American Bully Classic: A Comprehensive Guide

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Posted Oct 1, 2024

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The American Bully Classic is a breed that has gained popularity in recent years due to its affectionate and playful nature.

This breed was developed by breeding American Pit Bull Terriers with other breeds such as the American Staffordshire Terrier and the Bulldog. The result is a dog that combines the physical strength of the Pit Bull with the gentle and loving personality of the Bulldog.

The American Bully Classic typically weighs between 70-120 pounds and stands at an average height of 17-20 inches tall. They have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming.

Their muscular build and broad chest make them a formidable-looking dog, but their friendly demeanor puts you at ease.

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Physical Characteristics

The American Bully Classic is a compact and well-built dog with a strong muscular body.

Its head should be broad, feature heavy bone structure, and have pronounced cheek muscles with pointed ears. Unfortunately, many owners prefer to crop their dog's ears for aesthetic purposes.

The American Bully Classic comes in four types: Pocket, Standard, Classic, and XL, distinguished by adult height. The Pocket American Bully is the smallest, with males under 17 inches and females under 13 inches tall.

Appearance

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The American Bully's appearance is quite distinctive and can be a great way to tell them apart from other breeds.

One of the defining features of the American Bully is its compact muscular body, which makes it look sturdy and strong.

They should have a broad skull and heavy bone structure, with pronounced cheek muscles giving them a unique facial shape.

You'll also notice that their ears are typically pointed, although some owners may choose to crop them for aesthetic purposes.

Size

The American Bully comes in four recognized size variations: Standard, Pocket, Classic, and XL. These differences are quite significant.

A Pocket Bully is the smallest, with males under 17 inches tall and females under 13 inches. This compact size makes them a great choice for apartment living or small spaces.

In contrast, the XL American Bully is the largest, with males up to 23 inches and females up to 22 inches tall. That's quite a bit bigger than the Pocket version!

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The weight of an American Bully also varies depending on its size and gender. A fully grown Pocket Bully can weigh anywhere from 11 to 24 pounds, while an XL can tip the scales at 70 to 130 pounds.

Here are the specific height ranges for each size variation:

  • Standard: 16-19 inches (female), 17-20 inches (male) tall
  • Pocket: 13-16 inches (female), 14-17 inches (male) tall
  • XL: 19-22 inches (female), 20-23 inches (male) tall
  • Classic: same height range as the Standard

As you can see, each size variation has its own unique characteristics. Whether you're looking for a tiny companion or a larger family pet, there's an American Bully to suit your needs!

Types and Lineage

The American Bully Classic has a rich lineage that sets it apart from other breeds.

The breed was first introduced in the US by crossing the American Staffordshire terrier and the American Pitbull terrier, resulting in a unique combination of characteristics.

This deliberate breeding process aimed to create a distinct dog with its own strengths and traits, which is now recognized as the American Bully Classic.

Introduction/Overview

The American Bully breed has a fascinating history that sets it apart from other canine companions. It was founded just a few decades ago by combining multiple Terrier and Bulldog breeds.

This unique blend of breeds resulted in a distinct physical appearance for the American Bully, characterized by large noggins, muscular builds, broad chests, and wide-set legs.

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Appearance and Types

Blue American Bully Puppy Lying Under Car
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The American Bully is a breed that comes in four main types: Pocket, Standard, Classic, and XL. Each type is distinguished by its adult height.

These dogs are medium-sized with compact muscular bodies and blocky heads. The head should be in proportion to the rest of the body and free of exaggeration. A broad skull, heavy bone structure, and pronounced cheek muscles are also characteristic features.

The American Bully Classic type is particularly similar to the Pitbull Terrier and Staffordshire Terrier breeds. It's relatively small, with a height of about 50 centimeters. Despite its physical differences, it shares the same gentle, friendly, and affectionate nature as other American Bullies.

Lineage

The Pitbull breed was first introduced in the UK by crossing the old English bulldog and old English terrier.

This unique combination led to the development of a distinct breed with its own characteristics. The American bully, on the other hand, was first introduced in the US as a breed by crossing the American Staffordshire terrier and the American Pitbull terrier.

Health and Care

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The American Bully Classic is a relatively low-maintenance breed, but like any other dog, they can be prone to certain health issues.

Their lifespan is typically between 9 to 13 years, which is shorter than that of Pitbulls on average. Proper care and monitoring are essential for them to thrive and grow into happy and healthy dogs.

They can be vulnerable to hip dysplasia, a condition that affects their joints, and obesity can exacerbate this issue. Regular exercise and monitored food intake can help prevent this condition.

Prone to Joint Issues

The American Bully is prone to joint issues, specifically hip dysplasia. This condition can be prevented with proper exercise and monitored food intake.

As the American Bully ages, it's essential to have them checked by canine orthopedic specialists to identify any potential skeletal problems early on.

Hip dysplasia can lead to obesity in the dog, making this condition even worse. Monitoring their food intake is crucial in preventing obesity-related issues.

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Demodicosis, a skin condition caused by mites, can also be a contributing factor to joint issues in American Bullies. However, this typically doesn't cause health issues aside from hair loss.

Skeletal and visual problems have been frequently reported in the breed, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cataracts. Regular check-ups with specialists can help identify these issues early on.

Exercise Needed

American Bullies are moderately active dogs that require at least 60 minutes of exercise daily to keep them happy.

They love games of tug and fetch which will give them a little more action and keep them on their toes.

Younger, more energetic American Bullies may require even more exercise-related activity.

Temperament and Training

The American Bully Classic is a people-orientated dog who craves company and loves to be around its family.

Both the American Bully and Pitbull are similar in temperament, with a friendly disposition that makes them great service dogs but not necessarily guard dogs unless specifically trained to do so.

They're highly intelligent, love to please, and are not prone to bumping or herding tendencies, making them relatively easy to train if you've got the right approach.

Temperament and Personality

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The American Bully is a confident dog that's not prone to skittish or unpredictable behavior, making it a great family pet.

They're highly intelligent and love to please, which means they respond well to training and socialization. This breed was specifically bred to have a low fighting drive, yet still retain a muscular build.

The American Bully is good-natured, protective of its owners, affectionate, loyal, and gentle, making them a great companion dog.

Both the American Bully and Pitbull share similar temperaments, being people-orientated dogs that crave company. They're fond of children and are often referred to as nanny dogs who will defend their family in the face of danger.

Not inherently aggressive, both breeds will defend themselves in a fight but are generally not the ones to start it. This is why they make great service dogs, but only if specifically trained for that purpose.

American Bully XLs are known for their friendly and gentle nature, as long as they're properly socialized and trained. They're calm and affectionate, showing aggression only when in unexperienced or "wrong" hands and not properly raised.

Both breeds have a low fighting drive, which means they're not naturally aggressive and will only defend themselves if provoked. This makes them great family pets for those who want a loyal companion.

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Training

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The American Bully is a highly intelligent dog that loves to please and thrive on positive reinforcement. This means they respond well to training, especially when done with patience and consistency.

However, their stubborn nature can make them more challenging to train than some other breeds, requiring an experienced owner who can coax the best out of them. Training should start from day one for both American Bullies and Pitbulls, but socialization is particularly crucial for the latter due to its dog fighting past.

Both dogs are incredibly responsive to training, with the added benefit that they're also great with children who can be a little rough at times. Despite their muscular build, they're not prone to herding or bumping tendencies and will tolerate kids' antics without getting agitated.

The American Bully's strength should never be underestimated, though - if not trained properly, it can overpower its owner. So, it's essential to establish clear boundaries and rules from the start, using positive reinforcement techniques to encourage good behavior.

With consistent training and socialization, an American Bully will become a loyal and gentle companion that's perfect for families or first-time dog owners. Just remember to be patient and firm, and you'll be rewarded with a loving and well-behaved furry friend.

Grooming and Care

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The American Bully Classic is a relatively low-maintenance dog breed when it comes to grooming.

Their short fur hair makes cleaning them more manageable compared to other dog breeds.

To keep your American Bully looking and feeling their best, aim to wash them at least once a month.

Regular weekly brushing routines can help minimize shedding and reduce dirt and debris collected between the fur.

Don't forget to keep an eye out for fleas, ticks, and lice as part of your grooming activities.

Nail clipping is also advised, as American Bullies' nails grow fast and need regular attention.

It's essential to monitor their food intake to prevent obesity, which can contribute to hip dysplasia in this breed.

Providing the appropriate levels of exercise for your American Bully can also help prevent this condition.

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Socialization and Family Life

The American Bully breed dog is a naturally social animal that loves being around people.

They require lots of socialization from a young age to learn how to react in a healthy way with other dogs and animals, preventing undesirable behavioral issues like aggression.

American Bullies are a great choice for family pets! They're loyal, loving, playful, and snuggly, making them perfect companions for families and kids.

Suitable for Families

A Teacher Hugging a Student Being Bullied in a Classroom
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American Bullies are a great choice for family pets. They're loyal, loving, playful, and snuggly – what more could you want?

This breed is fond of children and will love your kids like their own! They're perfect companions for families with little ones.

Their gentle nature makes them an excellent addition to households with kids, as they'll be patient and understanding.

Socialization Needs

American Bully dogs are naturally social animals that thrive on interaction with people.

They need lots of socialization from a young age to learn how to react in a healthy way around other dogs and animals, which can help prevent undesirable behavioral issues like aggression.

To ensure your American Bully gets along well with other dogs, it's essential to socialize them properly beforehand. If not done correctly, they might develop problems interacting with other canines.

American Bullies are amenable to being around other dogs once they've been socialized earlier on in life. However, it's crucial to avoid contact with territorialistic dogs, as this may lead to confrontations.

These dogs are perfect for families and kids! They're loyal, loving, playful, and snuggly – what more could you want? American Bullies are fond of children and will love your kids like their own.

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Notable on Instagram

Boy Sitting on Blue Chair While Holding a Message Against Bullying
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Instagram has become a popular platform for people to share their family life and connect with others.

Studies have shown that 71% of parents use social media to keep up with friends and family, while 45% use it to stay informed about current events.

People are more likely to post photos of happy moments, like vacations and holidays, than of stressful or mundane ones.

Health and Nutrition

The American Bully is generally considered a low-maintenance breed, but like any other dog, they can be prone to certain health issues.

They are vulnerable to hip dysplasia, which means it's essential to monitor their food intake and provide them with regular exercise to prevent obesity, a contributing factor to this condition. CBD Oil can also help treat hip dysplasia in American Bullies.

Cherry eye is another common issue in American Bullies, characterized by a large red obstruction in the eye, as well as ulcers on the cornea.

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Skin diseases like seborrhea and eczema are also prevalent in this breed, resulting in excessively dry or oily skin and dry, flaky patches of skin respectively.

Hotspots can develop due to parasites, allergies, or over-grooming, so regular grooming sessions and parasite control measures are crucial for their health.

On average, American Bullies have a shorter lifespan compared to Pitbulls, ranging from 9 to 13 years.

Their ancestry may provide clues to their health, with the American Pit Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier generally being in good health.

Life Expectancy and Rescue

The American Bully Classic is a beloved breed, and understanding its life expectancy can help you prepare for this special companion.

You can expect your American Bully to live up to 10-12 years if it's well-cared for and healthy.

As with any dog, rescue options should be considered if you're unable to provide a forever home.

Difference Between Pitbull

The American Bully is often confused with the Pitbull, but they're actually distinct breeds.

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One key difference between the two is size - the Pitbull tends to be more muscular and around 50 centimeters tall, while the American Bully has a larger head and shorter legs.

In contrast to the Pitbull, which can appear more serious, the American Bully is often described as more animated and playful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an American Bully just a pitbull?

American Bullies are a distinct breed developed from various breeds, including Pitbulls, but they are not simply another name for Pitbulls. While related, American Bullies have their own unique characteristics and history that set them apart from traditional Pitbulls.

What is the American Standard Bully?

What is the American Bully? The American Bully is a modern breed of dog developed as a companion dog, known for its strength and compact size.

What 2 breeds make an American Bully?

American Bullies are a result of crossing American Pit Bull Terriers with American Staffordshire Terriers. These two breeds were key in developing the American Bully's unique characteristics.

What makes a classic American Bully?

A Classic American Bully is characterized by a lighter body frame and compact build, while still showcasing bully traits. It's recognizable by its strong, thick-set structure.

What size is a classic bully?

Classic Bully size: Males are 17-20 inches tall, females 16-19 inches tall

Sources

  1. American Bully Dog Breed - Amazing Facts You Must Know! (worldanimalfoundation.org)
  2. American Bully Kennel Club (theabkcdogs.org)
  3. American Bully Crew (nybullycrew.org)
  4. American Bull Dog Rescue (americanbulldogrescue.org)
  5. Bully Paws Pit Bull Patriots (bullypaws.org)
  6. Rocket Dog Rescue (rocketdogrescue.org)
  7. @ZazaBully (instagram.com)
  8. American Bully (nationalkennelclub.com)
  9. xxlluxorbullys.com (xxlluxorbullys.com)
  10. American Bully: veja sobre sua origem ... (premierpet.com.br)

Roberto West

Senior Writer

Roberto West is a talented writer with a passion for storytelling. He has honed his craft through years of writing short stories, novels, and poetry, exploring a wide range of genres and themes. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of human nature, Roberto brings complex characters to life on the page.