American Bullies can look a bit scary to someone on the outside, thanks to their frame.
However, they are one of the best pets to have, even for little kids.
Learn more about this breed and why an American Bully might be the perfect pet for you.
History
The American Bully breed got its start between 1980 and 1990.
The goal was to breed an excellent family dog, leading breeders to cross the AKC American Staffordshire Terrier and the UKC American Pit Bull Terrier.
Over time, they have also been bred with the American Bulldog, French Bulldog, English Bulldog, and Olde English Bulldogge.
By 2013, the UKC recognized the American Bully breed.
Appearance
American Bullies have a short, stiff, tight coat that might come in any pattern or color.
They have broad heads, pronounced cheeks, and a medium-sized muzzle.
The jaw is very well-defined.
Bullies also have a broad chest and a bulky, muscular appearance.
Their look can seem intimidating, almost as though they are bullies.
Size
There are four sizes to choose from with an American Bully.
All have the same compact frame, big heads, and muscular bodies, but their heights differ.
Standard
- Female: 16 to 19 inches tall
- Male: 17 to 20 inches tall
Classic
The classic size is the same height as the standard.
However, it has a smaller frame.
- Female: 13 to 16 inches tall
- Male: 14 to 17 inches tall
XL
- Female: 19 to 22 inches tall
- Male: 20 to 23 inches tall
Weight
American Bullies may be on the compact side, but they are certainly not light.
Most of them weigh anywhere from 66 to 88 pounds.
Personality
They may be called Bullies, but the name is misleading.
American Bullies are actually very loving, laid-back, and playful dogs.
They love affection, so don’t be surprised when they hop up in your lap to watch TV.
Just be aware that their weight can get a bit uncomfortable.
Bullies love kids, which makes them a favorite among family dogs.
And though they may not love your other pets, they are still pretty tolerant of them.
It’s important to know, too, that while they are playful and affectionate, they are typically fiercely loyal to their humans.
They will protect you if they feel it’s necessary.
They want to make their humans happy, which makes them easy to train.
They’re intelligent and will learn tricks with ease, especially if you provide rewards.
Health
A healthy American Bully can have a life expectancy of up to 13 years.
However, they do have common health problems that can impact that length and their quality of life.
These include the following:
- Elbow and hip dysplasia– This is a condition in which bones do not stay in place, potentially causing a lot of pain and discomfort.
- Cataracts– Some American Bullies require surgery so that they do not go blind while others can see.
- Cleft palate or lip– Sometimes, this only affects their look, but it can be much more serious.
- Hypothyroidism– This is a condition that causes weight gain, lethargy, and loss of fur.
- Congenital heart failure– This is when the heart can become enlarged and change how blood flows. It can be deadly.
- Cerebellar abiotrophy– It affects the nervous system, killing off cells of the cerebellum. It can cause a loss of balance and coordination, which can result in serious injury.
These are just a handful of potential health issues.
There are other vision and health issues that can cause minor or serious conditions.
You’ll need to be sure that you are taking your Bully to the vet regularly to make sure you catch any potential issues before they hit.
Exercise
American Bullies are happy to lie back and relax with you, but they also need about an hour of exercise each day to stay healthy.
If you have a yard, turn them loose and watch them play.
If you don’t have a yard sufficient for this, there are other ways to get them their daily dose of cardio.
A good walk around the neighborhood is great, or you can take them to a local dog park.
Additionally, you can provide plenty of exercise inside the house.
Just give them plenty of toys to keep them occupied.
As American Bullies do not need so much space to get their exercise, they actually make great pets for apartments and small homes.
Just be sure some of the toys you provide are chew toys.
Bullies are known for their love of chewing.
If you don’t provide them an outlet for this, you may find your favorite shoes chewed up instead.
Grooming
If you don’t really enjoy an extensive dog grooming ritual, an American Bully is a good pet for you.
They have short, smooth, shiny hair — it’s usually no longer than a ½ long.
Brushing them once a week is usually good enough to keep their fur off your furniture.
Do be aware, though, that the short coat may mean your pup gets cold in the winter.
No need to fret, though. They look adorable in doggie jackets and sweaters.
As long as your furry friend isn’t caked in mud, he doesn’t need a bath more than once a month.
However, you want to brush his teeth every day to keep his chompers healthy and prevent any issues.
You’ll need to keep an eye on his nails, too.
How often they need to be trimmed will really depend on how quickly his grow and how active he’s being.
Talk to your vet or a groomer about what they’d recommend for your pup.
Conclusion
American Bullies might look like, well, bullies, but that’s not the case.
They are sweet, loving, playful dogs who will go out of their way to please their human.
If you’re looking for a pet that’s good for your family, an American Bully is the way to go.