The American Bully should display a strength that is equal to its size. The breed should be athletic and courageous while always being alert to its environment. The breed is known especially for its broad chest, blocky head and heavy bone. The best trait of all is the temperament of an American Bully. Naturally aggressive behavior of any kind is not accepted. The American Bully is a multipurpose breed because of its physical abilities and intelligence.
HeadThe head is large but must be in proportion to the chest and the rest of the body. The head is broad but should not be more than 2/3 of the chest in width.
EarsHigh set, cropped or uncropped. Uncropped ears should not be flat or full prick.
EyesBoth eyes must be of matching color. All colors allowed except albinism. Eyes are set wide and low on the skull.
MuzzleShort in comparison to the skull. Shape should be more squared than roundish. The Classic variety will differ with a slightly longer muzzle and rounded rather than square and blocky.
NoseLarge nostrils and all colours accepted.
TeethSet shall be full Upper teeth to meet over lower teeth in a scissor bite.
LipsShould be close but not mandatory to be tight.
NeckMedium to short in length. Muscular & wide but in proportion while combining the head to the shoulders.
ForequartersShoulder blades are wide and muscular. Forelegs are muscular with heavy bone in proportion to the body. Legs are perpendicular from the feet to the shoulders. Pasterns are upright and straight. The Classic variety may have less bone mass but as long as proportions are still correct.
HindquartersHindquarters are strong and thick. Bone should match that of the forequarters. Hocks are straight as well as the pasterns.
BodyThe chest is wide and well filled in. The back should appear strong and firm. The topline slightly slopes downward. Level backs are accepted but the croup should have a slight slope. The Pocket variety shall have a body length that is equal to its height. The Standard and Classic varieties can have equal length/height but slightly longer backs are accepted. The XL variety is allowed added difference that accepts a body length that is greater than the height.
FeetThe size of the feet are in proportion to the dog overall. Feet should bestraight and tight.
TailThe tail tapers to a point. Overall length should be that it reaches the hock.
CoatThe coat is short and stiff. All colors and patterns are accepted.
SizeThere are no weight requirements for any of the varieties. However, weight should be in proportion to height & length.
HeightPocket variety,16” & under. Competition starts at the age of 1 year. XL variety,19” & up. No minimum age required for the XL variety in competition. Classic variety,17”:19”Competition starts at 6 months and the height requirements shall be waived up until the age of 1 year as long as 19” is not exceeded. Standard variety,16”:19”.Standard variety height requirements are also waved up until the age of 1 year as long as 19” is not exceeded.
GaitThe American Bully moves with a powerful and confident gait. The gait shows good reach and drive. The head should be half high and proud while the tail should be level with the back. The Classic variety should have the most graceful gait of all varieties while the XL variety allows minor paddling and pounding.
