The American Bully, a relatively new breed, is often misunderstood and mistaken for a specific type of bulldog or pit bull. However, it’s a distinct breed with its own unique standards and characteristics. The development of the American Bully involved a deliberate blend of specific breeds to achieve its signature appearance and temperament.
The two primary foundation breeds of the American Bully are the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) and the American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff). These breeds are closely related and share similar ancestral roots, tracing back to bull-baiting dogs and terriers in 19th-century England. The APBT, known for its gameness, athleticism, and tenacity, contributed to the American Bully’s muscular build and confident demeanor. The AmStaff, selected for its more consistent temperament and blockier head, helped refine the overall appearance and solidify the desired traits.
While the APBT and AmStaff are the cornerstone breeds, other breeds were strategically introduced to further shape the American Bully. These breeds, though not always acknowledged or emphasized, played a role in influencing the breed’s features, particularly in the development of different size and style variations. Evidence suggests that breeds such as the American Bulldog, English Bulldog, and potentially even the French Bulldog were incorporated into the gene pool at various stages.
The inclusion of the American Bulldog, known for its larger size and powerful build, likely contributed to the “XL” and “XXL” varieties of American Bullies. The English Bulldog, with its distinctive underbite, shorter muzzle, and stocky build, influenced the breed’s overall compactness and facial features. The possible introduction of the French Bulldog may have played a role in certain lines exhibiting shorter legs and a more exaggerated, cobby build.
It’s important to understand that the exact lineage and percentage of each breed within an American Bully’s pedigree can vary considerably. Breeding practices and the specific goals of individual breeders have led to a diverse range of appearances and temperaments within the breed. This variation is reflected in the different “pocket,” “standard,” “classic,” “XL,” and “XXL” classifications, each representing a particular size and build.
Ultimately, the American Bully is a carefully curated breed designed to combine the best qualities of its foundational breeds – the athleticism and drive of the APBT, the stable temperament and impressive build of the AmStaff, and the added influences of other bulldog-type breeds to achieve its distinctive look and personality. While its appearance can be intimidating, the ideal American Bully is known for its affectionate, loyal, and confident nature, making it a popular family companion for those who appreciate its unique qualities.
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