Is the American Bully XL a Pitbull? Understanding the Differences
When it comes to muscular, confident-looking dog breeds, many people often confuse the American Bully XL with the Pitbull. While these two breeds may appear similar to the untrained eye, they are, in fact, distinct breeds with unique histories, temperaments, and physical traits. In this article, we delve deep into the question many potential dog owners ask: Is the American Bully XL a Pitbull?
Understanding the American Bully XL
The American Bully XL is a variant within the American Bully breed family. This breed originated in the United States during the 1980s and 1990s and was developed by breeding American Pit Bull Terriers with American Staffordshire Terriers and other bulldog-type breeds. The goal was to create a companion dog that retained the muscular build of its ancestors but exhibited a more relaxed and sociable temperament.
There are several size variants of the American Bully:
- Standard
- Classic
- XL (Extra Large)
The XL Bully is the largest of the group, often weighing between 70 to 120 pounds and standing 19 to 23 inches tall at the shoulder.
The Pitbull Classification Confusion
The term “Pitbull” is not a breed in itself but a general descriptor that includes several breeds:
- American Pit Bull Terrier
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- American Bully (sometimes controversially included)
This vagueness often leads to legal and societal confusion, especially regarding breed-specific legislation. Many jurisdictions ban “Pitbulls” without clearly defining which breeds are included under that label.
How the American Bully XL Differs from a Pitbull
Although the American Bully XL shares ancestry with the American Pit Bull Terrier, several key differences distinguish it:
- Temperament: Bred for companion qualities, XL Bullies tend to be more tolerant and people-friendly.
- Build: XL Bullies have a bulkier frame, broader chest, and larger head compared to most Pitbulls.
- Purpose: Pitbulls were originally bred for work and dog sports, whereas American Bullies were bred as family pets.
- Recognition: The American Bully is recognized by the American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC), while the American Pit Bull Terrier is recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC).
Temperament and Behavior
Thanks to selective breeding, the American Bully XL is known for its affectionate nature, loyalty, and stability. They are excellent companion dogs, often forming strong bonds with family members. With proper training and socialization, they do well with children and other pets.
However, due to their strength and protective instincts, early socialization and consistent training are crucial. These dogs thrive under structured environments with committed owners.
Why the Confusion Persists
There are several reasons why people often mistake the XL Bully for a Pitbull:
- Physical similarities like muscular build and short coat
- Shared ancestry from American Pit Bull Terriers and other bulldog breeds
- Misinformation in media coverage and pop culture
- Breed-specific laws that lump them together
Are American Bully XLs Considered Pitbulls Legally?
In many areas, especially in the UK and parts of the US, American Bully XLs have been included in breed-restricted lists under the term “Pitbull.” This is often due to broad definitions in legislation or media portrayals linking the breed to aggressive behavior, despite little evidence supporting inherent aggression in well-bred and trained dogs.
Conclusion
To sum up, while the American Bully XL shares some ancestry and physical traits with Pitbull-type dogs, it is a separate breed with its own unique classification, temperament, and purpose. Understanding these distinctions helps owners make informed decisions, reduces stigma, and supports responsible dog ownership.
Quick Summary
- Is it a Pitbull? No, it’s a distinct breed with Pitbull roots.
- Temperament: Loyal, friendly, and calm when trained.
- Physical traits: Extra large, muscular frame.
- Legal status: Varies—may be classified as a Pitbull in some areas.
