The American Bully is a modern dog breed developed initially as a companion dog. While it is not recognized by The American Kennel Club, the breed was standardized by the American Bully Kennel Club in 2004. They published a breed standard, describing the dog as “giving the impression of great strength for its size”. Today, we will talk about how long American Bullies live.
The breed suffers from the same bad reputation as Pitbulls. Many consider the Bully to be the same as the American Pit Bull Terrier. Yet, that is not the case.
In 2008, the breed was recognized by the European Bully Kennel Club, and in 2013, by the United Kennel Club.
Different Types Of Bullies
According to the American Bully Kennel Club, the breed is divided into four categories. These are Pocket Bully, Standard Bully, Classic Bully, and XL Bully. On the other hand, the United Kennel Club approves only one consistent size standard.
The recently formed companion dog breed can range from small to large sized breed. The name suggests an American breed, developed in the United States in the 1990s.
Out of the many types, the Micro Bully is not recognized. It is more of a designer dog breed, one that is considered a smaller version of the Standard American Bully.
With that in mind, we have to mention that the American Bully is part of the umbrella term, American Pitbull terrier. That term also includes the American Bulldog, the American Staffordshire terrier, and the American Pit Bull terrier.
History Of The American Bully
Founded in the mid-1990s, the breed was developed using a foundation of American Staffordshire Terrier and American Pitbull Terrier, alongside some bulldog-type breeds.
The reason breeders wanted an American Bully was to combat the reputation of Pitbulls. They wanted a dog, created with the purpose of being a family companion dog.
Dave Wilson, one of the first breeders, says he used only Staffordshire and Pitbull terriers. But other breeders admit to using the American Bulldog, English Bulldog, and French Bulldog as part of the genetics.
The initial desire was to produce a puppy with a lower prey drive and more of the bully traits, compared to the American Staffordshire terrier. They prioritized the mass and heavy bone structure to ensure such a look.
During the early years, a wide spectrum of dogs were shown. But the ABKC used selective breeding and penalized breeds that were not up to the standard. They wanted an end result of a companion dog with a muscular look.
How Long Do American Bullies Live?
The American Bully is a separate dog breed, famous for its muscular and stocky build. Many pet owners looking for a pet should love the American Bully puppy.
According to history, these dogs live between 10 and 12 years. There are several health conditions that might impair their lifespan, or reduce the quality of their life.
You should make sure to get your American Bully dog from a reputable breeder who will provide a history of your puppy’s genetics and parents. Two huge health risks are hip dysplasia and cataracts.
American Bullies reach their full-grown size between 18 and 24 months. They are sturdy, medium-sized puppies.
While their average lifespan is between 10 and 12 years, some members have reached longer lifespans. Some of them have lived up to 18 years, with the oldest known being 25 years.
What Are Some Health Risks For American Bullies?
If you want to know how long do American Bullies live, you have to look at the common health issues and risks. These risks can reduce the quality of life of your American Bully puppy, or the number of years he has in this world.
Here are some common health risks associated with bullies.
– Hip dysplasia is a common risk, a condition in which the thigh bone doesn’t fit properly into the pelvic socket
– They are also at higher risk of developing elbow dysplasia, even more, when they inherit recessive genes for the condition
– Atopic dermatitis is a skin condition often seen in American bullies
– Cataracts are a common medical issue affecting American Bullies, mainly due to the English Bulldog and French Bulldog genes in their DNA
– Cerebellar abiotrophy is a genetic condition causing problems like balance, seizures, and more, often appearing in the early years of your American Bully dog
– Congenital heart failure is a rare medical issue, but it is one that American Bulldogs inherit from their English Bulldog ancestors
How To Make Sure Your Bully Llives A Long And Prosperous Life?
As a responsible dog owner, you can definitely contribute to the quality of life of your pet. We have to say that the American Bully breed is a relatively young breed of dog. But like every other breed out there, it is affected by how you care for him
With that in mind, here are some steps you can take to ensure your dog has a long, prosperous, and healthy life.
– Get your dog from a reputable breeder that will show you the history of the puppy. Even if you rescue one from a shelter, try to ask for medical history and the parents
– Provide great food, these dogs are bowl diggers. Make sure you give them quality food, and use some slow-feeding bowls that will prevent eating without chewing
– Take your dog to regular health checkups to be ahead of any potential health issues
