The American Bully Dog Breed: Characteristics, Care, and Legal Status in Turkey of These Cuddly Giants
Some dog breeds in the canine world make you say, “Oh my God!” with their appearance but quickly transition you to the “Aww, my sweetie!” phase once you meet them. The American Bully fits this description perfectly. Resembling a bodybuilder with its muscular physique, yet looking like a cartoon character with its cute gaze, these dogs are, in fact, big-hearted, cuddly giants. Let’s take an entertaining and informative journey into the world of these charismatic friends.
What is the American Bully?
The American Bully is often misunderstood due to the word “bully” in its name. Although “bully” means intimidator in English, these dogs are not neighborhood toughs; on the contrary, they are more like a neighborhood mayor—they know, love, and protect everyone. Developed in the United States in the 1990s, this breed resulted from crossing the American Pit Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, and some bulldog types. The goal was to create a dog that was both muscular and powerful, as well as family-friendly and calm.
Body Structure: Muscular But Graceful
The American Bully’s physique looks as if it were “born in a gym.” Broad chest, strong legs, defined muscle lines… But don’t be fooled; most of these muscles are used for “carrying love.” You’ll understand that this muscular package contains an entirely soft content when it lays its massive head on your lap while cuddling on the sofa.
Character: Calm Giants
American Bullies are genetically inclined to be loving and gentle toward humans. Their compatibility with children is legendary. If there’s a baby in the house, they enter “I’m a caretaker, too” mode. When guests arrive, they welcome them at the door with a “Please, make yourselves at home” attitude. While some dogs instantly bark when a stranger enters the house, an American Bully will first wag its tail, then decide what to do.
Different Types of the Breed
The American Bully has different sizes, such as “Standard,” “Pocket,” “XL,” and “Classic.” The Pocket size is like the “Miniature Muscular” version, while the XL is large enough to make you say, “Come here and give me a huge hug.” This variety makes it easier for owners to choose based on their lifestyle. The Pocket version is more suitable for apartments, and the XL version is better for houses with large yards.
Trainability: Smart and Eager
Training this breed is usually enjoyable because American Bullies love to please their owners. Just one warning: if you overdo the food rewards, they might be promoted from “muscular” to “sweet-bellied.” Starting obedience training at a young age will ensure you have a more well-behaved friend later on.
Exercise Needs: Energy Release is Essential
Although American Bullies are calm indoors, they require daily walks and playtime to stay healthy. While they may not be like Usain Bolt on a running track, they can accelerate like a rocket over short distances. Still, their favorite sport is jumping onto the sofa and curling up next to you.
Coat and Ease of Care
Thanks to their short and shiny coats, grooming is easy. Brushing once a week both polishes the coat and reduces shedding. You don’t need to bathe them too often; their relationship with water generally fluctuates between “I can get a little wet” and “No, this wet stuff is not for me.”
Health Status
American Bullies are generally healthy breeds, but they do carry genetic risks such as hip dysplasia and some heart conditions. With regular vet check-ups and a balanced diet, they can live a long and happy life. Their average lifespan is around 10–12 years.
Neighborly Relations
This breed is adept at winning over neighbors. An American Bully lying outside the door, greeting passersby, works almost like a security guard in the apartment building. However, they might occasionally escort guests inside a little too quickly with their “excessive love.”
Nutrition: Muscles Don’t Come for Free
For their muscular physique to be maintained, they need high-quality protein sources. Foods like chicken, turkey, beef, and balanced kibble should be preferred. Avoid overly fatty foods; otherwise, a “soft layer” might form beneath the muscles.
Interaction with Children
The American Bully is perfectly suited for families with children. They are patient, love to play, and are not bothered by children’s enthusiastic movements. Of course, as with any dog breed, supervised interaction is important.
Socialization
American Bullies that are socialized at a young age get along wonderfully with other dogs and people. With the right guidance, they become the “star of the neighborhood” at the park.
Misconceptions
Unfortunately, American Bullies are sometimes mistaken for aggressive due to their appearance. However, they are loving companions who become more attached to you the more you love them.
The Heart Behind the Muscles
The American Bully is a magnificent breed that combines a powerful appearance and protective instinct with a loving heart and strong family ties. Life with them offers both a safe and fun experience. If you are looking for a muscular yet soft-hearted friend, the American Bully might be just right for you.
American Bullies in Turkey
Interest in American Bullies has been growing in Turkey in recent years. Their muscular yet smiling demeanor often goes viral on social media. You may need to get used to the question, “Aah, is that a Pitbull?” while walking in the park. The answer is usually, “No, this is an American Bully, not a Pitbull, but look how sweet he is!”
Legislation Regarding the American Bully Breed in Turkey
1. On the List of Banned Breeds
Under the Animal Protection Law No. 5199 currently in force in Turkey, the American Bully is included in the list of “dog breeds that pose a danger” as determined by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. This ban covers the breeding, owning, selling, sheltering, and advertising of the relevant breeds.
2. Temporary Registration and Sterilization Regulation
After the ban came into effect, a temporary regulation was applied to those who owned these breeds before July 14, 2021. According to this:
- Banned breeds, including the American Bully, had to be sterilized and registered with a microchip by January 14, 2022.
- Dogs whose registration procedures were completed and entered into the PETVET system with documentation could continue to be kept by their owners.
- This right has since ceased; meaning that even if registered, owning these breeds is now considered illegal.
3. Penalties and Enforcement
- Failing to care for banned breeds appropriately is considered a violation of the law, and serious administrative fines are applied per animal (e.g., starting from 11,000 TL and increasing).
- Furthermore, walking these dogs in a manner that violates the law (e.g., without a leash or in densely populated areas) is also prohibited.
- In cases of violation, the animal may be confiscated and mandatorily handed over to municipal care centers.