Amidst the grandeur of their stature lies the heart of a gentle titan—the XXL American Bully. Often misunderstood and sometimes unfairly labeled as “weapon and status dogs“, these muscular companions defy stereotypes with their affectionate and loyal nature.
With the imposing build of the Bully XL, these dogs combine strength with a softness that makes them ideal family members. Beyond the façade that might intimidate the unacquainted, the XXL American Bully offers a friendly paw, inviting us to look past misconceptions and into the kind eyes that reflect a truly loving soul.
Whether adorned in the sleek black coat of an American Bully XXL or the intricate patterns of a merle, these canines promise a presence that’s as grand in love as it is in size. Embark with us on a journey to discover the biggest American Bully type and unveil the genuine, endearing spirit of these magnificent dogs. But before you start googling, “XXL American Bully puppy for sale”, it’s vital that you research this powerful breed thoroughly.
So, What Is an American XXL Bully
The American XXL Bully is a new type of American Bully that is larger than the XL Bully and is not recognized by the American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC). The XXL Bully is typically larger than the XL, is immensely powerful, but usually has a calm and mellow demeanor.
However, just like the purebred American Pitbull Terriers, like the Gator Pitbull, we cannot overstate the importance of responsible ownership and research. Dogs with the amount of power that an XXL Bully has do not occur naturally and we must respect this.
Of course, the most common question with dogs like XXL Bullies is are they aggressive?
The short answer is, no, the XXL Bully dog are not usually aggressive. American Bullies are designed to have steadier and more relaxed temperaments than their American Pitbull Terrier cousins. They are also extremely loving. However, this does not mean they are without risk.
We cannot ignore genetics. A specific case of an XL Bully called Kimbo, who fathered several puppies that attacked their owners. Does this mean we should tar all Bullies with the same brush and try to ban them? Absolutely not. The XXL Bully is a remarkable companion dog and a good guardian, but only for experienced owners who understand how to care for these dogs responsibly.
And on a related note, if you are buying an XL or XXL Bully puppy, check the bloodline thoroughly for dogs that may be related to Kimbo or other known aggressive dogs.
History Of The American XXL Bully
The American Bully is a breed that was developed in the United States in the late 20th century. The breed is a combination of several other breeds, including the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT), American Staffordshire Terrier (AMstaff), the English Bulldog, and the American Bulldog.
The original goal was to take the extremely athletic Pitbull and Amstaff, and breed it more toward the “bully” type. This means a much bulkier dog that packs as much muscle and size as possible onto their frame. They are also supposed to have a more mellow personality than the traditional Pitbull. The breed was first recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 2013.
The American Bully Breed began with kennels like Razor Edge, whose founder also founded American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC). The ABKC only recognizes the
- Pocket Bully
- Classic Bully
- Standard Bully
- XL Bully
However, since the American Bully is an emerging breed we have seen a number of other Bully-type dogs crop up, including the Extreme, the Exotic and the Micro Bully. The XXL is another of these subtypes that has emerged where Bullies are bred for more extreme proportion, such as massive size in this case.
While the UKC does recognize the American Bully, their XXL Bully is often much bigger than their height recommendation of 20 inches.
This means the XXL Bully is often a mixed breed dog and can refer to a XL Bully that has been crossed to bigger mastiff-type dogs or American Bulldogs to add even more size and bulk. It could also simply be XL bullies that are bred to greater and greater extremes by pairing the biggest individuals. Beware that since the XXL is not recognized, it can be a marketing gimmick for some disreputable breeders.
Breeding for extreme size can create more health issues in the breed, typically placing more strain on their hearts, bones, joints, and typically shortening their lifespans.
How much does an XXL American Bully puppy cost?
The price of an XXL American Bully can vary depending on their age, bloodline, and other factors. Puppies from reputable breeders can cost between $3,000 to $10,000, while older dogs or those with less desirable bloodlines may be less expensive. It’s important to do thorough research and choose a reputable breeder to ensure that you are getting a healthy and well-socialized dog.
What Does The American XXL Bully Look like?
The difference between XXL and Xl Bully is often confusing and sometimes both terms are used to describe the same dog.
Typically, the XXL Bully is a large, muscular dog with a broad head, wide chest, and thick, powerful legs. They have a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, blue, fawn, and brindle. Usually American Bullies are not allowed to be albino or merle, but since the XXL is not really recognized, you may find them in any color.
The major difference between the XL Bully and the XXL Bully is size.
How Big Is the American XXL Bully Dog?
The American XXL Bully bred to be as large as possible, going up to 200 pounds (91 kg) and standing up to 28 inches (71 cm) in extreme cases.
On the other hand, the smaller XL American Bully size is:
- Males over 20” (51 cm) to 23” (57 cm) at the withers.
- Females over 19” (48 cm) to 22”(54 cm) at the withers.
You can see this in the merle American Pitbull, Aftermath:
Another famous example of an XXL Bully, is the beautiful black Pitbull, Prague:
And the most famous giant red nose Bully that popularized the breed, Hulk:
These dogs are bred to exude power and strength, with bone-crushing jaws and huge blocky heads. Their ears are often cropped to make them look even more intimidating.
Intelligence, Trainability, & Temperament Of the XXL Bully
The American Bully is a highly intelligent breed that is quick to learn and eager to please. They are known for their ability to excel in various dog sports, such as weight pulling, obedience, and agility. They are also highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods.
They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods and thrive on praise and rewards. However, they do need boundaries and good leadership. It’s important to socialize the breed at an early age and expose them to different people, animals, and environments to ensure that they grow up to be well-adjusted and well-behaved dogs.
This video shows how well these dogs do with positive training methods as puppies, and trainable they usually are:
Some XXL Bullies are working bullies. Because of their size, they do not have the stamina that a Belgian Malinois does, but with good trainers, they make good protection dogs as in this video:
Keep in mind, these dogs should never be trained to be aggressive. Protection training is not meant to create an aggressive dog. So it is only something to do with a professional. Any kind of bite work or guard training with a dog this powerful needs to be undertaken with extreme care to avoid accidents.
XXL Bullies usually have a friendly and loyal temperament. They are great family dogs and are known to be good with children. However, due to their size and strength, it’s important to supervise interactions between the breed and young children. They are also known to be good with other dogs and animals, although early socialization is key.
Are American XXL Bullies good with kids and other animals?
The XXL American Bully is a friendly breed but due to their large size and strength, it’s important to supervise interactions between the breed and young children. Unless you are extremely experienced with these dogs, avoid keeping homes with small children. They do love children, but it’s better to err on the side of caution with such a powerful dog.
They may also need to be introduced to other animals slowly and carefully to ensure that they get along well. With socialization, they can get on with other animals. However, some may have a strong prey drive that may make them unsuited to being around animals like chickens or cats.
Many of them may also be aggressive toward other dogs, especially of the same gender. This is not always the best dog for a multi-pet household.
General Care of the XXL Bully
So, how do you care for an XXL American Bully dog?
Exercise Needs
This breed’s exercise needs vary according to their size and ability. Bullies that are closer to athletic Pitbull-type need at least 30-60 minutes of high-intensity exercise every day, which can include walks, runs, or playtime in a fenced-in yard.
However, the truly giant Bullies with heavy builds need more low-impact activity to preserve their joints and may also be prone to heatstroke. So a long walk and short bouts of playtime is better as their size will not allow for much intense exercise.
It’s important to provide the breed with enough exercise to prevent them from becoming bored or destructive. However, be careful with heavy exercise that could damage their joints.
Housing Needs
The XXL Bully is a large breed that requires a spacious living area. They do best in a house with a securely fenced-in yard where they can run and play. If they live in an apartment or other small living space, they will require more frequent exercise and playtime.
Warning: these dogs can be extremely destructive if they become bored! They are completely capable of destroying your furniture.
Grooming Needs
The XXL American Bully has a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. They should be brushed weekly to remove loose hair and keep their coat shiny and healthy, and you can use a gentle oatmeal and aloe dog shampoo about every six weeks to wash them.
They should also have their nails trimmed regularly and their ears cleaned with canine-friendly ear wipes to prevent infections.
How long does the XXL Bully live?
A healthy XXL Bully should live 8 to 13 years. However, dogs of extreme proportions can often have their lives cut short by heart problems or other issues.
Common Health Problems In Xxl American Bully
When considering the health of the XXL American Bully, their impressive size and unique physical build come with a responsibility to be vigilant about certain health issues that can be common in these gentle giants. So let’s consult the Breed Predispositions to Disease in Dogs and Cats to get an overview of what kind of problems to be wary of in an XXL American Pitbull or Bully.
- Cystine Kidney Stones: These are crystalline deposits that can form in the kidneys due to a genetic condition that affects how the kidneys filter certain amino acids.
- Congenital Heart Disease and Arrhythmias: As with many large breeds, the XXL American Bully may be prone to heart conditions present from birth or irregular heartbeats, which can impact their overall health and activity levels.
- Atopic Dermatitis: This is a chronic skin condition caused by allergies, leading to itchy and inflamed skin. It’s essential for owners to identify and manage environmental triggers to ensure their dog’s comfort.
- Demodicosis: A condition where tiny mites that normally live harmlessly on the skin proliferate, causing skin infections and hair loss.
- Hypothyroidism: A common endocrine disorder where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, leading to symptoms like weight gain, lethargy, and coat problems.
- Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease: Similar to ACL injuries in humans, this issue involves damage to a critical ligament in the knee, affecting mobility and causing arthritis.
- Lymphoma: This is a type of cancer that affects the lymph nodes and can be more prevalent in certain dog breeds, requiring early detection and treatment.
- Mast Cell Tumor: A form of skin cancer that can vary from benign to highly aggressive in dogs, necessitating close observation of any skin growths or lumps.
- Neurological Conditions: Issues such as cerebellar degeneration, where the brain’s cerebellum deteriorates over time, leading to a loss of coordination and other neurological functions.
- Retinal Degeneration: A progressive disorder that leads to blindness due to the loss of photoreceptors in the back of the eye.
- Hyperuricosuria: When there is too much uric acid in the urine, it can lead to the formation of bladder and kidney stones.
- Prostate Disorders: Males can suffer from prostate problems, often linked to hormones and potentially leading to issues like difficulty urinating or marking territory.
- Hip Dysplasia: A genetic trait leading to improperly formed hip joints, which can cause pain, arthritis, and hinder movement.
- Obesity: Given their size, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for the XXL Bully, as excess pounds can exacerbate joint issues and other health problems.
Regular vet check-ups and proactive health management can greatly help in mitigating these risks. A nutritious diet, adequate exercise, and genetic screening where available can contribute to a healthier, happier XXL American Bully with a fuller and more vibrant life.
Best Food For XXL American Bullies
Providing the right diet for your XXL American Bully is a pivotal part of preventive healthcare. A tailored diet can support their oversized frames and potentially mitigate some of the health issues these grand dogs are prone to.
Joint Care and Support
Given their large size and potential for joint issues like hip dysplasia and cruciate ligament disease, a diet rich in joint-supportive nutrients is essential. Look for foods that are supplemented with glucosamine and chondroitin, which are known to support joint health and mobility. These components help maintain cartilage and joint fluid, offering a cushion for the joints during movement.
Heart-Healthy Fatty Acids
To support heart health and combat conditions such as congenital heart disease, omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, should be a cornerstone of their diet. These fatty acids, commonly found in fish oils, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and their role in maintaining heart health. They can also promote a healthy coat and alleviate symptoms of atopic dermatitis.
Skin and Coat Health
For skin issues like atopic dermatitis and demodicosis, look for diets that include a balance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. These not only support skin health but also ensure a lustrous, resilient coat. Foods with added vitamin E and biotin can also help in repairing and protecting the skin.
Digestive Care
A diet fortified with probiotics can be beneficial, particularly for breeds susceptible to digestive issues. Probiotics contribute to gut health by maintaining a balanced intestinal microbiome, which can aid in the prevention of conditions like diarrhea and promote overall digestive health.
Weight Management
To address and prevent obesity, feed your XXL American Bully a diet with an appropriate calorie count that reflects their activity level. Avoid overfeeding and choose foods with high-quality proteins to maintain muscle mass and low in excess fats and carbohydrates that can contribute to weight gain.
Cognitive and Eye Health
For the neurological and retinal health of your Bully, antioxidants such as Vitamin E and beta-carotene can be valuable. They help combat oxidative stress and may slow the progression of age-related conditions.
Specialty Diets and Supplements
While commercial diets specifically formulated for giant breeds can be an excellent start, some XXL Bullies may benefit from additional supplements. However, always consult your veterinarian before adding supplements to your dog’s diet, as they can recommend what’s best for your dog’s specific needs and health status.
Practical Feeding Tips:
- Measure your dog’s food to prevent overeating.
- Stick to feeding guidelines and adjust according to your dog’s condition and exercise levels.
- Offer fresh water at all times to support kidney health and prevent stone formation.
- Consider tailor-made diets or veterinary-prescribed food for specific health conditions.
Ultimately, the best food for an XXL American Bully is one that meets their unique nutritional needs and supports their health from puppyhood through their senior years.
Training Tips for XXL American Bully Puppies: Building a Foundation for Gentle Giants
Training an XXL American Bully puppy requires patience, consistency, and understanding of their unique needs. These powerful pups grow into formidable sizes, so early training is crucial to ensure they become well-behaved adults. Here’s how to start on the right paw:
Start Early and Be Consistent: Begin training your XXL Bully as soon as they come home. Early training establishes good habits and prevents undesirable behaviors from taking root. Consistency is key; ensure all family members use the same commands and rules.
Socialization Is Critical: Expose your Bully to various people, pets, and environments early on. Socialization helps prevent fearfulness and aggression, important for a dog of this size. Positive encounters in controlled settings build their confidence and manners.
Positive Reinforcement Works Wonders: Use treats, praise, and play to reward good behavior. XXL Bullies respond well to rewards, making positive reinforcement an effective training method. Avoid harsh methods, as they can damage your relationship and trust.
Set Clear Boundaries: Given their eventual size and strength, XXL American Bullies need to understand boundaries. Teach them where they’re allowed to go, how to behave in the house, and what’s off-limits. This clarity helps prevent dominant or destructive behavior as they grow.
Crate Training for Comfort and Safety: Crate training benefits both the puppy and the owner. It provides a safe space for the Bully and assists with housebreaking and preventing destructive behavior. Make the crate a positive space with comfortable bedding and occasional treats.
Focus on Leash Training: Leash training is crucial for a dog that can outmuscle an adult human. Start with short sessions and use a sturdy harness or collar. Teach them to walk without pulling, which becomes more important as they gain strength.
Obedience Training Is Essential: Teach basic commands like ‘sit,’ ‘stay,’ ‘come,’ and ‘down.’ These not only promote good behavior but also ensure safety. A well-trained XXL Bully is easier to manage and less likely to inadvertently harm someone due to their size.
Patience with Potty Training: Be patient with housebreaking. Regular potty breaks, consistent feeding times, and praise for doing their business outside will lead to a well-trained pup. Accidents happen; deal with them calmly without punishment.
Mental Stimulation to Curb Boredom: XXL Bullies are intelligent and need mental exercise to prevent boredom. Use puzzle toys, training sessions, and games to keep their minds active. Boredom can lead to destructive behavior, especially in a large, strong dog.
Regular Health Checkups Support Training: Health issues can affect behavior. Regular vet visits ensure your Bully is healthy and comfortable, which is conducive to better learning and training outcomes.
By following these tips, you’ll guide your XXL American Bully puppy to grow into a sociable, obedient, and loving companion who respects their size and strength in a human world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are XXL Bullies Good Family Dogs?
Yes, XXL Bullies can be excellent family dogs. They are known for their loyalty, affectionate nature, and gentle disposition with children when properly trained and socialized.
Are XXL Bullies Dangerous?
No, XXL Bullies are not inherently dangerous. Like any breed, individual behavior varies and largely depends on responsible ownership, training, and socialization.
Do XXL Bullies Shed?
Yes, XXL Bullies do shed, but typically less than many other breeds. Regular grooming can help manage shedding and keep their coat healthy.
Are XXL American Bullies Hypoallergenic?
No, XXL American Bullies are not considered hypoallergenic. They do shed, and their dander can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.
Is an XL or XXL Bully a Pitbull?
No, XL and XXL Bullies are not Pitbulls. They may share some ancestry, but American Bullies are a distinct breed with different physical and temperament traits.
What is the Difference Between a Standard Bully and an XXL Bully?
The main difference lies in their size. XXL Bullies are larger than Standard Bullies, with a more robust build. For more details on the differences, check out this informative resource on Standard American Bullies.
Final Thoughts
The XXL American Bully is a breed that is gaining popularity due to its impressive size, strength, and athleticism, as well as its friendly and loyal temperament. While this emerging breed does require a steady hand when it comes to training, they are highly intelligent and responsive to positive reinforcement training methods. With proper socialization and training, the XXL American Bully can make an excellent family pet and loyal companion. However, we must emphasize the importance of responsible and experienced ownership with this dog.
Meet Your Experts
Author
Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.