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Is an American Bully Just a Pit Bull?

The American Bully is often confused with the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT), leading many to believe they are essentially the same breed. While the APBT played a significant role in the Bully’s development, they are distinct breeds with different characteristics, breeding goals, and breed standards.

Origins and Development: The APBT is a well-established breed with a history rooted in bull-baiting and dogfighting. It was bred for strength, tenacity, and gameness. The American Bully, on the other hand, is a relatively new breed, emerging in the late 1980s and early 1990s in the United States. It was created through selective breeding involving APBTs, American Bulldogs, and potentially other bulldog-type breeds. The goal was to create a companion dog with a more docile temperament and a bulkier, more exaggerated physique than the APBT.

Physical Appearance: The most obvious differences lie in their physical appearance. American Bullies are generally shorter and more heavily muscled than APBTs. They have wider chests, broader heads, and more pronounced cheekbones. The APBT is typically leaner and more athletic in build. The American Bully also comes in various sizes (pocket, standard, XL, etc.), further differentiating it from the APBT, which has a more consistent size standard.

Temperament: While both breeds can be loyal and affectionate family dogs, the American Bully is specifically bred for a calmer, more even-tempered disposition. While a well-bred and properly trained APBT is also a good companion, the American Bully generally exhibits a higher tolerance for children and other animals, making them a popular choice for families. The APBT retains more of its historical drive and may require a more experienced owner capable of providing consistent training and socialization.

Breed Standards: The American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC) and the United Kennel Club (UKC) both recognize the American Bully as a distinct breed, each with its own detailed breed standard. These standards outline specific physical traits, temperament guidelines, and disqualifications that differentiate them from the APBT standard.

Controversy and Misidentification: Despite their differences, the American Bully’s resemblance to the APBT often leads to misidentification. This can have serious consequences due to breed-specific legislation (BSL) that targets “pit bull-type” dogs, often including American Bullies in bans or restrictions. It’s crucial to accurately identify and differentiate between these breeds to ensure fair treatment and avoid unwarranted breed discrimination.

In conclusion, while the American Bully shares ancestry with the American Pit Bull Terrier, it is a distinct breed with its own unique history, physical characteristics, temperament goals, and breed standards. They are not simply the same dog, and it’s important to recognize and respect their differences.