There is a lot of debate surrounding the question of whether or not American Bullies are Pitbulls.
Some people say that they are, while others insist that there is a big difference between the two breeds.
These questions might have been rooted in the fact that these breeds share some physical traits and come from the same general family of dogs.
In this article, we will explore both sides of the argument, check both American Bully breeds and American Pit Bull Terrier dog breeds’ backgrounds, and help you make a decision on which one is right for you.
Confused whether an American Bully is also an American Pitbull Terrier?
You are definitely not alone! Due to several notable similarities between a Bully breed and Pitbulls, it’s no wonder that people often mistake one for the other. Plus, both these two popular breeds often share the same misunderstood reputation.
To understand these dog breeds, one should have enough knowledge of what a Pit Bull breed, American Bully breed, and how other dogs are related to them.
American Bully: History and Origin
The term “Bully” referring to the American Bully, was first used in 1996. It is a relatively new breed that was developed in the United States of America during the late 1980s and early 1990s. This dog breed is a result of crossbreeding between several different Bulldog and Terrier breeds.
Later on, American Bully, through selective breeding, became its own unique dog breed with a very distinct appearance from its ancestors.
Nowadays, American Bully is not only seen as a canine companion but also in dog shows. They are also used in law enforcement and as service dogs in many different ways.
American Bully: Lineage
American Bully is a crossbreed of various Bulldogs and Terriers whose history is bred for different purposes such as canine companion, working dog, and good guard dogs. The Bulldog breeds used in developing the American Bully are English Bulldog, Olde English Bulldogge, and French Bulldog. While the Terrier breeds are American Staffordshire and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
The most common ancestors of the American Bully are:
- American Staffordshire Terriers
- Staffordshire Bull Terriers
- American Pit Bull Terriers
Other less common ancestors of the American Bully are:
- Bullmastiff
- Old English Bulldog
- Boxer
- Rottweiler
- American Bulldog Breed
The intention behind the development of this new breed was to create a family companion dog with a lower prey drive than its Pit Bulls ancestor and that would exhibit less aggression and be more gentle.
Although both the American Bully and Pitbulls are badly stratified as aggressive dogs or dangerous dogs due to their ancestral affiliations, they were bred for as fighting dogs. These two popular dog breeds were originally not meant for pit fighting, dog fighting, bull baiting, and other blood sports.
American Bully: Physical Attributes
When it comes to physical features, American Bullies and Pit Bull dog breeds often share some similarities. Both these breeds have a muscular, stocky build with a short coat and a curled tail. They also have large heads with wide jaws and well-defined muscles.
However, there are also some notable differences between these two breeds:
- American Bullies are usually bigger and heavier than Pit Bulls.
- American Bullies have a more gentle and loving temperament, while American Pit Bull Terrier was bred to be more aggressive.
- American Bullies come in a variety of colors and patterns, while American Pit Bull Terrier is usually just one color.
- American Bullies, compared to an American Pit Bull Terrier, are available in 4 types of standards which are Pocket, Standard, Classic, and XL.
- American Bullies have a shorter and wider muzzle than American Pit Bull Terriers. Pitbulls have a longer and narrower muzzle than American Bullies.
Both breeds have Kennel Clubs that recognize them. The American Bully is recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC), while the American Pit Bull Terrier is recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
American Bully: Reputation and Types
American Bully is also known as Bullypit, American Bully Pit, and Bull-Pit. Despite its name, the American Bully is not a hybrid or mix of the American Pit Bull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier. It is its own unique breed that was developed through selective breeding of several different Bulldog and Terrier breeds.
The American Bully Kennel Club recognizes four different types of American Bully based on height and weight
These are the:
Standard American Bully
The Standard American Bully is the largest type of American Bully. It is a compact and medium-sized dog with a well-proportioned build.
Classic American Bully
The Classic American Bully is similar in build to the Standard type but is slightly smaller.
Pocket American Bully
The Pocket American Bully is the smallest type of American Bully. It has a compact and muscular build with a short height.
Xtreme American Bully
The Xtreme American Bully is the largest and heaviest type of American Bully. It has a massive and muscular build with a very large head.
The Standard, Classic, and Pocket types are further divided into three categories each based on weight. The American Kennel Club does not currently recognize the Micro type.
On the other hand, American Pitbull Terriers are often confused with the American Staffordshire Terrier. But, they are two different dog breeds that were developed for different purposes. While the American Staffordshire Terrier was bred as a family companion dog, the American Pit Bull Terrier was bred as a working dog.
American PitBull Terrier is also known as Pit Bull, Pitbull, American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and Amstaffs.
This breed has the following types:
Standard American Pitbull Terrier
The Standard Pitbull Terrier is the largest type of American Pitbull Terrier. It is a compact and medium-sized dog with a well-proportioned build.
Classic American Pitbull Terrier
The Classic Pitbull Terrier is similar in build to the Standard type but is slightly smaller.
Pocket American Pitbull Terrier
The Pocket Pitbull Terrier is the smallest type of American Pitbull Terrier. It has a compact and muscular build with a short height.
Pit Bulls are not recognized by the American Kennel Club but are recognized by the United Kennel Club and the National Kennel Club. Both are considered great family dogs.
American Bully: Temperament
These two distinct breeds – the American Bullies and American Pit Bulls – have different temperaments. American Pit Bull Terrier or “Pit Bull” is a general term often used to describe all varieties of the American Bully. These intelligent dogs have been used as nanny dogs, therapy dogs, and perfect family dogs for many dog owners, though Pit Bulls are mistakenly judged as an aggressive breed of dogs.
- The American Bully is a companion dog that was developed through selective breeding of several different Bulldog and Terrier breeds.
- The American Bully is a very loving and loyal dog that is great with children and other animals.
- The American Bully is a very outgoing, social, and playful dog that loves to play fetch and catch. They are also very protective of their family and home.
While the latter:
- The American Pit Bull Terrier is a working dog that was bred for its strength, stamina, and tenacity. The Pit Bull is a very loyal and loving dog that is great with children and other animals.
- The Pit Bull is a very outgoing, social, and playful dog that loves to play fetch and catch. They are also very protective of their family and home.
While the American Bully is a companion dog, the American Pit Bull Terrier is a working dog. Both breeds are great with children and other animals, and both breeds are very outgoing, social, and playful. However, the American Pit Bull Terrier is more tenacious than the American Bully.
American Bully: Health and Care
Generally, American Bully dog breeds, like other breeds of dogs, are healthy. However, there are some health problems that have been associated with this breed. These health problems include:
Allergies
Bully dog breeds are prone to allergies. The most common allergies are environmental allergies, such as pollen, grass, and dust. Food allergies are also common in bully dog breeds.
Skin problems
This perfect family dog may suffer from skin problems, such as dermatitis and hot spots. This is due to their short coat, which does not protect their skin from the sun and other environmental irritants.
Ear infections
The American Bully’s ears are susceptible to infections. This is because their ears are droopy, which traps moisture and dirt
Hip dysplasia
These great guard dogs are muscular dogs and may suffer from hip dysplasia, which is a condition that causes the hip joint to deteriorate.
The American Bully is a very active dog, so they need a high-quality diet that is rich in protein and fat. They also need plenty of exercises, which can be provided by walks, runs, or playtime. Unlike the American Pit Bull Terrier or the Pit Bulls, Bully Breeds tend to be healthier and have fewer health problems.
American Bully: Food and Diet
These two dogs, aside from they can make an excellent family dog, they have different dietary needs. The American Bully requires a high-quality diet that is rich in protein and fat. They also need plenty of exercises, which can be provided by walks, runs, or playtime. The most common diet of American Bully breeds are:
BARF Diet
The BARF diet, or Biologically Appropriate Raw Food, is a raw food diet that consists of meat, bones, fruits, and vegetables. BARF diet provides American Bullies with the nutrients they need to stay healthy and active.
Paleo Diet
The Paleo diet is a grain-free diet that consists of meat, fish, vegetables, and fruit. American Bully breeds who are on the Paleo diet tend to be healthier and have more energy.
Raw Diet
The Raw diet is a diet that consists of raw meat, bones, and organs. American Bully dogs, like other dogs who are on a raw diet, have generally have better health, more energy, and a shinier coat.
Commercial Dog Food
Commercial dog food is also an option for American Bully breeds. However, it is important to choose high-quality dog food that is rich in protein and fat. Commercial dog food for American Bullies should also be grain-free.
American bullies may live up to 12-14 years with proper diet and care.
To keep your American Bully healthy, it is important to feed them a high-quality diet that is rich in protein and fat. Seek for veterinary advice to choose the best diet for your American Bully.
The American Pit Bull Terrier, on the other hand, is a working dog and requires a high-energy diet. This diet should be rich in protein and fat to help them maintain their energy levels. Commonly, American Pit Bull Terrier varies diets from:
Raw Diet
The Raw diet is a diet that consists of raw meat, bones, and organs. American Pit Bull Terriers who are on a raw diet, have generally have better health, more energy, and a shinier coat.
BARF Diet
The BARF diet, or Biologically Appropriate Raw Food, is a raw food diet that consists of meat, bones, fruits, and vegetables. BARF diet provides American Pit Bull Terriers with the nutrients they need to stay healthy and active.
Fish and Sweet Potato Diet
The Fish and Sweet Potato diet is a grain-free diet that is perfect for American Pit Bull Terriers who are allergic to grains. This diet consists of fish, sweet potatoes, and vegetables.
American Pit Bull Terrier owners have a few different options when it comes to feeding their dogs. They can either feed them a raw diet, BARF diet, or Fish and Sweet Potato Diet. All of these diets have their own benefits that can help improve the health of American Pit Bull Terriers.
American Bully vs. Pit Bull Breed
American Bully is a Pitbull familial connection cousin dogs; they have many differences. Compared to other Pitbull-type dogs, the American Bully is a more recent breed.
Aside from the information discussed above, American Bully, as a dog breed compared to other Pitbull-type dogs, are usually shorter in stature and have a more muscular build. They also tend to have a wider head and chest.
These are the most distinctive physical characteristics that set the American Bully apart from other Pitbull-type dogs:
- When it comes to temperament, the American Bully is a very loving and loyal breed. They are also known to be very protective of their family and home. American Bullies are typically not aggressive towards people, but they can be aggressive towards other dogs if they are not properly socialized.
- Pitbulls, on the other hand, are a working dog breed and were originally bred for dog fighting. Because of this, they have a reputation for being aggressive. However, Pitbulls can be very loving and loyal dogs if they are raised properly. They are also very protective of their family and home.
- Pitbulls require a lot of exercises and need to be trained properly. American Bullies also require exercise, but they do not need as much as Pitbulls. Both breeds are intelligent and can be trained to do tricks.
- When it comes to diet, American Bullies and Pitbulls have different dietary needs. American Bullies can either be fed a raw diet, commercial dog food, or a BARF diet. Pitbulls, on the other hand, require a high-energy diet that is rich in protein and fat.
American Bullies and Pitbulls are two different breeds of dogs with different physical and personality traits.
Other Dog Breeds vs. American Bully
American Bully dog breeds, compared to other breeds of dogs, are usually shorter in stature and have a more muscular build. Other dog breeds that are as intelligent dogs as American Bully dog breeds:
Poodle
- Labrador Retriever
- Golden Retriever
- Border Collie
- German Shepherd
Dogs that have a lot of energy:
- Siberian Husky
- Australian Cattle Dog
- Greyhound
Dogs that are known to be loyal and loving:
- Labrador Retriever
- Golden Retriever
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Pug
- Beagle
Dogs that require a lot of exercises:
- Siberian Husky
- Australian Cattle Dog
- Greyhound
- Dalmatian
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
American Bully dog breeds are a more recent breed compared to other dog breeds. But even though they are a newer breed, they have many similarities with other dog breeds. In terms of loyalty and loving, American Bullies are just as loyal and loving as other breeds like the Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever.
Where to Buy American Bullies?
If you’re planning to purchase whether an American Bully puppy or a Pitbull puppy, it is suggested to find a reputable breeder. A reputable breeder will be able to provide you with all the necessary information about the dog breed, including health clearances and temperament tests.
American Bully puppies have been subject to masquerading under false pretenses. There have been many cases of people selling American Bully puppies as Pitbulls. So an own breed of American Bully puppies are often overpriced.
When buying an American Bully puppy, make sure to do the following:
- Check the breeder’s references
- Visit the facility where the puppies are raised
- Meet the parents of the puppy
- Ask for health clearances
- Observe the temperament of the puppy
- Do not buy an American Bully puppy if it is an aggressive breed
- Check canine education and training for reference
American Bullies, like the American Bulldog breeds, can be therapy dogs with the proper training, so be vigilant in choosing to train them, for many breeders might try to pass off an American Bully as a more aggressive dog.
Are American Bully Fit for First-Time Owners?
After we have answered a million dollars question about whether an American Bully and Pitbull Terrier is one dog, we give thought that American Bully is a good dog for first-time owners. American Bully dogs are definitely gentle and loving companions for first-time owners and families with young children.
But before you decide to add an American Bully to your family, it is important to consider the following as future dog owners:
- The cost of owning an American Bully
- The space required to keep an American Bully
- The time needed to exercise an American Bully
- The time needed to groom an American Bully
- The training required for an American Bully
As with any dog breed, there are pros and cons to owning an American Bully. But overall, American Bullies make great family pets and are good with children.
FAQs
Q: What is the difference between an American Bully and a Pitbull?
A: The main difference between an American Bully and a Pitbull is that American Bullies are a more recent breed of dog, while Pitbulls have been around longer. American Bullies also tend to be shorter in stature and have a more muscular build.
Q: Are American Bullies good with children?
A: Yes, American Bullies are good with children. They are gentle and loving companions for families with young children.
Q: Do American Bullies require a lot of exercises?
A: Yes, American Bullies require a lot of exercises. They are high-energy dogs that need to be exercised regularly.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, American Bully dogs are not Pitbulls. Although both breeds share some similarities, they are two distinct breeds of dogs. American Bully dogs are a newer breed that was created by crossbreeding several other breeds of dogs, including the Pitbull.
While they may resemble Pitbulls in some ways, they are not the same breed of dog.
