common (icknieldvets.co.uk)
- Eye problems in short-nosed dogs (thekennelclub.org.uk)
- Degenerative joint issues (msdvetmanual.com)
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