The American Bully: A Big Dog With A Bigger Heart

When it comes to being an outstanding companion, no person or animal can compete with the American Bully. A true companion dog, the American Bully, is everything you would want in a pet. There is so much to love about the Bully dog. Before you look up breeders or adoption centers near you, read on to learn more about this dog's characteristics, exercise needs, care requirements, and more!

 

 

American Bully Characteristics (Physical)

Not to be confused with the American Pit Bull Terrier, the American Bully or XL Bully has a large physical presence compared to other terrier breeds. However, this breed is very lovable and sweet. Although this breed has a big head, it should not be disproportionate to the rest of its body. Its muzzle is squarish in appearance.

 

The American Bully has oval-shaped or slightly round-shaped eyes that may be in any color except blue. They also have well-defined cheek muscles and a big nose with opened nostrils. They have high-set ears that may be cropped depending on the owner's preference. Their front legs are strong and usually straight, but some might have a slight turn at the forearm. The hind legs are strong, too, with thick muscles on the thighs.

 

 

 

American Bully Size

American Bullies are medium-sized dogs. The size and weight of this dog breed vary on its sex, feeding habits, and amount of exercise. In general, this dog can weigh anywhere between 70 to 120 pounds. At the wither, it may be 16 t0 22 inches tall. The size of the American Bully determines what category of Bully breed size it belongs to. The different sizes have been categorized and are officially recognized by the American Bully Kennel Club (AKBC):

 

• Standard Bully
• Pocket Bully
• Micro Bully
• Classic Bully
• XL Bullies (Extra Large)

 

American Bully Personality

Behind the American Bully's menacing appearance is a genuine and friendly pet eager to please its family. This dog is very gentle and easily ranks among the kindest family dogs. It is categorized in the companion dog breed group. This dog group is solely kept for friendship instead of performing tasks like the working dog group. This dog is not meant to be aggressive.

 

When not exercising or having fun with its owners, this breed is pretty calm and enjoys sitting on laps. If you want a dog breed devoted to its owner, then the American Bully is for you! This breed likes to form bonds with its owner and their families as well. It has a very brave temperament, known to protect you, your family, and your home if needed.

 

 

American Bully Exercise

On average, American Bully dogs require at least an hour of exercise a day. The hour can be spread throughout the day. These exercise requirements depend on the dog's age and health. American bullies are usually stocky, but this breed can join you for walks and runs. Exercise helps American Bullies expand their energy and keep their mind stimulated.

 

 

 

Training an American Bully

Training your American Bully should be one of your priorities. Whether you adopt a puppy or rescue dog, teaching your pet to be disciplined will make caring for it a lot easier. This breed is smart and is easier to train than other canines. Failing to train your American Bully might result in the following negative behaviors:

 

• Chewing problem
• Uses the bathroom in unwanted areas
• Does not play nice with other dogs
• Fails to obey commands
• Excessive barking

 

This breed has a pack mentality and is a very confident dog. They require a calm and self-assured owner who needs to establish themselves as the alpha in the pack to be more willing to follow commands. Obedience training is a tried-and-true method of getting your dog to listen to your orders. An obedient dog will be able to do cool tricks such as:

 

• Sit
• Down
• Stay
• Wait
• Heel
• Come
• Off
• Rolling Over

 

Another important training requirement is dog socialization. This kind of training allows your American Bully to get along easier with other dogs and house guests. This dog is already great with kids, so socializing with other children will help kids feel less scared and more willing to play with this breed.

 

 

American Bully History

The breed originated in the United States east and west coasts during the 1980s. Bully breeders wanted to create the ultimate companion dog, so they looked at the available dog breed for traits they favored. The American Bully came about after breeding different dogs such as the American Pitbull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, American Bulldog, English Bulldog, and other breeds.

 

Since it was first bred in the 1980s, the American Bullies were further refined and started to gain popularity throughout the 1990s. The breed's admiration spread across the United States and abroad. The ABKC recognized the breed in 2004. The United Kennel Club (UKC) officially recognized this breed in 2013. This canine breed has not been officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

 

 

 

Common Health Problems Found in an American Bully 

The American Bully is a fun-loving pet with a mighty appearance, but it is not immune to common health problems. Sometimes, certain conditions are unavoidable, but knowing how to identify and respond to these health concerns can make a huge difference in ensuring your Bully Pit lives a long healthy life:

 

• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: This is a skeletal condition that affects all dog breeds, though it is more commonly seen in bigger-sized dogs. Hip and elbow dysplasia affects the joints at the elbow and the hip. Without treatment, the areas near the joints might begin to deteriorate.
• Eye and Skin Issues: Eyesight issues and skin conditions are a little easier to notice and are all mostly treatable. One of the commonly seen issues is mange, a parasitic infection that causes hair loss, redness, itchiness, and scaling. One of the best ways to treat and soothe your dog's condition is with medicated shampoo.
• Obesity: Obesity is more common than it should be in dogs, though it can also be easily avoided or treated. Overweight dogs are usually the result of poor eating habits or overeating unchecked by the owner. Your American Bully might also gain weight due to hyperthyroidism.

 

 

 

How to Care for an American Bully

American Bully care is not difficult to complete, and it helps your pet feel more at home. Some of the care requirements could be done by your children to show them the responsibilities of being a dog owner. It is essential to have the following things available before you bring your new furry friend. Make your dog feel more calm and relaxed at home by having the following things ready:

 

• Safe Refuge: Your American Bully will enjoy spending time with you, whether it is outside or in. A dog crate for inside the house or a dog house for outside is a great way to provide your pet with a little getaway. Crates are great for helping your dog to have its own space.
• Toys for Dogs: The pet market is filled with all kinds of dog toys for your American Bully. It can be a fancy chew toy or something as cheap as a tennis ball or frisbee to play fetch. Tug-o-war with your Bully can be achieved with just a piece of old cloth or rope. If your dog is feeling anxious, you can apply CBD oil to its favorite chew toy as a way to ease its nervousness.
• Veterinarian Visits: Routine check-ups with a vet help provide peace of mind with your dog's overall wellness. If there's a symptom your dog is developing that has you concerned, a vet can help diagnose it further and help put your dog on the road to recovery.

 

 

 

Nutrition and Feeding for an American Bully

Feeding your American Bully is pretty easy! All you need is a feeding bowl and dog food. Regardless of brand, make sure it is dry dog food made with organic and all-natural ingredients without any harmful byproducts. Your Bully Pit's feeding habits may also depend on its age, size, weight, and overall health. On average, you should aim to feed your pet four cups of dog food a day, split into two servings.

 

 

Related: Organic Dog Food Vs Non Organic [In-Depth Comparison]

 

 

Coat Color And Grooming

American Bullies are often sought by pet owners for their various colors. The coats come in a disparity of patterns or may be solid in color. Whenever a litter of American Bully puppies is born, the different coat colors are on full display. Since this dog's coat is not long, brushing it is pretty easy. Use a firm bristle brush and brush it weekly. You can brush their coat while it sits on your lap or lays down next to you on the couch.

 

 

Children And Other Pets

One of the first things potential dog owners consider is how friendly an American Bully is with children and other pets. Most American Bullies see kids as members of the pack they are eager to play with and please. A responsible dog owner should also take the time to educate their children about how to properly handle a pet.

 

American Bullies are more likely to get along and co-live with another dog out of all the bully breeds. Early exposure during puppyhood may help your canine feel more comfortable with cats and possibly other small pets. For the safety of your other pets, it is not recommended to leave your Bully Pit alone with smaller animals like gerbils or hamsters.

 

 

 

American Bully Dog Rescue Groups

Rescue organizations are available to help unwanted or neglected American Bullies find a new home. Adoption centers may be available locally, but it might be easier to search for one online. Here are some rescue groups you may want to get in contact with:

 

• New York Bully Crew: A New York-based non-profit organization, New York Bully Crew works with the help of volunteers to rescue dogs from bad environments, off the streets, and kill shelters. They work hard to rehome their rescued dogs.
• Brave Bully Rescue: Brave Bully Rescue is based out of Houston, Texas. It is a non-profit organization that focuses on rehoming dogs, educating the communities, and raising awareness about bully breeds.
• Fresno Bully Rescue: Also known as FBR for short, Fresno Bully Rescue has rescued at least 2,800 dogs and successfully found their new homes. They promote responsible dog ownership and are based in Fresno, California.

 

 

American Bully Dog Breed Organizations

Patience is required when searching and finding a purebred breeding kennel. It will take time and money to find one near your location. The task is worth it because you will be coming home with a healthy puppy who may have come from award-winning American Bully parents. With hundreds of Kennels to choose from, here are some you might want to check out:

 

• Big Mack Bully Ranch: One of the premier breeding organizations. Big Mack Bully Ranch specializes in breeding XL and XXL varieties of American Bullies. Their dogs are not only registered with the UKC and ABKC, and they are screened for health issues as well.
• Kaoz Bullies Kennels: This breeding group is not only registered with different kennels. It also aims to breed Bullies with family-oriented temperaments. They are based in Southern California.

 

 

 

Final Thoughts

American Bullies have made appearances in hip-hop music videos. Famous artists like Snoop Dogg and Warren G have taken photos with these lovable dogs. It is not hard to see why everyday people and celebrities enjoy the company of American Bullies. They are affectionate pets. We hope this guide has shed more light on what to look forward to if you plan to adopt an American Bully!