American Bullies are neither pure Pitbulls nor pure Bulldogs, but they are often a mix of both. Here’s a breakdown of their background and where they fit in:
1. Breed Origins:
- American Bully is a relatively new breed, developed in the 1990s by selectively breeding American Pit Bull Terriers and American Bulldogs (with influences from other breeds like the English Bulldog and Mastiff).
- The goal was to create a dog with the strong, muscular appearance of an American Bulldog and the loyalty and temperament of a Pitbull.
2. American Pit Bull Terrier:
- The Pitbull is a general term for several breeds, including the American Pit Bull Terrier. The term is often used to describe dogs with similar traits, such as muscular builds, strong jaws, and high energy levels.
- While the American Pit Bull Terrier is one of the primary ancestors of the American Bully, they are distinct breeds.
3. American Bulldog:
- The American Bulldog contributed to the larger, stockier frame of the American Bully. Bulldogs tend to have broader heads and more muscular builds.
- American Bulldogs are often used in working roles, like farm dogs or protection, due to their strength and loyalty.
4. Appearance and Traits of American Bullies:
- Size: American Bullies are generally smaller than American Bulldogs but larger than typical Pitbulls.
- Build: They have a muscular and stocky build, with broad shoulders and a thick chest, similar to Bulldogs, but with more agility, which comes from their Pitbull heritage.
- Temperament: American Bullies are known for their calm, friendly, and social nature. They’re often described as affectionate and good with families, though like all dogs, they require proper training and socialization.
Conclusion:
An American Bully is a hybrid breed that combines traits from both Pitbulls (American Pit Bull Terriers) and American Bulldogs, among other breeds. So, they aren’t exactly either breed but share characteristics with both. They are distinct from the typical Pitbull or Bulldog but are often lumped into the same categories due to their similar appearance and history.