What Is An American Bully: Everything You Need To Know

 Key Takeaways

• American Bullies are not pit bulls.
• The American Bully comprises American Staffordshire Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, and other bully breeds.
• American Bullies have minimal shedding.
• American Bullies make good family dogs.
• American Bullies range in price from $500 – $50,000.
• You can buy them from a breeder.
• The Pocket, Classic, and Standard bullies are good for first-time owners.
• American Bullies give birth after 63 days on average.
• American Bullies live 8 – 12 years.
• You can find dog shows on kennel club websites.

What is an American Bully?

EAB’s Reginae Carter of DBP.

An American Bully is a dog breed derived from the American Pitbull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and other breeds such as the Bulldog and American Bulldog, English Bulldog, and Olde English Bulldogge^[1]. It is not a pit bull.

There are several distinct types of American Bullies, with different size parameters for each.

History and Origin of the American Bully

 The American Bully is a new breed whose development started in the mid-’80s by breeders on both the East and West coasts of the U.S.

The Razors Edge Kennel, owned by Dave Wilson, and Blue Star and Grayline Kennels, owned by brothers Tony and Gary Moore, were major influencers in the breed’s inception.

Razors Edge newspaper clipping put out by Dave Wilson in Bloodlines March-April 1996

Dave Wilson wanted dogs with more bully-like features. He bred American Pit Bull Terriers with American Staffordshire Terriers to get the look he desired ^[2].

The look he set out to acquire, blocky heads, shorter legs, more extensive bone, a muscular build, and broad chests are trademarks of this breed.

One of the biggest contributions to the American Bully came from Grayline’s Juan Gotti, bred by Tony Moore and sold to Richard Barajas of Westside Kennels.

He became the foundation sire for many bloodlines, including the Gotti Bloodline, which is famous within the American Bully community.

In addition to these unique lines, he is the ancestor of many bullies weighing more than 90–100 lbs. 

Before the ABKC, these dogs were and sometimes still are called “XL pit bulls.”

Gotti is also the ancestor of many dogs weighing less than 90 lbs., including Pocket American Bullies, sometimes called “pocket pit bulls.”

Gotti has sired over 900 UKC-registered American Pit Bull Terriers ^[3].

UKC, ADBA, and AKC-registered American Pit Bull and American Staffordshire Terriers were the first dogs used for this breed.

These two breeds were one until the acceptance of the American Staffordshire Terrier into the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1936.

Later, Bulldog and other bully breeds were incorporated to give the American Bully the look it has today.

The American Bully is loyal, has an outgoing temperament, increased musculature, and a healthy structure.

It has the versatility to be a show dog or family companion and has appealing physical traits.

The American Bully became an official breed recognized by the American Bully Kennel Club, created by Dave Wilson in 2004, and then the European Bully Kennel Club (EBKC) in 2008.

The United Kennel Club added them to its registry in 2013, followed by the American Dog Breeder’s Association in 2015.

The Appearance of the American Bully

As far as appearance goes, the breed is generally bulky, square, compact, and heavily muscled, with short hair and broad heads.

There can be slight variations depending on the bloodline.

The American Bully is identifiable by its massive, blocky head.

The ideal head shape features a broad, well-chiseled skull, distinct stop, strong cheek muscles, and is of medium length.

Up Next Kennels Loki

The ears are set high and can be cropped or natural.

The eyes are set far apart, oval to almond shape, and sit low on the skull.

The muzzle is narrow and short to medium in length.

It is shorter than the length of the skull but not so short that it is hard to breathe normally.

It is square or blocky, ending suddenly below the eyes.

The top line of the muzzle is straight, and the nose, when seen from the side, is neither pointed nor turned up.

The jaw is distinct and parallel to the muzzle.

A slight gap between the lips is acceptable but not preferred.

The neck is heavy, muscular, and slightly arched, tapering from the shoulder to the back of the skull.

It is compact to medium size, not too long or short, with minimal to no loose skin.

The American Bully’s shoulders are big, strong, and broad. The forelegs are straight, strong, and heavy, and the bones are big or round.

The pasterns are short, almost straight, and the feet point straight ahead.

The back is short to medium long, slightly sloping from withers to rump or straight, with a short, gentle slope from the rump to the base of the tail.

The ideal stride appears natural and strong. The motion has to be uninhibited, lively, and forceful with a strong push off the back.

The front reach should be roughly equal to the back.

The Size of The American Bully

The American Bully Kennel Club divides American Bullies into four classes, Pocket, Standard, Classic, and XL ^[4].

Each class has height requirements to follow for a dog to qualify as an American Bully in that class.

The pocket class also called a pocket bully, is the smallest bully class but is still heavy and muscular.

It is an amendment to the Standard.

Pocket Bullies are for owners who love American Bullies but want a smaller, more compact breed.

Also, this type is excellent for an owner with an average amount of time for socializing, grooming, exercising, and playing with their dog.

Adult males are under 17 inches (43 cm) and no less than 14 inches (36 cm) at the withers.

Adult females are under 16 inches (40cm) and no less than 13 inches (33 cm) at the withers.

Standard

The Standard Bully is thick and muscular with a broad chest.

The Standard Bully is compact, and medium size, with a muscular body and blocky head.

It should have the appearance of a heavy bone structure with a bulky build and look.

Standard Bully adult males are 17 to 20 inches (43 cm – 51 cm) at the withers.

Adult females are 16 to 19 inches (40 cm – 48 cm) at the withers.

Classic

The Classic Bully is compact and strong-looking, with a lighter body frame and less mass than the Standard Bully.

Males 17 to 20 inches (43 cm – 51 cm) at the withers.

Females 16 to 19 inches (40 cm – 48 cm) at the withers

XL

The XL Bully is the largest American Bully within the ABKC standard.

It has the same body build as the Standard Bully but is taller, bulkier, and more massive than the Standard.

Males 20 to 23 inches (51 cm – 57 cm) at the withers.

Females 19 to 22 inches (48 cm -54 cm) at the withers.

XXL, Extreme, Micro

Old ABKC American Bully Standard showing the Extreme Class

These classes are not a part of the American Bully standard.

As you can see in the picture above, the Extreme class was once an American Bully class and a part of the ABKC standard.

Since the breed is bred for extreme features, they incorporated the Extreme class into all the other classes ^[5].

The XXL bullies are dogs larger than the XL bully class.

American Bully females that do not grow taller than 13 inches, and males under 14 inches are often labeled “Micro Bullies.”

Micro bully has become a term used to label any small bully breed, similar to how “pit bull” has become synonymous with many bully breeds.

However, Micro Bullies are a class of the Exotic Bully breed related to but separate from the American Bully.

American Bully Size Chart (ABKC)

The Temperament of the American Bully

The American Bully is a breed of family dog that is confident, full of life, and eager to please and bond with its family.

They’re great with kids and nice to strangers, dogs, and other animals.

The American Bully is not naturally aggressive, and aggression is an undesired characteristic within the breed. 

American Bullies still have a prey drive so some animal aggression should be expected.

Extreme shyness, or being mean, is not typical of the American Bully and is an undesired trait.

This breed is friendly and loyal to its owners. It listens to commands and is easy to train.

The American Bully is known for having a friendly but commanding attitude.

These things make the American Bully a great pet for a family.

Even though the American Bully looks fierce and strong, they are very kind.

As with any other breed, the American Bully must be socialized well from a young age to stop being aggressive.

The Health of The American Bully

American Bullies are prone to have certain health issues.

As with any breed, American Bully owners should research potential health issues and watch their dogs for warning signs.

Common health issues include elbow dysplasia, canine cardiac disease, and hip dysplasia.

Early detection is critical for treating these conditions and ensuring the dog’s well-being.

Owners should provide proper nutrition and exercise to cut their risk of developing health issues.

Hip Dysplasia

Canine hip dysplasia is a condition that causes pain and discomfort in the hip joints of dogs.

It is caused by a problem with the hip joint, which can be inherited or brought on by things like diet and exercise.

Symptoms include a strange walk, a back end that sways, trouble climbing and descending stairs, running slower than usual, or limping.

Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment can include physical therapy, medicine, supplements, or surgery.

Owners can avoid hip dysplasia in dogs by making sure they eat enough of a balanced diet and get enough exercise.

Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia can cause pain and a limp, a smaller range of motion, and a strange way of walking.

It is caused by a joint that isn’t formed right or breaking down because of genes, being overweight, or growing too fast.

Some signs are limping, licking the area around the elbow, not wanting to run or jump as much, and doing less.

Treatment may include anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, supplements, weight loss, or surgery.

Owners can prevent elbow dysplasia by ensuring your bully eats well and gets enough exercise.

Canine Cardiac Disease

Another health issue American Bullies are prone to have is canine cardiac disease.

Canine heart disease is a heart condition that affects the structure or function of the heart.

Canine cardiac disease affects blood flow and oxygen delivery.

Symptoms can include coughing, trouble breathing, inability to handle exercise, and passing out.

Imaging tests can help determine what’s wrong.

Depending on how bad the problem is, treatments can range from medicine and changes in lifestyle to surgery.

Owners should know the signs and risks of canine cardiac disease to take the best care of their American Bully.

Training and Socialization Requirements for the American Bully

Owners of American Bullies need to provide their dogs with proper socialization and training.

Training and getting to know various people and dogs are essential for all dogs, especially American Bullies.

Owners should start with a good obedience class to ensure their dogs are physically and mentally healthy.

Doing so will ensure that the dog has a happy and healthy life as an adult. Start as early as possible, preferably when the Bully is still a puppy.

Training gives you a chance to teach your dog commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.”

Training helps build trust and strengthens the bond between pet and owner.

Also, focus training on behavioral issues such as aggression, barking, and destructive habits.

Establishing yourself as a leader is important to prevent dominant behaviors from forming later.

Socialization is vital for American Bully puppies.

Being around other dogs, people, and places early on helps keep them from being shy or aggressive as adults.

American Bullies can do well in any home with enough exercise, time to play, and positive feedback.

Read my post on training your American Bully and discover how you can get started training your American Bully today!

With the right guidance and discipline, your pup can become a well-behaved companion in no time.

American Bully Feeding and Nutrition

Dogs can digest and benefit nutritionally from human diets.

With the help of a vet, you can set aside a day of the week to prepare a delicious meal for your dog.

Here are some acceptable options if you’re looking for food for your American bully.

Fruit

Fruits are a great snack because they are full of vitamins that are good for your dog’s health.

Frozen fruit like blackberries or apple slices are a great summertime treat for your dog.

Don’t give your dog fruit seeds, pits, or even canned fruit because it might have a lot of sugar.

Apples, bananas, blackberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, watermelon, strawberries, raspberries, mango, peaches, papaya, and pineapple are great options.

Vegetables

Veggies contain vitamins and minerals that help your dog’s bodywork.

Before giving them to your dog, you can steam, blanch, finely dice, or pulverize vegetables to help digestion.

Carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, green beans, broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, peas, brussels sprouts, celery, and zucchini can be used.

Protein

Meat contains important nutrients and amino acids found only in meats.

Turkey, beef, chicken, and salmon are all great protein sources.

When cooking meat for your dog, lightly salt it and don’t add any other flavors or sauces.

Beef, chicken, lamb, fish, eggs, pork, turkey, tuna, salmon, wild game (venison, rabbit), and organ meats (liver, kidney) make great protein sources for your dog.

Foods Not To Feed Your Dog

• Chocolate
• Grapes and raisins
• Avocado
• Onions and garlic
• Nuts (almonds, walnuts, peanuts)
• Caffeine
• Dairy products with lactose intolerance
• Alcohol and beer
• Bread dough with yeast
• Macadamia nuts

American Bully Food Chart

How Much Do American Bullies Cost?

American Bullies range in price from $500 to $50,000.

Cheaper dogs can be found on Craigslist, but many of these dogs will not be registered or have any pedigree information to know anything about the dog you are buying.

This isn’t a bad thing necessarily, but something to think about.

Most quality-bred American Bullies with papers will fall in the $1,500 – $5000 price range.

Those priced higher are usually the pick of the litter from famous award-winning dogs and bloodlines from well-respected breeders.

Registered dogs will cost more than unregistered dogs.

Also, if the bloodline has a good reputation for producing good dogs, you will pay more.

The same for the parents used in the breeding.

The price will be higher if they have won awards and are known for producing great offspring.

It is no different for a breeder known for producing great dogs.

This will increase the price of the dogs they produce.

The dog’s age, training, and health care will also affect the price.

When Do American Bullies Stop Growing?

How long American Bullies grow is based on their adult size.

Pocket Bullies will mature the fastest between 8 to 12 months.

Standard and Classic American Bullies will mature between 12 to 16 months.

XL American Bullies will take the longest to mature, between 16 to 24 months.

Exercise Needs for an American Bully

The American Bully is a very active dog that must be active daily to be active every day to stay healthy.

Every American Bully, young or old, needs regular exercise to maintain high mental and physical alertness and strength.

Walks of 30 to 60 minutes should be done daily.

Playing fetch, off-leash running and playing, and swimming are great additions to this routine.

Grooming Requirements for the American Bully

The American Bully Dog has a short coat, so grooming is easy.

Maintaining their coat’s health, cleanliness, and beauty requires regular cleaning using a brush for their unique coat type.

The American Bully has been known to shed a little bit all year and more when the seasons change.

Keeping your American Bully clean and fresh helps them maintain a healthy coat, but you shouldn’t bathe them daily. Doing so might strip away the skin’s natural oils.

Nails should be trimmed regularly (or as needed) to prevent discomfort and damage from long, untrimmed nails.

American Bully Kennel Clubs And Shows

I have mostly talked about the ABKC, but other kennel clubs recognize the American Bully as a pure breed dog.

The United Kennel Club and The American Dog Breeder’s Association are the two biggest kennel clubs that recognize the American Bully.

They both have similar standards for the American Bully.

The ADBA

The ADBA recognizes the Classic and Standard American Bully

The male Classic Bully is 17 to 22 inches measured at the withers, and the Standard Bully is 16 to 20 inches measured at the withers.

Females may be slightly smaller for both classes.

The UKC

The United Kennel Club recognized the American Bully breed on July 15, 2013.

They do not separate the American Bully into classes.

Instead, all American Bullies should be 17 to 20 inches tall for mature males and 16 to 19 inches for mature females.

Many other kennel clubs register American Bullies.

Each registry has its own sanctioned shows. You can find them in the events section on their websites.

Here is a list of the more popular ones.

• ABKC – American Bully Kennel Club
• EBKC – European Bully Kennel Club
• UKC – United Kennel Club
• ADBA – American Dog Breeders Association
• ABR – American Bully Registry
• USBR – US Bully Registry
• WBR – World Bully Registry
• BRC – BRC Global Canine Pedigrees
• BPKC – BullyPedex Kennel Club
• ICBR – Innovative Canine Breeder’s Registry
• XLBC – XL Bully Club

How Long Do American Bullies Live?

The lifespan of an American Bully will vary depending on several factors throughout the dog’s life.

American Bullies live an average of 8 to 12 years.

How Many Puppies Do American Bullies Have?

The number of American Bully puppies will vary, but 4 to 10 puppies are average.

Days till American Bullies Give Birth

American Bullies will give birth at 63 days of gestation. 

But like human pregnancies, some will come sooner and some later.

Summary

To sum up, American Bullies are a fantastic breed for almost everybody.

They are a lively and social bunch that are also quite devoted and affectionate.

They vary in sizes ranging from pocket to XL and have their own health, diet, and exercise requirements.

Regardless of their size, they bring courage and determination unrivaled by other breeds.

An American Bully is a fantastic choice for a family pet because of the boundless love and happiness he or she will provide to the household.

Sources

1. [^] (n.d.). American Bully Breed Standard. UKC. Retrieved from https://www.ukcdogs.com/american-bully
2. [^] DogumentaryTV youtube.com (27 Nov. 2017). (8:28). The American Bully All You Need To Know Dave Wilson. [Video]. Youtube. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/lAG71i63Zm0?t=508
3. [^] Bully King Magazine. (27 Nov. 2015). The History Of Notorious Juan Gotty & Gottiline. Medium.com. Retrieved from https://medium.com/bully-king-magazine/the-history-of-notorious-juan-gotty-gottiline-4d03f87bbb41
4. [^] (n.d.). ABKC American Bully Standard. Retrieved from https://abkcdogs.net/breeds/breed-1/
5. [^] DogumentaryTV. (27 Nov. 2017). (7:41) The American Bully All You Need To Know Dave Wilson. [Video]. Youtube. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/lAG71i63Zm0?t=461