Is a Bully Breed Right for You?
If you've ever seen news stories about bully breeds being rescued from abusive or neglectful situations, you might feel the pull of your heartstrings to immediately rush out and adopt one. But these stocky canines can be quite a handful if you don't know what you're getting into. Before you decide to adopt, take this quiz to test your bully breed smarts and see if your personal lifestyle makes you a good fit for owning one of these special dogs. Remember, the "correct" answers are those that make you the best bully breed owner possible.
I am interested in a bully breed for _____________.
companionship
protection
a status symbol
I don't really know.
According to Bay Area Doglovers Responsible About Pitbulls, (BAD RAP) these breeds are extremely loyal companions, but they are more likely to lick a predator's hand than bite it. If you're looking for protection or just think owning one will up your cool quotient, you should do more research before you decide to adopt one.
Do you have other pets?
Yes, I have other dogs.
Yes, I have cats or other animals.
No, this will be my one and only dog.
No, but I'd like more in the future.
Although bully breeds can co-exist with other animals, they generally like being around people more. According to Pit Bull Rescue Central (PBRC), if you do have other animals, it's still possible to have a bully breed, too, but you'll need to put in extra effort and time to make sure all of your creatures are happy and safe.
What is your physical activity level?
I'm not physically active.
I'm a gym rat.
I might take a walk every now and then.
I try to get outside every chance I get.
Bullies are very athletic breeds that thrive on lots of activity and love playing outside. According to the ASPCA, a bully breed might not be the best option for you if you aren't prepared to spend time each day exercising your dog.
How much time can you commit to training, socialization and activity each week?
30 - 60 minutes
2 - 4 hours
4 - 6 hours
8 - 10 hours
A well-mannered bully is a happy bully. Plan to spend a good amount of time training and socializing your bully breed dog each week. The ASPCA recommends spending at least 60 minutes a day on aerobic-level activity, plus time for training and socialization. That can really add up.
True or False: Dog parks are great places for bullies to socialize.
True
False
Dog parks really aren't the greatest places for bully breeds to socialize with other dogs. Although dog-on-dog aggression isn't a breed-specific behavior, bully breeds often get blamed in a fight due to their size and reputation. PBRC advises against taking the risk and recommends you find a bully breed-specific group for smaller play dates instead.
How often do you travel?
Never
Sometimes
Often
I live out of my suitcase
Because of their husky build and desire to be close to their pet parent, bully breeds don't make the greatest travel companions. It can be done, but if you travel frequently for work or love to globetrot, this might be the wrong category of breeds for you.
How often are you at home?
Nights and weekends
I am always at home, even for work.
I usually leave early and return late.
Home? I don’t really have a home.
Whether he's lying at your feet under your desk or following you from room to room while you clean house, this pooch will quickly become your shadow. According to BAD RAP, they can be left alone, but if you're not home on a regular schedule, you might want to consider another breed that doesn't require so much togetherness.
Are you looking for an indoor or outdoor dog?
Indoor
Outdoor
Most bully breeds don't like being left outside for long periods of time, much less living out there. Because of their innate desire to be close to you, they become very unhappy and bored if their living quarters consist of a patch of dirt under a tree. BAD RAP recommends reserving the fenced-in yard for potty-time and playtime. Bring the pooch inside to live.
Do you have children?
I don't have any children.
I have children
I plan to one day.
Both b and c
There really is no wrong answer here, because in general, bully breeds get along very well with children. BAD RAP explains that because of their solid bodies, most bully breeds love the rugged nature of child's play and develop close relationships with children. Just remember that no child should ever be left alone with any dog, regardless of breed, for any length of time.
How settled are you in your current living situation?
I'm living on my friend's sofa.
I’m pretty well set in my current home.
I move every couple years.
I could relocate in the near future.
While bully breeds can relocate with you just as any dog can, there are breed-specific laws (BSLs) that might make things more difficult. If you know you'll be moving before you adopt, research your new city to see if they have any BSLs on the books or what rules you'll be expected to follow.
Correct
No Bullies Allowed (1-3 correct): A bully breed probably isn't the right dog for your lifestyle, but that doesn’t mean there isn't another pet that's just right. Talk to a representative at your local shelter to find the perfect pooch for you.
Correct
On the Fence (4-7 correct): It's possible you'd make a great bully parent with a few modifications to your lifestyle. Check out your local shelters to see what dogs are currently available for adoption. You might find a different breed that fits better with your way of life.
Correct
A Bully's BFF (8-10 correct): You seem to have what it takes to care for a bully breed properly. Talk with your local shelter to determine the best dog for you and get ready to have a new friend for life.
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