Is The American Bully the Right Dog for My Family?
This is the million-dollar question that every family must answer for themselves because every family is unique, but an experienced breeder can help you make an informed decision. The American Bully is loyal, well-tempered, intelligent, food driven and by default highly trainable. They are short-haired and require moderate maintenance. Health concerns are listed as hip and elbow dysplasia, Hypothyroidism, heart disease, ear infections, dental disease, and allergies. Life expectancy is eight to twelve years but a well-cared for American Bully can live up to fifteen years
Bullies are bred in several varieties. Pocket, Standard/Classic, and XL. Some breeders have gone to extreme measures to create micro and exotic varieties, but health issues are exacerbated by such breeding practices and although they are growing in popularity the most reputable kennel clubs don’t recognize these variations.
Pocket variety are the more compact of the recognized variations. Pocket designation is determined by the height of the dog. According to ABKC standards, “Males are 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” qualify as pocket.
It is also noted that “Pocket Bully variety is simply shorter than the Standard American Bully. Pocket Bully dogs share the same build, body type, and breed type as the Standard American Bully, and exhibit a heavily muscled, massive, bulky body type.”
Standard & Classic American Bullies are essentially the same variety with the minor differences being bone density and body mass. Standard Bullies have a heavier build, whereas classic variety may share more of the traditional appearance of the American Pitbull Terrier and the Staffordshire Terrier, both close relatives. It’s important to note that the Classic Bully variety follows the same standard as the Standard American Bully. Males 17 inches – 20 inches (43 cm – 51 cm) at the withers. Females 16 inches – 19 inches (40 cm – 48 cm) at the withers. Hence our assertion that they are in fact the same variety with subtle differences in appearance.
XL variety, like the others is differentiated by a metric of height. According to ABKC “males over 20 inches (51 cm) – 23 inches (57 cm) at the withers and females over 19 inches (48 cm) – 22 inches (54 cm) at the withers are classified XL’s. XLs are also heavier and have a reputation for drooling more than the other varieties when they are excited or being exercise
Pocket, Standard/Classic, and XL variety American Bullies are the same breed and share the same build and body type. They are muscular, massive, and bulky with block heads, ears that are set high; natural or cropped, almond shaped eyes, a short broad muzzle, and a well-defined jaw. Visit United Kennel Club and American Bully Kennel Club websites for the full standard descriptions.
So now you know the subtle differences in varieties, lets talk personality traits. These dogs were bred for companionship and thrive as members of families across the globe. They are not only good with children, but are more often than not, inseparable from the smaller members of families. They are extremely gentle despite having the appearance of a juggernaut. surprisingly to most, they are also fond of meeting new people and even other animals. Socialization begins in the whelping box and experienced breeders continue the process through 8 weeks. Families should be mindful to continue to develop a well socialized bully by introducing their new puppy to new people, places, and things throughout the early life stages. Aggression towards other dogs or humans is uncharacteristic. Bullies are typically confident and outgoing not overly shy or vicious which are undesirable traits that responsible breeders are careful to avoid.
All but the pocket variety are relatively active dogs requiring two walks a day and approximately an hour of play time. Pocket bullies have the propensity to be less active requiring less exercise but are just as engaged in family life.
So now you have a general understanding of the American Bully, the different varieties, and the traits associated with a bully companion. Additional information you should have is that you will never have privacy in the bathroom again, your kitchen floor will remain free of any crumbs or other wayward food items that may fall there, and you will be obligated to several snuggle hours a day that you’ll look forward to. These dogs love to be in the midst of family activity and they thrive in a variety of household types. So if love is at the center of your family, laughter is close to your heart, the American Bully makes the perfect addition. America’s dog, American muscle… the American Bull
Written By: Erik Bowman, BoBo’s Best Kennels LLC