Bully pocket size health problems. Compactness and power - American Bully: characteristics of the dog breed, standard build types. American Bully training

The American Bull (Bully) is a relatively recently developed dog breed. Despite their apparent seriousness, they were specifically designed to be human companions, so they are affectionate and kind in nature, at least until their human is threatened. We will tell you about the valuable breed qualities of American bullies, the breed standard and relationships with humans in the material presented to your attention.

Despite their stockiness, American Bulls are very large dogs.

The work of breeders working on the development of the American bully started directly in the 1980s. The goal of this work was to create a companion and protector dog with more advanced breed qualities of its ancestors. By the way, representatives of pure and valuable breeds were taken as the basis for creating a new human friend:

  • Old English bulldogs;
  • Staffordshire bull terriers;
  • French bulldogs.

The companion dog had to not only be able to sensitively detect changes in the owner’s mood, but also become a real show pet that would:

  • inherited the spectacular appearance of his ancestors;
  • completely lost his zoo aggression.

It was imperative to solve the problem of aggressive attitude towards other animals, since the predecessors of the American Bully were used for:

  • hunting for medium and large game;
  • fights in dog rings.

The English Bulldog is the ancestor of the breed we are interested in

It was easy to improve the appearance and physical characteristics of the animal, but adjusting the character took a much longer time. However, already in 2004, the new American Bully breed was recognized in America and entered into the appropriate registries.

What does an American Bully look like?

The set of appearance parameters characteristic of a particular breed of dog is called the breed standard. This standardized description of the exterior also exists for the American Bully. Let's move on to consider it.

Body type

The breed of dog we are interested in is a large animal with a body:

  • with developed muscles;
  • stocky;
  • standing firmly on the ground.

The strength of such an animal’s body is understandable even to people who are not knowledgeable about the breed.

The power of the American Bully is obvious

Obesity is very rare for these dogs because:

  • firstly, because their muscles burn any amount of incoming calories;
  • secondly, due to the fact that American Bullies prefer constant physical activity;
  • thirdly, because obesity is like death for them, and owners prefer to keep their pets on a diet that suits their needs.

This dog looks like one lump of muscle, while dried out and menacing.

The shoulders of these dogs are wide, but at the same time they look neat. They are noticeably drawn back, which gives the appearance that the dog is standing very firmly on the ground.

Interesting fact: the length of the animal's shoulder is equal to the same indicator taken from its shoulder blade. These two elements of the dog's body are connected at an angle. The animal's wrists and forearms are evenly shaped, without bends.

The animal's chest is wide, since its paws stand clearly at the edges of the body. The ribs have a rounded shape. The muscular back of the dog also does not have obvious deflections; the slope is observed immediately before its transition into an animal.

Limbs

The dog's strong paws are as muscular as other parts of his body. At the same time, the hind and forelimbs are almost the same size. As for the tail, it is narrow, located low relative to the body and tapers towards the tip.

Height and weight

According to the breed standard, there are four types of American Bullies, which differ from each other in the following parameters:

  • height.

Let's look at them in more detail in the table below.

Table. Types of American Bullies

KindsDescription
StandardRepresentatives of this type meet all the characteristics specified in the breed standard for these dogs. Their indicators will be as follows:
  • for males, height will be from 43 to 51 centimeters, weight from 27 to 38 kilograms;
  • bitches will be 40-48 centimeters tall, while their weight ranges from 25 to 35 kilograms
  • PocketPocket bulls, of course, do not at all resemble a decorative dog, but representatives of this category are so much smaller in height and weight than their larger relatives that this difference is noticeable even to non-professionals. So, their parameters will be as follows:
  • the maximum height of a male reaches 43 centimeters, while the weight varies between 20-25 kilograms;
  • the maximum height of a female is 40 centimeters, but the weight varies from 18 to 23 kilograms
  • ExtremeThe category differs from the standard representative of the breed only in its greater skeletal weight, volume of muscle tissue, and, accordingly, record weight.

    In addition, external differences also affected:

  • less tight fit of lips to jaws;
  • the presence of a dewlap around the neck;
  • the joints responsible for jumping are slightly directed outward;
  • the back of the croup is higher than usual.

    The weight of representatives of this breed ranges from 50 to 55 kilograms, and their height reaches 53-55 centimeters

  • ClassicalRepresentatives of this type of breed are essentially standard boules, except that they have much lighter bones, and, consequently, weight.

    So, the approximate indicators for representatives of this breed will be almost the same, only the weight will decrease for males and females by 2-5 kilograms

    XLRepresentatives of this category are essentially no different from extreme boules, except for their height.

    So:

  • in bitches it can be 48-56 centimeters;
  • in males 51-58.

    In addition, the desired variety is also characterized by all the external breed changes found in extreme bullies.

  • Head and neck

    Representatives of this breed have a large head, heavy in weight, and:

    • really wide;
    • having clear outlines.

    The well-developed muscles of the animal are also visible on it, especially the cheeks protruding. The length of the head is average, while it is crowned with a fairly wide, square muzzle, despite the obvious shortening of which, the dog does not have any respiratory problems. The animal’s neck is strong and wide, the head is firmly attached to it. There is a slight expansion towards the shoulders.

    The nose of these animals can be colored in various colors, but cannot be light pink, this is considered a deviation from the breed standard. The bridge of the nose has a straight shape. The nostrils are open and large in size.

    This breed can keep its ears in their natural shape, however, as a rule, they are cropped and seriously shortened.

    The shape of the eye sockets resembles almonds, while each of them is located at a distance from each other. The seating of the organs of vision is deep. The conjunctiva is practically invisible. The color of the iris is usually dark.

    As for the jaws, they are, of course, strong, because these dogs are descendants of hunting breeds. Lip apposition varies:

    • from dense;
    • close, but not dense.

    Sometimes the corners of their lips droop.

    Coat

    Despite the fact that it seems that American Bullies are hairless animals, this is fundamentally not the case. Their powerful bodies are covered with dense and short hair, thick but tough.

    As for colors, they can be varied, but in order to recognize a particular puppy as a representative of the breed we are interested in, the following conditions must be met:

    • the spots should have clear outlines;
    • The puppy must not be covered with merle-colored hair.

    In the first case, we are talking about a general rule that is understandable to all dog breeders. The second implies not only the avoidance of colors uncharacteristic of the breed standard, but also the prevention of further breeding of potentially aggressive and sick animals.

    Note: The “merle” color can only be obtained by artificially adding a gene of the same name to the American Bully genotype, which not only changes the color and pattern of the dog’s coat, but also:

    • disrupts the development and further functioning of the animal’s nervous system;
    • causes such dogs to be predisposed to aggression towards other animals and humans;
    • also contributes to disturbances in the circulatory, digestive, immune and other systems of the animal’s body.

    American Bully: a fierce fighter or a good friend?

    As we mentioned above, this breed was bred to become:

    • human companion;
    • show pet.

    In other words, American Bullies inherited only positive traits from their ancestors:

    • spectacular appearance;
    • people-oriented;
    • contact;
    • equilibrium.

    It is almost impossible to piss off this colossus. Such an impressive-looking pet will peacefully endure:

    • stares;
    • curious animals;
    • annoying children, etc.

    The American Bully is a family dog ​​as it truly falls in love with every member of the pack. However, of course, he remains especially loyal to only one of them – the owner.

    American Bullies have excellent relationships with children. The fact is that this dog will try to please its owner in everything, so if the owner wants it to play with children, it will do so. However, some caution should be exercised, since the weight of this dog is significant and if it accidentally comes into contact with fragile parts of a child’s body, it can cause damage.

    However, not everyone will be so kind and affectionate to the American Bully. In his character, a cheerful, kind-hearted man and a zealous guardian of the territory and the owner’s peace of mind coexist perfectly. The bully will not be the first to provoke a conflict; he will first warn the enemy about this possibility with a guttural growl. But if an animal sees that its beloved owner is being insulted, bad luck will come to the attacker. He'll be lucky if he manages to get away with it.

    These dogs are only kind to their people - they will not tolerate intruders

    However, in addition to a person and his pack, a dog can also successfully protect:

    • territory of residence;
    • specific property.

    Provided that the owners pay enough attention to the dog, living in an apartment or house with other animals is allowed.

    Unfortunately, if you are looking for your first puppy, the American Bully is not the breed for you. It clearly requires:

    • constant active games;
    • maintaining discipline;
    • classes with a dog handler.

    Training

    Representatives of this breed learn various commands very effectively and quickly. As we have already said, this pet potentially belongs to the show class, so it can perform at exhibitions and win medals. The more you reward your animal during training, the more pliable it will become. In this case, the following are accepted for encouragement:

    • verbal praise;
    • stroking and patting;
    • treats for dogs.

    Representatives of this type of dog want to please their owner so much that for some of them a kind voice and joy emanating from the owner will be a much more pleasant reward than tasty food.

    The sooner a dog is socialized, the better. At the same time, it is important to carry out socialization on all fronts:

    • regarding a person;
    • relative to other animals.

    They begin to raise the animal at the age of 2-3 months, while attending courses or learning commands begins at about six months, with the exception of protection and guard classes. It is very important not to attend this particular course until the animal is 2-3 years old, otherwise irreversible changes in its psyche may occur.

    Important to remember: Even a small poodle can be aggressive. Despite the efforts of dog breeders, the genes responsible for its presence are also present in American bullies. However, unless you intentionally wake them up, there is no need to be afraid of the animals.

    The American Bully can live both in a house and in an apartment. It is worth mentioning separately about living on the street:

    • in countries with a warm climate, the animal will be able to live in an enclosure;
    • in the conditions of a classic Russian winter, even with a slight minus, the dog will quickly get sick and die, since it has practically no hair.

    This dog needs long and frequent walks. Ideally, you will be outside for several hours, about three times a day.

    The animal sheds in a moderate amount, provided that you bathe it at least occasionally (once a month is optimal) and run a brush through its fur, this circumstance will not become a problem.

    Note: If you get such an animal in areas with a cold climate, the animal will have to purchase a blanket or overalls for the winter.

    It is very important on time:

    • trim the dog’s nails if they don’t wear off on the asphalt;
    • clean her ears from accumulated wax.

    American Bullies are unfortunately prone to oral problems such as tartar. Therefore, a small puppy needs to be taught to clean his teeth with a brush, so that later he can brush without problems at intervals of 2-3 times a week.

    What to feed boules?

    The owner decides what the bully will eat. Today there are two directions of feeding:

    • natural food;
    • industrial feed.

    There are many arguments for each direction. Whatever you choose, remember that at least 70% of the animal’s daily diet should be protein. It turns out this:

    • you can buy a holistic food with a high protein content and give your dog its daily portion twice a day;
    • ensure the supply of protein to the animal by feeding mainly meat, fish, and offal.

    It is very important that the dog does not suffer from vitamin deficiency. Holistic food is initially saturated with vitamins, so there is no need to purchase additional ones, but adherents of natural nutrition will have to consult a veterinarian and buy suitable ones.

    Breed diseases

    Unfortunately, like any other breed, American Bullies have predispositions to specific ailments. This is about:

    • development of cataracts;
    • atrophy of the nervous system of the visual apparatus;
    • heart muscle failure;
    • dental plaque;
    • periodontitis, etc.

    In addition, these dogs do not tolerate heat well and are hypersensitive to various skin diseases. That is why it is better to decide on a veterinary clinic from puppyhood and go there for regular checkups.

    Provided that you pay close attention to the health of your pet, its life expectancy can be 15 years

    Where to buy an American Bully puppy?

    In our country, as well as in European countries, these wonderful dogs have not yet gained popularity, but everything is moving towards this. In the big cities of our homeland, nurseries have already been created in which the best representatives of this breed are born.

    Caution should be exercised: do not buy dogs of this breed secondhand. Many breeders try to pass off the harmless dog we are considering as a quite serious pit bull terrier, which will be much more difficult to deal with.

    As for the price, the average cost of a puppy of such a dog is approximately 150 thousand Russian rubles. However, this value may vary depending on indicators such as:

    • presence of pedigree;
    • nursery location;
    • external characteristics;
    • gender, etc.

    If you take the cheapest puppy, then perhaps it will cost you 80 thousand rubles. It is unlikely that you will be able to buy a dog of this breed even cheaper.

    Let's sum it up

    The American Bully is a wonderful dog in every way. Her friendliness and desire to please her owner make her an excellent companion, who, despite her formidable appearance, need not be afraid. It is important to remember that ultimately the dog’s behavior and life are a reflection of the owner’s attitude. Love your bully and he will love you back.

    Video – American Bullies

    They took them out, they took them out, they took them out. The American Bully breed appeared quite recently, but is rapidly gaining popularity, winning the hearts of dog breeders around the world.

    A small, athletic hero, he bravely endures children's pranks and is good-natured towards family friends.

    At the end of the 20th century, breeders in Virginia and Southern California created the American Bully by crossing the American Pit Bull Terrier with other similar breeds, and the Old English Bulldog.

    Bullies became widely known in the world at the beginning of our 21st century, and popularity has come to them quite recently - over the past 5 years.

    It is often confused with - they are very similar in appearance.

    Description of the breed

    The American Bully's conformation standard has not yet been accepted internationally (FCI), but On July 1, 2013, the United Kennel Club approved the national breed standard.

    This is a small dog, but with developed muscle mass and a square head.

    The heavy bone does not prevent the dog from moving freely.

    The body and head look massive, which distinguishes the breed from the rest. The ears are set high and stand up naturally, but most breeders stop them.

    Eyes can be any color but only without signs of albinism.


    A clearly defined massive mouth with tightly fitting lips, an attentive and intelligent expression.

    The nose is dense and large with wide nostrils— it allows the bully to breathe well and be resilient.

    Strong neck without sagging skin looks powerful and businesslike.

    Large athletic shoulders flow into strong short legs.

    The dog's bulky body looks intimidating, but without excesses. A developed chest with widely spaced paws gives the fighting past of the ancestor of the American bully, the pit bull.

    A square physique should be balanced with the muscles of the limbs.

    Medium sized tail set low, lowered in a calm state, raised up in an excited state.

    The coat is short, dense, pleasant to the touch has a varied range of colors, only the “Merle” color is unacceptable.

    The American Bully must be fit and hold up athletic without signs of obesity.

    Types of American Bully (descending):

    • type XL— male height 51-58 cm, female height 48-56 cm at the withers;
    • standard- male height 43 - 51 cm, female 40 - 48 cm;
    • classic- more slender compared to the standard type, but the height at the withers is the same - male height is 43 -51 cm, female height is 40 - 48 cm;
    • pocket male height is up to 43 cm, female height is up to 40 cm at the withers.

    The standard type is the basis of the breed.


    The American bully pocket is lower than the standard bully, and the XL type is higher than the standard type, the classic type has less weight.

    Basic disqualifying signs:

    • aggressive or cowardly behavior;
    • albinism;
    • merle color;
    • cryptorchidism;
    • deafness.

    Characteristics, abilities, skills

    American Bully - the favorite of the whole family, always strives to please and be adored.

    Not aggressive towards other family members or animals, even if they are cats.

    Excerpt from the breed standard: “ aggressive behavior in relation to people for this breed uncharacteristic and highly undesirable».

    "Knight Brave Heart" will always defend the owner and his family, he captures the owner’s mood at a glance.

    Bullies have a special, gentle attitude towards children; dogs patiently endure all children's pranks and whims. This very responsible dog You can let your child go outside with him - nothing bad will happen.

    The bully learns commands quickly and actively, loves praise and strives to please the owner. Raising a puppy begins at 2-3 months.

    They are especially keenly aware of the hierarchy in the family - the puppy must get used to the leader is the master and only he determines the boundaries of what is permitted.


    Poor upbringing can lead to aggressive behavior, which is very dangerous - such a dog can tear the enemy into pieces.

    A naturally stubborn dog will strive to dominate and set its own rules. Therefore, the American Bully is suitable for an experienced dog breeder, not worth learning for a beginnerwith himtraining skills.

    This is a heat-loving nature - the bully has practically no fur, he loves the warmth and comfort of a city apartment.

    To maintain health it is necessary frequent long walks at least 3 times a day.

    They bathe it about once a month, then brush it, then it’s not scary. as needed, once a week.

    Particular attention will have to be paid to the oral cavity - in this breed tendency to tartar, Therefore, they brush their teeth 2-3 times a week.

    Feeding an American Bully is not much different from other dogs - The diet can be based on both dry food and natural food.

    When feeding natural food, it is better to use boiled beef with porridge (rice, buckwheat), cottage cheese no more than 3 times a week, fresh fruits and vegetables, and also add vitamin complexes as recommended by a veterinarian.

    It is better to take dry food - you should not skimp on such a dog. With proper care, they will please the owner for 12-14 years.

    For future owners

    The main advantages of the breed:

    • friendliness and playfulness;
    • love for all family members;
    • Easy to care for - little wool.
    • high cost of a puppy;
    • hyperactivity.

    The average price of a puppy varies from 150 to 350 thousand rubles, which is due to the rarity and exoticism of this young breed.

    Nurseries:

    • "AntreaBulls" Leningrad region, Kamennogorsk city;
    • "Russian Bulls" St. Petersburg;
    • "American Dream" Moscow;
    • "Family Bully" Vologda.

    The cost of a puppy is high, the breed is rare, so Scammers are selling pit bulls under the guise of American Bullies. In infancy, only a professional can distinguish them. What to do? Buy a puppy only from trusted nurseries that have existed for several years, check the available documents.

    In conclusion, the appearance of this strong, muscular dog is deceptive: he very affectionate, obedient, quite smart, responsive and loyal.

    The breed is very rare in our country, but the demand for it is very high. Why? American Bully is An ideal companion dog, loves to walk and play, affectionate with all family members.

    Additionally, check out a short video about the American Bully dog ​​breed:

    Today I want to tell you about a breed of dog called the American Bully. I’ll tell you about the dog’s character traits, who it’s suitable for, as well as the rules for keeping the breed. In addition, in this article you will learn the breed standards, average prices in nurseries, and what you should pay attention to when buying a puppy.

    Description of the American Bully breed

    The American Bully is a young dog breed that was developed in the United States in the mid-1990s. The goal of the breeders was to obtain a companion dog with a good character, but with the appearance of a fighting dog.

    It is believed that it was obtained through the selection of two breeds with difficult characters and aggressive tendencies, namely American Pit Bull Terriers and Staffordshire Terriers.

    It has not been recognized by the international community, but there is a certain standard of appearance registered in the American Breed Club.

    There are 4 main varieties, namely:

    • Standard: males 43-48 cm, females 40-45 cm;
    • Classic: males 45-48 cm, females 42-45 cm;
    • Pocket: males up to 43 cm, females up to 40 cm.
    • XL: males over 50 cm, females over 48 cm.

    According to the characteristics, American Bullies have short and coarse hair, all colors are possible. The bully has a broad-boned head with a flat skull and is short in length. The muzzle is shorter than the skull, the transition is clearly visible, and can be square or round. Eyes are medium or small in size.

    The body is described as massive, with protruding muscles and elastic skin. The tail is short, set low, and, as a rule, not docked. The paws are medium in size, well arched. The gait is free, and sometimes springy.

    On average, the lifespan of an American Bully is 12-13 years.

    Care and maintenance rules

    Bully is able to live in an apartment and, as a rule, does not need active walks. The dog only needs two walks a day, morning and evening. Allowed with weights, in a special vest. This will make the dog look more menacing.

    During walks, the dog grinds its claws down on its own. Short hair does not need constant brushing. You can comb it a couple of times a week. Feeding a bully is no different from feeding other similar dogs.

    A puppy up to six months should eat about 4-6 times a day, then you can feed 3-4 times a day. After one year, you can feed once or twice a day. It is advisable to feed rice, buckwheat or wheat porridges. The diet must include meat, preferably boiled beef.

    If there is no time to cook, it is allowed to feed dry food, preferably the highest class.

    Character


    Despite its menacing and frightening appearance, the dog has a rather kind and friendly character. It can perform any actions only with the approval of its owner. He loves children, treats strangers peacefully in most cases, and does not enter into conflict situations.

    Treats other dogs and small animals calmly.

    In some cases, it can show aggression towards its own kind, but this happens extremely rarely. Not suitable for hunters, as there is not enough aggression. But it can very well prove itself as a protective dog.

    Bully cannot stand it when family members or the owner himself are offended, and in this case he will not back down until death.

    At a young age, it is advisable to show where his place is in the family, as he may try to “seize power.” This is why the dog is not recommended for older people, people with a soft character, as well as those who do not have experience in keeping a dog of a similar breed.

    Training

    Before starting the training itself, it is advisable to establish contact with your pet. Accustom the dog to daily walks, to his diet, and show him where he can go to the toilet and where he can’t.

    The dog is easy to train, thanks to its high intelligence and ability to quickly remember commands. But it’s better not to do the training yourself, because despite its intelligence, the dog remains close to the fighting dog.

    Health and diseases inherent in the breed

    The American Bully is one of the healthiest breeds and has good immunity to a number of diseases characteristic of purebred dogs. But still, the breed also has its “weak points”, one of them is cardiovascular diseases.

    The main symptoms of this disease are:

    • Drowsiness;
    • Lethargy, shortness of breath;
    • Frequent fainting;
    • Loss of coordination.

    The American Bully is one of the healthiest breeds

    For prevention, you should go to the veterinarian every year for an examination.

    The second common disease in ambullies is joints. At the slightest lameness, it is recommended to immediately contact a veterinarian. Monitor your pet carefully, because the sooner the disease is detected, the easier and more effective it will be to fight it.

    As for the dog's vaccinations, it depends on the situation.

    When purchasing a puppy from a kennel, you should be vaccinated against canine tracheobronchitis. But if your puppy is susceptible to ticks, a Lyme shot is recommended.

    After vaccinations, it is better not to bathe your pet. It is also worth reducing the walking time to a minimum, since after the procedures the pet is as weakened as possible.

    Puppy cost

    Am Bullies are popular in the United States, but in Europe and the CIS countries the breed is only gaining popularity.

    For example, in Russia there are only 2 American Bull nurseries. One of them is near Moscow, and the second is near St. Petersburg. You can also purchase a puppy from a private breeder, but the risk of running into a dishonest seller is extremely high.


    Approximate cost of a puppy:

    • In Russia: ranges from 155 to 360 thousand rubles.
    • Europe: starts from 700 euros.
    • USA: from 500 to 6000 US dollars
    • Ukraine: from 50 to 150 thousand UAH.

    Is it worth it to breed puppies on your own?

    Since the breed is exotic and rare in the CIS countries, the cost of an Ambulli puppy is quite high.

    It will not be easy to achieve trust from puppy buyers, and few people will decide to purchase a pet from unknown breeders at such a price. Therefore, you should not breed puppies yourself.

    As a conclusion, we can easily say that this is one of the most interesting dog breeds. The breed is suitable for lovers of fighting dogs, as well as married couples with children, because how you raise a dog is how it will show itself in the future.

    The American Bully is a rather rare breed in Europe and the CIS countries, so the cost of a puppy is not cheap, which makes you think about purchasing an American Bully pet.

    History of the origin of the American Bully breed, its purpose, standard of appearance, character, health, advice on care and training. Purchase price.

    The content of the article:

    Looking at the powerful, squat American bully with the body of a “jock” bodybuilder, with the outstretched paws of a crocodile, a suitcase head and strong fanged jaws, it is difficult to imagine that in front of you is not an all-crushing monster dog, but a sweet and friendly dog, a great lover of children and cheerful games. But this is true. Its creators managed to obtain just such a ferocious-looking but completely gentle breed.

    Origin of the American Bully breed


    The history of this breed is not particularly long. The American Bully is a very young breed, bred by dog ​​breeders in the United States (mainly in the states of Southern California and Virginia) in the mid-90s of the last century.

    The breeders' goal was simple and complex at the same time. They wanted a companion dog with an affectionate nature, but a fearsome fighting appearance. And if there were no problems with the menacing appearance, then I had to suffer with the character. Moreover, they had to cross far from good-natured gentlemen, but magnificent fighting dogs, with difficult characters and very aggressive inclinations. It is believed that the breed was obtained by breeding Staffordshire Terriers and American Pit Bull Terriers. But many dog ​​handlers believe that this could not have happened without the participation of Amstaff, English and American bulldogs. The breeders themselves, as usual, keep the true origin of the breed secret.

    For a long time, breeders and breeders did not succeed; aggression penetrated too deeply into the genotypes of the breeds being crossed. Probably, more than two centuries of history of participation in dog fighting had an effect. And when they finally managed to solve this difficult problem, official canine organizations refused to accept the new breed for a long time, considering the bred dogs only a variety of the most common pit bulls. Unfortunately, this opinion still exists today, and fans of the pit bull and amstaff breeds believe that the appearance of bully dogs is an “invasion” of their classic breeds. Which in the future will lead to the mixing of purebred animals with “new mestizos”, to their loss of exterior and working qualities. And their dissatisfaction is quite justified, as not very conscientious breeders often cross Bullies with Amstaffs or American Pit Bull Terriers, actually producing mixed breeds and further confusing the official standards.

    However, at present, the new breed is officially recognized, has several types (varieties) with their own evaluation standards and is gaining great popularity among fans of medium and large dogs.

    Currently, there are the following types of these strong Americans:

    • standard (Standard American Bully);
    • classic (Classic American Bully);
    • Pocket Bully;
    • extra Large (Extra Large or XL).
    However, some associations also have their own additional (not generally recognized) classification of bully types according to size and exterior.

    Of particular interest to fans of the breed is the Exotic Bully, which is the smallest type of dog (smaller than Pocket) and somewhat similar in appearance to the French Bulldog. True, this type has not yet been fully developed by breeders, and therefore has health problems and a short life expectancy.

    The bully dog ​​breed has gained enormous popularity in the United States. The largest population of these animals is also located there. There are bully clubs: UBKC (United Bully Kennel Club); ABKC (American Bully Kennel Club); UCA (United Canine Association); BBKC (Bully Breed Kennel Club) and others.

    In Europe, the breed is only gaining recognition. And in Russia there are only two or three nurseries (in the capital cities of St. Petersburg and Moscow).


    Today, the breed is officially recognized only by cynological associations in the USA and Russia.

    Purpose and use of the American Bully


    Initially, the American Dog was created as an ideal companion dog, with a calm and non-aggressive character, but capable of protecting its owner from attacks by robbers if necessary. And this goal was completely achieved by the breeders.

    Further selection of the breed, which made it possible to breed bully dogs with a wide variety of exteriors and sizes, somewhat changed the direction of development of the working qualities of these dogs. Dogs have become more multifunctional, having retrained as watchmen, bodyguards, “scary” but decorative cuties, and simply family pets without special official responsibilities (thanks to their sweet nature and ability to get along with children).

    Many working qualities and talents of universal bully dogs have not yet been fully determined.

    External Standard of the American Bully


    The general impression of dogs of this breed is of enormous strength hidden in an animal of medium or slightly more medium size, with a compact and somewhat squat muscular body, a heavy skeleton and a large square head. The main characteristic of the breed is the large square head and the heavy bones of the dog, which give it a lot of weight. Despite this weightiness and apparent clumsiness, these dogs are very mobile, jumping, dexterous and are able to give a head start to many dogs of fighting breeds.

    Currently, there are the following main types of American Bully dogs, differing in size:

    1. Of the recognized types, this is the most miniature (if this word can be applied to a dog of this size) or “pocket” type (Pocket Bully). The height at the withers reaches up to 43 centimeters in males and up to 40 centimeters in females.
    2. Standard type (Standard American Bully). The height at the withers reaches 51 centimeters in males and 48 centimeters in females.
    3. The largest dogs (standard XL Bully and XXL Bully-extreme). The height of an XL Bully reaches a maximum of 58 centimeters, and for males of the XXL Bully-extreme standard - 61 centimeters.
    The weight of bully dogs depends on their height and varies over a fairly wide range: from 18–30 kg (for the “pocket” and medium types) to 58 kg (for the largest type).

    Regarding appearance standards:

    1. Head square in shape, large and heavy, with a broad skull shape, pronounced forehead and sharp stop. The muzzle is short, medium in length and wide, with pronounced jowls. The jaws are well defined. The lower jaw is parallel to the muzzle and very strong (“intimidating”). The lips do not fit tightly, slightly hanging. The bridge of the nose is straight, wide, not snub. The nose is large and clearly defined. The color of the nose is allowed to be any of the existing colors, except for light pink (albino). Teeth according to the standard pattern, well defined, white. The upper teeth tightly overlap the lower teeth from the outside (scissor-like bite).
    2. Eyes oval in shape, set deep and far apart, medium in size, with minimal visibility of the conjunctiva of the lower eyelid. The color of a dog's eyes is allowed to be very different (when evaluating, it is better if it is harmonious with the color of the coat), except for blue eyes or different colors (a serious fault leading to disqualification).
    3. Ears bullies are set high, symmetrical, erect, alert and forward. The animal's ears can be cropped or left as is.
    4. Neck powerful, distinctly muscular, slightly arched and tapering from the back to the back of the head. The skin of the neck is dense and of good quality (loose or slightly flabby skin is allowed only in Extreme and XL types).
    5. Torso massive, but compact, usually of medium size. The body is very muscular, with a strong broad chest and shoulder girdle, with a well-developed muscular croup. The back line may be slightly raised towards the croup.
    6. Tail The bully's body is medium, set low, and extends down to the hock joint in length. In a calm state, it is lowered down; when excited, it can be lifted up, but not twisted into a ring.
    7. Limbs straight, strong, clearly muscular, set wide apart, medium or relatively short in length. The elbows of the front paws are slightly turned outward (but not more than 45 degrees). The toes are compactly collected. Longer hind legs are allowed in Extreme and XL dogs.
    8. Wool short, rigid, close-fitting. Long hair is a fault and leads to disqualification.
    9. Color The most varied standards are allowed. Just like a variety of patterns on wool. Only the merle color is unacceptable, leading to disqualification. Merle is an uneven coat color with darker and lighter areas of the same color.

    American Bully character


    Despite their uniquely terrifying appearance, these animals have an equally unique kind and friendly character. Once settled with a family, these wonderful dogs fall in love with this new “pack” forever. They devotedly love their owner and his family members and are ready to give their lives for them.

    But, despite all their friendliness, gentleness and phlegmatism, when falling into the inexperienced hands of a novice dog breeder, these dogs (especially if it is a young dog prone to dominance) are capable of behaving at the age of 1.5 years in a way that is not at all adequate to the declared peaceful breed qualities. It is at this age that the dominant dog always tries to seize power in the “pack”. And in order to prevent this from happening, it is necessary in time (even at a young age) to show him his place in the hierarchy. And this is exactly what inexperienced novice owners do worst. It is for this reason that dogs of this breed are not suitable for neophytes, elderly people and people with a soft character.

    Not always, but it happens that this quite peaceful and good-natured dog in ordinary life, going out into the street, unexpectedly for the owner, can find an object for aggression (they do not tolerate the presence of other dogs well, let alone cats).

    These big guys adore children and endure all their antics with amazing patience, allowing them to do whatever they want to them (having a high pain threshold, they are not as vulnerable to “childish pranks” as many other animals).

    Bully is a dog with a very high intelligence, which allows him not only to quickly understand the owner’s commands, but also to independently solve simple “tasks” using intelligence. I must say, this cute dog thinks very quickly, especially in a situation of danger for the owner, showing miracles of courage and determination.

    Representatives of this American breed are natural and almost ideal human companions, loyal, friendly and calm. They feel great as an escort dog and behave well in the office, car, train and plane. They are somewhat unfazed by the presence of many other people, and with proper training, other animals.

    Extremes are not typical for the American Bully: aggressive or, on the contrary, too shy behavior. This dog is a cheerful and optimistic dog by nature, sociable, playful and inquisitive.

    Dog health


    The American Bully is a fairly healthy dog ​​with a good immune system and good resistance to infectious diseases. But, nevertheless, like all breeds of dogs obtained through selection, these animals also have “favorite” breed diseases, partly inherited from their ancestors - Staffards and pit bulls.

    The main ailments of these strong, good-natured dogs are primarily associated with the activity of the cardiovascular system (a common problem is early aortic stenosis, often leading to the death of the pet) and with the condition of the joints (standardly - hip dysplasia, the scourge of the entire canine kingdom, especially for medium and large breeds).

    The average lifespan of bully dogs is 9–13 years. Smaller animals live longer.


    Caring for this “bodybuilder” of the canine world is, in fact, no different from the usual care for a Staffordshire Terrier or Amstaff.

    The dog's short coat does not need constant brushing. Only when it gets dirty can you bathe it or wipe it with a damp towel. Shedding also goes almost unnoticed by the owner, without causing much trouble.

    It is necessary to regularly inspect and clean the animal's ears, as well as trim its claws, especially if your walks take place on soft ground.


    To keep your pet in good shape and in good physical shape, it is necessary to give him physical activity - small but regular runs; as well as walking in a special vest with weights to strengthen ligaments and pump up muscles. The pet will only benefit from this in appearance, becoming even more muscular and formidable. Well, the pet’s nutrition, of course, should be complete, balanced in the composition of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, rich in vitamins and minerals. This is the only way your dog can look 100%.

    The choice of how and what to feed always remains with the animal owner. But the most convenient and economical way to feed such a rather large (and very expensive) dog is to feed it with high-quality, industrially produced holistic-class food (where the diet is completely balanced by professional nutritionists) with the addition of complex vitamin preparations to the diet, as necessary.

    The nuances of training an American Bully


    Despite the fact that these formidable-looking Americans are distinguished by good intelligence and
    general goodwill, after all, a bully is too serious a dog to be trained by a non-professional or from time to time. Sooner or later, such a frivolous attitude towards a serious pet will manifest itself through disobedience and inappropriate behavior. Therefore, it is best to invite a professional dog handler with extensive experience working with fighting dogs to train your pet. This will be more correct and safer for others. Gradually, you yourself will learn to control your formidable but peaceful weapon - the bully dog.

    Price when buying an American Bully puppy


    American Bullies are extremely popular in the USA. There this breed is loved and appreciated. In Europe, these dogs are only gaining popularity and are not yet very well known.

    If we talk about Russia, then there are only a few American Bully nurseries, located near Moscow and St. Petersburg. Therefore, the number of truly purebred bully puppies offered for sale in Russia is extremely small.

    There are also many scammers in Russia who offer, under the guise of rare and expensive American dogs, Stafford and pit bull puppies, which are difficult for a non-specialist to distinguish from a real bully at such a young age. Therefore, for now, it is best to purchase puppies that are exotic for Russians from well-established breeders in Europe and the USA.

    The cost of young representatives of this breed varies greatly depending not only on gender, exterior and pedigree, but also on the region of the population. Thus, in Russia the price for a puppy of average thoroughbred ranges from 150,000 to 350,000 rubles. And yet, for Russia this breed is still little known and exotic, although there is definitely a lot of interest in it. Therefore, the price that a Moscow businessman recently paid for a bully puppy is not surprising - 700,000 rubles.

    In Europe, in nurseries like Italy, a purebred bully puppy will cost only 700 euros. Well, no one has ever advertised the price ceiling for these cool dogs in Europe.

    Find out more about the American Bully breed here:

    If you dream of a four-legged friend who will serve you faithfully and is able to protect you from any offender, but at the same time children can play with him, then american bully- just for you.

    Adult dogs over 1 year of age are fed 2 times a day. For puppies, food should be divided - in small portions 5-6 times a day. Starting from 6 months, gradually increase the portion size and reduce the number of meals to 3-4.

    Breed training

    Thanks to its gentle and submissive nature, as well as its natural intelligence, the Bull is an easy to train dog. The main thing is to accustom him to order from childhood. From the first day of being in the house, the puppy must be shown where his sleeping place is and accustom him to.

    Important! Remember that a change of environment is stressful for a dog, and even more so for a small puppy. Therefore, if he does something wrong, do not shout, but talk to him calmly. At the same time, be persistent.

    To prevent a dog from getting bored alone, it should have its own toys. Be sure to buy a special bone that will help strengthen your teeth.

    Commands must be entered in stages; you cannot give the whole complex at once. It may take 3-4 days for one team. It is best to seek help from a professional dog trainer, who will train your pet much faster and more efficiently.

    The lifespan of an American Bully, according to the breed description, is about 13 years. They do not experience any special health problems. Risk areas for a dog are the heart and joints.
    The first signs of heart disease are the appearance of shortness of breath, drowsiness, lethargy, and loss of coordination. Do not neglect these symptoms if you want to see your pet alive and healthy.

    It’s better to play it safe and show him to a veterinarian, who will prescribe treatment in a timely manner.

    Poor nutrition and heavy physical activity can cause joint problems. It’s easy to identify them - take a closer look at your pet’s gait. If he has become inactive, has trouble climbing stairs, or is limping, take him to the vet immediately. In the early stages, many joint diseases are treatable. Otherwise, your faithful friend may become disabled and turn from a companion into a burden.

    If you are looking for a loyal friend and protector, then pay attention to this plush fighter.
    He can be equally affectionate with children and fearless in front of the enemy. Despite its massiveness and menacing appearance, it does not require any special care at all, which is why it is gaining the attention of more and more fans.



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