Understanding What Two Dogs Make a Bully Breed
The American Bully is a relatively new dog breed that was developed in the 1990s in the United States. This breed was purposefully created with an emphasis on loyalty, gentle temperament, and a strong, stocky physical frame. To understand what makes up the American Bully, it's essential to explore its ancestral roots and identify the two foundational dog breeds most responsible for its creation: the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) and the American Staffordshire Terrier.
1. Ancestral Origins of the American Bully
The American Bully was developed by combining specific traits from several breeds to form a dog suited for companionship, with a calmer and more tolerant nature than its ancestors. The core breeds used include:
- American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT): Known for their athleticism, intelligence, and loyalty, APBTs provided the base for the Bully’s muscular build and working-dog essence.
- American Staffordshire Terrier: Added to refine the temperament, these dogs are similar to APBTs but generally more sociable and manageable in household settings.
- Other bulldog-type breeds: These were occasionally used to enhance the dog’s width, mass, and docility, though the extent varies by bloodline.
2. Key Characteristics Inherited from Founding Breeds
The American Bully combines the most desirable traits from its predecessors. Here’s how each breed contributes:
- From the APBT: High energy, strong prey drive, loyalty, intelligence, and a sleek, muscular frame.
- From the American Staffordshire Terrier: Stability, friendliness, broader facial structure, and a gentler demeanor suitable for families.
- Additional bulldog-line influence: Enhanced physical mass, shorter stature, and calmer temperament to fit a companion-dog profile.
3. Physical Traits of the American Bully
One of the main reasons people confuse bully breeds is due to their similar appearances. However, the American Bully stands out with these distinctive features:
- Wide stance and low-set body
- Massive head with a short muzzle
- Well-defined muscles and a stocky build
- Comes in multiple size categories: Pocket, Standard, Classic, and XL
4. Temperament and Suitability as a Pet
Unlike the more driven and protective American Bulldog or the energetic APBT, the American Bully was bred to be a gentle, tolerant, and social companion. These traits make them ideal for households with children and other pets, provided they are properly trained and socialized.
- Friendly and affectionate with family members
- Less reactive to other animals with the right upbringing
- Moderate exercise needs — they usually do well with daily walks and playtime
5. Training and Socialization
Like their ancestors, American Bullies thrive on positive reinforcement techniques and need early socialization to reach their full potential. Though typically more even-tempered than APBTs, they still require consistent training to prevent behavioral issues.
6. Health and Lifespan
Health concerns in American Bullies are generally inherited from their founding breeds. Common conditions include:
- Cardiac issues, particularly in larger varieties
- Allergies and skin sensitivities
- Hip and joint problems as a result of their compact and heavy build
On average, well-cared-for American Bullies live between 10 to 16 years, depending on size, genetics, and healthcare practices.
7. Legal and Social Factors
Due to their lineage and appearance, American Bullies are often subject to breed-specific legislation, despite being a separate breed from APBTs or Staffordshire Terriers. This can impact ownership in certain regions, making thorough research and legal compliance vital for prospective owners.
8. Misconceptions and Breed Identity
The term "pit bull" often causes confusion as it’s broadly applied to various breeds, including the APBT, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and even the American Bully in some circles. However, the American Bully is recognized as a distinct breed, mainly by organizations like the United Kennel Club (UKC).
Conclusion: What Makes a Bully
The American Bully was bred with a clear vision: to create a companion dog that combined the strength and loyalty of the APBT with the stability and friendliness of the American Staffordshire Terrier. The result is a muscular yet manageable family pet — a product of careful selective breeding rather than a hybrid of just two breeds. For the most part, the APBT and the American Staffordshire Terrier are the two foundational breeds that make a Bully, though other bulldog-type dogs have contributed.
