What Breed Makes an XL Bully?
The XL Bully is one of the larger varieties within the American Bully family. This impressive canine blends strength, loyalty, and a muscular build, traits inherited from its foundational breeds. Understanding how the XL Bully came into existence requires a look into the breeds that were used in its development.
Origins of the XL Bully
The XL Bully breed was developed in the United States during the late 20th century. It was created by selectively breeding specific dogs for particular traits, such as size, temperament, and appearance. The base breeds used in this process were:
- American Pit Bull Terrier: Known for its athleticism, intelligence, and tenacity, this breed contributed energy, strength, and loyalty.
- American Staffordshire Terrier: This breed brought a calmer temperament and a slightly more robust build, contributing to the Bully's friendly nature with families.
- American Bulldog: Occasionally used in the lineage for extra mass and physical presence, as well as enhanced working dog traits.
- English Bulldog: Used primarily to contribute to the muscular frame and wide stance.
- Mastiff-type breeds: Such as the Neapolitan Mastiff or Cane Corso, sometimes introduced to further boost size and structure, particularly for the XL variety.
Through generations of crossbreeding and refinement, breeders produced an American Bully with distinctive category divisions, including Standard, Classic, Pocket, and the largest—XL.
Qualities of an XL Bully
XL Bullies stand out due to their size and balanced, powerful build. Below are some defining qualities:
- Height: Generally 20–23 inches for males at the shoulder, with females slightly shorter.
- Weight: Typically between 80–150 pounds, depending on genetics and lifestyle.
- Body Structure: Muscular with a broad chest, thick neck, and sturdy bones.
- Temperament: Despite their powerful appearance, these dogs are bred to be gentle, affectionate, and loyal companions.
- Lifespan: Averaging around 10–12 years with proper care and a balanced diet.
Why Were XL Bullies Bred?
The goal behind breeding XL Bullies was to develop a dog with an intimidating presence but a safe, sociable, and stable personality. Breeders aimed to distance the breed from the sometimes-negative reputation of Pit Bull-type dogs by ensuring gentle temperaments and responsible ownership.
XL Bullies are often excellent family pets and make good companions for experienced dog owners. However, due to their size and strength, they require early training and socialization. Prospective owners should prioritize responsible breeding sources to ensure sound temperament and health.
Are They a Recognized Breed?
The American Bully is recognized by organizations like the American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC) and United Kennel Club (UKC), but not by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as of today. The XL variety is officially considered a size variant within the American Bully category, not a separate breed.
Key Considerations for XL Bully Owners
If you're considering adding an XL Bully to your family, here are some tips:
- Space: Ensure enough living space to accommodate a large, active dog.
- Exercise Needs: Daily walks and play sessions are essential to keep the XL Bully in good shape.
- Training: Obedience training is crucial from an early age to manage their strength positively.
- Socialization: Expose them to various people, pets, and environments early to cultivate a balanced temperament.
- Diet and Health: A high-protein, balanced diet supports muscle development and proper growth. Regular veterinary check-ups are key.
Conclusion
The XL Bully is a product of intentional crossbreeding, primarily involving American Pit Bull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers, with contributing genetics from bulldog and mastiff breeds. The result is a loyal, strong, and family-friendly companion. When responsibly bred and raised, the XL Bully serves as a testament to the possibilities of modern canine breeding focused on both form and function.
