American Bully

Unlike their ancestors, the classic “fighting bulldogs”, today’s American Bullies are primarily suited for one thing: dog-loving environments. Here, the pooch feels right at, pardon the pun, bulldog heaven.

A well-socialised American Bully is friendly towards humans and animals and it usually doesn’t take long for it to warm up to strangers either.

Breed enthusiasts describe it as a dog with a high will-to-please. This means it wants to belong, which simplifies training. Nonetheless, the infamous bulldog stubbornness can pop up now and then.

Usually, the best approach is loving consistency and clear bounderies from the start of what is off-limits. Even a tiny crumb under the table can quickly turn the Bully into a “beggar”. Around the world, puppy playgroups and dog training classes are excellent options for socialization.

A well-socialised American Bully fits in with families as well as with couples or single owners. This dog is always happy to be around, without needing to be the centre of attention.

It adapts to country living as well as to a city apartment if given sufficient activity. However, if people live in a hot, top-floor flat without a lift, this compact breed isn’t the best choice.

Beginners can harmonise wonderfully with an American Bully. However, this friendly dog is not suitable for those only wanting to impress with its striking appearance.

American Bullies are considered playful dogs with moderate exercise needs. They enjoy extensive walks but don’t need long daily jaunts through the forest.

Around the world, many owners introduce exercise gradually, especially during the puppy and adolescent stages, to avoid overexertion. In addition to physical activity, mental stimulation is commonly incorporated to engage the Bully’s sharp mind.

Different activities such as interactive games, tricks, or fetch are often explored to determine what a Bully enjoys the most. Training together is also practiced as a way to reinforce obedience and strengthen the bond between dog and owner.

In Europe, American Bullies are a rarity. The breed isn’t recognised by the governing body for kennel clubs, the FCI, which makes finding a reputable breeder challenging. Often are the cases where puppies are offered without paperwork, which are usually Bulldog-Staff mixes.

Some breeders create their own clubs to issue pedigree papers. However, from a legal standpoint, these documents hold no official validity.

As there are numerous bulldogs recognised by the FCI, it is usually easier to find a reputable breeder for these dogs.

The English Bulldog, for example, is similarly compact to the American Bully but often has health issues. There are other “Molosser” dogs – the generic term for this type of breed.

For those looking for an alternative adult dog for the American Bully, it’s best to check with animal shelters. Excellent points of contact are organisations dedicated to rehoming Mastiffs in need.

The overall health of American Bullies is influenced by the selection of breeding animals. In Europe, regulatory oversight varies, and in some regions, there are limited controlling bodies. In countries where this breed is not banned, prospective owners should inquire about health screenings of the parent dogs. Common tests include those for hip dysplasia and wedge vertebrae. Transparency regarding test results is a key factor in assessing breeding practices.

Additionally, extreme physical traits can be associated with health concerns. Dogs with an excessively bulky build may be more prone to joint issues, while very flat snouts can lead to breathing difficulties.

Like any pooch, an American Bully benefits from a protein-rich, grain-free diet, whether it’s wet or dry food. With dry food, large kibbles encourage chewing.

Maintaining a healthy weight is an important aspect of an American Bully’s well-being. Feeding guidelines provided on dog food packaging can serve as a reference, taking into account treats and snacks.

Chewing activities can provide mental stimulation, help occupy the dog, and contribute to dental hygiene.

The American Bully was likely originally a hybrid breed. The “forebears” of the breed were American Staffordshire Terriers and American Pit Bull Terriers. However, to achieve a more consistent appearance and a bulkier look, numerous other dog breeds of this type were added.

Thus, the American Bully is a colourful mix of different breeds, with current breeders aiming for a uniform standard. In the USA, the breed has been recognised by the United Kennel Club since 2013. It’s notable that within this club, especially breeds not recognised by the larger American Kennel Club tend to congregate.

In Europe, American Bullies are rarely encountered. The vast majority of reputable breeders turn to breeds recognised by large umbrella organisations such as the FCI.

Similar Dog Breeds

If you’re interested in the American Bully, you might also like these dog breeds:

• French Bulldog
• English Bulldog
• Continental Bulldog
• American Bulldog
• Olde English Bulldogge

© AKE/ stock.adobe.com