Animal Scene

Cover Story: Bully for Pocket Bullies

Clifton James Sawit finds out why these macho dogs have a universal appeal with dog fanciers

- Text by CLIFTON JAMES SAWIT Photos by JEFFREY C. LIM

TIS A BULLY FOR ME?

People like freaks, Cezar comments, but he also cautions that the Pocket Bully is no mere novelty dog. They are among the most human-oriented of all dogs. Pocket Bullies tend to form very close bonds with all the members of a family, and is definitely not a one-person dog. Early training and socializat­ion is required, and they are extremely pain tolerant. Check your dog for injuries every now and then, because Bullies have been known to suffer injuries without as much as a peep! If you want the dog du jour, the Pocket Bully isn’t for you. For one thing, they are not yet fully recognized in the local dog scene, though they turn heads wherever they go. Do your research and talk to owners and breeders before settling on a Pocket Bully. Before you adopt a Pocket Bully, make sure that you are dealing with a reputable breeder. Some unscrupulo­us breeders have been known to use steroids to give their dogs a muscular look, which shrinks soon after the drugs are no longer being administer­ed, and could have adverse effects on for its longterm health. The poor Pocket Bully could develop joint and organ problems! Cezar also cautions that they actually need twice the exercise of larger dogs, in his experience, and as a result, are not ideal for sedentary or injured or ill owners. The dog will suffer if it is not exercised; its muscles may even atrophy or shrink as a result. he American Pocket Bully is part of the new breed of pet dogs that have hit the local pet scene in a big way. But most people don’t even know the difference between pit bulls, bulldogs, and Bullies! Let’s clear up all the confusion and get to know our newest canine companion.

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