Are Pocket Bullies Dangerous? The Answer Might Surprise You

pocket bully in the park — Image credit: ShutterStock

The pocket bully is one of the four varieties of the American bully – a modern dog breed recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 2013. Despite being relatively new, the popularity of the American bully is increasing, and with the higher demand for smaller dogs, many eye the pocket bully with great interest.

However, due to the long lineage of pit bulls and terriers that are thought of as dangerous dogs in the pocket bully’s history, coupled with their muscular appearance, many ask ‘Are pocket bullies dangerous dogs?’

In this article, we’ll answer this question while providing an overview of the breed’s characteristics. Read to the end to find out if pocket bullies are dangerous dogs.

Pocket Bully Breed Description

Although often mistaken for pit bulls, the pocket bully is a distinct dog breed. It is the smallest type among the four American bully varieties.

Pocket bullies weigh between 30 and 45 pounds and stand up to 17 inches tall at the withers but no less than 13 inches. The pocket bully’s coat is short and sheds considerably. Therefore, they aren’t hypoallergenic.

As for their temperament, pocket bullies are affectionate and sociable dogs that get along well with everyone in the family, including small pets like cats and hamsters, thanks to their low prey drive. In addition to their friendly personalities, this trait makes socializing a pocket bully straightforward for the owner.

All this brings us to aggression. It is a highly undesirable trait not just in the pocket bully but also in any American bully. With years of selective breeding to eliminate aggression, pocket bullies are among the least aggressive dog breeds today. They aren’t prone to aggression unless there’s a clear reason for it.

However, pocket bullies may be aggressive if the owner neglects socialization and training, especially when young. This shouldn’t be taken as ‘pocket bullies can be dangerous dogs’ as neglecting socialization and training can turn any dog aggressive, leading to behavioral issues like guarding resources and growling at strangers.

Pocket Bully vs. Other American Bullies

The only difference between the pocket bully and the other American bully varieties is the size. Besides being the smallest, there aren’t major differences. You can expect the temperament and physical features of all American bullies to be the same, with the exception of the classic bully, which has a lighter body frame.

According to the pocket bully breed standards, it is the smallest variety, but there are also other American bullies not recognized by major kennel clubs, such as the micro and XXL bullies. If you were to consider these American bully types, the pocket bully would be the second smallest.

However, the extreme downsizing that causes various health problems and the short lifespan in these dogs makes many doubt whether it is ethical to adopt a micro bully.

Are Pocket Bullies Really Dangerous?

Now that we’ve provided an overview of the breed, let’s answer if pocket bullies are dangerous. The short answer is no – pocket bullies aren’t dangerous dogs. They are companion dogs with a sociable and affectionate personality that don’t pose a threat to anyone.

The reason why pocket bullies, as well as other American bullies, are deemed dangerous is due to their physical capabilities. Any dog can be destructive if the owner neglects socialization and training. The problems arising from these are more apparent in dogs as athletic as the pocket bully compared to, in fact, more aggressive breeds like the Chihuahua.

Therefore, pocket bullies aren’t dangerous but like any breed, they can become aggressive if the owner doesn’t socialize and train their dog properly.

Should You Adopt a Pocket Bully?

The pocket bully is the smallest American bully. If you’re interested in adopting a pocket bully but have doubts due to the misconception that these dogs are inherently dangerous, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about. The pocket bully is an affectionate, sweet-tempered dog breed that gets along nicely with everyone.

Pocket bullies are an ideal breed choice for individuals and families looking for an active and affectionate dog. If you have the time and resources to provide them with sufficient socialization and training at a young age, being dangerous or aggressive will be the least of your worries.

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Dan Dunn

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Editor and Admin at MarkMeets since Nov 2012. Columnist, reviewer and entertainment writer and oversees all of the section's news, features and interviews. During his career, he has written for numerous magazines.

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