Debunking Myths About American Bullies: Venomline Pocket Bullies Set the Record Straight

Debunking Myths About American Bullies: Venomline Pocket Bullies Set the Record Straight
A truth-backed response to media smear tactics—defending the American Bully breed and the integrity behind Venomline’s legacy.
AI Summary
This article debunks a defamatory Daily Star piece misrepresenting the Pocket Bully breed and responsible breeders like Venomline. Key points:
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American Bullies are bred to be companions, not fighters. Despite their muscular look, they’re affectionate, loyal family pets. The breed standard demands a stable, friendly temperament — and that’s exactly what Venomline produces through health testing, socialization, and strict breeding ethics.
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Breeding banners aren’t fight promos. They highlight pedigree, health, and structure — not violence. At Venomline, banners showcase champion bloodlines and titles, helping buyers make informed choices.
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Flashy names like “Champion Homicide” don’t mean aggression. “Champion” refers to dog show titles. Homicide, or “Homie,” is a proven show dog and top producer — not a fighter. Judging a dog by its name is both lazy and misinformed.
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Venomline dogs are family-safe, with proof. Videos and testimonials show them playing with kids, other dogs — even cats. No aggressive dog is ever bred. Venomline’s temperament testing and client support speak volumes.
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The UK’s XL Bully ban stems from one bloodline: Killer Kimbo. The majority of UK XL Bullies trace to this inbred source. Venomline’s dogs have zero relation to that line and zero aggression issues.
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Pocket vs. XL Bullies: same breed, different size. The Daily Star failed to clarify breed classes. Venomline specializes in Pocket Bullies — compact, muscular, and bred for family life, not fear.
In the full article below, we fact-check the tabloid’s falsehoods and spotlight how breeders like Venomline are building a better future for the breed — with facts, not fear.
Debunking The Myths: Venomline Sets the Record Straight
American Bully enthusiasts and ethical breeders were blindsided by a sensational UK tabloid article in the Daily Star, titled “Extreme American Bully breeders announce new freakish bloodlines like 'fight promotions’.” Fed by a competitor, the piece portrays breeders as thugs exploiting “freakish” dogs and suggests litter announcements as if we were promoting cage fights. It targets Venomline Pocket Bullies, ridiculing an Instagram post about a litter sired by Champion Homicide—going as far as implying our dogs are bred for "fighting." Nothing could be further from the truth.
While we initially let this slide—while mourning the loss of our beloved foundational sire—we won’t remain silent anymore. There are consequences for publishing false claims. Instead actual journalism—like fact-checking, interviewing sources, or conducting a simple Google search—these clout-chasing hacks slapped together a smear piece, wheezed all the way to the printer, and called it a day. In doing so, they defamed a reputable brand built on truth, ethics, and years of hard work.
In this rebuttal, we’ll dismantle every lie and set the record straight on Pocket Bullies, American Bully breeders, and Venomline’s program. Using official breed standards, expert insight and Venomline’s proven record, we’ll separate fact from fiction. If you’ve been led to believe these dogs are aggressive “frankensteins” or that all breeders are "thugs", prepare to have those myths destroyed. The American Bully is a loyal, family-friendly companion breed, and Venomline is dedicated to preserving these traits through ethical, health-tested breeding.
Let’s set the record straight—one claim at a time.
The Daily Star’s Defamatory Claims vs. The Truth
In the offending article, several claims, insinuations and outright defamation were made. We'll break them down one by one and counter each with facts:
“All American Bully Breeders Are Thugs Exploiting Animals for Profit.”
This claim is not only blatantly false—it’s insulting to every responsible, hard-working breeder who has sacrificed, invested and built something meaningful around their love for dogs.
It also speaks to a deeper stigma: that if you breed dogs, especially a muscular breed like the American Bully, it means you’re uneducated or only trying to make a quick buck. People love to throw around dismissive comments like “get a real job” when they don’t understand the work, investment, and dedication this life demands.
Here’s the truth: I've had several “real jobs.” I studied, passed multiple securities and commodities exams and worked in finance—eventually running my own firm for over a decade. I didn’t come from wealth or connections. I earned everything I had through long nights, 80-hour workweeks and relentless focus.
But, my true passion has always been dogs, especially the American Bully breed. After years of working in a high-stress, numbers-driven industry, I took the money I’d saved and invested it into something I believed in. Not because it was easy—but because it mattered. I wanted to build something better in a space I saw being dominated by scammers, unethical practices, and people who didn’t care about the breed. So I did.
That’s how Venomline started—not as some backyard hustle, but from years of hard work, late nights, working multiple jobs and reinvesting real success into my passion: dogs.
The Daily Star’s blanket characterization is not only incorrect—it’s a slap in the face to every breeder who has sacrificed financially, emotionally, and professionally to elevate the breed. Responsible breeders aren’t criminals or profiteers—they’re preservationists. We are educators, mentors, and guardians of a bloodline that, when done right, produces dogs with unmatched beauty, loyalty, and temperament.
So next time someone says, “get a real job”—just remember, we've had several. We chose this life because we believe in it. And because this breed deserves better.
When Unemployed YouTubers & Tabloid Interns Attack

Daily Star & Izzzy Battle Bully Breeders Between Juice Boxes and Gender Crises
So when someone like @Izzzyzzz—who still lives at home surrounded by Garfield plushies, filming TikToks under mood lighting—says “get a real job,” the irony isn’t lost on me. Someone that switches genders more than career paths, passes judgment from a room that looks like Hot Topic sponsored a mental breakdown and calls it work.
The Daily Star & @Izzzyzzz's clickbait hit piece: powered by interns, produced with zero research, milking outrage for ad revenue.
You’re not self-employed—you’re an unsupervised identity crisis livestreaming from your parents basement.
Clean your room before they/them tries to critique a legacy.
The Truth About Reputable American Bully Breeders
The truth is that reputable American Bully breeders are passionate dog lovers who prioritize their dogs’ health, temperament, and the betterment of the breed over profit. Venomline Pocket Bullies is a prime example. We follow strict ethical standards, invest heavily in DNA and health testing, and emphasize the well-being of our dogs above all else.
“All of our dogs are DNA-tested, health-screened and raised in family environments with excellent temperaments. They’re gentle with children and other animals, and we never allow dogs with aggression or health issues into our program.”
— Venomline Code of Ethics
This approach isn’t rare among responsible breeders. Many of us work closely with veterinarians, conduct genetic screenings to avoid hereditary issues, and even collaborate with rescue organizations to place retired dogs or dogs from unethical kennels. We don’t exploit our dogs—we pour time, money, love, and care into them. We reject buyers who don’t meet our standards. We keep puppies longer to socialize them. We provide lifetime support to every family that brings one of our dogs home.
The Venomline Bloodline
Venomline has earned international acclaim not because we’ve gamed the system—but because we’ve done the work. We’ve been featured in major media outlets including Rolling Stone Magazine, NBC News, and Bully King Magazine. Our dogs have been shown, titled, exported to top programs across the world, and placed in loving homes across the U.S., Canada, Europe, and South America. None of that happens by accident. And none of it happens if you're just a “thug with dogs.”
At Venomline, our dogs live inside with our families. They’re not chained in the yard. They’re not kennel-bred production units. They’re family—and they’re raised as such. Every litter is planned with intention, not as part of some mass-production puppy mill model. And every puppy is evaluated for structure, temperament, and health before placement.
Yes, there are bad actors out there. There are backyard breeders who cut corners and put money before ethics. But they don’t represent this breed, and they certainly don’t represent us. We have spent years publicly calling them out, educating buyers, and working to separate quality programs from scammers who damage the reputation of this incredible breed.
Bully Breed Myths Busted: Debunking Tabloid Attacks
Myth 1: “Breeding Posters Look Like Fight Promotions”
Some media outlets, like the Daily Star, claim Bully breeders“fight-style flyers” when announcing breedings imply dog fighting. That’s either lazy journalism or clickbait. These are pedigree banners—standard tools used across legitimate breeding communities to communicate health, lineage, and titles. Equating them to dogfighting materials is not just wrong—it’s insulting to ethical breeders working to elevate the breed.
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Breeding banners display pedigree, health results, and ABKC titles—not aggression.
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They're used in nearly every purebred dog community, not unique to Bully breeds.
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Dismissing these as “bizarre” just shows unfamiliarity with standard breed practices.
Myth 2: “All American Bully Breeders Are Thugs Exploiting Dogs”
The stereotype of Bully breeders as “backyard hustlers” is lazy and outdated. Ethical programs like Venomline run structured, professional breeding operations with health testing, contracts, temperament evaluation and a high bar for client selection. Making false claims like “animal exploitation” for clickbait and views.
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Venomline was built with financial planning, genetic expertise and a love for the breed
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Dogs are raised in homes, not in cages or sheds—socialized with kids, people, and pets.
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Every puppy is fully checked and matched with the right family.
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The idea that reputable breeders are lazy or dangerous is just internet projection.
Myth 3: “A Dog Named ‘Homicide’ Must Be Used for Fighting”
The claim that a dog named Champion "Homicide” must be a fighter is absurd. “Champion” is a dog show title, earned through temperament, structure, and performance in conformation rings—not combat. We also didn't name any dog "Homicide" he was purchased at the age of three and has been an incredible addition to our camp. Take up any issues with his previous owner.
Ironically, the dog behind the name is a total sweetheart who wins trophies and wags his tail at toddlers.
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“Champion” means ABKC show ring wins—not fighting.
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Aggression is grounds for disqualification in conformation shows.
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Flashy names are common across all dog breeds (and even horses)—not literal.
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Homicide (nicknamed “Homie”) is known for his calm, friendly demeanor.
Myth 4: “Venomline’s Temperament Claims Are A Marketing Spin”
Venomline claiming our dogs are family-safe, kid-friendly and animal-socialized—is not spin, it’s provable. Videos, reviews, public meetups and decades of breeding prove our dogs are sweet, stable, and affectionate. The American Bully breed itself was created for temperament—not guarding, not fighting, not intimidation.
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ABKC disqualifies dogs that show aggression—calm behavior is part of the standard.
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Our dogs are raised indoors, with kids, other dogs — even cats. Yes, cats, @Izzzyzzz. Thought that might earn your approval, seeing as you're definitely a cat lady. Sorry, I don't do prounouns.
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Dozens of videos show our Bullies playing, cuddling and calmly interacting in public.
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Reviews and client feedback confirm gentle, even-tempered dogs across the world.
Myth 5: “Extreme Bullies Are All Unhealthy, Deformed and Bred for Hype”
Some critics assume that all “extreme” or “compact” Bullies must be riddled with health issues. "Extreme" is simply another word to describe "breed type." But the truth is, poor breeding—not the breed—is the problem. Ethical breeders like Venomline health-test rigorously, and select for proper structure and movement.
That's why you don't see any of our dogs with deformities, unlike some breeders. The result? A short, muscular dog with exceptional temperament and long-term soundness.
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Venomline uses Embark DNA panels, extensive health testing and screens every stud and female.
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Dogs are selected for correct structure, movement, and temperament—not just looks.
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“Extreme” simply means a dog that carries type, and has proper structure (tight feet, good topline, rear, angulation and athletic mobility.
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Disreputable breeders that cut corners are the outliers—not the industry standard.
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Calling all Bullies “deformed” is like judging all cars based on a totaled one—it’s uninformed and absurd.
💎 Our Mission: Advocacy & Elite Pocket Bully Breeding
Venomline Pocket Bullies, founded in Texas and now based in West Palm Beach, FL, is a world-renowned Pocket American Bully breeding program. Named in honor of our legendary foundation sire Louis V Line’s Venom, our program built its reputation on dogs exemplifying breed type, thick bone, compact structure and loving temperaments. Our dogs have been featured in Rolling Stone, BULLY KING Magazine, NBC News, Barcroft Animals, Big Dogz Tv and have earned recognition far beyond the bully community.
Venomline’s breeding philosophy is anchored in three pillars:
1. Structure
Venomline pocket bullies are built to the standard—short, muscular, but fully functional. Dogs are athletic, with correct top-lines, clean rears, and no exaggerated faults. The program focuses on improving weak points with every breeding to ensure long-term structure and mobility.
2. Health
All Venomline breeding dogs are health-tested through Embark DNA and receive regular veterinary care. The program avoids high-risk pairings—completely avoiding Merle—and every puppy comes with a written health guarantee. Longevity and quality of life always come before trends or hype.
3. Temperament
Venomline does not tolerate aggression. Any dog showing unstable behavior is spayed/neutered and removed from the program. Their bullies are raised in enriching, family environments and some have even become therapy dogs. They’re confident enough to invite media and guests to meet their dogs in person.
📚 Breed Advocacy & Education
Venomline isn’t just a breeder—they’re a leading voice for the breed. Through their website’s blog, they publish detailed guides on health testing, ethics, scam breeder warnings and care tips for new owners. They maintain an open-door policy with all puppy buyers, offering lifelong support.
They also give back: helping rehome dogs in need (dogs they didn’t produce), donating to rescues and educating owners on responsible Bully ownership.
🚫📢 Standing Against Misinformation
The tone of their content is passionate for a reason—they’re defending a breed they love. Media hit pieces like The Daily Star’s and this Youtube "Creator's" defamatory content promoting fear and breed stigma from her parents basement. Venomline actively works to correct false narratives, such as:
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“Breeders only care about profit” – Venomline documents the real cost of ethical breeding (vet care, C-sections, testing, facilities). Much of the income is reinvested in their dogs.
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“Bullies = Pit Bulls” – They explain that American Bullies were developed in the ’90s as a distinct breed focused on companionship—not aggression—with lower prey drive and more sociable temperaments.
Our mission is twofold:
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Produce structurally sound, health-tested and well-tempered Pocket Bullies.
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Be public advocates who elevate the breed and expose unethical practices harming its image.
American Bully Breed Basics: Pocket vs XL and Other Classes
Knowing the ABKC classes helps clarify the confusion caused by sensationalized media coverage (like the Daily Star article). Not all Bullies are XLs—and size doesn’t equal aggression. Official Classes according to the breed's founding registry:
Pocket Class
The shortest of the standard classes, Pocket Bullies are compact but muscular—not teacups. Males stand 14–17", females 13–16" at the withers (shoulder). Most weigh 40–60 lbs of dense, athletic muscle. They share the same proportions as Standard Bullies, just in a smaller frame. Venomline specializes in extreme Pockets: compact dogs with massive bone, big heads, and exceptional temperament.
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Height: 14–17" (males), 13–16" (females)
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Weight: 40–60 lbs average
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Compact yet powerful; built like a tank
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Big heads, thick bone, wide chests = “extreme” features
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Venomline’s core focus and specialty
Standard
The classic American Bully. Males are 17–20", females 16–19". They’re the original Bully size: muscular, blocky, but balanced—not exaggerated. Razor’s Edge bloodline dogs were mostly in this class.
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Height: 17–20" (males), 16–19" (females)
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Muscular, strong, and balanced
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Seen as the foundation of the breed
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Many early show Champions were Standards
Classic
Same height as Standards, but with a leaner build. Think less exaggerated muscle and bone, with an old-school athletic Pit Bull frame and Bully head. Preferred by owners who like a moderate, functional look.
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Height same as Standard; lighter structure
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Less mass, more athleticism
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Still meets Bully breed standard
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Underrepresented but ideal for active homes
XL Bully
The largest class. Males 20–23", females 19–22". Weights vary widely—many range from 80 to 150 lbs. Popular for their size, but some bloodlines chased mass at the expense of structure and temperament. XLs are not inherently aggressive—but like any large breed, they require training, space, and responsible breeding.
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Height: 20–23" (males), 19–22" (females)
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Mass: 80–150+ lbs
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Majestic when well-bred; unmanageable if not
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Some UK incidents involved unstable XL lines
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Ethical breeders focus on temperament, not just size
(Former) Extreme Class
ABKC retired this category, but the term lives on. “Extreme” refers to exaggerated features: wide heads, short backs, thick bone. Now judged within their height class. Venomline is known for “extreme pocket bullies”—massive dogs in small frames with clean structure and functionality.
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No longer a separate ABKC class
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Describes dogs with extreme features regardless of size
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Venomline = top example of “extreme pocket” done right
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Muscle, bone, temperament—and still ABKC functional
Micro & Exotic (Non-Standard)
“Micro” often refers to dogs under Pocket height (<13"). Some are legitimate, others suffer from dwarfism or poor structure. “Exotic” Bullies are an unrecognized offshoot—heavily bulldog-influenced, often extreme to the point of dysfunction. Venomline does not breed Exotics or extreme Micros.
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Micros = under 13", often unregistered or dwarfism-prone
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Exotics = exaggerated bulldog traits, poor health
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ABKC does not officially recognize either
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Venomline only produces ABKC-registered, healthy Pocket Bullies, although occasionally some dogs that fall under pocket height requirements. Although technically considered "micros", by some registries—we do not breed for it.
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Function > fad
✅ Why It Matters
When the media blames “Bully breeds” it unfairly groups together dogs with vastly different traits and breeding goals. Pocket Bullies are compact, family-friendly, and bred for companionship—not protection or intimidation.
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A Pocket isn’t an XL—it’s like comparing a Frenchie to a Rottweiler
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Aggression is disqualifying in ABKC shows—especially for Pockets
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Venomline dogs are bred for health, structure, and sweet temperaments
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The community self-polices aggressively—especially in Pocket classes
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Education is the antidote to fear-based headlines
🏡 Which Size Is Right for You?
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Pocket: Great for small spaces, travel, and families—laid-back and manageable
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Standard: Balanced, active, and a good middle ground
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Classic: Athletic option for people who love movement and simplicity
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XL: Impressive size but requires space, strength, and strong handling
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Micro/Exotic: Proceed with caution; many have structural or health issues
Venomline’s dogs sit in the Pocket range—some might call them Micro-sized, but they’re structurally sound and ABKC registered. They aim to show the best version of the breed: functional, family-friendly, and visually striking.
Final Thoughts
The American Bully — especially the Pocket class — is a loyal, gentle, and family-friendly companion when bred and raised responsibly. Sadly, a few bad actors and sensationalized media coverage have distorted the breed’s image. As we've shown, the truth is far removed from the defamatory claims.
Responsible programs like Venomline are dedicated to producing healthy, well-tempered American Bullies. Far from being “thugs” or fighters, they are educators, advocates, and stewards of the breed. The Daily Star's accusations fall apart under real scrutiny: breeding banners reflect pedigree, not violence; dogs with tough names can be certified sweethearts and the XL Bully crisis highlights the need for more responsible breeding — something Venomline has always emphasized.
If you care about bully breeds, speak up. Share the truth, support ethical breeders, and challenge misconceptions. These dogs can’t defend themselves — but we can.
For those curious about Pocket Bullies or Venomline’s program, we’ve included links below. Whether you’re searching for your next companion or simply want to learn more, we appreciate you taking the time to look beyond the clickbait.
The truth always finds its way out — and Venomline will keep setting the record straight, one happy, healthy Bully at a time.
About the Author – Venomline Pocket Bullies
Venomline Pocket Bullies (est. 2015) is a world-renowned American Bully kennel based in West Palm Beach, FL. Founded by Matt Siebenthal, Venomline has produced over 50 Champions and 20 Grand Champions, earning a global reputation for excellence in the Pocket class.
Known for ethical breeding, health testing, and zero tolerance for aggression, Venomline has been featured in Rolling Stone, NBC News, and Bully King Magazine. Their mission: to produce the ultimate family companion with elite structure, stable temperament, and lasting health. With lifetime support for puppy owners and a commitment to breed education, Venomline sets the gold standard in Pocket Bullies and continues to advocate for this loyal, loving breed.
Join the Movement for Ethical Breeding
If you believe in ethical breeding, education, and the truth—help us spread this message. Share this article, follow Venomline on social media, and speak up when you see misinformation. Together, we can protect the reputation of the American Bully breed and ensure a bright future for responsible breeders and loving owners everywhere.
People Also Ask
Are American Bullies aggressive dogs by nature?
No. In contrast to their tough look, American Bullies were bred to be companion animals with gentle, friendly temperaments – they are typically affectionate “people dogs,” great with families. Human or dog aggression is considered uncharacteristic of the breed and is actively bred against by reputable breeders.
What is a Pocket Bully vs. a standard American Bully?
“Pocket Bully” refers to a smaller class of the American Bully breed. Pocket Bullies share the same muscular build and traits as standard American Bullies but are simply shorter in height (males ~14–17 inches tall, females ~13–16 inches) They are not a separate breed – just a smaller variety – and they maintain the breed’s trademark friendly temperament and stocky appearance in a compact size.
How are XL Bullies different from Pocket Bullies?
XL Bullies are much larger in size and were bred from slightly different lines focusing on height and mass. An XL Bully can stand 20–23 inches tall and weigh over 100 lbs, whereas a Pocket is under 17 inches and much lighter. Both classes belong to the American Bully breed and should have similar good temperaments, but the XLs gained notoriety in the UK due to one heavily inbred aggressive line (“Killer Kimbo”). Pocket Bullies, coming from separate bloodlines, were not part of that issue and are generally very stable and easier to manage due to their smaller stature.
Why do Bully breeders use “breeding banners” and unique bloodline names?
Breeding banners and bloodline names are used to showcase a litter’s pedigree and lineage. In the American Bully community, breeders often announce litters with graphic posters that include the sire and dam’s names, photos, and notable ancestors. This isn’t for promoting anything violent – it’s to highlight the quality and history behind the puppies (such as champion titles, health-tested bloodlines, etc. Bloodline names (like Venomline, Daxline, Razor’s Edge) help identify particular lineages known for certain traits. They are a point of pride and a way for breeders and buyers to discuss ancestry and breeding plans.
Are American Bullies banned in the UK or other places?
In the UK, the government is moving to ban the XL American Bully specifically, but not the entire American Bully breed. Due to a spate of incidents, many traced back to one problem bloodline. XL Bullies are being added to the Dangerous Dogs Act (as of 2023/2024), meaning new XLs cannot be bred or sold there, and existing ones face strict regulation. Pocket, Standard, and Classic Bullies have not been mentioned in the ban and are not the focus of those incidents. In most other countries, American Bullies (all sizes) are legal and recognized; however, some jurisdictions with generic “pit bull” bans might mistakenly include Bullies, so owners should always check local laws. Responsible breeders like Venomline advocate for laws that target bad owners and breeders, not entire breeds.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
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Are American Bullies the same as Pit Bulls?
No. They are a separate breed developed in the 1990s for companionship. They are gentler and more people-friendly. -
What does “ABKC Champion” mean?
It’s a show title earned in conformation dog shows, judged on breed standards—not a reference to fighting. -
Are Venomline dogs good with kids?
Yes. They’re raised indoors, around children and animals, and are temperament tested before breeding. -
Why name a dog “Homicide”?
Venomline didn’t. The dog came with the name. He’s called “Homie” at home and has an incredibly sweet personality. -
Do Venomline dogs have aggression issues?
No. Temperament is their top priority. Any dog with unstable behavior is removed from their program. -
Are breeding banners used for fighting promotion?
Absolutely not. Banners are used to show a puppy’s pedigree and promote lineage transparency. -
Are Pocket Bullies included in UK bans?
No. Only XL Bullies were banned. Pockets are smaller and not part of the UK aggression incidents. -
Is Venomline associated with “Killer Kimbo”?
No. They breed Pocket Bullies and have zero Kimbo influence in their bloodline. -
What makes Venomline different?
Structure, health, temperament, and transparency. They’ve produced over 50 Champions and lead in education and breed advocacy. -
Where can I learn more or buy a Venomline pup?
Visit https://venomlinebullies.com/pages/puppies-for-sale or text 832-452-0898 for info.
🔗 Helpful Links & Further Reading
Looking to learn more about the American Bully breed, breed standards, health testing, and responsible breeding practices? These trusted resources from Venomline Pocket Bullies offer in-depth education and firsthand experience:
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📘 Venomline Blog – Official Website
Explore detailed articles on Pocket Bullies, health protocols, breeding ethics, and myth-busting breed info. -
✍️ Venomline on Medium
Our long-form publication breaking down everything from breed misinformation to how to choose the right Pocket Bully stud. -
📖 The Definitive Guide to the Pocket Bully
A must-read for new and experienced bully owners — covering history, temperament, care, and more. -
🧬 Decoding Pocket Bully Health Testing (2025)
A breakdown of DNA testing, OFA protocols, and how Venomline screens for longevity and structural soundness. -
🧠 How to Spot a Fake American Bully Breeder (Buyer’s Guide)
Learn how to protect yourself from scams and identify ethical programs.
Last Updated: August 3, 2025
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