An American Bully, despite its name, is not a bully at all. If you’re a frequent visitor to dog parks, you might have seen a big-headed goofball of a dog attempting to shake people’s hands with its paw. Often mistaken for a pit bull, people are generally wary of this breed, but once they get to know one, they understand that an American Bully is nothing but a huge bundle of love!
A List of Things You Must Know Before Getting an American Bully
If you’re considering getting this bully breed for yourself and your family, you should read up as much as possible before making the final decision to bring one home. We have compiled a list of questions and answers to give you a general idea about this tough-looking gentle fellow.
1. Is The American Bully A Pit Bull?
Short answer: No!
People often think of American Bully as a pit bull, but in actuality, these two breeds are very different from each other. Guaranteed, the American bully has been created using pit bull as the breed base, but it is not a pit bull. Compared to a pit bull, an American Bully has a bigger head, smaller legs, and a stockier build.
A relatively new breed brought into existence about 30 to 35 years ago, American Bullies are often stigmatized for resembling pit bulls. In truth, this breed has a soft and calm personality and is friendly, beautiful, and very sweet. They have been bred using various breeds, including the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and French and English Bulldogs.
2. Is an American Bully Compatible with Large Families?
The loving nature of an American Bully makes this breed a perfect companion for small and large families. They are gentle and playful around babies and toddlers, and are, therefore, the perfect play partners. Introducing them to a new member of the family is not a hassle.
They love to curl up next to their family members and put their heads on people’s laps, the sign of a perfect lapdog. This breed oozes love! Their owners are blessed with loads of licks and kisses throughout the day, and in return, they only demand love and affection. Their loyalty to their family makes them amazing family pets, equally loved by all.
3. What Are the Known Health Issues Among American Bullies?
The American Bully is a healthy dog breed. Unlike some dogs who are prone to illnesses, the problems faced by this breed are usually genetic.
Even though the specific health issues faced by the American Bully are not fully established, owing to the breed being relatively new, we have created a list of the most commonly occurring health issues faced by them:
Hip Dysplasia: This causes the dog pain and makes it hard for them to walk on one or both rear legs.
Cherry Eye: Protruding gland under the third eyelid. Your vet will remove the cherry-like object from your dog’s eye.
Elbow Dysplasia: Difference in bone growth rates makes this a common occurrence in large dogs. It requires surgical treatment.
In addition, these dogs are at risk of suffering from a nervous system disorder, neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, which causes swelling and some changes in the retinal cells. Other less occurring diseases could be entropion, kidney or thyroid conditions, or bone cancer. Please note that large dogs usually suffer from the same diseases; hence these have been added to the list. It does not mean the pup you get will have any of these for sure.
Some dogs genetically inherit one or more of these diseases, and that’s why it is easier to track and treat them. If you buy your bully from a breeder with a good reputation, you do not risk getting an ill dog, and your new pet will have fewer chances of suffering from a health condition.
4. How Difficult Is It to Train an American Bully?
American Bullies are smart dogs. They easily pick up commands and understand what is required of them. Training this breed is not hard and requires positive reinforcement, treat-motivations, and frequent rewards, such as praises and belly rubs. Like other breeds, training should start at a young age, so the pup grows up to be an obedient and well-mannered dog. Training also helps stimulate their minds and develops a strong bond between the pup and the trainer.
In the first few weeks of your puppy’s arrival, they should get a lot of cuddles, exercise, and playtime to gain stamina and grow into a strong and healthy dog. Formal training can wait till the puppy is 4 months old.
A brief training session works better than long strenuous sessions. Five-to-10-minute stretches at a time are a good starting point for a pup. This breed is eager to please, so training them is not a difficult task. Make sure your dog feels loved and a part of your family at all times.
5. What is Their Personality Like?
American Bullies are one of the gentlest, most affectionate, and loving breeds. Unable to process their large size and heavyweight, they consider themselves lap dogs and are great playmates for kids.
An American bully is fiercely loyal and very protective of its owners. They’ve been known to show a little uncertainty around unknown people.
In addition, they are very attentive, alert, confident, and a perfect breed for training. In the absence of an alpha owner or a pack leader, they tend to establish their dominance and may cause trouble with training and boundaries. Let the dog know you’re in charge and keep them occupied so they don’t get bored.
Conclusion
Getting an American Bully for your family is one of the best and most rewarding decisions you may make! These dogs take a little time to get accustomed to new people, experiences, and animals and make extremely loving pets, but it’s all worth it when you consider how much love they have to offer.
With the option to go out, stretch their legs, and play, they require a constant outlet to release energy. An American Bully will fare equally well in big and small houses and apartments with ample time to play outside. In cold or wet weather, you can substitute visits to a dog park and walks around the block with a jog on a treadmill.
