At BoBo’s Best Kennels, we believe that understanding your dog’s breed standard and
temperament is essential for building a strong, healthy bond. As premier breeders of high-
quality American Bullies, we often receive questions about the different types within this
iconic breed. Whether you’re new to the breed or a seasoned enthusiast, this guide will
walk you through the key differences between the Pocket, Standard, Classic, and XL
American Bully types, as recognized by major registries like ABKC (American Bully
Kennel Club) and UKC (United Kennel Club).
What Is an American Bully?
The American Bully is a companion breed that blends the strength of the American Pit Bull
Terrier with the loyalty and appearance of various bulldog-type breeds. Developed in the
1990s, the breed is known for its muscular build, blocky head, and gentle, family-
friendly temperament. Despite their powerful appearance, Bullies are affectionate and
great with children.
Unlike other bully breeds, the American Bully was bred to have a low prey drive and high
tolerance for people and other pets.
Both ABKC and UKC recognize the breed, but with some variation in structure and
interpretation. The ABKC recognizes multiple size varieties under the same breed umbrella.
The Four Main Types of American Bullies
Each American Bully variety has its own height, weight, and structural specifications,
though all should share a similar temperament, muscular frame, and wide chest. Let’s
break down the four main types:
1. Pocket American Bully
Height:
• Males: under 17 inches at the withers
• Females: under 16 inches
Key Traits:
• Shortest of all Bully varieties
• Compact and extremely muscular
• Dense bone structure and low to the ground
Ideal For:
Apartment dwellers or those with limited space. Their size makes them manageable, but
they still need exercise and enrichment.
Fun Fact: Despite their smaller size, Pocket Bullies have just as much confidence and
tenacity as their larger counterparts.
2. Standard American Bully
Height:
• Males: 17-20 inches
• Females: 16-19 inches
Key Traits:
• The breed’s foundational variety
• Balanced and proportionate build
• Highly muscular with a solid frame
Ideal For:
Families looking for a confident, stable companion that excels in both form and
temperament. This is the variety most seen in show rings and kennel advertising.
Registry Notes: Recognized by both ABKC and UKC, the Standard Bully is the “gold
standard” for structure and temperament.
3. Classic American Bully
Height:
• Same as Standard variety
Key Traits:
• Lighter bone structure and less exaggerated musculature
• Often has more American Pit Bull Terrier influence
• Streamlined frame with athletic appearance
Ideal For:
Those who love the Bully breed but prefer a more athletic or traditional working-dog
silhouette.
Distinction: The Classic is not a separate breed, but a variation of the Standard in bone
and mass.
4. XL American Bully
Height:
• Males: 20-23 inches
• Females: 19-22 inches
Key Traits:
• Tallest variety of the American Bully
• Massive frame, broad chest, and heavy musculature
• Commanding presence with a calm temperament
Ideal For:
Experienced dog owners with space and time to properly train and socialize a large dog. XL
Bullies make excellent guardians and family pets when properly raised.
Important: The XL type requires extra attention to joint health, weight control, and proper
socialization due to its size.
Temperament Across All Varieties
All American Bullies, regardless of size, are known for their:
• Loyalty and devotion to family
• Stable, confident demeanor
• Affectionate behavior with children
• Tolerance of other animals (when properly socialized)
• Low reactivity and minimal prey drive
Aggression toward humans is considered a disqualifying fault by both ABKC and UKC.
ABKC vs. UKC Standards
ABKC (American Bully Kennel Club):
• Specializes in American Bullies
• Recognizes multiple varieties
• Detailed standards for head shape, structure, and gait
UKC (United Kennel Club):
• Broader registry recognizing many breeds
• Focuses on overall health and conformation
• Only recognizes the Standard Bully as of recent updates
Choosing the Right American Bully for You
When selecting an American Bully, consider the following:
• Size of your living space
• Energy level and time available for training
• Preferred appearance and structure
• Lifestyle compatibility (e.g., travel, kids, other pets)
Pocket Bullies are great for first-time owners or smaller households. Standard Bullies are
balanced and ideal for families. Classics appeal to those who prefer a leaner build, while
XLs are for experienced handlers ready for big love and big responsibility.
Health and Care Considerations
American Bullies are relatively healthy but can be prone to:
• Hip and elbow dysplasia
• Brachycephalic syndrome (especially in compact types)
• Skin allergies
• Obesity (especially in less active homes)
BoBo’s Best Tip: Choose a breeder who tests for genetic issues, offers health guarantees,
and prioritizes the well-being of the puppies.
Final Thoughts from BoBo’s Best Kennels
Whether you fall in love with the compact power of the Pocket, the balanced beauty of the
Standard, the athleticism of the Classic, or the majestic bulk of the XL, the American Bully
has something for everyone. Their loyalty, intelligence, and affection make them one of the
most rewarding companions you can bring into your home.
At BoBo’s Best Kennels, we breed for structure, temperament, and health. We are proud
to produce ABKC and UKC registered puppies across multiple Bully types, helping families
find the perfect four-legged addition.
Ready to meet your match? Visit our social media pages or call us at 203 423-3820 to
inquire about available litters and upcoming breedings.
Stay tuned to our blog for more breed insights, care guides, and everything American Bully.
