The American Bully is a relatively new breed developed through selective breeding from the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and other bully breeds. Since their inception in the United States in the mid-1990s, these dogs have gained popularity for their impressive physique, gentle demeanor, and unwavering loyalty. Characterized by their stocky build and muscular frame, this breed comes in various sizes, including Standard, Classic, Pocket, and American XL Bully. As with any dog breed, however, it’s important to know the pros and cons of owning an American Bully to understand what to expect from this unique breed.
Pros of an American Bully
American Bullies are extremely loyal and make good family dogs
American Bullies are known for their extreme loyalty to their families. This breed goes above and beyond to protect and show affection to their owners. Contrary to the fearsome image often associated with their muscular build, American Bullies have a gentle and friendly temperament. As a result, they can be excellent family dogs, especially in households with children. What’s more, they form strong bonds with their families and are particularly sensitive to their emotional atmosphere.
The American Bully dog requires less grooming due to their short coat
With their short coat, American Bullies are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Regular brushing is typically enough to keep their coat healthy and shiny, without the need for frequent baths. This makes the American Bully an ideal pet for those who may not have the time or desire for extensive grooming routines.
These dogs are adaptable to various living situations
American Bullies are adaptable and can thrive in various living situations. Whether you have a large backyard or live in an apartment, they can adjust as long as you provide them with sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. Their adaptable nature also means they handle changes in routine better than many other breeds.
American Bullies are generally healthy dogs
Compared to many purebred dogs, American Bullies are generally healthy with fewer inherited health issues. Responsible breeding practices have helped to ensure that many of the health problems common in their Pit Bull ancestors are less prevalent. However, like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain genetic conditions such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia.
The American Bully’s temperament makes them ideal emotional support animals
Given their gentle and affectionate nature, American Bullies make excellent emotional support animals (ESAs). They possess a calming presence and can provide comfort to individuals suffering from various mental health issues. Their loyalty and ability to sense their owner’s emotional state make them perfect for this supportive role.
Cons of an American Bully
This bully breed requires significant exercise
While their adaptability to different living situations is a pro, American Bullies are a high-energy breed that requires ample physical activity, which can be seen as a con for some. Without regular exercise, they can become restless and exhibit unwanted behaviors. Moreover, if not exercised properly and fed a balanced diet, American Bullies can easily become overweight. As such, it’s essential to commit to an active regimen to keep your Bully healthy and well-behaved.
Purchasing an American Bully for sale from a breeder may cost you a lot
In terms of how much an American Bully can cost, the price can vary widely depending on factors such as pedigree, lineage, and physical attributes like color and size. Nonetheless, this bully breed can be quite expensive. On average, an American Bully puppy from reputable breeders can cost you around $2,000 to $10,000 or even more.
While purchasing from a breeder is one way to acquire an American Bully, adopting from a rescue organization or shelter is a highly rewarding alternative that also comes with a lower financial burden. Adoption fees are significantly less than buying from a breeder, often including vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and sometimes microchipping. By choosing adoption, not only are you providing a loving home to a dog in need, but you’re also taking a stand against the overbreeding and commercial exploitation of dogs.
American Bullies are best suited for experienced dog parents
Due to their strength and determination, American Bullies do best with pet parents who have experience with similar breeds. They need a firm, consistent hand in training to ensure they grow into well-mannered adults. Inexperienced owners might find managing this breed challenging without seeking professional training assistance.
The American XL bully breed is subject to breed-specific legislation due to unfair stereotypes
Owning an American Bully often means facing public scrutiny and breed stigma. Misconceptions about their aggression and legality can lead to social challenges, affecting where they are allowed and how they are perceived by the public and in social settings. Although specific legislation can vary by location, American XL Bullies are not generally banned in the United States. Some places may have restrictions or requirements for ownership, but outright bans are rare. Always check local laws and regulations before deciding to bring an American Bully into your home.
That said, it’s important to note that no dog breed is inherently “aggressive” or “dangerous.” Every dog is an individual, and their behavior is primarily influenced by their upbringing, training, and environment.
American Bullies are a target for dog theft
Due to their high value, striking appearance, and popularity, American Bullies can easily catch the eye of thieves looking for a lucrative opportunity. These individuals attempt to make a profit from selling them or, in some cases, using them for illegal dog fighting rings. To ensure the safety of your American Bully, consider implementing measures such as microchipping, keeping your yard secure, and avoiding leaving your dog unattended in public spaces. Additionally, being cautious about sharing too much information on social media about your pet can also help in minimizing risks.
Is an American Bully the right dog for you?
With proper care, training, and socialization, an American Bully can indeed be a gentle, loving, and loyal family member. While they do come with a set of needs and challenges, like any breed, understanding and meeting these needs can lead to a rewarding companionship. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider both the pros and cons before deciding if an American Bully is the right breed for your household.
