15 Best Types Of Bully Dog Breeds

Written by Em Casalena
Updated: June 13, 2023
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When looking for a dog breed to bring home, there are several options available. The bully breeds are among the most popular options. But precisely what breeds of dogs are they? Is the bully breed a distinct canine breed? What are the best types of bully dog breeds?

It may be difficult for people unfamiliar with bully dog breeds to choose which will make the best possible pets for them. Each dog has its own personality and characteristics. Bullies also have a wide range of temperaments and characteristics due to their lineage from different parent breeds. You must carefully assess your lifestyle if you have your sights set on one of them.

Also, researching your pet’s particular needs will help you provide for them more effectively. You can exert greater influence over them if you know more about their health and possible responses to their surroundings. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the 15 best types of bully dog breeds to consider for your new family addition. But first, let’s break down exactly what bully breeds are.

The most common bully breeds are the American Pit Bull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier.

What Are Bully Breeds?

The most common bully breeds out there include the bulldog, boxer, pug, American pit bull terrier, American Staffordshire terrier, and Boston terrier. This category includes a lot of different dog breeds. You might even be shocked to learn that several popular family dogs in the nation belong to the bully breeds.

Bullies with excellent attributes have been carefully developed by breeders, yet they might not be the right option for everyone. Bully breeds are often quite lively, friendly, and fun-loving dogs. Although they are quick, athletic, and diligent workers, they are also composed and very sweet. Bully breeds can also be found in dog sports, the military, police forces, and search and rescue teams. They are boisterous, lively canines with high energy levels and usually have some hefty exercise requirements. This depends on the specific breed. Most bullies do well with other dogs, but some might need socialization when young to tolerate multi-dog families.

Sadly, bully breeds sometimes have a bad reputation for being aggressive or dangerous. They are big and imposing, like boxers, but they are also cute and humorous, like pugs. So, it is unfair that bully breeds, particularly pit bull breeds, have an unjustified reputation for aggression. 

Bullies are devoted, loving dogs who are now among the most popular family pets in America. Let’s take a look at a few of the best types of bully dog breeds out there.

1. American Pit Bull Terrier

The American pit bull terrier is the breed behind the term “pit bull.” This medium-sized dog is a favorite companion because of its devotion and athleticism. To combine the athletic prowess and tenacity of a terrier with the power of a bulldog, English bulldogs and terriers were bred to create these dogs. This breed became quite popular as their reputation as tough working dogs made them perfect for life on the farm, where they excelled at hunting and carrying heavy loads.

At a height of around 21 inches at the withers, the American pit bull terrier has a sturdy frame. Weights range from 40 to 60 pounds, although a properly bred animal shouldn’t be so heavy that it affects its walk.

It’s a dreadful fact, but dogfighting and bull-baiting, two popular blood sports in the 1800s, cast a shadow over the early years of the American pit bull terrier. Even if they don’t have the best reputation nowadays, many still love them dearly as pets.

American pit bull terriers (pictured) make excellent pets despite their dark past.

©Pulikina Olga/Shutterstock.com

2. Staffordshire Bull Terriers

The Staffordshire bull terrier, or staffy, is an older dog breed than many on this list. Staffies were bred for blood sports and may be traced back to the bulldog. Staffies may reach a shoulder height of up to 16 inches. The range of weight is 30 to 38 pounds. They should be strong but still nimble, and they shouldn’t be so big that they struggle to move without looking almost comical. These are sturdy dogs with broad shoulders and powerful necks that complement their general appearance.

The staffy is a little dog with surprising power that is adored for its funny personality, smiles, and general looks. As they are terriers at heart, this breed can also be beneficial by keeping pests like rodents under control in addition to being fine house dogs.

why do dogs eat grass

Staffordshire bull terriers (pictured) are strong dogs with fun personalities.

©Melounix/Shutterstock.com

3. American Staffordshire Bull Terriers

The American Staffordshire bull terrier and the American pit bull terrier are distant relatives. However, they differ greatly in size and appearance. The former seems bigger and heavier, yet shares the renowned loyalty of the American pit bull terrier. The Staffordshire terriers used in the breeding of these dogs were brought to the United States from England in the late 1800s.

At the shoulder, American Staffordshire bull terriers stand around 19 inches tall. They typically weigh around 75 pounds, and their height and weight are proportional. They shouldn’t seem lanky, and their physique should be athletic, strong, and stocky. Wide-set, dark eyes, a full snout, and a large head are characteristics of this breed. Their necks are quite robust, and their ears are perched high on their heads.

American Staffordshire Terrier standing in water

The American Staffordshire terrier (pictured) was developed in the United States to bait bulls.

©Aneta Jungerova/Shutterstock.com

4. American Bulldogs

A sturdy working breed designed to be a farmer’s right-hand dog, the American bulldog is still loved to this day. While it is a considerably larger breed, it has a robust body and a massive, blocky head similar to the pit bull. At the withers, American bulldogs can reach heights of up to 28 inches. Depending on the sex, weights range from 75 to a whopping 125 pounds. The muscled build of this breed should nevertheless allow for a fluid walk. Although the American bulldog has thick bones and a strong physique, it shouldn’t appear too rotund or heavy like the more well-known English bulldog.

In the 1700s, the American bulldog was developed in America using a combination of imported bulldogs from England. The dog’s breed was created to perform a variety of tasks on a property, including guarding, capturing, and herding.

American bulldog sitting in grass with tongue out

The American bulldog (pictured) has a stronger bite force than the English bulldog.

©Zanna Pesnina/Shutterstock.com

5. English Bulldogs

The first bulldog was the beloved English bulldog. The English bulldog is a large, courageous dog with a waddle that is reminiscent of a crab. These canines are strong and spirited, making them ideal for outdoor activities. They have a huge head, a flattened forehead, undershot chops, and thick lips, which are all characteristics of the bulldog breed.

English bulldogs have a sweet and silly temperament despite their fearsome appearance. They are the kind of dogs who enjoy receiving affection from and being around people. English bulldogs are watchdogs by nature and will always be prepared to defend their family, so invaders beware! Although these dogs are quite laid back, they do need frequent walks and exercise. Also, they require a strict diet because they are prone to certain health issues.

Calmest dog - bulldog laying down with its tongue out

English bulldogs (pictured) are comical pets with a lot of love to give.

©iStock.com/jesse757

6. Bull Terriers

These large-boned terriers are distinguished by their long nose and egg-shaped heads. Though they can be any color, they are often white. The bull terrier is an independent and stubborn breed that can be challenging for new dog owners. Yet with the right training, one might discover the charming nature that this breed possesses. In fact, early socialization will highlight the bull terrier’s endearing characteristics, since these dogs are spirited, active, and friendly.

These canines also have a consistent disposition. They are amenable to discipline and will take to strict instruction nicely. They are ideal for families, including those with small children, because of this. These dogs need a lot of exercise since they were bred to work, and they need early instruction and gain much from early socialization.

Bull terrier

Bull terriers (pictured) have very distinct faces and heads.

©iStock.com/cindygoff

7. Cane Corsos

The Cane Corso, which may weigh up to 100 pounds and occasionally more, serves as the conventional canine first line of defense and defender. While they walk with an impression of grace, these bully dogs have the formidable aspect of a guard dog. They were bred as guard dogs, as you might expect, and they still exhibit these protective characteristics today. They are obedient, wise, and easy to train.

Corsos are adaptable dogs who want to please their owners at all times. Nonetheless, they require strict training in order to avoid being aggressive and dominant. For these reasons, early socialization and training are essential if the dogs are to get along with people. They are excellent companion dogs as long as you socialize them frequently and early on as puppies.

Scariest Dogs

Cane Corsos (pictured) are imposing and strong, yet affectionate with their families.

©Sbolotova/Shutterstock.com

8. French Bulldogs

With the exception of the bulldog’s bat ears, which stand straight on its head, the French bulldog is a smaller version of the bulldog. Both breeds have short, silky coats that conceal their strong frames and the same deep creases on their faces.

Frenchies are unique little guys that are a delight to have around. All lifestyles can readily accommodate these charmers. Because of its friendly personality, this bully dog should be easy for city dwellers to care for. And just as well, these dogs are less vocal, which makes them suitable for apartment life. They could make great watchdogs because they only bark when necessary. They adapt well to a wide range of households and don’t need a lot of outside activity.

french bulldog

French bulldogs (pictured) are excellent for apartment or city living.

©Angyalosi Beata/Shutterstock.com

9. Rottweilers

The Rottweiler is a powerful dog. These are German dogs that were formerly used to herd animals. Today, they make great guard dogs, police dogs, and rescue dogs. These dogs are confident and self-assured, which helps them successfully do the duties that are given to them. They can reach heights of 25 to 27 inches at the shoulder, with females often being a little shorter. They are distinguished by their rust-colored patterns and block coat.

Rotties are perceptive individuals. They are on guard and prepared to defend their house at all times. These dogs are adaptive beings that make wonderful friends and all-around pets. A well-socialized and trained Rottweiler is brave and self-assured rather than hostile and aggressive.

rottweiler

Rottweilers (pictured) are often very misunderstood dogs that make excellent pets when properly trained.

©iStock.com/BiancaGrueneberg

10. Bullmastiffs

The Mastiff is larger, but the Bullmastiff is still a force to be reckoned with when it comes to strength and devotion. These massive dogs, which can reach over 130 pounds, certainly pack a lot of pup. They may appear a little frightening at first, but they are among the dog kingdom’s most affectionate creatures. They have dark eyes and big, wide heads.

The nicest thing about Bullmastiffs is that they make excellent guard dogs and loyal companions. Bullmastiffs are often used as guard dogs because of their enormous size, powerful physique, and fierce loyalty to their family members.

bullmastiff standing in field

The Bullmastiff (pictured) is an excellent guard dog breed.

©BORINA OLGA/Shutterstock.com

11. Pugs

Pugs are tiny and delightful dogs. This bully breed might be small, but they have enormous hearts. Despite their little size, these dogs are some of the kindest, most loving pets one could ever possess. These dogs are incredibly adaptable and may live happily in an apartment, in the country, alone, or in a pack of other dogs.

In the United States, pugs are very popular pets. Unfortunately, they are vulnerable to a number of illnesses, and some even require surgery to breathe properly. Due to their respiratory issues, they also don’t require much activity and shouldn’t exercise too much.

pug

Pugs (pictured) may be small, but they pack a lot of the bully personality.

©220 Selfmade studio/Shutterstock.com

12. Boston Terriers

These tiny canines may not have the same appearance as other bully breeds, but they are bullies at heart. They are typically black and white and are most recognized for their tuxedo-like coloring. Boston terriers are small, nimble dogs with a tuxedo-like coat that can be black and white, seal, or brindle. They are fashionable and well-groomed. They have little square heads, short muzzles, and boisterous, sparkling eyes.

The adaptability of Boston terriers is another interesting quality of this breed. These canines are flexible and will thrive in both the city and the countryside. They are wonderful city dogs thanks to their mobility, which is unusual for bully breeds. These are friendly canines who are likely to make everyone they encounter smile.

Types of terrier dogs

Boston terriers (pictured) are sometimes confused for French bulldogs.

©Lenka_N/Shutterstock.com

13. Dogue De Bordeaux

The lovely gigantic Dogue De Bordeaux can weigh up to 100 lbs. Due to their enormous size, they may come across as frightening, yet they are actually very tender, loving creatures. That being said, these loyal dogs will stop at nothing to protect their family.

For those considering bringing this breed into their homes, remember that these dogs are strong-willed and headstrong pups. Thus it’s important to train them firmly.

Biggest Dog Breeds_ Dogue de Bordeaux

Dogue de Bordeaux (pictured) is one of the oldest dog breeds on this list.

©otsphoto/Shutterstock.com

14. English Mastiffs

The English Mastiff has a very striking look and can be quite an enormous dog. They have wide heads, massive muscles, and wrinkled faces of bulldogs. However, a dog with the sweetest temperament can be found under the imposing exterior of this breed. Mastiffs are wonderful family pets since they are loyal to their owners. To bring forth their innately kind and tolerant nature, they need careful training.

close up of an English mastiff laying in grass

English Mastiffs (pictured) can grow quite large and have a great temperament.

©Kachalkina Veronika/Shutterstock.com

15. Boxers

Boxers often seem focused and attentive due to their smooth muscles and furrowed forehead. They are elegant, courageous beasts prepared to face every challenge head-on, and they could be considered the “athlete” of the bully breeds. Boxers are bully dogs that are protective and make excellent watchdogs. When properly trained and socialized from an early age, they get along very great with children and other animals.

White boxer sitting outside on a path

The boxer (pictured) is a stoic, athletic bully breed.

©iStock.com/Amanda Woldt Photography

How cool are all of these bully breeds? When you’re ready to adopt a bully breed, any of the entries on this list will make an excellent addition to your family.

Summary Of The 15 Best Types Of Bully Dog Breeds

RankBully Breed
1American Pit Bull Terrier
2Staffordshire Bull Terriers
3American Staffordshire Bull Terriers
4American Bulldogs
5English Bulldogs
6Bull Terriers
7Cane Corsos
8French Bulldogs
9Rottweilers
10Bullmastiffs
11Pugs
12Boston Terriers
13Dogue De Bordeaux
14English Mastiffs
15Boxers

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Ammit Jack/Shutterstock.com

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About the Author

Em Casalena is a writer at A-Z Animals where their primary focus is on plants, gardening, and sustainability. Em has been writing and researching about plants for nearly a decade and is a proud Southwest Institute of Healing Arts graduate and certified Urban Farming instructor. Em is a resident of Arizona and enjoys learning about eco-conscious living, thrifting at local shops, and caring for their Siamese cat Vladimir.

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