American Bully

The American Bully breed has won over the hearts of numerous dog enthusiasts. This breed, though well-known for its friendly disposition and robust physique, is sometimes misinterpreted because of its rugged exterior. The American Bully is incredibly affectionate and a devoted companion for both individuals and families, despite its stocky build.

The American Bully, which originated in the US, was created by combining several breeds, such as the American Pit Bull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier. Temperament was prioritized over aggression in the design of this breed in order to create a devoted family companion. They make wonderful pets for all types of homes because of their lively personality and love of socializing.

The adaptability of the American Bully is among its most endearing characteristics. This breed is adaptable to a variety of lifestyles, so it can be a couch buddy or a running partner. They take pleasure in participating in family activities and thrive on social interaction. To become the best loving pets they can be, they still need to be properly socialized and trained, just like any other breed.

We’ll delve into the training guidelines, maintenance requirements, and characteristics that set the American Bully breed apart as we learn more about them. There is so much to learn about these amazing dogs, whether you plan to have one in your home or are just interested in their traits.

Breed	American Bully
Size	Medium to Large
Weight	30-65 lbs
Temperament	Friendly, Loyal
Coat	Short, Smooth
Life Expectancy	10-15 years
Exercise Needs	Moderate
Good With Kids	Yes
Training Level	Smart, Eager to Please

Because of its muscular build, people frequently mistake the adorable and misunderstood American Bully breed for an aggressive one. Actually, these canines are renowned for being amiable and having a great sense of family loyalty. This article aims to dispel myths and honor the authentic essence of the American Bully by examining the breed’s history, distinctive characteristics, and reasons for being excellent companions.

Breed characteristics

Pet class: RUB 80,000–90,000.

100,000–150,000 rubles is the breed class.

The history of the origin of the American Bool

The 1980s saw the start of selection efforts by those who were interested in creating the breed. Although American Pit Bull Terriers and Staffordshire Terriers were particularly popular at the time in the USA, breeders were not pleased with the working qualities and character of these dogs. Instead, they were drawn to them because of their outward appearance.

The goal of enthusiasts was to create a new breed of dogs that would have the outward characteristics of these two breeds, but would also be calmer, less energetic, and best suited as family pets. Working traits and hostility toward members of their own species were supposed to level out.

The work’s initial findings were discovered in the 1990s. Nonetheless, the dogs differed in terms of body type, color, and behavior because the group of breeders did not communicate with one another or plan the breeding strategy. By pooling the enthusiast’s efforts, a more uniform appearance could be achieved, and starting in 2004, a lot of interest in the breed started to surface.

Although it is unknown for sure which breeds are used to produce bullies, the major breeders assert that Amstaff and Pit Bull Terrier blood is used. The following were presumably used to provide massiveness, correct character traits, and obtain a range of colors:

• American, English, French Bulldog;
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier (for the mini variety).

Potential presence of Bull Terriers, Rottweilers, and Bullmastiffs, as well as their hybrids. The American Bully is currently registered with multiple organizations but is not recognized by the FCI:

1. United Kennel Club.
2. American Bully Kennel Club.
3. United Bully Kennel Club.
4. European Bully Kennel Club.
5. Bully Kennel Club.

The RKF has embraced the breed standard as of January 2020. The dogs are well-liked in Europe, Russia, North and South America, and Australia, but breeders of Amstaffs and pit bulls are worried about getting crossbreeds of their breeds that have unclear personalities and appearances, which could taint the selection of original lines.

Distinctive features and standard

The FCI does not recognize American Bullies and does not set standards for uniformity among breed representatives. Guidelines may vary slightly based on the dog association. Bullies are required by the RKF standards to fulfill the following external requirements:

• Head large, powerful, with well-defined contours, has a cubic shape. The skull is deep, wide around the perimeter, flat between the ears. The muzzle is square, voluminous. It is moderately short, about a third of the length of the head, slightly tapering to the earlobe.
• The bridge of the noseis straight, the stop is pronounced, deep. There are clear muscular cheekbones, a frontal groove. The superciliary arches are moderately developed, the occipital protuberance is slightly noticeable. Wrinkles on the forehead are acceptable.
• Bite scissor-shaped, an undershot bite with a tight closure is allowed, but in general it is undesirable. Jaws, especially the lower one, are powerful, square. Lips fit tightly, can have almost any shade, except pink.
• Eyes are located low, at a considerable distance from each other. Medium in size, oval or almond-shaped (round ones are not approved by the standard). The shade of the iris is any that matches the color, red is prohibited, undesirable blue. The eyelids should be well pigmented and tightly fitting.
• Neck moderate length, very powerful, muscular, "bull". It is quite voluminous, wide at the base, with a clearly visible nape.
• Ears of normal size, should not be large, thick, hanging, heavy. In their natural form, usually in the form of a rose or semi-erect type. Docking is acceptable.
• Tail usually hangs down, when excited it can rise, but not thrown over the back. It is unacceptable to twist it into a ring. Must have a low set, the length is slightly shorter than to the hock. Tail of normal width, slightly tapering to the tip.
• Body compact, the length is slightly greater than the height at the withers. The back is slightly inclined to the croup, but straight is acceptable. It should not be long and stretched, always wide, with pronounced muscles. Loin is powerful, short, slightly convex. Chest voluminous, reaching to the elbows or lower, barrel-shaped, but does not interfere with movement. The belly line is slightly tucked.
• Legs short, creating an excessively squat build. Forelegs are straight, the distance between them is pronounced due to the voluminous sternum. Length of the limb from the elbow to the floor and from the withers to the elbow are equal. Shoulder blades are set back, as are the shoulders, wide, approximately the same length, muscular. Elbows are close to the body, forearms are massive, straight. Wrists and pasterns are voluminous.
• Hind legs straight, muscular, with pronounced contours of the corners. Shins slightly longer than the hips, wide. Paws tightly collected, rounded, the tone of the pads matches the color.
• Movement powerful, parallel, with a strong repulsion.
• Coat short, tightly fitting, has a shine.

The standard allows for the division of the breed into multiple groups. The representatives’ exteriors are nearly identical, but their rates of growth are not.

No earlier than nine months, when the pet’s dimensions are apparent, is the group decided.

Types of Bullies in America:

• Mini (pocket). The smallest variety.

• Standard. The height of males is 43-51 cm, females – 40-48 cm.

• Classic. Has the same height indicators as the standard, but a lighter build and weight. By type, it is more similar to the American Pit Bull Terrier of the old type, less muscular and massive than the previous type.

• XL. The height at the withers should be: for males – 51-58 cm (no more than 60 cm), for females – 48-56 cm (below 58 cm).

Photo of an adult dog

Photo of puppies

Characteristics and behavior

The goal of breeding this breed was to create the perfect family pet. You can perform the task to the best of your ability based on your character and behavior.

People may be hesitant to approach a bully dog on the street because it appears to be strong and intimidating. The dog actually has a very kind and balanced personality. Breeders attempted to eliminate aggressive, irrational, or hysterical behaviors from breed representatives during the selection process.

Despite being totally committed to their owner, they have a great love for their family. They are subtle and unobtrusive, but they make an effort to keep an eye on him. Bullies tolerate the behavior of children and love to play with them. They enjoy attention, are easy to train, loving, and have a moderate level of energy.

Early on in life, the breed requires the development of a positive attitude toward other animals. Although it is rare, it is best to expose a dog to the outside world from an early age so that they become accustomed to it and can respond to stimuli in a calm manner. Even though the dog seems calm, small children could get hurt by its size, so you shouldn’t leave them alone.

Additionally, since the bully is strong and capable of pulling on the leash quite sharply, it is not advised to allow anyone other than adult family members to walk the pet.

Dogs have the slyness and sometimes stubbornness to try to disobey an owner who is too forgiving or weak-willed. Furthermore, dogs dislike spending a lot of time alone themselves because they are highly attached to their owners.

Advantages

The American Bully has recently become increasingly popular as a companion dog and family pet. This is facilitated by the dog"s undeniable advantages:

1. Original appearance.
2. Balanced character.
3. Tolerance towards strangers and animals.
4. Lack of aggression and conflict in behavior.
5. Strong attachment to all family members.
6. Excellent relationship with children, even small ones.
7. Excellent intelligence and ability to learn.
8. Playful nature until adulthood.
9. Unpretentiousness in nutrition and care.

Disadvantages

There are hardly any drawbacks for this breed. Breeders emphasize the following in addition to the dog’s high cost:

• The large size of the American Bully does not allow children and elderly people to walk it. They simply will not be able to hold the leash if the dog rushes forward.
• Breeders with a gentle character will not be able to curb the stubborn nature of the pet.
• Cannot be left alone for a long time. Due to its strong attachment to its family, a bully can become ill from loneliness.

Video about the breed

Care and maintenance

Maintaining an American Bully is simple. For vigorous walking, a house with a garden or special food are not necessary. Wool can be easily cleaned with a moist cloth when it gets dirty; frequent washing will cause the hair to become brittle and lose its shine.

The dog might require clothing and footwear during the winter.

The pet’s claws are checked every month and, if needed, trimmed. Every week, the eyes and ears are examined, and any dirt is removed using a cotton swab.

Nutrition

Bullies’ dietary needs are moderate. The pet’s preferences, weight, and physical state should all be considered when choosing a diet. Fundamental guidelines for feeding:

• The basis of the menu should be lean meat, offal.
• The diet can be supplemented with porridge, sea fish, greens, eggs, fermented milk products, vegetables.
• It is forbidden to give bones, fatty, spicy or smoked foods, as well as chocolate and citrus fruits.
• Due to the prevalence of allergies, all new products should be given little by little.

Natural food can be substituted with professionally prepared food that has a balanced composition. The brand ought to be more sophisticated than premium, ideally "holistic." The age of your pet determines how often they eat.

Adults can eat twice a day, while puppies can eat three to six times.

Health

Bullies have certain health issues, just like the majority of artificially bred breeds. Dogs’ body types are another factor contributing to the emergence of diseases.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations shield your pet from illnesses that are prevalent in dogs:

Puppies receive two vaccinations, and adult dogs receive one vaccination per year. The procedure is performed once, at 8–9 weeks, and again, at 3 months. All dogs receive anthelmintic treatment prior to vaccination. The puppies are kept in quarantine for two weeks following each manipulation. It is not permitted to walk during this time.

Diseases

Bullies are more likely to contract certain diseases as a result of their body type and genetic makeup. Typical issues with the breed include:

1. Skin irritations, allergies.
2. Joint dysplasia is a genetic problem, as a result of which the dog begins to experience difficulty and pain when walking. Can lead to complete immobilization of the pet. Appears around 1.5 years.
3. Demodicosis is a disease in which a parasite living under the skin causes constant itching and hair loss.
4. Cataract is a decrease in vision or its complete loss due to a violation of the transparency of the lens. The surface of the eye looks bluish, cloudy.
5. Retinal atrophy is a genetic disease, accompanied by the loss of retinal receptors and blindness.
6. Heart disease.

Furthermore, because American Bullies have trouble with heat, it’s important to lighten the load and go for shorter walks more frequently during the summer.

Walking

The activity level of an American Bully dog is moderate. It can live in an apartment where it can go outside two or three times a day. Typically, walks go at a leisurely pace, allowing the dog to explore the area, walk alongside their owner, or bring a ball or toy. If the dog does not have joint or cardiac pathologies, running is acceptable. If there are no medical restrictions, it is feasible to operate machinery and tow loads.

Mating

Representatives with sufficient exhibition results, documents of origin, and a veterinary passport are chosen in order to produce offspring. Having the results of the parents’ testing for this pathology available is advised due to the tendency toward dysplasia.

It’s also important to keep in mind that some color-specific dog crossing is prohibited by the rules. The breed standard lists options that are acceptable and unacceptable. Dogs that are closest growth varieties only are allowed to breed.

It is best to mate a dog for the first time when it is fully mature, ideally between 1.5 and 2 years of age, in order to produce offspring. The encounter takes place on the male’s territory, and it is repeated a day or two later. The prospective parents need to have their claws cut and receive helminth treatment before they mate.

Key points in training

The intelligent dog breed known as Bully picks up commands fast. The owner has the dog’s approval set up, making training training easier for him. In the event that the trainer is not firm enough, the pet may exhibit dominance and stubbornness.

Thus, a methodical and consistent demand for task completion is the primary prerequisite for education.

Bully can complete the OKD course, but it is not advised to channel the pet’s protective tendencies toward ZKS. Dog sports are typically challenging because they require a high level of activity and agility. Furthermore, individuals belonging to the breed might face joint issues that will complicate activities. The dog can participate in some of the options for this type of training if there are no contraindications.

The viability of physical training is still a contentious issue. According to some experts, the rise in testosterone and subsequent hormonal changes brought on by such continuous loads cause the animal to become more aggressive, independent, and determined—none of which are good traits for a bully.

If it is decided to engage in physical training, use brief intervals of high-frequency work performance. Other forms of training are also subject to this requirement. Changes in pace, activity types, and the alternation of light and heavy loads are employed.

Training this breed of dog should be playful and involve food reinforcement. The animal cannot be beaten or reprimanded. It is best to begin training at two to three months of age. The pet’s socialization and acclimatization to other animals should receive particular attention.

Where to buy and how to choose an American Bully puppy

In order to select a puppy with the right temperament and appearance similar to an American Bully, you should get in touch with reputable specialty nurseries or breeders. Documents of origin, veterinary passports, and ideally dysplasia tests are required for parents. If not, there’s no assurance the puppy you bought won’t turn into a bully instead of an unidentified breed of dog.

You should consider the parents’ temperament, health, and show record when making your decision, in addition to the offspring of previous litters. To assess the puppy in person, it is best to be there, or ask if video communication is an option.

Small bullies shouldn’t display timidity, aggression, or passivity. He should ideally be at ease, eager to play, and interested in interacting with someone. Obtaining a healthy pet requires a veterinary passport that bears the marks of vaccination and deworming.

Nurseries in Russia and neighboring countries

The majority of well-known breeders have representatives in the US. On the other hand, there are a number of nurseries in our nation that sell bully puppies:

American mini bully

This kind of bully is regarded as the smallest of the bunch. In accordance with the standards requirements, the height at the withers is:

Miniature bullies, defined as those whose height falls below the specified threshold, will be disqualified. Although the rules do not specify the weight of this breed, it is important to note that the dog should have a harmonious appearance. In terms of other external features, there are no distinctions.

Little bullies are identical to the large, traditional bullies in size. They have a broad chest, a strong neck, and well-muscled limbs and body. The pocket type should pay particular attention to the prohibition on squat builds. The legs ought to be long enough to guarantee quick and effortless movement with a strong push.

Deep sternums are preferred; volumes that fall just below the elbow are acceptable; those who exhibit even more pronounced features are not eligible. Elbows out to the sides are also inappropriate for small bullies. Once a breed representative’s dimensions are established after nine months of birth, the decision is made to designate them as minis.

Within its type and with the closest group by height, mating is permitted.

A fascinating breed that personifies loyalty and strength is the American Bully. These dogs have won many people over with their friendly nature and robust physique. Despite their initially frightening appearance, when people take the time to get to know them, they frequently surprise people with their gentle nature.

The American Bully is distinguished by their steadfast devotion to their families. They make wonderful pets for both families and individuals because they are very affectionate and thrive on company. With the right guidance and socialization, they can become obedient and affectionate members of any family.

It’s crucial to comprehend their requirements for exercise as well. American Bullies need to exercise frequently in order to be content and healthy. Playing with them and taking them to training sessions helps them stay in shape and improves the relationship you have with your pet.

The key to owning any breed is responsibility. Gaining knowledge about their unique requirements and traits can help you have a satisfying relationship. The American Bully can be a devoted friend who makes you laugh and smile if given the proper care and attention.

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