American Bully

American Bullies come in three sizes: Pocket, Standard/Classic, and XL. The Classic is built lighter than the Standard but still has that muscular, “bully” appearance. These dogs are sturdy, compact, and thick, often resembling their American Pit Bull Terrier roots, with influence from other bully breeds.
They should have a well-proportioned body, strong muscles, and a smooth coat. Even though they’re muscular, they’re still agile and active. They should look powerful and athletic, but also calm and friendly.

Serious issues: Any extreme features that make it hard for the dog to move or breathe properly.

At heart, the American Bully is a family companion. They're confident, lively, and enjoy being around people. They may look tough, but they’re known for being gentle and loving, especially with families.
They should never show aggression toward people — that’s a big red flag.

The head is a standout feature. It’s big and wide, but shouldn’t look too big for the body.

• Top of the head: Flat between the ears.
• Muzzle: Broad and boxy, shorter than the skull, and the jaw should be strong and well-formed.
• Nose: Big, with wide nostrils. Any color is okay, but it should match the coat.

Big problems: Extremely short snouts, weak jaws, saggy lips, or noses that are turned up or pushed in too far.

Teeth should be clean, white, and evenly spaced. A scissors or even bite is ideal.

Major issues: Missing teeth, overbite, underbite, or a twisted bite.

Eyes should be medium-sized, oval or almond-shaped, and set far apart. Any eye color is fine — except blue, which isn’t allowed.

Serious flaws: Bulging eyes, mismatched eye colors, or visible red tissue (haw).
Disqualifier: Blue eyes.

Set high, and can be natural or cropped. Floppy, bat-like, or flat ears aren’t preferred.

Disqualifier: Deafness in one or both ears, or “bat” ears.

Strong, muscular, and slightly arched. It should blend smoothly into the shoulders.
No saggy skin or extremely thin or short necks.

The body should look square and sturdy, with a wide chest and solid back. The back should be level, and the hips slightly slope toward the tail.
From the shoulder to elbow should be the same length as elbow to paw.

Issues: Weak back, hunched posture, back legs taller than the front.
Major flaws: Overly thin legs or chest so wide it affects movement.

Strong, muscular, and straight when viewed from the front. Elbows should stay close to the body.
The legs shouldn’t bow or turn out. Pasterns (just above the paws) should be short and upright.

Disqualifier: Front legs so bowed it affects how the dog moves.

Powerful, with big thigh muscles. The hocks (back ankles) should be straight and well-positioned. Rear legs should be as wide as the front.

Serious issues: Narrow hips, weak muscles, knock-knees, or legs bowed inward or outward.

Feet should be tight, round, and arched — not splayed or flat.
Removing back dewclaws is preferred, but not required.

Disqualifier: Splayed, flat feet or long/high toes.

Ideally shaped like a crank or pump handle. It should be a natural extension of the back, tapering to a point.
The tail should never curl over the back. It’s fine if it's carried level when excited.

Disqualifier: Screw tail, bobbed tail, or docked tail.

• Pocket: Males 14–17", Females 13–16"
• Standard/Classic: Males 17–20", Females 16–19"
• XL: Males over 20–23", Females over 19–22"

Disqualifier: Dogs way outside the size range or with signs of dwarfism or being overly massive.

The coat is smooth, glossy, and slightly stiff.

Disqualifier: Long coat.

Any color or pattern is allowed except merle.

Disqualifiers: Merle or albinism.

The American Bully should move with confidence. Their gait should be smooth, balanced, and powerful. Legs should move straight without crossing or wobbling.

Issues: Legs crossing, rear legs touching, pacing, or awkward, exaggerated steps.

(These will prevent a dog from winning in shows.)

• Any exaggerated feature that limits movement or health
• Muzzle too short to breathe properly
• Poor jaw structure
• Pink nose
• Serious bite problems
• Front legs or chest so wide it causes movement problems
• Splayed or flat feet

(A dog with these traits can’t compete.)

• Undescended testicles
• Deaf in one or both ears
• Aggressive or overly shy
• Merle color, albinism
• Blue eyes
• Long coat
• Tail that’s docked, bobbed, or curled
• Overly massive or dwarfed appearance

Note on Cropping/Docking: Tail docking and ear cropping are allowed in the U.S., but in some countries, they’re banned. We allow both natural and altered dogs without penalty.