The American bulldog (bully) is a newer type of bulldog native to America and it continues to rise in popularity due to its various sizes, fierce loyalty, and calm temperament. While the standard American bully is the most common version of the breed you’ll find, an extra large (XL), micro, and pocket bully variant as well.
In this article, we cover the differences between the micro bully vs pocket bully to help you better understand the breeds. We’ll take you through their sizes, temperaments, and everything else you need to know. Read on to learn more about the differences between these American bully variations down below.
Understanding the Different Types of American Bullies
There are many types of American bully breeds, and some of them are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). The four breeds that are recognized by this kennel club include the pocket bully, standard bully, classic bully, and the XL bully (extra large bully).
These dogs are all similar temperament-wise, but they come in at different heights and weights. Additionally, there are more types of bullies, like the micro bully, that aren’t recognized by the AKC, so there’s less consistency with those breeds.
Micro Bully Vs Pocket Bully Size
The biggest difference between the micro bully and pocket bully is their size, which is true for all types of American bullies. As the name implies, micro bullies are the smallest of the American bully breeds out there, and they come in at around 20 to 30 pounds and 10-13 inches at the shoulder.
On the other hand, pocket bullies are 14-17 inches at the shoulder and they weigh around 30-50 pounds. Therefore, pocket bullies are larger than micro bullies by a few inches and a few pounds.
Micro Bully Vs Pocket Bully Temperament
Micro bullies and pocket bullies tend to have a similar temperament. You’ll find that they’re both energetic, smart, playful, and friendly.
Typically, both breeds are also great with children and other animals due to their small size, so you don’t have to worry as much about their prey drive as you do with standard and XL American bullies.
That said, it’s important to note that they can be a bit rebellious at times, especially if you’re not training them properly. To minimize these issues it’s a good idea to focus on positive reinforcement training.
Micro Bully Vs Pocket Bully Grooming
When it comes to grooming, micro bullies and pocket bullies are also similar. You’ll need to brush them daily to keep them happy and clean but there is no shedding or anything serious you have to take care of often.
That said, a bath every four to six months from a professional groomer is important because they can also clean their ears, nails, and the folds between their skin.
Micro Bully Vs Pocket Bully Health Problems
Micro bullies and pocket bullies share most health issues. Problems from breathing issues to hip dysplasia are common among pocket and micro bullies. This also includes overheating, bloating, coat issues, and even thyroid issues. Problems with their knees and joints are also common, along with lung problems and skin infections.
That said, micro bullies do have some different health issues you have to be aware of. Due to their smaller size, you’ll find that they tend to gain weight faster and may overheat faster than pocket bullies, so you have to be more careful with their diet. This becomes even more common as they age, so keep an eye on their food intake and exercise.
Final Thoughts on Micro Bullies Vs Pocket Bullies
Micro bullies and pocket bullies are similar, and while only one is recognized, micro bullies are quickly becoming popular dogs across the country, and for good reason. Pocket bullies and micro bullies are both great dogs and more often than not both options are suitable for most homes because they’re similar dogs in just about every aspect.
That said, since pocket bullies are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) we recommend starting there; you can find out even more about this specific breed in this in-depth breed guide. You may have better luck with breeders if you seek out pocket bullies, especially when it comes to health issues because micro bullies might be made through unhealthy breeding processes.