“We wanted a dog that was like a bodybuilder... a heavy-muscled, shorter dog. We also wanted to make sure that the demeanour didn't represent what the stereotype would be. So we started to create a dog with a very docile temperament.
The ultimate companion breed.”
— Dave Wilson
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
Who Developed the Breed
First Official Registration
Size Classes
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.

