Understanding the Difference: Is an American Bully a Pitbull or Bulldog?
The American Bully is often mistaken for a Pit Bull or a Bulldog due to its appearance and ancestry. However, it is important to recognize that the American Bully is a distinct breed with its own unique characteristics, origin, and temperament. This guide will clarify the distinctions among American Bullies, American Pit Bull Terriers (APBTs), and American Bulldogs to help owners and enthusiasts better understand these powerful and loyal dogs.
1. Origins and Breed History
- American Bulldog: Developed in the United States from Old English Bulldogs, originally used as working farm dogs for herding and protection.
- American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT): Originated in 19th-century England from crosses between Bulldogs and Terriers, bred for strength and agility.
- American Bully: Created in the 1990s in the U.S. by breeding APBTs, American Staffordshire Terriers, and other bulldog-type breeds to form a companion breed with a gentle nature.
2. Physical Characteristics
- American Bulldog: Large and muscular, 75–100+ lbs, 20–27 inches in height. Broad chest and head with a substantial build.
- American Pit Bull Terrier: Medium-size, lean and athletic; 30–65 lbs, 17–21 inches tall; strong yet more agile.
- American Bully: Compact and heavily muscled with a wide stance. Comes in categories like Pocket, Standard, Classic, and XL (30–120+ lbs).
3. Temperament and Personality
- American Bulldog: Confident and protective, may be dominant, best for experienced handlers.
- Pit Bull: Loyal, intelligent, energetic; often very affectionate, especially with children.
- American Bully: Calm, friendly, and tolerant. Bred as a companion dog and known as a "gentle giant." Good with kids and other pets with proper socialization.
4. Exercise and Care Requirements
- American Bulldog and APBT: High energy levels; need 1–2 hours of structured exercise daily including walks, agility, or obedience training.
- American Bully: Moderately active; requires regular daily exercise but settles well at home with basic activity needs met.
5. Training and Socialization
- All three breeds benefit from early socialization and positive reinforcement training.
- Consistent boundaries help prevent dominance or reactivity issues, especially with Bulldogs and Pit Bulls.
- American Bullies are typically more tolerant but still require structured guidance and training.
6. Health Concerns
- American Bulldog: Prone to hip/elbow dysplasia and skin problems.
- Pit Bull: Can suffer from skin allergies and heart issues.
- American Bully: May have genetic predispositions to cardiac conditions and allergies, depending on lineage.
All breeds benefit from regular
veterinary checkups and responsible breeding to minimize inherited disorders. Average lifespan ranges from 10 to 16 years.
7. Legal and Social Considerations
- Breed-specific legislation (BSL) can apply to these breeds, particularly APBTs and bull-type breeds.
- Some regions ban or restrict ownership; also, insurance and housing may be affected.
- Responsible ownership includes training, socialization, and adherence to laws.
8. Common Misconceptions and Identification Confusion
The term "pit bull" often acts as an umbrella for various breeds, including APBTs, Bullies, Staffordshire Terriers, and even mixes. Visual identification can be inaccurate. For precise ancestry, DNA testing is more reliable, though it doesn’t guarantee behavior predictions. Despite appearances, organizations like the United Kennel Club (UKC) officially recognize the American Bully as a separate breed from the APBT or American Bulldog.
9. Suitability for Owners
- American Bulldog: Strong working drive and strength—recommended for experienced dog owners.
- Pit Bull: Energetic and loyal; needs physical and mental stimulation.
- American Bully: More relaxed and social, often a better choice for first-time dog owners with proper commitment.
Conclusion
Though American Bullies, American Pit Bull Terriers, and American Bulldogs share ancestry and some physical features, each is unique in history, build, and temperament. The American Bully stands out as a selectively bred companion dog, blending the strength of bully breeds with a more docile, family-friendly demeanor. Understanding these differences is crucial when choosing the right pet or identifying bully-type dogs.
