Pet Wiki

American Bully

Also called Am. Bully, Bully

Recognised breedShort profile

From United States, developed from the 1980s onward.12

At a glance the quick version

Weight20 to 60 kg12
Height, male36 to 58 cm21
Height, female33 to 56 cm21
Sizelarge

Wikipedia gives 20-60 kg across all varieties; the UKC standard sets no weight.

UKC by variety: Pocket males 14-17 in, females 13-16 in; Standard/Classic males 17-20 in, females 16-19 in; XL males over 20-23 in, females over 19-22 in.

confident and full of zest for life
gentle, friendly companion
keen on family activities and dog sports
21

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, smooth coat

A compact, heavily muscled dog with a broad head and a glossy, close coat that is moderately stiff to the touch.21

Coloursany colour or pattern except merle21

Personality what they are like

Bred first and foremost as a companion, the American Bully is meant to be outgoing, friendly and self-assured. The breed standard values a gentle nature with people, and breeders have aimed for a lower prey drive than its terrier ancestors.21

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Many take part in canine sports and enjoy regular active play with their family.1

Company who they like around

A companion breed that is happiest as part of family life; temperament is shaped by good breeding, training and socialisation.12

The story where it all began

Breeders in the United States began shaping the American Bully in the 1980s from American Pit Bull Terrier lines, adding touches of American Bulldog, English Bulldog and Olde English Bulldogge to get a stockier build. The goal was a muscular but easy-going family companion. The ABKC recognised it in 2004 and the UKC followed in 2013.21

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    It comes in several size varieties, from the compact Pocket to the tall XL.2

  2. 2

    Its breed standard places it in the UKC Companion Dog Group rather than a working group.2

  3. 3

    The breed's own kennel club, the ABKC, recognised it nearly a decade before the UKC did.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'American Bully' reflects its American origin and its development from the American Pit Bull Terrier and various bulldog breeds, emphasizing its 'bully' heritage.2

Famous ones stars of the breed

Name ideas for your new friend

BossChunkTankDieselRoccoBellaLunaStellaApolloAthenaMaximusNova

A day in the life told by an American Bully

This morning, I woke up and stretched my big, muscular body. Then I padded over to my human and gently rested my head on their lap. They laughed and scratched my ears. After breakfast, we went to the park. I wagged my tail at every person we passed, I love making new friends! A little kid dropped their ball, and I carefully picked it up and handed it back. At home, I curled up on the couch, snoring softly. Being a gentle giant is the best job ever.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

UKC
Recognised 15 July 2013; Companion Dog Group; varieties Pocket, Standard/Classic and XL.2
ABKC
American Bully Kennel Club recognised the breed in 2004.1
FCI / AKC / The Royal Kennel Club
Not recognised as a separate breed.1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for an American Bully. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my American Bully, and at what times?

Feed your American Bully at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. Choose consistent times like morning and evening. For the right amount, check the food label and ask your vet.4

What should an American Bully eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food suited to your Bully's age and size. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, as listed by the ASPCA. Always consult your vet for a balanced diet.5

How often should I bathe an American Bully?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, and general guidance says at least once every three months. You can bathe more often if your dog gets dirty, but avoid over-bathing to keep his skin healthy.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does an American Bully need brushing?

Brush your American Bully's short coat weekly to remove loose hair and keep it shiny. Furry Diary's plan recommends weekly brushing.6 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim an American Bully's nails, and how often?

Trim nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, about every 28 days. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for help.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does an American Bully need?

Your American Bully needs daily walks and active play. Many enjoy canine sports too. Aim for at least 30 to 60 minutes of activity each day to keep him happy and healthy.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after an American Bully's teeth and ears?

Brush your Bully's teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste; daily is ideal. Check ears weekly and dry them if damp, especially since floppy ears trap moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal.6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does an American Bully live?

Lifespan varies for American Bullies. Ask your breeder or vet for an estimate based on your dog's specific lineage and health.

Is an American Bully good with children and other pets?

Yes, American Bullies are bred to be gentle, friendly companions and are generally good with children and other pets when properly socialised. Their lower prey drive helps. Always supervise interactions.21

Can an American Bully be left alone?

American Bullies are happiest as part of family life and prefer not to be left alone for long periods. With training, they can handle short absences, but may develop separation anxiety. Ask your breeder for tips on alone time.1

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

You might also like

American Pit Bull TerrierAmerican Staffordshire TerrierAmerican BulldogStaffordshire Bull Terrier

Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. Wikipedia: American Bully en.wikipedia.orgused for history, ABKC, weight, temperament, recognition by other clubs
  2. UKC Breed Standard: American Bully ukcdogs.comused for recognition, history, varieties and heights, coat, colours, temperament
  3. britannica.com britannica.com
  4. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.