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Loading...14 ‘Bully’ Dog Breeds You Should Know
- Samantha, selected from Animal Planet
- July 7, 2012
- 5:04 pm
- 163 comments
By Sarah Grace McCandless, Animal Planet
When someone says “pit bull,” you may picture a particular pooch — one with a stocky build, short coat and strong head, for example. But the breed is one of several dogs that fall under the umbrella of bully breeds. Unfortunately, dogs in this group have fallen victim to inaccurate stereotypes, and many people believe they’re naturally aggressive. In reality, though, the bully breed category offers a number of wonderful choices for potential owners — including those who are in search of a loyal, obedient, playful companion for their kids.
In fact, the American Temperament Test Society, Inc. (ATTS), a professional organization that independently tests the temperaments of over 25,000 dogs across 200 breeds, concluded that bully breeds such as the American pit bull terrier, American Staffordshire terrier and Staffordshire bull terrier all rank in the mid-80th to low-90th percentile in terms of friendly disposition — on par with dogs such as the beagle and the Australian shepherd.
A good attitude is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the positive attributes the bully breeds have to offer. Read on to learn more about the history of various bully breeds and what makes them tick, and see which one might make the perfect match for your lifestyle.
14. Boxer (above)
According to the American Kennel Club, the development of boxers traces back to at least the 19th century, when German breeders created the line by crossing different types of bulldogs with other breeds, including terriers and perhaps even mastiffs. Boxers are strong, smart and alert, with protective yet friendly temperaments. They are known to stand up on their hind legs and bat with their front paws when playing or engaging with an opponent — that’s where the name “boxer” comes from. Beyond providing companionship as a pet, these dogs have served in a number of other ways, including assisting the blind and acting as couriers during World War I. Boxers made their way to the U.S. shortly after World War I ended and now rank as one of the most popular breeds in the country, according to AKC registration statistics.
13. Alapaha Blue Blood
Named after the region of Georgia where it was first bred in the late 1970s, the Alapaha blue blood actually has roots that trace back to a now-extinct group of dogs — including the mountain bulldog, old southern white and old country (big) bulldog — that first arrived in America during the 18th century. A working dog at heart with natural herding instincts and capabilities, the Alapaha is also a loyal companion that’s particularly protective of its owner and friendly with children. With a medium, athletic build supporting a broad head, loose upper lip and wide set eyes, this dog needs a lot of daily exercise, which makes it a great choice for families that have plenty of backyard space.
Read more: Dogs, Pets, boxer, bulldog, bully breeds, bully dogs, slideshow
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I totally agree that this law may help many people. It's my point of view, that this is exactly …
My husband is a clutter bug, help!
VIOLET S: I don't know about the rest of the folks out here; but you've confused the living dayligh…
uh, thanks lol
thanks
163 comments
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Most people who don't know Boxers , may think they are about to be attacked, by this big slobbering dog, What they are actually doing is trying to get to you so they can lick you to death or box happily with you ..
The excitement they get , when they see humans is so great they wiggle so hard they almost bend in half, hence the nickname "Wigglebutts"
Don't run turn around and let them lick you , you know you want too... :)
we love bull mastiffs. and pits are beautiful. ive heard that many of the shorter bull dog breeds have hip and leg issues.. over bred to be squat and short. this breeding is pointless. go to a shelter and pick up an abandoned dog (one with or without a pedigree!)
Thanks for sharing
awww- I LOVE ALL OF THEM!!!!
Good read but not all info is right
i'm so glad to read an article that acknowledges the fact that "pit bull" is actually a breed. most articles say that "pit bull" just refers to any bully breed, when that is not true. is it true that most people do not think a pit bull is a breed? it surprised me when i first heard that, because everyone i know sees that pit bull is just as much a breed of dog as beagle of chihuahua is.
"14. Boxer (above)"
You don't actually think that the dog in the first photo is a Boxer, do you? Because it's not.
That Bullmastiff is so handsome, looks a lot like one of my favourite dogs at the shelter.
Bully dogs ftw!
Interesting. Thanks.
Thanks for the fascinating and detailed article, and including pictures. I learned a lot about the bully breed...Thanks!
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