Question 1

What is a Bully XL dog?

Accepted Answer

The American Bully XL is the largest variety of the American Bully breed, typically weighing 80-150 pounds with a muscular, powerful build. Males stand 20-23 inches at the shoulder, while females measure 19-22 inches. The breed was developed in the 1980s-1990s through selective breeding of American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and bulldog breeds, with the goal of creating a companion dog with impressive size and stable temperament. The United Kennel Club officially recognized the American Bully breed in 2013, establishing formal standards that distinguish XL Bullies from Standard, Pocket, and Classic varieties based on height and proportion. They are known for their loyal temperament, broad chest, massive bone structure, and blockier head compared to traditional Pitbulls.

Question 2

Are Bully XL dogs dangerous?

Accepted Answer

Bully XL dogs are not inherently dangerous when properly trained and socialized from puppyhood, though their large size (80-150 pounds) and strength require responsible, experienced ownership. The breed standard specifically calls for a confident, stable temperament that is friendly with strangers and tolerant of other animals. However, any large, powerful dog can become dangerous without proper socialization, training, and management. Early socialization during the critical period of 3-16 weeks, consistent positive reinforcement training, and responsible containment are essential. The American Veterinary Medical Association states that breed alone is not an accurate predictor of dangerous behavior—individual temperament, training, socialization, and owner responsibility are far more significant factors. Prospective owners should honestly assess their ability to handle a powerful breed and commit to professional training classes starting at 8-10 weeks of age.

Question 3

How big do Bully XL dogs get?

Accepted Answer

Male Bully XL dogs typically reach 20-23 inches in height at the withers and weigh 80-150 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 19-22 inches and 70-120 pounds. These measurements make them the largest classification within the American Bully breed standard established by the American Bully Kennel Club. Growth continues until approximately 18-24 months, though some individuals continue filling out until age 3. The famous Hulk the Pitbull reached approximately 175 pounds, though he represents an extreme example likely including mastiff genetics beyond standard XL Bully breeding. Size varies based on genetics, nutrition, and overall health. Dogs at the extreme upper end of the weight range may experience increased health issues and shorter lifespans due to the physical stress that excessive size places on the cardiovascular and skeletal systems.

Question 4

What is the difference between Bully XL and Pitbull?

Accepted Answer

Bully XL dogs are significantly broader, more muscular, and larger than traditional American Pit Bull Terriers, with a more exaggerated build and different breeding purpose. American Pit Bull Terriers typically weigh 35-60 pounds and stand 18-21 inches tall, while XL Bullies weigh 80-150 pounds at 20-23 inches. Structurally, XL Bullies have a broader chest, more massive bone structure, blockier head, and less athletic build compared to the leaner, more agile Pitbull. Temperamentally, American Bullies were specifically bred for a more docile, family-oriented disposition, moving away from the working drive and prey drive common in Pitbulls. While both share ancestry including American Pit Bull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers, the American Bully breed was developed as a distinct breed starting in the 1980s-1990s with the goal of creating a companion animal rather than a working or sport dog.

Question 5

How much does a Bully XL puppy cost?

Accepted Answer

Bully XL puppies typically cost between $2,000-$10,000 depending on bloodline, breeder reputation, location, and color. Standard colors like black or blue may cost $2,000-$5,000, while rare colors command premium prices: lilac tri XL Bullies range from $8,000-$15,000, blue merle patterns cost $5,000-$12,000, and red nose varieties typically run $3,000-$8,000. High-quality breeding lines with champion genetics, health clearances from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, and proven temperaments can exceed $10,000. Initial setup costs add another $1,000-$2,000 for supplies, crate, food, and veterinary care. Annual ownership costs average $2,000-$3,000 including food ($600-$1,200), veterinary care ($800-$1,500), and insurance ($720-$1,440). Prospective owners should budget for potential emergency veterinary expenses and avoid purchasing from backyard breeders offering suspiciously low prices, as these puppies often lack health clearances and proper socialization.

Question 6

What is the lifespan of an American Bully XL?

Accepted Answer

The American Bully XL lifespan typically ranges from 8-12 years, with most individuals averaging 10-11 years. This is slightly shorter than smaller American Bully varieties, which live 10-13 years, due to the physical stress that extreme size places on the body. Research published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine indicates that each 4.4 pounds of body weight decreases life expectancy by approximately one month in dogs. Factors affecting lifespan include genetics, diet, exercise, veterinary care, and overall health management. Dogs from health-tested parents with OFA clearances for hip and elbow dysplasia, cardiac examinations, and proper weight management throughout life tend to live longer. Obesity significantly shortens lifespan and increases risks of joint problems, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Regular veterinary checkups, high-quality nutrition with appropriate caloric intake (1,800-2,500 calories daily), moderate exercise, and joint supplements starting around age 3-4 can help maximize lifespan and quality of life.

Question 7

Do XL Bullies have health problems?

Accepted Answer

XL Bullies are prone to several health conditions common in large, heavily-built breeds, though responsible breeding with health testing significantly reduces risks. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are primary concerns, affecting 20-30% of the breed according to Orthopedic Foundation for Animals data. Cardiac issues including dilated cardiomyopathy can occur, making cardiac examinations important for breeding dogs. Skin conditions such as allergies, demodectic mange, and color dilution alopecia (in dilute colors like blue and lilac) affect some lines. Brachycephalic features, while less extreme than Bulldogs, can contribute to breathing difficulties in hot weather or during intense exercise. Cruciate ligament tears occur due to the breed's size and weight. Responsible breeders provide OFA health clearances for hips, elbows, cardiac function, and patellas. Prospective buyers should request documentation of parental health testing. Preventative care including appropriate exercise, weight management, joint supplements, and regular veterinary monitoring helps minimize health problems and associated costs, which can reach thousands of dollars for surgical interventions.

Question 8

Are there mini XL Bullies?

Accepted Answer

The term 'mini XL Bully' is contradictory since XL specifically denotes the largest variety of American Bullies. However, confusion arises from the breed's four size classifications: Pocket (under 17 inches for males, under 16 inches for females), Standard (17-20 inches for males, 16-19 inches for females), Classic (same height as Standard but lighter build), and XL (20-23 inches for males, 19-22 inches for females). What some people call 'mini XL Bullies' are typically Standard or Pocket American Bullies with the muscular, exaggerated build associated with XL dogs, just at a smaller height. The American Bully Kennel Club classifies dogs strictly by height measurements at the withers, so a dog under 20 inches cannot technically be an XL regardless of build or weight. Pocket Bullies, the smallest variety, typically weigh 30-60 pounds and appeal to owners wanting the American Bully look in a more manageable size. Each size variety should maintain the breed's characteristic muscular build, broad chest, and blocky head proportionate to their overall size.

Question 9

Can XL Bullies live in apartments?

Accepted Answer

XL Bullies can adapt to apartment living if provided with adequate exercise, mental stimulation, and proper training, though their size (80-150 pounds) presents practical challenges. They require 60-90 minutes of daily exercise including walks, play sessions, and training activities to prevent destructive behavior and maintain physical health. Their moderate energy level makes them less demanding than working breeds, but they still need consistent activity and engagement. Major considerations include building weight restrictions (many apartments limit dogs to 50-75 pounds), breed restrictions in rental agreements and homeowner's insurance policies, and limited indoor space for a dog of this size. Noise can be an issue if the dog is not properly trained and becomes bored or anxious. Successful apartment living requires commitment to multiple daily outings, access to outdoor areas or dog parks, crate training to provide a designated space, and early socialization to prevent reactivity in close quarters with neighbors and other dogs. Many apartment complexes specifically prohibit bully breeds, so prospective renters must verify policies before acquiring an XL Bully.

Expense Category	Low Estimate	High Estimate	Notes
Premium Dog Food	$600	$1,200	Based on 4-6 cups daily
Routine Veterinary Care	$500	$800	Vaccines, exams, preventatives
Pet Insurance	$720	$1,440	$60-$120 monthly premium
Grooming Supplies	$100	$200	Minimal grooming needs
Training Classes	$200	$500	Ongoing or refresher courses
Toys and Enrichment	$100	$300	Durable toys required
Emergency Fund	$500	$1,000	Recommended annual savings
Total Annual Cost	$2,720	$5,440	Excludes initial purchase price

Frequently Asked Questions About American Bully XL Dogs

XL Bully Ownership Cost Breakdown