XXL Bully Breed: Everything You Need to Know

The XXL Bully Breed is a massive and powerful dog, with some males weighing up to 150 pounds.

This massive size requires a lot of space and exercise, so you'll need a large yard or regular trips to the park.

In terms of temperament, XXL Bully Breeds are known for being friendly and outgoing, but they can also be protective of their families.

They are often described as "gentle giants" due to their calm and even-tempered nature.

An XL bully is a type of American bully dog. They are not a specific breed recognized by the UK government.

They are described as large dogs with a muscular body and blocky head, suggesting great strength and power for their size.

Male XL dogs stand from 20in (51cm) high at the shoulder, with female XLs only slightly smaller.

Their powerful jaws inflict more damaging wounds than those of other breeds, resulting in broken bones, shredded skin and damaged nerves.

These injuries can be crushing or tearing in nature, and once the dog grips, it doesn't let go.

The previous government announced a ban on unregistered XL bullies in England and Wales due to their involvement in several deaths.

The American Bully breed has a fascinating history. It was developed in the United States in the late 20th century as a combination of several breeds, including the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, English Bulldog, and American Bulldog.

The original goal was to create a bulkier dog with a more mellow personality than the traditional Pitbull. This led to the development of the American Bully breed.

The American Bully Breed began with kennels like Razor Edge, whose founder also founded the American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC). The ABKC only recognizes four subtypes of the American Bully: Pocket Bully, Classic Bully, Standard Bully, and XL Bully.

However, since the American Bully is an emerging breed, we've seen other subtypes emerge, including the XXL Bully, which is often a mixed breed dog bred for extreme size.

The American Bully breed has a fascinating history. Developed in the United States in the late 20th century, it's a combination of several other breeds, including the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, English Bulldog, and American Bulldog.

The breed was created by taking the athletic Pitbull and Amstaff and breeding them towards the "bully" type, resulting in a bulkier dog with a more mellow personality. This goal was first recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 2013.

The breed's origins can be traced back to kennels like Razor Edge, which also founded the American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC). The ABKC recognizes four main types of American Bullies: Pocket Bully, Classic Bully, Standard Bully, and XL Bully.

However, the XXL Bully is not recognized by the UKC, and its size can vary greatly, often exceeding the recommended height of 20 inches. This has led to some controversy, as the XXL Bully can be a mixed breed dog or simply an XL Bully bred to extreme proportions.

In England and Wales, the ban on American XL bullies is enforced through the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. This law restricts ownership and breeding of XL bullies.

Since December 31, 2023, it's been against the law to sell, give away, abandon, or breed from an XL bully. Anyone caught doing so can face serious consequences.

Since February 1, 2024, owning an XL bully without an exemption certificate is a criminal offence. This means you'll need to apply for a certificate if you already have an XL bully.

To apply for an exemption, you'll need to provide proof of insurance, microchip your dog, and pay a £92.40 fee per animal. You'll also need to ensure your dog is housed securely and kept on a lead and muzzled in public.

If you're unable to keep your XL bully, you'll need to take it to a registered vet to be euthanised by January 31, 2024. After this date, the government will only process valid euthanasia compensation claims.

Here's a summary of the key requirements for exempt XL bully owners:

Breaking these rules can result in severe penalties, including up to six months in prison and/or an unlimited fine.

In Northern Ireland, American XL bullies are subject to specific rules. All dogs in Northern Ireland must be licensed and microchipped at eight weeks old.

Since 5 July, American XL bullies have had to be muzzled and kept on a lead in public. This is a crucial rule to follow, especially when out with your dog.

It is illegal to abandon, rehome, sell, buy, or transfer ownership of an XL bully. This means you can't just give your XL bully to a friend or family member.

Dogs must be housed securely, which is a must for any dog owner. This ensures the safety and well-being of both the dog and those around it.

Owners who wish to keep an XL bully must register for an exemption by 31 December 2024. Don't forget to mark this date on your calendar!

Applicants have to download an application form and post it to their local council before 15 December 2024, or email it by 31 December 2024. Make sure to follow the correct procedure to avoid any issues.

The XXL Bully is a large and muscular dog with a broad head, wide chest, and thick, powerful legs. They have a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, blue, fawn, and brindle.

These dogs are bred to exude power and strength, with bone-crushing jaws and huge blocky heads. Their ears are often cropped to make them look even more intimidating.

Males typically stand between 20” to 23” at the withers, while females stand between 19” to 22” at the withers.

Here's a breakdown of the typical height range for XXL Bully males and females:

XXL Bully dogs can weigh anywhere from 110–200 pounds, making them a significant presence.

The American XXL Bully is a large, muscular dog with a broad head, wide chest, and thick, powerful legs. They have a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, blue, fawn, and brindle.

Their bone structure is a notable feature, with huge blocky heads and bone-crushing jaws. These dogs are bred to exude power and strength.

The XXL Bully's ears are often cropped to make them look even more intimidating. This physical characteristic is often associated with the breed's powerful and strong appearance.

Their size is a major difference between the XL Bully and the XXL Bully. The XXL Bully is simply larger than its XL counterpart.

The American XXL Bully is a large and powerful dog breed. They typically stand between 20-23 inches tall at the withers, with males reaching 20-23 inches and females reaching 19-22 inches.

Their size can vary, but they're often compared to Mastiff breeds in terms of scale. These dogs can weigh anywhere from 110-200 pounds, making them a formidable presence.

Males over 20 inches tall and females over 19 inches tall are considered to be within the XXL Bully size range.

Here's a breakdown of the typical height ranges for XXL Bully dogs:

XXL Bullies are highly intelligent dogs that are quick to learn and eager to please. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods and thrive on praise and rewards.

Their intelligence and trainability make them excel in various dog sports, such as weight pulling, obedience, and agility. They are also highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods.

Some XXL Bullies are working bullies, but due to their size, they don't have the stamina of a Belgian Malinois. They can make good protection dogs with good trainers, but this should only be done with a professional.

XXL Bullies usually have a friendly and loyal temperament, making them great family dogs. They are known to be good with children when properly trained and socialized.

They can be a little skittish and reactive, which makes early and consistent positive socialization important for this breed. With good leadership and boundaries, they can grow up to be well-adjusted and well-behaved dogs.

The XXL Bully is a large and beautiful breed, but like all dogs, it's not immune to health issues. Allergies and skin irritation are common problems in Pitbull-type dogs, and the XXL Bully is no exception. Some common allergies include chicken, mold, fleas, grass, and pollen.

Regular vet check-ups are essential to catch any potential health issues early on. Your vet can help you identify and manage environmental triggers to prevent skin problems. Gentle lifestyle choices and hip and joint supplements can also help prevent and treat joint issues like hip and elbow dysplasia.

Here are some common health issues to be aware of in the XXL Bully:

XXL American Bullies are not considered hypoallergenic dogs. They do shed, which can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.

Their dander, a common allergen, can cause problems for people with allergies. This is a key consideration for anyone thinking of bringing an XXL American Bully into their home.

If you're allergic and considering this breed, it's essential to take precautions to minimize exposure to their dander. Regular grooming can help reduce shedding, but it's not a guarantee.

The health of an XXL American Bully is a top priority for any responsible owner. These gentle giants can be prone to certain health issues due to their large size and mixed-breed heritage.

Allergies and skin irritation are common problems in Pitbull-type dogs, including the XXL Bully. Hot spots, skin allergies, and hives are just a few of the issues that can arise.

Some XXL Bullies may also develop joint problems like hip and elbow dysplasia due to the strain on their joints. Gentle lifestyle choices and hip and joint supplements can help prevent and treat these issues.

Eye and vision problems, heart disease, and hypothyroidism are also potential health concerns for XXL American Bullies.

Here's a list of some common health issues that can affect XXL American Bullies:

Regular vet check-ups and proactive health management can greatly help in mitigating these risks. A nutritious diet, adequate exercise, and genetic screening where available can contribute to a healthier, happier XXL American Bully.

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for XXL Bullies, as excess pounds can exacerbate joint issues and other health problems. Obesity can lead to a range of health issues, so monitoring your dog's weight is essential.

XXL American Bullies may benefit from joint-supportive nutrients in their diet, such as glucosamine and chondroitin. These components help maintain cartilage and joint fluid, offering a cushion for the joints during movement.

A diet rich in omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids can support skin health and ensure a lustrous, resilient coat. Foods with added vitamin E and biotin can also help in repairing and protecting the skin.

Always consult your veterinarian before adding supplements to your dog's diet, as they can recommend what's best for your dog's specific needs and health status.