American Bully facts for kids

Quick facts for kids
American Bully

American Bully
Common nicknames	Am. Bully Bully
Origin	United States
Traits Weight 30–40 kg (66–88 lb) Height 33–50 cm (13–20 in) Coat Short, smooth and glossy Color All colors Litter size 4-8 Life span 8-13 years
Domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris)

The American Bully is a newer type of dog that loves being with people. It was first recognized as a breed in 2004 by the American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC). Later, the United Kennel Club (UKC) also recognized it in 2013. This breed is known for its strong, muscular look. American Bullies can come in different sizes, from small "Pocket" types to very large "XL" types.

History of the American Bully

The American Bully breed started to be developed in the 1980s. Most of its look and personality were set in the 1990s. The main dog used to create the American Bully was the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT).

Over time, some APBTs developed a more muscular and stocky body. People wanted to make this specific look into a new breed. Other breeds like the American Bulldog, English Bulldog, and Olde English Bulldog were also used. This helped to get the desired strong body and friendly personality.

The American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC) first recognized the breed in 2004. They wanted to create a dog that was a loving companion. They also wanted a dog with a strong, wide body. This is why many American Bullies today have that broad, muscular front.

American Bully Varieties

The American Bully comes in different sizes. The ABKC divides them into four main types based on their height. All these types are expected to look similar, with only small differences.

Young dogs are first called "Standard" until they are one year old. After that, they are placed into their specific size group.

Standard American Bully

A Standard American Bully

The Standard American Bully is a medium-sized dog. It has a strong, muscular body, heavy bones, and a blocky head. Male dogs are usually between 17 to 20 inches (43 to 51 cm) tall. Female dogs are typically 16 to 19 inches (40 to 48 cm) tall.

Pocket American Bully

A Pocket American Bully

The "Pocket" type is a smaller version of the American Bully. Adult males are under 17 inches (43 cm) tall, but not shorter than 14 inches (36 cm). Adult females are under 16 inches (40 cm) tall, but not shorter than 13 inches (33 cm).

XL American Bully

The "XL" type is a larger American Bully. Adult males are between 21 inches (51 cm) and 23 inches (57 cm) tall. Adult females are between 19 inches (48 cm) and 22 inches (54 cm) tall.

Classic American Bully

The "Classic" type is lighter and less bulky than the Standard. It is the same height as the Standard type. These dogs look more like their American Pit Bull Terrier or American Staffordshire Terrier ancestors. They do not have the very exaggerated features seen in other types.

Unofficial American Bully Types

Some American Bullies are bred to be even shorter or taller than the recognized types. Very small dogs are sometimes called "Micro" Bullies. Very large ones are called "XXL" Bullies. However, these names are not officially recognized by kennel clubs.

American Bully Temperament

The American Bully is a very adaptable and smart dog. They are often loving and loyal companions. Many of these dogs enjoy playing sports like weight pull and flirt pole. Breeders try to make sure American Bullies are friendly with both people and other dogs. Aggression is not a desired trait in this breed.

American Bully Health

Like all dog breeds, American Bullies can have some health issues. Some types might have more problems than others. It's important for breeders to test their dogs for common health concerns.

Hip and elbow problems are often checked for in this breed. Eye conditions like cherry eye and entropion can also occur. Some dogs with very short noses might have breathing difficulties.

Images for kids

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  Standard type in side view

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  Champion XL American Bully Stud

See also

In Spanish: American bully para niños