The American Bully is a lovely dog breed that has gained significant popularity in recent years. This breed has captured the hearts of dog lovers around the world, thanks to its charming personality and unique physical appearance.
In this article, we will delve into the history, characteristics, types, and care of the American Bully. The information is what you need to decide if this breed is right for you.
A Brief History of the American Bully
The American Bully is a relatively new breed that originated in the United States. It was developed by breeding several breeds, including the American Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, English Bulldog, and French Bulldog.
The American Bully was initially bred for dog fighting, but breeders soon realized that this breed had traits that made it an excellent companion dog. The breeders began to breed the American Bully for nonviolent purposes, such as a family pet.
Origins of the Breed
The American Bully’s origins can be traced back to the early 1990s when breeders began to experiment with the American Pit Bull Terrier and other Bulldog breeds. The goal was to create a breed that had the strength and tenacity of the American Pit Bull Terrier, but without the aggression that was associated with the breed.
The breeders began to selectively breed dogs that had the desired traits, such as a muscular build, strong jaw, and a friendly temperament. They also wanted a breed that was loyal and protective of their owners, making them an ideal family pet.
Development and Recognition
The American Bully was not recognized as a breed until the early 2000s when the American Bully Kennel Club was formed. The club’s goal was to promote the breed and establish a breed standard that would ensure the American Bully’s health and welfare.
In 2013, the United Kennel Club recognized the American Bully as a distinct breed. The breed was classified under the Terrier Group, and the breed standard was established.
The American Bully is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, but it is recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club. Despite not being recognized by the AKC, the American Bully has gained popularity in recent years and is now a sought-after breed.
Characteristics of the American Bully
Size & Build
The American Bully is a sizeable breed that weighs between 44 and 132 pounds and stands 13 to 20 inches tall at the withers. It has a muscular and square build with a broad and powerful head.
Physical Appearance
The American Bully’s physical appearance is one of its most notable characteristics. This breed has a broad head, muscular neck, and a stocky body. Its short, glossy coat comes in a variety of colors, including fawn, black, blue, and brindle.
American Bullies have powerful chests and well-defined abdomens, which give them an impressive stature. Despite their muscular build, American Bullies are not aggressive dogs.
They have a friendly disposition and are great with children, making them excellent family pets. This breed’s physical appearance is undoubtedly impressive, but its personality is just as noteworthy.
Temperament and Personality
The American Bully is known for its friendly and affectionate nature. This breed is loyal to its family and will do anything to protect them. They are also eager to please and are easy to train.
American Bullies are incredibly intelligent and have a strong desire to learn. They excel in obedience training and can be taught various tricks and commands.
Despite their friendly nature, American Bullies can be wary of strangers. However, they usually warm up quickly and are not aggressive towards people. This breed thrives on human interaction and needs lots of attention and affection. They are excellent family pets and are great with children.
Diet & Exercise
It’s essential to provide your American Bully with a healthy diet and regular exercise to ensure they maintain a healthy weight. This breed requires daily exercise to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
They enjoy going for walks, playing in the yard, and participating in various activities with their owners.
Health and Lifespan
With proper care and regular exercise, the American Bully can live up to 12 years. Like all dogs, this breed is prone to certain health problems, such as:
- Hip Dysplasia: An orthopedic congenital problem in which the hip joint is malformed, causing pain and mobility issues
- Ear Infections: The breed is prone to ear infections which, although not life-threatening, are painful and hard to manage
- Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland that does not produce enough thyroid hormones
Caring for Your American Bully
The American Bully is a low-maintenance breed in general. However, it still requires proper nutrition, exercise, and training to thrive.
Nutrition and Diet
The American Bully requires a well-balanced diet that is rich in protein. It is important to avoid overfeeding this breed as it may lead to obesity. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the right diet for your American Bully.
Exercise and Activity
The American Bully requires regular exercise and activity to maintain its physical and mental well-being. This breed enjoys walks, jogging, and playing outside.
Grooming and Maintenance
The American Bully has a short coat, which requires minimal grooming. Brushing the coat once a week is enough to eliminate loose hair and keep the coat shiny. This breed needs regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care.
Training and Socialization
The American Bully is highly trainable and enjoys learning new skills. This breed benefits from early socialization with other dogs and people. Engage your American Bully in training and provide mental stimulation to keep them challenged.
Conclusion
The American Bully is a truly remarkable dog. This breed is known for its unique physical appearance, charming personality, and loyal nature. Understanding the characteristics of the American Bully is vital for any potential owner.
With proper care and attention, the American Bully can provide years of joy and companionship to the right family.
