Understand and treat 9 common American Bully health issues

American Bullies have grown in popularity in the last decade following the United Kennel Club recognition in 2013. The breed is a cross between American Pitbull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers and is renowned for its muscular physique combined with loyal and friendly temperaments.

Although the breed is primarily considered healthy, there are some common American Bully health issues to consider.

We will explore these health issues in this article and briefly outline the different types of American Bully that are available.

Types of American Bully

Although all leading kennel clubs do not recognize the American Bully, the American Bully Kennel Club (AKBC) was set up to create a legitimate authority that standardizes breeding practices.

The AKBC currently recognizes five American Bully types, briefly described below.

Standard

The Standard American Bully is medium to large-sized and characterized by having a blocky head and muscular physique. Standard American Bullies typically stand 16 to 20 inches tall.

Classic

Classic American Bullies tend to be narrower, lighter, and less muscular than Standards. Despite this, they also stand 16 to 20 inches tall and have a similar temperament.

Extreme

Extreme American Bullies have a wide range of sizes due to being bred with various Pitbulls and Terriers. Extremes typically have larger body mass and a heavier frame with more wrinkles.

Pocket

Pocket American Bullies are the smallest American Bully available, known for their compact body shape, deep-filled chest, and muscular build.

XL

XL American Bullies are the largest variety of the breed. They are large-size dogs with the classic Bully features and temperament and stand taller and bulkier than the Standard variety.

Common American Bully health issues

Hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia refers to the ball and socket hip joint failing to fit together snugly, which causes intense pain and lameness.

American Bullies’ broad and muscular build makes them particularly prone to this issue. The standard solution if the pain becomes unbearable is a total hip replacement.

Elbow dysplasia

American Bullies are also prone to elbow dysplasia. It is a similar joint issue which is commonly a congenital abnormality. The condition can cause other joint problems due to self-correction to reduce the pain and arthritis.

Pocket American Bullies are most likely to suffer from this condition due to their compact build.

Elbow dysplasia can often be managed through a good diet and exercise.

Heart disease

Congenital heart failure can occur in American Bullies, present at birth, and can lead to heart failure later in life if not treated appropriately.

Heart failure can also impact the brain and nervous system, so if there is a genetic diagnosis, you should get regular vet check-ups.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a hormonal condition that can lead to other health issues, such as hair loss, weight gain, and extreme tiredness. American Bullies and Pitbull breeds are prone to developing this condition caused by a genetic disorder or autoimmune disease.

Allergies

Allergies are a broad umbrella; some of the most common are broken down below.

Food allergies

Individual American Bullies can be allergic or build an intolerance to certain foods such as chicken, beef, wheat, corn, soy, or dairy products. Allergies manifest themselves through itchiness, hair loss, and redness.

Environmental allergies

Environmental elements commonly cause allergies in American Bullies, including mold, fleas, pollen, and dust mites.

These types of allergies typically lead to coughing, sneezing, and wheezing.

Eye problems

American Bullies are often prone to suffer from eye conditions, including:

• Cataracts
• Cherry eye
• Glaucoma
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Most eye conditions can be managed effectively if treated early, so it is essential to seek medical advice early.

Skin conditions

American Bullies are known for having short, smooth skin. However, the breed can be prone to various skin issues outlined below.

Hot spots

Caused by either allergies, stress, or bacterial infection, hot spots are a type of dermatitis that leads to inflamed, red skin spots with pus. Your American Bully naturally wants to chew or lick the spot, which can worsen symptoms.

Mange

This skin condition is caused by tiny mites which burrow themselves under the skin. Mange is very contagious and passes from dog to dog. The skin condition causes itchy sores, intense itchiness, and sometimes hair loss.

Seborrhea

Seborrhea leads to dry and flaky or greasy and oily skin. It is a skin condition caused by genetics, hormonal imbalance, or allergies.

Seborrhea is a different condition from mange.

Ear infections

American Bullies often suffer from ear infections caused by ear mites, bacteria, or allergies. An ear infection results in smelly discharge from the ear or itchiness.

Dental disease

A lack of cleaning and care mainly causes dental issues. A buildup of tartar and plaque on the teeth can lead to toothache, periodontitis, or gingivitis.

Recognize American Bully health issues

Owners should constantly closely monitor their dogs. Regular monitoring allows you to tell if your dog is behaving unconventionally quickly. Typical signs of ill health in American Bullies include:

• Loss of appetite
• Weight gain/loss
• Lethargy
• Itchiness
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Panting and drooling
• Constipation

If you notice one of these American Bully health issues, contact your vet for a check-up as soon as possible.

Tom Novo is an enthusiastic owner of an American Bully named Rocky, who is currently eight years old. He fell in love with the American Bully breed a decade ago when his friends adopted a rescued Bully from a neighborhood shelter. Tom was inspired to acquire his own American Bully and become a dog behavioralist and trainer. He now helps households maximize the potential of the American Bully breed and regularly writes helpful, informative content on the breed.