About the American Bully
Explore the origin, purpose, temperament, and advocacy behind the breed. Click a card to jump to a section or open a dedicated subpage.
Breed Origins
The American Bully was developed in the United States in the early 1990s with a clear vision: to create a companion dog that embodied strength, loyalty, and a gentle, family-friendly temperament. Breeders combined the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and various Bulldog breeds to produce a dog with a muscular build and a calm, affectionate nature.
Who Developed the Breed
Pioneering breeders like Dave Wilson of Razor’s Edge Kennels and Carlos Barksdale of Gottyline played key roles in shaping the American Bully’s look and temperament. Their focus was on producing dogs with wide chests, blocky heads, and stable, people-oriented personalities, a departure from the high-drive working dogs of the past.
First Official Registration
The breed was first officially recognized in 2004 by the American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC), which established the foundational breed standard. Later, in 2013, the United Kennel Club (UKC) also recognized the American Bully as a distinct breed.
Size Classes
Pocket
Male Height: 14–17"
Female Height: 13–16"
Compact and muscular, ideal for smaller living spaces. Despite their size, Pocket Bullies maintain the breed’s signature confidence and affectionate nature.
Standard
Male Height: 17–20"
Female Height: 16–19"
The original foundation of the breed, Standard Bullies are balanced and athletic with a strong, family-oriented temperament.
Classic
Male Height: 17–20"
Female Height: 16–19"
Classic Bullies share the same height as Standards but feature a lighter frame and a more traditional Pit Bull or Staffy appearance.
XL
Male Height: 21–23"
Female Height: 19–22"
The largest of the breed, XL Bullies are known for their imposing presence and calm demeanor, making them gentle giants in the right home.
Temperament
- Affectionate and loyal: American Bullies form deep bonds with their families and thrive on companionship.
- Confident and stable: They are naturally protective without being reactive, especially when well-socialized.
- Gentle with children: Known for their patience and tolerance, they make excellent family pets.
- Intelligent and eager to please: Their trainability makes them responsive to positive reinforcement and structure.
- Adaptable and social: They adjust well to different living environments and often get along with other pets.
- Calm yet alert: While they enjoy play and activity, they’re also content to relax and be close to their people.
Common Misconceptions
- “They’re aggressive.” In reality, well-bred American Bullies are known for their gentle, affectionate nature and stable temperament.
- “They’re just Pit Bulls.” While they share ancestry, American Bullies are a distinct breed with their own standard, temperament, and purpose.
- “They’re not good with kids or pets.” American Bullies often excel as family dogs and thrive in multi-pet households when properly socialized.
- “They need extreme exercise.” Moderate daily activity is ideal; they enjoy play but are equally content relaxing with their people.
- “They have locking jaws.” Myth — no dog breed has a locking jaw mechanism.
- “They’re unpredictable.” Responsible breeding and training produce dogs that are confident and consistent.
What We Stand For at LuxBullies
At LuxBullies Ontario, we are more than breeders. We are committed to preserving the legacy, temperament, and integrity of the American Bully breed. Our focus is on ethical, health-conscious breeding that emphasizes structure, emotional stability, and compatibility with family life. We raise dogs to thrive in loving homes, with gentle and confident temperaments that make them ideal companions for children and other pets. Education is central to our approach, helping owners understand everything from pedigree and conformation to training and nutrition. We value transparency, honest communication, and lifelong support for every family we work with.
Changing the Narrative
We believe the American Bully deserves to be seen for what it truly is: a loyal, intelligent, and loving companion. Through education, transparency, and real-life stories, we show how these dogs thrive as therapy animals, family protectors, and joyful members of the household. Our goal is to inspire pride in responsible ownership and to celebrate the resilience and warmth that define this breed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between an American Bully and a Pit Bull?
American Bullies are bred for structure, temperament, and companionship — not performance or aggression.
They are calmer, stockier, and more family-focused than Pit Bulls.
Are American Bullies good with kids?
Absolutely. They’re affectionate, patient, and protective — earning the nickname “nanny dog” for their loyalty
and gentleness with children.
Which size class is right for me?
Pocket and Standard Bullies suit most families. XLs are stunning but need more structure and space —
all sizes are loyal, loving companions.
Are Bullies legal where I live?
Most areas allow American Bullies, but laws vary. Check your local bylaws or reach out to LuxBullies for help
confirming your region’s status.
Are they aggressive?
Not when responsibly bred and socialized. Calm, confident, people-oriented temperaments define the breed;
aggression is a disqualifying trait.