Crate training is one of the most important steps you can take to help your XL American Bully thrive. These large and powerful dogs, like those at Kingdom Bully Kennels, benefit greatly from structure, safety, and a secure space of their own. The crate serves as a den where your dog can relax, rest, and feel comfortable. Crate training helps with many aspects of their behavior, including house training, minimizing destructive behavior, and providing a place of comfort during stressful situations. It is better to start early with crate training, however crate training can be done at any age.

A Safe Space

XL Bullies are big, strong dogs, but they need a space to retreat and feel safe. A crate offers just that – a secure, den-like environment where they can relax. This helps your dog develop a positive association with the crate. It becomes their own space to unwind after a long day of activities or stimulation. At Kingdom Bully Kennels, we see firsthand how providing a personal space for these dogs gives them a sense of security and balance in their routine.

House Training Benefits

One of the most well-known benefits of crate training is its role in housebreaking. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area, so crate training taps into this instinct, making it easier to establish a routine. For XL Bullies, consistency is key. They thrive on clear rules and boundaries, and crate training is an effective way to reinforce good habits when it comes to bathroom breaks.

In the early stages of house training, confining your XL Bully to a crate for short periods when unsupervised helps prevent accidents in the house. Gradually, as they learn the proper routine and are taken outside at the right times, they begin to understand that the crate is for resting, not for relieving themselves. This leads to quicker and more efficient house training overall.

Reducing Destructive Behavior

XL Bullies, like any dogs, can get bored and sometimes resort to destructive behaviors if they have too much free reign when left alone. Chewing on furniture, shoes, or other household items is a common issue for energetic dogs. The crate offers a safe and secure place to keep them out of trouble while you’re not able to supervise them.

At Kingdom Bully Kennels, we emphasize the importance of keeping your dog mentally and physically stimulated, but the crate is an invaluable tool when you need to step out or can’t keep a close eye on them. It prevents them from engaging in bad behaviors out of boredom or curiosity. Just be sure to introduce the crate positively and make sure they get plenty of exercise and attention outside of it.

Managing Stress and Anxiety

Crate training is also useful for managing anxiety in your XL Bully. Many dogs feel overwhelmed in busy environments or during stressful situations like thunderstorms or fireworks. A crate can serve as a quiet and secure retreat where they can feel protected. Since it’s a familiar place, it can help your XL Bully feel calm during moments of high stress.

The crate is not meant to be a punishment but rather a sanctuary for your dog. Building positive associations with it from an early age is key. Rewarding your dog for entering the crate and staying calm inside reinforces that this is a place where good things happen.

Crate Training and Travel

Another benefit of crate training is how it prepares your dog for travel. Whether it’s a car ride to the vet or a road trip with the family, XL Bullies that are comfortable with their crate will travel more easily. A crate provides a safe and confined space during travel, minimizing stress for both the dog and the owner.

Dogs that aren’t crate-trained can become anxious and difficult to manage in unfamiliar situations. Crate training, however, ensures your dog is accustomed to being in an enclosed space, making travel more pleasant and hassle-free.

The Importance of Routine

XL Bullies, like most dogs, are creatures of habit. They thrive on routine and predictability. Crate training helps establish a daily structure, which is especially important for these powerful and energetic dogs. Knowing they have a place to rest and recharge at specific times of the day helps them feel secure and stable.

Consistency is critical when it comes to crate training. Start by creating a schedule that includes crate time, regular walks, feeding, and play sessions. Over time, your XL Bully will learn to understand the rhythm of the day, reducing stress and behavioral issues.

Making Crate Training a Positive Experience

At Kingdom Bully Kennels, we recommend introducing the crate in a positive and gradual manner. Start by placing treats or favorite toys inside to encourage your dog to explore the crate on their own. Never force your XL Bully into the crate, as this can create negative associations. Instead, reward calm behavior and make the crate a comfortable, inviting space with soft bedding.

Always be patient during the crate training process. It’s important to remember that every dog is different, and some may take longer to adjust than others. However, with consistent effort and a positive approach, crate training becomes an invaluable tool in your dog’s life.

Common Crate Training Mistakes

While crate training has many benefits, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can make the process less effective. Over-crating is one of the most common pitfalls. Dogs, especially large breeds like XL Bullies, need plenty of time outside the crate for exercise, socialization, and mental stimulation. Crating your dog for too long can lead to frustration, anxiety, and even behavioral issues.

It’s also essential to never use the crate as a form of punishment. The crate should be a place your dog feels safe and relaxed, not a place they associate with being in trouble. If the crate becomes a negative experience, your dog will resist using it, and the training process will be much more difficult.

A Happy XL Bully

Crate training is a vital part of raising a well-balanced and happy XL Bully. It offers many benefits, from aiding in house training to preventing destructive behaviors and providing a safe space during stressful situations. At Kingdom Bully Kennels, we’ve seen firsthand how crate training helps create confident and well-adjusted dogs. By using positive reinforcement and creating a routine, your XL Bully will come to see their crate as a personal sanctuary, contributing to their overall well-being and development.

Embrace crate training as an essential tool in building a positive relationship with your XL Bully.

Pit Bulls and American Bullies are often confused due to their similar appearances and shared ancestry. However, these breeds have distinct differences in terms of history, physical characteristics, and bloodlines. This article explores these differences, providing a comprehensive understanding of each breed, including their historical and current bloodlines.

Origins and History

Pit Bulls

The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) originated in the United Kingdom in the 19th century. Initially bred for bull-baiting, a popular blood sport, these dogs were later used for dog fighting. When these sports were outlawed, Pit Bulls transitioned to being working dogs and family companions. It is important to note that in current times, social media has falsely classified a Pitbull and an umbrella term for many breeds of dogs, mostly Bully breed, Molosser type dogs, and dogs of mixed or unknown ancestry. An APBT is just one specific breed of purebred dog, not countless breeds.

Historical Bloodlines of Pit Bulls

Colby Bloodline: One of the oldest and most famous bloodlines, established in the late 1800s by John P. Colby. Colby dogs are known for their strength, loyalty, and tenacity.

Carver Bloodline: Developed by Maurice Carver, this bloodline is renowned for producing dogs with excellent fighting abilities and a muscular build.

Jeep Bloodline: Named after the legendary fighting dog Crenshaw’s Jeep, this line is celebrated for its endurance and agility in the ring.

American Bullies

The American Bully is a relatively new breed, developed in the United States in the late 20th century. It was created by crossing the American Pit Bull Terrier with other breeds like the American Bulldog, English Bulldog, Olde English Bulldogge, and Mastiff (in specific bloodlines) to produce a dog with a more muscular build and a less aggressive temperament.

Historical Bloodlines of American Bullies

Razor’s Edge: Founded by Dave Wilson, this bloodline is one of the most influential in the American Bully world. Razor’s Edge dogs are known for their thick bone structure and balanced temperament.

Gottiline: Created by Richard Barajas, this bloodline is famous for its extreme muscle mass and blocky head. Gottiline dogs are popular in the show ring and as family pets.

Grey Line: Established by Gary Moore, Grey Line dogs are known for their athletic build and versatility.

Physical Characteristics

Pit Bulls

Pit Bulls are medium-sized dogs with a solid, muscular build. They typically weigh between 30 to 60 pounds and stand about 17 to 21 inches tall at the shoulder. Pit Bulls have a short, smooth coat that comes in various colors and patterns. Their head is broad with a powerful jaw, and they have a well-defined, athletic body.

American Bullies

American Bullies come in various sizes, ranging from pocket to XXL. They generally have a more robust and muscular build than Pit Bulls, with a weight range of 70 to 120 pounds and a height of 13 to 21 inches, depending on the class. American Bullies have a broad, deep chest, a large blocky head, and a short, glossy coat that also comes in multiple colors and patterns. Note that XXL is not a recognized class of American Bully by ABKC. Instead, it is used to describe XL Bullies that are taller than the XL Bully breed standard.

Temperament

Pit Bulls

Pit Bulls are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and determination. They are highly trainable and excel in various dog sports and activities. Despite their historical use in dog fighting, well-bred Pit Bulls are friendly, affectionate, and good with children when properly socialized and trained.

American Bullies

American Bullies are bred for their gentle and friendly nature. They are known to be excellent family pets, exhibiting a calm demeanor and strong loyalty towards their owners. American Bullies are sociable, confident, and great with children, making them suitable for families and individuals alike.

Current and Popular Bloodlines

Pit Bulls

Redboy-Jocko: A popular bloodline known for its game qualities and high drive, often seen in working and sporting contexts.

Eli Bloodline: Renowned for its powerful build and strength, the Eli line produces dogs with strong working abilities and tenacity.

Chinaman Bloodline: Celebrated for its endurance and fighting spirit, this bloodline is highly regarded among Pit Bull enthusiasts.

American Bullies

Daxline: Founded by Ed Shepherd, Daxline dogs are known for their extreme features, including a wide chest and a blocky head. This line is popular in the show ring and as companion animals.

Miagi Bloodline: Known for producing compact and muscular dogs with a distinctive look, Miagi dogs are sought after for their unique appearance and temperament.

Remyline: Created by Richard Barajas, Remyline is a respected bloodline known for its balanced structure and friendly nature, making it a favorite among American Bully breeders and owners.

Learning the Differences Between The Two Breeds

While Pit Bulls and American Bullies share a common ancestry, they have evolved into distinct breeds with unique characteristics and purposes. Pit Bulls are known for their athleticism, intelligence, and historical bloodlines like Colby, Carver, and Jeep. In contrast, American Bullies are celebrated for their muscular build, gentle temperament, and bloodlines such as Razor’s Edge, Gottiline, and Grey Line. Understanding these differences helps appreciate each breed’s unique qualities and contributions to the Pit Bull and American Bully community.