Learning about American Bully growth stages and charts can help you discover many potential dog health problems.
If you’ve ever seen an American Bully, you’ll know just how impressive and imposing they can be.
In this article, we’ll explore the different growth stages of the American Bully, providing valuable insight into how to tell if your dog is developing correctly.
From puppyhood to adulthood, each stage brings unique challenges and opportunities for owners. Are you curious to know if your Bully meets breed standards? Let’s find out!
American Bully Growth Chart
| Age | Weight | Height |
|---|---|---|
| 1 month | 5 – 8 lbs | 4 – 6 inches |
| 2 months | 8 – 15 lbs | 6 – 9 inches |
| 3 months | 12 – 25 lbs | 8 – 12 inches |
| 4 months | 16 – 35 lbs | 10 – 14 inches |
| 5 months | 20 – 45 lbs | 12 – 16 inches |
| 6 months | 30- 60 lbs | 14 – 18 inches |
| 7 months | 40 – 70 lbs | 16 – 20 inches |
| 8 months | 50 – 100 lbs | 18 – 22 inches |
| 9 months | 60 – 120 lbs | 20 – 23 inches |
| 10 months | 70 – 130 lbs | 21 – 23 inches |
| 11 months | 75 – 140 lbs | 21 – 23 inches |
| 12 month | 80 – 150 lbs | 21 – 23 inches |
Genetics plays a significant role in determining the final proportions of the American Bully. Different lineages can lead to substantial variations in size and build; some dogs grow sturdy, while others remain more lithe and agile.
By monitoring the growth chart and paying attention to nutrition and exercise, owners can ensure that their four-legged companion grows up healthy and happy, meeting all the physical and emotional needs unique to the breed.
American Bully Growth Stages
During the various stages of growth, the American Bully shows a fascinating evolution that reflects its personality and physical characteristics.
The dog’s true temperament manifests as they reach adulthood, around 12-18 months.
Each stage represents physical growth and the construction of a unique bond between man and animal.
0-4 Weeks
In the first four weeks of life, During the first month of their lives, American Bully puppies are in the delicate neonatal phase. They fully depend on their mother for support and feeding.
Pups are almost entirely blind until they reach 3 weeks of age. This isn’t the right time for socialization, but most breeders will start deworming their dogs to ensure good gut health.
Also, don’t expect much activity from your pup at this age. Your Bully puppy will likely be sleeping and eating most of the time.
1-2 Months
This is the time when a puppy will become more active. Your American Bully’s eyes should open by the time he is one month old, and his hearing will improve. You’ll likely notice him moving his ears towards you when you speak or call him.
They should wean off their mother’s milk during this period and start eating solid foods.
This is when American Bully puppies will become interested in the world around them. They will start exploring and mimicking the behaviours of their littermates.
Finally, this is the time when you (or the breeder) should start socialization. Your puppy should be introduced to other animals and humans to get accustomed to various creatures, signs, and activities from an early age.
2-3 Months
Most of the time, new Bully owners will take their puppy home when they are 8 weeks (or two months) old.
This is because, by this time, they should’ve grown big and strong enough not to depend on their mothers. Also, they should’ve completed their first set of vaccines to socialize properly outside the kennel.
You should expose your Bully to as many sounds and situations as possible during this period. The sooner he gets accustomed to various things, the better. Otherwise, he might develop some aggressive tendencies or behavioural problems.
3-4 Months
After your pup is three months old, the initial growth spur will halt, although he’ll still seem to grow rather fast. However, by this time, he might have resembled a small dog, not just a helpless puppy.
Before your puppy is four months old, he should properly develop his senses. His temperament will probably show, and he’ll experience more weight gain than growth in height.
This is the perfect time to start those training sessions! Just keep in mind that your pup is a teenager with a rather short attention span. Make sure to train him in short sessions and stick to positive reinforcements.
4-6 Months
Don’t be surprised if your American Bully becomes a menace at this time! This is when their curiosity is at its peak. They’ll see what they get away with, and they’ll do it all the time.
It’s essential to continue socialization and training during this time. This is an important development period, and you mustn’t let your dog’s mischievous nature, combined with cuteness, trick you into letting him have his way.
Also, many Bullies will reach sexual maturity before they are six months old, so be wary. Female dogs might have their first heat at this time, while male pups will start looking for females.
This is also the time when you should start switching to adult food. Check out the American Bully feeding chart, as this can give you a better idea about feeding your puppy and the transition process.
Around this time, your dog should be close to the ideal weight and height.
6-12 Months
According to the breed standard, your pup should reach the average American Bully size when he turns one year old. They’ll have plenty of muscle mass and obtain the typical body build they are known for.
As their growth rate will slow and, finally, entirely stop around this time, ensuring your pup has proper nutrition and enough exercise is essential. Otherwise, he might experience significant weight gain – and having an overweight dog is never a good idea.
Since your pup’s development will finally be over, you can take him on long walks and give him extensive workout sessions.
Congratulations! Your dog has grown from a puppy to a perfect adult doggie.
Differences In American Bully Sizes
The American Bully is differentiated by its muscular appearance and the variety of sizes it offers to breed lovers.
According to the American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC), there are four types of American Bullies:
The categories—Pocket Bully, Standard Bully, Classic Bully, and XL Bully—represent variations in physical proportions, behaviour, and adaptation to different environments.
On the other hand, the XL is perfectly suited to those looking for an imposing guardian; thanks to its robust build, its presence can act as a natural deterrent.
It involves deeply personal reflections on the lifestyle and family dynamics of those who welcome these extraordinary dogs into their lives.
Pocket Bullies are a smaller variety of the American Bully. At the same time, not small-sized dogs, the size difference between them and other types of Bullies is rather significant.
The average female height of these dogs is 13 – 16 inches, while males are a bit taller and stand at 14 – 17 inches. Their average weight is between 10 and 20 pounds.
Despite their smaller stature, they still have standard Bully dogs’ typical body shape and muscle mass.
Standard
The Standard American Bully is a breed that has gained popularity in recent years, not only for its muscular and imposing appearance but also for its affectionate and loyal nature.
An exciting aspect of the Standard American Bully is its versatility: Besides being an excellent pet, many specimens excel in dog sports such as agility or dock diving.
The average height of females is between 15 and 20 inches, and the ideal female weight is 40 to 80 lbs.
Males typically reach 16 – 21 inches in height and weigh more than females, as they can reach up to 90 lbs.
Classic
Many people confuse standard and classic Bullies, and honestly, it’s easy to see why. Not only do their names mean the same, but they appear rather similar at first glance.
Classic American Bullies fall within the same height range as standard Bullies but have a lighter build and less muscle mass.
Some experts believe they were created by breeding standard Bullies with American Pit Bull Terriers or American Staffordshire Terriers, as they look more similar to these Pitbull breeds than to a typical Bully.
XL Bully
The often misunderstood and stigmatized XL Bully is gaining increasing recognition in the modern dog world. This dog is not only a muscular companion for adventures but also carries with him a rich and complex history.
XL American Bully females have a healthy weight of 100 to 140 lbs, standing at around 19 – 22 inches in height.
Males are even larger, can reach 23 inches, and typically weigh between 110 and 150 lbs.
With proper training and responsible handling, the XL Bully can become an ambassador for the breed, challenging prejudices and showing the world the truth about his incredible affectionate and social qualities.
When Do American Bullies Stop Growing?
The growth of American Bullies is a fascinating process that can be a source of curiosity among owners. Typically, most dogs reach their full height around 12-18 months.
Interestingly, several factors influence this time frame. Genetics plays a significant role; dogs from different bloodlines may have different growth rates.
Additionally, proper nutrition and adequate exercise are crucial to healthy development. So, while you wait for your four-legged companion to reach his full size, don’t forget to pay attention to his overall health and well-being – essential to ensuring balanced and harmonious growth.
Factors That Affect American Bully’s Growth Rate
A combination of genetic, nutritional, and environmental factors influences the growth of an American Bully.
Genetics play a crucial role, particularly: experienced breeders select parents based on desirable traits such as muscle structure and size.
Genetics
Dog genetics are crucial in their personality, behaviour, and physical characteristics. Each breed is the product of centuries of selection, which has shaped distinctive traits such as size, coat, and intelligence.
In addition, genetic selection is ushering in an innovative era in creating hybrids specific to certain tasks or desired characteristics. So-called designer dogs show how combinations of traits can produce extraordinary results, from highly specialized service dogs to ideal companions for families with allergies.
Nutrition
Dog nutrition is more than just filling a bowl; it’s a journey to overall wellness for your furry friend. Commercial foods often promise a complete diet, but it’s essential to consider each dog’s needs based on breed, age, and activity level.
Investing time in understanding your dog’s nutrition will extend its life and improve the quality of its years, creating a deeper bond between humans and animals.
Physical Activity
Exercise is a way to keep your dog fit and a key to his mental and emotional well-being. Dogs like collaboration, daily challenges and stimulation.
Regular exercise can also have surprising effects on your dog’s social life. Interacting with other animals and people during walks or outdoor activities helps develop essential social skills and reduces separation anxiety.
So, making time for physical activity is not just about exercise; it’s about sharing your time with your dog. It is an opportunity to build a solid bond based on mutual joy and complicity.
Health
Your dog’s health directly reflects his happiness and overall well-being. It’s amazing how even small changes in diet or exercise can significantly impact your furry friend’s quality of life.
We can’t overlook the importance of regular veterinary visits. An annual check-up allows you to monitor your dog’s overall health and discuss personalized preventative strategies.
Investing time in socialization and interactive play can reduce behavioural issues and strengthen the bond with your pet. Remember: an active mind is just as important as a healthy body!
Why Is My American Bully Head Small?
If you’ve been wondering why your American Bully’s head looks smaller than you thought, it might be helpful to consider several factors. First, every dog has unique genetics; head size can vary greatly, even within the same breed.
Some dogs are bred to have different body shapes, which can affect the proportions of their bodies, including their skulls.
Additionally, nutrition plays a crucial role in your Bully’s development. A balanced diet is essential in the early stages of growth; nutritional deficiencies can lead to incomplete development.
Finally, remember that your dog’s character and personality play a big role in its appearance; a confident, well-socialized dog will always look bigger, regardless of body measurements!
Tips To Help Your Bully Grow
Attention to his diet is essential to help your bulldog grow healthy and happy. Not all foods suit this breed, so choosing a balanced and dog-specific diet is advisable.
Regular exercise is also crucial to your bulldog’s well-being. Daily walks or interactive games will stimulate his mind and body.
Remember that besides physical activity, it is important to socialize your dog from an early age. Exposure to new environments and experiences will increase his self-esteem and reduce unwanted behaviours in the future.
Setting aside time for positive training lessons can also strengthen the bond between you and your dog, making each progress a reason for shared celebration.
Final Words
You now understand every aspect of the growth stages of American Bullies!
Given their remarkable appearance, you could be worried if the growth of these muscular canines seems slow.
Generally speaking, you shouldn’t become alarmed just because you believe a young dog is smaller than other dogs in his breed. Like us, some bullies will develop at a slightly different rate, and that’s alright, too, as long as they’re all grown up and about the size of their “average” classmates.
Nevertheless, it’s a good idea to consult your veterinarian if you notice anything unusual. Slow development indicates that your dog has a health issue, so it’s better to be cautious than sorry.
I wish you well as you raise your Bully dog!