There are many different types of American Bullies, and you could have seen one or two of the most popular. One type of bully that is becoming increasingly common is the micro bully. But what is a micro bully? How can you differentiate it from its familial cousin, the pocket bully?
In this article, we’ll be discussing the difference between a micro bully and a pocket bully. By the end, you should understand each type of bully well and which would be best for you.
Wondering what the difference is between a pocket bully and a micro bully?
As sciences and technology advance, selective breeding in dogs has become more and more popular. In the case of American Bullies, various types have emerged due to this selective breeding from different dog lineages, such as the American Pit Bull Terrier and other Bulldog breeds.
Being keen on differentiating the American Bully breed types is essential, especially if you are planning to purchase or adopt one. This article will discuss the difference between the most popular types of American Bullies, the pocket bully, and the micro bully.
Micro Bully vs. Pocket Bully: Lineage
American Bully breeds are mixed dog breeds from the American Pit Bull Terrier and other Bulldog breeds. “Bully” is a nickname for the American Pit Bull Terrier. These Bully breeds come from many dog breeds, such as the English Bulldog, the American Staffordshire Terrier, and even the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, contributing to its overall physique and characteristics.
Pocket Bullies and Micro Bullies may exhibit features and behavior seen in other familial cousins such as the American Bulldog, French Bulldog, Exotic Bulldog, Patterdale Terrier, and the American Pitbull Terrier.
Micro Bully vs. Pocket Bully: Physical Features
These mixed-breed dogs have so many commonalities in terms of physiques. American Bully dogs have muscular body types with thick necks, broad chests, and short legs. They are also both stocky dogs that are shorter than they are long. Their skin is usually tight with little to no wrinkles.
The pocket bully is a miniaturized version of the Standard American Bully. Pocket bullies are not as muscular as their Standard American Bully cousins. It is, however, a more compact dog and has shorter legs.
The Micro Bully is the smallest type of Exotic Bully. They have all the physical features of an American Bully but on a smaller scale. They also have shorter legs.
These are some of the key differences between the Pocket American Bully and the Micro American Bully dog breed in terms of physical appearance:
Head
The Pocket Bully has a larger head size than the Micro Bully. Pocket Bully dogs usually have a diameter ratio of 60% or more of their shoulder height.
The Micro Bully, on the other hand, has a smaller head. They usually have a diameter ratio of 50% or less of their shoulder height.
Eyes
The eyes of an American Pocket Bully are set wide apart and are usually round.
The eyes of a Micro Bully are also set wide apart, but they are more almond-shaped.
Ears
The ears of Pocket bullies are set high on the head and are usually cropped.
The ears of Micr bullies are also set high on the head but are usually natural and not cropped.
Tail
Pocket Bullies’ tail is medium to long and usually docked.
The tail of a Micro Bully is short and is usually natural.
Coat
The pocket dog breed has a short and smooth coat.
The Micro Bully has a short to medium-length coat that is also smooth.
Size
Body Built
A muscular body is one of the fundamental physical features of an American Bully. It is especially true for Pocket Bullies and Micro Bullies.
- The Standard American Bully is a large dog.
- The Pocket American Bully breed is a miniature version of the Standard American Bully and usually weighs between 30 to 50 pounds.
- The Micro Bully is the smallest type of American Bully. They usually weigh between 20 to 40 pounds.
Regarding physical features, both bully breeds have muscular body types, broad chests, thick necks, and short legs. They are also both stocky dogs that are shorter than they are long. The main difference between the two is that the Pocket Bully is a miniature version of the Standard American Bully. At the same time, the Micro Bully is the smallest type of American Bully.
Micro Bully vs. Pocket Bully: Size
While these American Bully dog breeds share many physical similarities, there are some critical differences in size. The Pocket American Bully is a miniature version of the Standard American Bully and usually weighs between 30 to 50 pounds. The Micro Bully is the smallest type of American Bully and usually weighs between 20 to 40 pounds.
In terms of size, the Pocket Bully is distinctively larger than the Micro Bully.
It is also noteworthy that there is a Micro Exotic bully mix of the Micro Bully and the Exotic Bully with a standard weight of 35-50lbs.
Micro Bully vs. Pocket Bully: Health and Care
American Bullies are generally a healthy dog breed. However, like all dogs, they are susceptible to specific health conditions. Although Bully breeds are known for a muscular body, they are not known for being a particularly active dog breed. These are some of the most common health issues that affect both American Pocket and Micro Bully:
Demodectic Mange
It is also known as demodicosis; demodectic mange is a skin condition caused by the Demodex Canis mite. This mite is found in small numbers on all healthy dogs. However, when a dog’s immune system is weakened, the mite can reproduce in large numbers and cause mange.
Demodectic mange is not contagious to other animals or humans. However, it is essential to seek veterinary care if your dog shows demodicosis, as it can lead to secondary infections.
Symptoms of demodectic mange include:
* Hair loss
* Scaling
* Crusts
* Redness
* itchiness
Cherry Eye
Cherry eye is a condition that affects the tear gland in the third eyelid. The third eyelid is located in the inner corner of the eye and contains a small gland that produces tears. In dogs with the cherry eye, this gland becomes prolapsed and visible.
Cherry eye is a relatively common condition in American Bullies, particularly young dogs. However, it is essential to seek veterinary care if your dog develops cherry eye, as it can lead to other serious health problems.
Symptoms of the cherry eye include:
* A bulging third eyelid
* Tearing
* Redness
* Inflammation
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the hip joint. In dogs with hip dysplasia, the hip joint does not develop correctly, leading to pain and lameness. Hip dysplasia is hereditary, but environmental factors, such as obesity can also cause it.
Hip dysplasia is a common condition in American Bullies.
Symptoms of hip dysplasia include:
* Lameness
* Pain
* Stiffness
* Difficulty rising
Elbow Dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia is a condition that affects the elbow joint. In dogs with elbow dysplasia, the elbow bones do not develop correctly, leading to pain and lameness. Elbow dysplasia is hereditary, but environmental factors, such as obesity can also cause it.
Elbow dysplasia is a common condition in American Bullies.
Symptoms of elbow dysplasia include:
* Lameness
* Pain
* Stiffness
Heart Murmur
A heart murmur is an abnormal sound that can be heard with a stethoscope listening to the heart. Heart murmurs are caused by turbulent blood flow and are often benign. However, in some cases, a heart murmur can signify a severe underlying cardiac condition.
Heart murmurs are relatively common in American Bullies. However, most heart murmurs are benign and do not require treatment.
Symptoms of a heart murmur include:
* An abnormal sound when listening to the heart with a stethoscope
* Shortness of breath
* Exercise intolerance
* Fatigue
BOAS
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) is a condition that affects dogs with short, broad skulls. Dogs with BOAS often have narrow nostrils and a soft palate that is too long. These anatomic abnormalities can cause difficulty breathing, particularly during exercise.
BOAS is a common condition in American Bullies.
Symptoms of BOAS include:
* Snoring
* Panting
* Exercise intolerance
* Difficulty breathing
Dental problems
American Bullies are prone to dental problems, such as overcrowding, tartar buildup, and gingivitis. It is essential to brush your dog’s teeth regularly and to have their teeth professionally cleaned by a veterinarian.
Dental problems are relatively common in American Bullies.
Symptoms of dental problems include:
* Bad breath
* Yellow or brown teeth
* Tartar buildup
* Gum inflammation
Luxating Patella
Luxating patella is a condition that affects the kneecap. In dogs with luxating patella, the kneecap dislocates from its normal position. Luxating patella is a hereditary condition that can also be caused by trauma.
Luxating patella is a relatively common condition in American Bullies.
Symptoms of luxating patella include:
* Lameness
* Pain
* Difficulty rising
* Skipping or hopping gait
Obesity
Obesity is a common problem in the American Bully breed. Obesity can lead to several health issues, such as joint problems, respiratory difficulties, and cardiovascular disease.
It is essential to feed your American Bully a healthy diet and provide plenty of exercises.
Symptoms of obesity include:
* Excess body fat
* Difficulty breathing
* Exercise intolerance
* Joint pain
Arrhythmia
An arrhythmia is an abnormal heart rate. Arrhythmias can be caused by several factors, including electrolyte imbalances, heart disease, and stress.
Arrhythmias are relatively common in American Bullies. However, most arrhythmias are benign and do not require treatment.
Symptoms of an arrhythmia include:
* An abnormal heart rate
* Shortness of breath
* Exercise intolerance
Cancer
Cancer is a disease that affects all breeds of dogs. American Bullies are particularly susceptible to certain types of cancer, such as bone cancer and lymphoma.
Cancer is a severe disease that can be fatal. Early detection and treatment are essential for the best possible outcome.
Symptoms of cancer include:
* Lameness
* Weight loss
* Loss of appetite
* Lethargy
These are just a few health issues that American Bullies are prone to. Like many dog breeds, the Exotic Bully’s lifespan and health can significantly improve through responsible breeding practices and regular veterinary care. Most American Bullies live long, healthy lives with proper care and regular vet check-ups.
How to Take Care of American Bully Dog Breeds?
These mixed breed dogs, like other dog breeds, these mixed breed dogs require some level of grooming to keep them healthy and looking their best. Some of the basic grooming needs of the American Bully include:
Bathing
Bathe your American Bully as needed, using a dog-safe shampoo. Some health issues you might have to bathe your Bully more often include allergies, hot spots, and skin infections.
Brushing
Brush your American Bully’s teeth at least once a week to prevent dental problems. You know that tartar build-up is of the most common health issues in this dog breed.
Nail Trimming
Trim your American Bully’s nails every few weeks to prevent overgrowth. If you hear your dog’s nails clicking on the floor, they are probably too long.
Ear Cleaning
Clean your American Bully’s ears once a week to prevent ear infections. Hearing problems and other health issues regarding the ear can be caused by wax buildup and debris.
Anal Gland Expression
The anal glands of your American Bully need to be expressed regularly. It can be done at home or by a professional groomer.
As with any mixed breed, the American Bully’s exact grooming needs will vary depending on the individual dog’s coat type and health. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian or professional groomer about what grooming routine is best for your Bully.
Benefits of a Healthy Dog
Keeping these great family dogs healthy has many benefits. A healthy dog means:
- Fewer vet bills
- More time to enjoy your dog
- A longer lifespan for your dog
- A happier, healthier dog
Less time at the vet means more time and money for activities you and your American Bully can enjoy together. A longer lifespan also means more years of companionship with your furry friend. Learn more about these dog breeds at https://the-american-bully.com/.
So, What Can You Do to Keep Your American Bully Healthy?
Here are a few tips:
- Choose the proper nutrition for your Bully.
- Feed them a high-quality diet appropriate for their age, weight, and activity level.
- Provide plenty of exercises.
- American Bullies need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and fit.
- Make sure they get regular vet check-ups.
- Be sure to take your American Bully to the vet for regular check-ups, vaccinations, and health screenings.
Following these simple tips can help your American Bully live a long, healthy life.
Micro Bully vs. Pocket Bully: Food and Diet
Exotic Bullies like the Micro breeds require a little more protein in their diet than the average dog. They are constantly growing, and their muscles need to be correctly developed. A high-quality, well-balanced diet is essential for all American Bullies, but it is necessary for the Micros.
These are the typical diet of American and Exotic Bullies:
BARF Diet
The BARF diet, which stands for “Bones and Raw Food,” is a popular diet among American Bullies. This diet consists of raw meat, bones, vegetables, and fruit.
Many people believe the BARF diet is the healthiest way to feed their dogs because it resembles their ancestors’ diet. Other people believe that the BARF diet is too high in fat and protein and can cause health problems.
Pros:
- The BARF diet is a natural way to feed your dog.
- It is rich in nutrients that are essential for growth and development.
Cons:
- The BARF diet can be expensive.
- It can be time-consuming to prepare meals from scratch.
Raw Diet
The raw diet is similar to the BARF diet but includes no cooked food. This diet consists of raw meat, bones, vegetables, and fruit.
Many people believe that the raw diet is the healthiest way to feed their dogs because it closely resembles their ancestors’ diet. Other people believe that the raw diet is too high in fat and protein and can cause health problems.
Pros:
- The raw diet is a natural way to feed your dog.
- It is rich in nutrients that are essential for growth and development.
Cons:
- The raw diet can be expensive.
- It can be time-consuming to prepare meals from scratch.
Kibble Diet
The kibble diet is the most common type of dog food. This diet consists of dry food made from meat, grains, and vegetables.
Many people believe that the kibble diet is the easiest way to feed their dogs because it is convenient and easy to store. Other people think the kibble diet is not as nutritious as other diets and can cause health problems.
Pros:
- The kibble diet is convenient and easy to store.
Cons:
- The kibble diet is not as nutritious as other diets.
It can cause health problems.
No matter what diet you choose for your American Bully, you must talk to your veterinarian about what is best for your dog. They can help you choose a diet that is right for your dog’s individual needs.
American Bully puppies and Exotic Bully puppies are suggested to eat three to four times a day. As they age, they can be transitioned to two meals a day. An adult American Bully should eat two meals a day. The amount of food will depend on their age, weight, and activity level.
Micro Bully vs. Pocket Bully: Temperament and Intelligence
When it comes to temperament, there is not a big difference between the Micro Bully and the Pocket Bully. Both are intelligent, loyal, and affectionate dogs. They are also protective of their families and make excellent guard dogs.
The main difference between the two is that the Micro Bully is more reserved around strangers, and the Pocket Bully is more outgoing.
Both these dogs can learn tricks and stunts such as:
- jumping through hoops
- rolling over
- sitting
- begging
- playing dead
Both the Micro Bully and the Pocket Bully are great family dogs. They are gentle with children and get along well with other pets.
Micro Bully vs. Pocket Bully: What the International Bully Coalition Says About Them
The American Kennel Club and International Bully Coalition are the two leading registries for American Bullies. The International Bully Coalition is the more popular of the two, recognizing three different types of American Bullies: Standard, Pocket, and Micro.
The International Bully register says that the Standard American Bully is:
- A medium to large size dog with a muscular body.
- They should have a square-shaped head, and their ears should be cropped or uncropped.
- The Pocket American Bully is a small to medium size dog with a compact and muscular body. They should have a square-shaped head, and their ears should be cropped or uncropped.
The International Bully register says that the Micro American Bully is:
- The Micro American Bully is the smallest size of the American Bully.
- They should have a compact and muscular body.
- They should have a square-shaped head, and their ears should be cropped or uncropped.
The American Kennel Club only recognizes one type of American Bully, the Standard. The AKC does not recognize the Pocket and Micro.
Micro Bully vs. Pocket Bully: Where to Buy One?
Exotic Bullies and Exotic Bully puppies can be bought from breeders worldwide. However, they are most popular in the United States.
When looking for a breeder, it is essential to do your research. Make sure you visit the breeder’s facility and meet the puppy’s parents you are interested in. A reputable breeder must provide you with the following:
- A health guarantee
- A contract
- Registration papers
- Proof of vaccinations and deworming
- Bully registry
A reputable breeder can also answer any questions about the American Bully breed.
When looking for a Pocket Bully or a Micro Bully, it is essential to find a breeder specializing in these two types. This way, you can be sure you are getting a dog that meets the standards set by the International Bully Coalition.
Tips in Finding a Reputable Breeder
Shorty Bulls, especially Exotic Bullies, have been targeted for masquerading as mixed and backyard breeders. Be very careful in choosing a breeder.
Here are some tips that might help you:
- Check the breeder’s website and social media accounts. A reputable breeder should have a professional-looking website and active social media accounts.
- The website should have information about the breeder, their facility, and their dogs.
- The social media accounts should be updated regularly with photos and videos of the dogs.
- The breeder should be able to answer all your questions about the American Bully breed.
- The breeder should be willing to let you visit their facility.
- A reputable breeder will also have registration papers ( Bully registries, US Bully registry) and proof of vaccinations for their dogs.
Finding a reputable breeder is the most important thing you can do when looking for a Micro Bully or Pocket Bully. A clean Exotic Bully is a happy Bully. This way, you can be sure you are getting a dog that meets your expectations.
Micro Bully vs. Micro Exotic Bully Breed
Another fantastic but confusing thing about the Bully breeds is the many different types and names. These dog breeds vary per size, kind, and even fur colors. With so many types of Bullies, it’s hard to keep track of what’s what.
One type of Bully that has recently become popular is the Micro Bully. The term “Micro” is used to describe the smaller size of this Bully breed.
So, what’s the difference between a Micro Bully and a Micro Exotic Bully?
A Micro Shorty is a Bully under the Exotic Shorty class. ExotiShorties are a new type of Bully developed by crossing different Shorty Bull generations. The goal of creating the Exotic Shorty was to create a Bully that has all the best qualities of the Shorty Bull but in a smaller package.
The Exotic Shorty is a shorter and more compact Bully that still has the muscular build of the Shorty Bull. They also have the signature Shorty Bullhead. The only difference is that they are smaller in size. These two breeds differ in:
- Size- Micro bullies are smaller than Micro Exotic Bullies.
- Build- Micro Exotic Bullies have a more muscular build than Micro Bullies.
- Head- Micro Exotic Bullies have a more Shorty-like head than Micro Bullies.
Do your research before getting a Micro Bully or a Micro Exotic Bully. This way, you can be sure you are getting the American Bully Exotic that meets your expectations.
Micro Bully vs. Micro Exotic Bully Temperament
The temperament of a Micro Bully or a Micro Exotic Bully can vary depending on the breeder. However, both breeds are generally known to be friendly, loving, and loyal dogs.
One thing to remember is that because of their smaller size, Micro Bullies and Micro Exotic Bullies are more vulnerable to injury. So, it is essential to be careful when handling them.
Both breeds make great family dogs and are good with children. However, because of their small size, they are not recommended for families with very young children.
Micro Bully vs. Micro Exotic Bully Lifespan
With a healthy diet, proper exercise, and regular vet check-ups, a Micro Bully can live up to 12-14 years. A Micro Exotic Bully’s lifespan is similar to that of a Micro Bully. They can also live up to 12-14 years with proper care.
These astounding breeds can accompany you for many years, so ensure you are ready for the commitment before getting one.
The lifespan of Other American Breeds
Now that you know the difference between a Micro Bully and a Micro Exotic Bully let’s compare the lifespan of other popular American breeds.
- Pocket – The Pocket Bully is a smaller version of the Standard American Bully. They are compact and muscular with thick bone structures. The average lifespan of a Pocket Bully is 12-14 years.
- Standard – The Standard American Bully is a large and muscular dog. They have a thick bone structure and a large head. The average lifespan of a Standard American Bully is 12-14 years.
- Classic – The Classic American Bully is a medium-sized dog. They are muscular with a thick bone structure. The average lifespan of a Classic American Bully is 12-14 years.
- Xl – The XL American Bully is a huge dog. They are muscular with a thick bone structure. The average lifespan of an XL American Bully is 12-14 years.
Generally, American shorties live shorter lives than their taller counterparts. The same goes for bully breeds. So, a Micro Bully or a Micro Exotic Bully will likely have a shorter lifespan than a Pocket Bully or a Standard American Bully.
Other Exotic Bully Dog Breeds
Here are other Exotic Bully types you may choose from:
- Blue Exotic Bully – The Blue Exotic Bully, is a blue-colored Bully. They are short and compact with thick bone structures. The average lifespan of a Blue Exotic Bully is 12-14 years.
- Black Exotic Bully – The Black Exotic Bully is a black-colored Bully. They are short and compact with thick bone structures. The average lifespan of a Black Exotic Bully is 12-14 years.
- Brown Exotic Bully – The Brown Exotic Bully is a brown-colored bully. Their size can range from small to medium. The average lifespan of a Brown Exotic Bully is 12-14 years.
- Merle Exotic Bully – The Merle Exotic Bully is a merle-colored bully. They are famous for their unique mottled coat. The average lifespan of a Merle Exotic Bully is 12-14 years.
Exotic Bullies, like Exotic Bulldogs, can come in various colors.
Exotic Breeds Common Disease
Due to selective breeding and inbreeding, Exotic breeds are prone to various health problems. Some common health problems seen in Exotics are:
- Allergies
- Skin problems
- Eye problems
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Heart disease
- Cancer
Exotic breeds are also known to be more aggressive than other breeds. It is due to their history of being bred for fighting.
FAQS
Q: What’s the difference between a Micro Bully and a Pocket Bully?
A: The difference between a Micro Bully and a Pocket Bully is that a Micro Bully is a smaller version of the Standard American Bully. They are compact and muscular with thick bone structures. A Pocket Bully is a smaller version of the Standard American Bully. They are compact and muscular with dense bone structures.
Q: What’s the difference between a Micro Bully and a Micro Exotic Bully?
A: The difference between a Micro Bully and a Micro Exotic Bully is that a Micro Bully is a smaller version of the Standard American Bully. They are compact and muscular with thick bone structures. A Micro Exotic Bully is a smaller version of the Standard American Bully. They are compact and muscular with dense bone structures.
Q: What’s the difference between a Pocket Bully and a Standard American Bully?
A: The difference between a Pocket Bully and a Standard American Bully is that a Pocket Bully is a smaller version of the Standard American Bully. They are compact and muscular with thick bone structures. A Standard American Bully is a large and muscular dog. They have a dense bone structure and a large head.
In Conclusion
As you can see, there are many differences and commonalities between Micro Bullies and Pocket Bullies. Dog lovers should be keen on choosing which bully breed is right for them. Consider your lifestyle and home setup before making a decision. Doing your research before deciding which type of Bully is right for you is essential.
If you have questions regarding these breeds, check us out at American Bully
