American Bully vs Pit Bull – Key Differences in Breed, Size & Temperament
AI Summary
Not sure whether to get an American Bully or a Pit Bull? This in-depth guide breaks down the differences in size, temperament, training, health, and lifestyle needs between the two breeds. Whether you’re a first-time owner, family looking for a kid-safe companion, or an experienced dog lover, you’ll learn which breed fits your goals. Get expert-backed advice from one of the top American Bully programs in the world—Venomline Pocket Bullies.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Why People Confuse These Breeds
- Breed Origins & Bloodlines
- Appearance & Build: Side-by-Side Comparison
- Temperament & Personality
- Training & Obedience
- Exercise Needs & Energy Levels
- Health & Lifespan Differences
- Which Breed is Better for Families?
- Pit Bull vs Bully: Myth-Busting
- Real Talk: What Breeders & Owners Say
- Choosing the Right Breed for You
- People Also Ask
- FAQs (10 Questions)
- Helpful Links
- CTA: Next Steps
- Author Bio
American Bully vs Pit Bull – Key Differences in Breed, Size & Temperament
Introduction
“Are American Bullies the same as Pit Bulls?”
This is one of the most common questions we hear from potential puppy buyers—and it’s a valid one.
They’re both short, muscular dogs. They both have “bully” in the name. And unfortunately, they both suffer from unfair stereotypes.
But while the American Bully and the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) share some ancestry, they’re completely different breeds today—with very different purposes, physical builds, temperaments, and lifestyle needs.
In this article, we’ll help you understand exactly what sets them apart, so you can make the best decision for your home, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
Why People Confuse These Breeds
Here’s why these breeds are often lumped together:
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Both descend from bulldog and terrier-type dogs
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They can appear similar at a glance (especially the Standard Bully)
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The media and poorly informed breed owners often mislabel American Bullies as Pit Bulls
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Some breeders cross them or advertise Pit Bulls as “bullies” to inflate prices
🔊 Voice Search Optimization:
“Hey Google, is an American Bully just a type of Pit Bull?”
Answer: No. While the American Bully was developed from the APBT, it’s a separate breed with a distinct temperament, purpose, and build.
Breed Origins & Bloodlines
American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT)
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Originated in 1800s England and later refined in the U.S.
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Bred for farm work, protection, and later as working dogs
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Known for intelligence, drive, agility, and loyalty
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Recognized by UKC and ADBA (not AKC)
American Bully
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Developed in the 1990s and 2000s in the U.S.
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Created by selectively breeding APBTs with American Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, and other bully-type breeds
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Focused on companion temperament and extreme structure
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Recognized by the UKC in 2013
The American Bully was never bred for fighting or aggression—it was created to be a gentle family companion with a strong, exaggerated appearance.
Appearance & Build: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | American Pit Bull Terrier | American Bully (Pocket–XL) |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 17–21 inches | 13–23 inches (varies by class) |
| Weight | 30–65 lbs | 30–120+ lbs |
| Frame | Lean, athletic | Broad, muscular, “bulldoggy” |
| Head | Medium-length muzzle | Shorter muzzle, blocky skull |
| Chest | Moderate width | Deep, wide chest |
| Legs | Long, proportional | Shorter, wider stance |
| Tail | Whip-like | Thick at base, short or natural |
| Movement | Agile, high drive | Powerful, low-to-ground movement |
Fun Fact: A Pocket Bully can be shorter than a Pit Bull by 4–6 inches, yet outweigh them by 15+ pounds due to heavy bone and muscle.
Temperament & Personality
Both breeds are loyal, intelligent, and human-focused. But they have key differences in drive and reactivity.
Pit Bull Temperament
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Alert, protective, and task-oriented
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Highly energetic—needs structured activity
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Can be reactive if not properly socialized
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More vocal and athletic
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Better suited for experienced handlers
American Bully Temperament
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Bred to be calm, confident, and social
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Exceptionally gentle with children
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Far less reactive—tolerant of loud homes and distractions
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Craves human attention and affection
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Ideal for families or first-time owners
🔊 Voice Search Optimization:
“Which is more family-friendly: Pit Bull or Bully?”
Answer: American Bullies are typically more laid-back, affectionate, and better suited for families with children.
Training & Obedience
Both breeds are loyal, intelligent, and human-focused. But they have key differences in drive and reactivity.
Exercise Needs & Energy Levels
| Activity Type | Pit Bull | American Bully |
|---|---|---|
| Walks per day | 2–3 long walks | 1–2 moderate walks |
| Mental stimulation | High (needs puzzles, games) | Moderate |
| Off-leash play | Needs strong recall | Less drive to roam |
| Ideal sport | Agility, lure coursing | Tug-of-war, show stacking |
| House behavior | Can be restless | Usually mellow indoors |
Pit Bulls were bred for energy and stamina. Bullies were bred to look like athletes—not necessarily act like them.
Health & Lifespan Differences
Pit Bull
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Average lifespan: 10–14 years
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Common issues: hip dysplasia, skin allergies, knee injuries
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Generally a very healthy and long-lived breed
American Bully
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Average lifespan: 8–12 years
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Health depends heavily on bloodline and breeder practices
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Common issues:
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Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (short snout)
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Elongated soft palate
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Joint issues in heavy lines
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💬 Important Note:
Venomline performs joint and cardiac testing and DNA panels on all breeding dogs. If you’re buying a Bully, make sure your breeder does the same.
Which Breed is Better for Families?
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Small children in the home? Go with the American Bully.
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Active lifestyle, hiking, or agility? The Pit Bull is built for it.
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Apartment living? Pocket Bullies adapt better.
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First-time owner? The Bully is easier to handle.
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Want to compete in sports or shows? Both breeds have their strengths.
Bottom line:
If you want a gentle, stable, “couch potato with swagger”, choose a Pocket or Standard Bully.
If you want a working partner with athleticism, go Pit Bull.
Pit Bull vs Bully: Myth-Busting
Myth 1: “Pit Bulls have locking jaws.”
❌ False. No breed has a locking mechanism in the jaw.
Myth 2: “Bullies are aggressive because they’re big.”
❌ False. American Bullies are bred for friendliness.
Myth 3: “All Bullies have breathing issues.”
❌ False. Only poorly bred dogs suffer from airway problems.
Myth 4: “They’re banned everywhere.”
❌ False. Pocket Bullies are legal in most states. Learn your local laws.
Real Talk: What Breeders & Owners Say
At Venomline, we’ve produced both types of dogs—and here’s the truth:
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Pit Bulls are amazing, but they take work.
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Bullies fit into most households with ease. They’re sweet, trainable, and chill.
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If you’re looking for a breed that’s built like a tank but acts like a teddy bear, the Pocket Bully is unmatched.
“Our Pocket Bullies melt into the couch with your toddler after a walk—but they still turn heads at every show.”
Choosing the Right Breed for You
Ask yourself:
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How active is my lifestyle?
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Do I have kids or other pets?
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How much time can I dedicate to training?
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Do I want a companion or a competitor?
There’s no “better” breed—just the one that’s better for you.
People Also Ask (PAA)
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What is the difference between a Bully and a Pit Bull?
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Which is safer for kids: Pit Bull or Bully?
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Do Bullies need less exercise than Pit Bulls?
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Are Bullies easier to train than Pit Bulls?
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Can you own a Bully in Florida?
10 FAQs
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Are American Bullies a type of Pit Bull?
No. They’re a separate breed recognized by the UKC, bred for companionship. -
Which dog is stronger?
Bullies are heavier and more muscular. Pit Bulls are faster and more agile. -
Which dog lives longer?
Pit Bulls generally live longer (12–16 years vs 10–13). -
Do Bullies get along with other dogs?
Yes—especially when socialized early. -
Which is more expensive?
Bullies, especially those from elite lines like Venomline, are more expensive due to breeding costs. -
Do Bullies bark a lot?
No. They’re usually quiet. -
Are Pit Bulls more reactive?
They can be—but with structure, they’re loyal and stable. -
Can Bullies live in apartments?
Yes. Pocket Bullies are great for small spaces. -
Do Bullies require a lot of grooming?
Minimal. Short coat, low shedding. -
Do you offer health-tested Bullies?
Yes. All Venomline dogs undergo OFA and Embark testing.
Ready to Make Your Decision?
If you're leaning toward a Bully and want a temperament-tested, health-tested, ABKC-registered dog, Venomline is the gold standard.
📲 Text 832.452.0898
🔗 Reserve Your Puppy Today
About the Author – Venomline Elite Team
Venomline’s expert team leads this guide—headed by the acclaimed author of The Bully Bible, founder of BULLY KING Magazine, and a top-tier breeder. With 10+ years in breeding, training, and advocacy, Venomline has produced 50+ ABKC Champions and 25+ Grand Champions.
As passionate breed advocates, rescue donors, and volunteers, Venomline offers field-tested insights and expert guidance to help you raise a confident, well-trained Bully.
🔗 Helpful Links
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