The Ultimate American Bully FAQ (2025 Guide): 125 Questions Answered on Puppies, Studs, Bloodlines, Health & Breeding
The Ultimate American Bully FAQ (2025 Guide)
125 Questions Answered on Puppies, Studs, Bloodlines, Health & Breeding
AI Summary
The American Bully is one of the fastest-growing breeds in the world, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. From Pocket Bullies to XLs, bloodlines to breeding ethics, pricing to health care, new owners and breeders have more questions than ever.
This 2025 Ultimate American Bully FAQ answers 125 of the most common questions—everything from puppy buying, health, and training to stud services, breeding strategy, colors, and legality. Written by industry leaders, it’s designed to educate buyers, protect owners, and establish Venomline’s authority as a top source for American Bully knowledge.
🎙 Voice Search
Q: Are American Bullies good family dogs?
A: Yes. When responsibly bred, American Bullies are gentle, loyal, and excellent with children, making them one of the best family companions.
Q: How much does an American Bully puppy cost in 2025?
A: Between $4,000 and $15,000+ depending on class, pedigree, and breeder. Elite bloodline pups can exceed $20,000.
Q: What’s the difference between Pocket and Micro Bullies?
A: Pocket Bullies are ABKC-recognized (males 14–17″, females 13–16″). Micro Bullies are under 13″, not officially recognized, and often exaggerated in features.
Q: How long do American Bullies live?
A: On average, 10–13 years, with good breeding practices and care.
Q: Are American Bullies banned anywhere?
A: Yes, some countries and cities restrict “bully breeds,” though rules vary by region. Always check local laws.
Introduction
The American Bully breed has exploded in popularity worldwide—becoming a status symbol, show favorite, and family companion all in one. Yet, the more popular the breed gets, the more misinformation spreads. Buyers get scammed. Owners are misled by myths. Breeders cut corners.
This guide is designed to set the record straight. We’ve compiled the top 125 most asked questions in the niche and provided clear, expert-backed answers. Whether you’re a new puppy buyer, a seasoned breeder, or just curious about the breed, this is the most complete FAQ resource for 2025.
Buyer & New Owner FAQs (1–15)
1. What is an American Bully, and how is it different from Pit Bulls and Bulldogs?
The American Bully is a distinct breed, officially recognized by the American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC). Developed in the 1990s, it combines the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and select bulldog breeds. Unlike Pit Bulls, which are lean and athletic, Bullies are compact, muscular, and bred for companionship.
2. What are the official American Bully classes (Pocket, Standard, Classic, XL, Micro/Exotic)?
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Pocket: 14–17″ males, 13–16″ females
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Standard: 17–20″ males, 16–19″ females
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Classic: Same height as Standard, but less mass
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XL: 20–23″+ males, 19–22″+ females
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Micro/Exotic: Under 13″, not ABKC-recognized
3. What’s the difference between Pocket vs. Micro vs. Exotic Bullies?
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Pocket: ABKC standard, balanced and compact
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Micro: Ultra-short (<13″), often exaggerated
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Exotic: Extreme features, not recognized
4. Are American Bullies good family dogs and safe with kids?
Yes. Well-bred Bullies are gentle, patient, and affectionate, making them excellent with children.
5. What is the typical temperament of a well-bred American Bully?
Confident, outgoing, people-loving, with a calm and stable personality.
6. How much does an American Bully puppy cost in 2025?
Prices range $2,000–$10,000, with elite studs/litters reaching $15,000+.
7. Why do prices vary so much between breeders and bloodlines?
Pedigree, health testing, production history, structure, demand, and breeder reputation all affect price.
8. What should I look for in a reputable American Bully breeder?
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Health-tested parents (OFA/Embark)
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Transparent contracts
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ABKC registration
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Proven track record
9. What health tests should a breeder provide before I buy?
Embark DNA, OFA hips/elbows, cardiac, and vaccination/deworming records.
10. What questions should I ask before placing a deposit on a puppy?
Ask about health guarantees, refund policy, pedigree proof, and registration.
11. What’s included in a reputable puppy contract and health guarantee?
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Genetic health warranty
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Return/rehoming policy
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Registration papers
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Clear deposit terms
12. How do shipping and ground transport for puppies work?
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Ground: USDA-licensed transporters
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Air: Cargo or nanny-in-cabin
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International: USDA export health certificates
13. What is the best age to bring an American Bully puppy home?
8–10 weeks—old enough to socialize, young enough to bond.
14. Are American Bullies good for apartment living?
Yes—especially Pockets, as long as they get exercise and stimulation.
15. What supplies do I need before my Bully puppy arrives?
Crate, leash, harness, food, bowls, toys, training pads, cleaning supplies.
Breed Standards & Bloodlines FAQs (16–30)
16. What registry standards apply, and how do they differ?
The ABKC is the primary registry. The UKC recognizes Bullies but has slightly different standards (less emphasis on extreme features).
17. What are the height and weight ranges for each ABKC class?
Covered in #2 above. Weight is not a standard—structure matters more.
18. How is head size measured, and does it matter?
Head circumference is measured around the widest point. Large heads are common, but balance > size.
19. What are the most respected American Bully bloodlines?
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Razor’s Edge (foundation)
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Gottiline (foundation)
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Remyline
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Venomline (Pocket Bully dominance)
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Daxline
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Muscletone
20. What’s the difference between “type,” “structure,” and “mass”?
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Type: Breed character (head, chest, bone).
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Structure: Correct anatomy and balance.
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Mass: Bulk, but must not compromise movement.
21. How do judges evaluate Bullies in the show ring?
Balance, breed type, structure, temperament, movement.
22. What disqualifications matter most in conformation?
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Aggression
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Cow hocks, sway backs, bad bite
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Excessive exaggeration
23. Is color or pattern ever a disqualification?
No, except for albinism or disqualifying health traits.
24. What’s the difference between phenotype and genotype?
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Phenotype: What the dog looks like.
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Genotype: What genes it carries.
25. How do I read and verify a pedigree?
Check ABKC/UKC database, verify titles, look for consistency.
26. What’s the difference between Razor’s Edge and Gottiline?
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Razor’s Edge: Cleaner, athletic foundation stock.
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Gottiline: Heavier, blockier, more mass.
27. Which modern bloodlines dominate Pocket Bully breeding today?
Venomline, SSS Bullies, The Bully Market.
28. How do I identify exaggeration vs. correct structure?
Look for balance, movement, and absence of severe faults.
29. What is the role of bone density and chest width?
Adds substance, but should never compromise mobility.
30. Are Exotics recognized by any registry?
No major kennel club recognizes them. They’re separate from ABKC American Bullies.
Health & Care FAQs (31–50)
31. What are the most common health issues in American Bullies?
Hip dysplasia, skin allergies, cherry eye, heart murmurs, and obesity are most common. Merle dogs risk deafness/eye issues if unethically bred.
32. How long do American Bullies live, on average?
10–13 years, depending on size and health testing. Pockets tend to live longer than XLs.
33. What vaccinations and deworming schedule should my puppy follow?
Core vaccines: DHPP, Rabies, Bordetella. Deworm at 2, 4, 6, 8 weeks, then monthly.
34. What diet is best for Bullies (kibble vs. raw vs. cooked)?
High-quality kibble or balanced raw. Avoid grain-heavy or filler-based foods.
35. How much should I feed based on age and activity level?
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Puppies: 3–4 meals daily
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Adults: 2 meals daily
Adjust portions to maintain lean muscle, not fat.
36. How do I keep my Bully at a healthy weight?
Monitor body condition score (BCS). You should feel ribs without them showing excessively.
37. What supplements are useful?
Joint support (glucosamine), omega-3s for coat, probiotics for digestion.
38. How often should I exercise my Bully?
30–60 minutes daily. Avoid over-exercising young pups.
39. Are Bullies brachycephalic?
Not officially, but shorter muzzles make them prone to heat stress. Limit summer activity.
40. What grooming do they need?
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Bath every 4–6 weeks
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Nail trim every 2 weeks
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Weekly ear cleaning & brushing
41. How much do Bullies shed, and how do I manage it?
Moderate shedders. Use a rubber curry brush weekly.
42. What pet insurance is best?
Look for providers covering hereditary conditions (Trupanion, Healthy Paws, Fetch).
43. What signs of hip/elbow dysplasia should I watch for?
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Stiffness
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Bunny-hopping gait
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Reluctance to jump or climb
44. What is cherry eye, and how is it treated?
It’s a prolapsed gland in the eyelid. Surgery corrects it.
45. When should I spay/neuter my Bully?
12–18 months for structural development. Early spay/neuter can stunt growth.
46. Do Bullies have higher risks for C-sections?
Yes, especially Pocket/Micro classes due to big heads and small pelvises.
47. How can I prevent bloat or gastric torsion?
Feed multiple small meals, avoid exercise right after eating.
48. Are raw diets safe?
Yes, if balanced. Risks include bacteria and nutrient imbalance without proper planning.
49. How do I keep my Bully’s coat shiny?
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Omega-3 supplements
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Regular grooming
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High-protein diet
50. What dental care do Bullies need?
Brush 2–3x weekly. Provide chew toys to prevent tartar buildup.
Training & Behavior FAQs (51–65)
51. How do I socialize my Bully from 8–16 weeks?
Expose them to new people, surfaces, sounds, and dogs gradually, using positive reinforcement.
52. What’s the best crate-training plan?
Start with short intervals, reward calm behavior, never use crate as punishment.
53. How do I potty train quickly?
Consistency. Take them outside every 2 hours and after meals/naps. Reward immediately.
54. Are Bullies easy to train?
Yes, they’re eager to please but strong-willed. Positive reinforcement works best.
55. How do I stop jumping, mouthing, and nipping?
Redirect with toys, reward calm greetings, ignore jumping until all four paws are down.
56. How can I prevent leash reactivity?
Teach focus cues (“watch me”) and reward calm behavior when other dogs pass.
57. Do Bullies have a strong prey drive?
Less than terriers, but some do. Socialization helps manage it.
58. How do I manage separation anxiety?
Crate training, gradual alone-time training, puzzle feeders, and exercise before leaving.
59. What’s the right balance of mental vs. physical stimulation?
Equal. Use enrichment toys, obedience, and structured play along with walks.
60. Are Bullies good for first-time owners?
Yes, if they’re committed to training and structure.
61. Do Bullies respond better to positive reinforcement or correction?
Positive reinforcement. Harsh punishment leads to stubbornness.
62. How do I teach bite inhibition?
Redirect to chew toys, yelp when bitten too hard, reward gentle play.
63. Can Bullies be service or therapy dogs?
Yes, many excel due to gentle temperament.
64. How do I stop resource guarding?
Hand-feed meals, trade items with high-value treats, reward sharing.
65. How do I introduce my Bully to other dogs?
Neutral territory, controlled leashes, side-by-side walks before free interaction.
Genetics, Colors & Ethics FAQs (66–80)
66. What coat colors are common?
Blue, lilac, chocolate, black, fawn, tri-color, merle, champagne, platinum.
67. Is merle ethical in Bullies?
Yes, if bred responsibly (merle × non-merle). Never double-merle—leads to blindness/deafness.
68. What’s the truth behind “blue-nose” and “red-nose”?
Just marketing terms describing nose pigment color, not separate breeds.
69. What genetic tests should parents have before breeding?
Embark (DNA panel), OFA hips/elbows, cardiac, thyroid.
70. What is linebreeding vs. inbreeding vs. outcrossing?
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Linebreeding: Breeding related dogs for consistency.
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Inbreeding: Close relatives (risk of defects).
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Outcrossing: Unrelated dogs (adds vigor).
71. How do I avoid genetic defects?
Test all breeding dogs and avoid pairing carriers of the same mutation.
72. What does COI (Coefficient of Inbreeding) mean?
Higher COI = less genetic diversity, higher risk of health issues. Keep it <15–20%.
73. How do color genetics work?
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Dilute gene (d): Blue, lilac, champagne
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Tri gene (at): Tan points
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Merle (M): Patchy coat pattern
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Chocolate (bb): Brown pigment
74. Does color affect health, price, or quality?
Not health (except double-merle). Rare colors (lilac tri, platinum) command higher prices.
75. What is Color Dilution Alopecia?
A skin condition in dilute dogs (blue, lilac). Causes hair thinning. Ethical breeders avoid affected lines.
76. Are albino or all-white Bullies healthy?
Often linked to deafness and eye issues. True albinos should not be bred.
77. What’s the rarest Bully color?
Platinum, champagne tri, and “cryptic merle” are among the rarest.
78. Why are some colors priced higher?
Market demand and rarity—but structure and health should matter more than color.
79. Can breeding for color compromise quality?
Yes, color-focused breeding often ignores structure and temperament.
80. How do breeders verify color genetics?
Through DNA panels (Embark, UC Davis Vet Genetics).
Breeding & Whelping FAQs (81–100)
81. What age should a female or male Bully be bred?
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Females: After 2nd or 3rd heat (18–24 months).
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Males: 12 months minimum, ideally 18 months after semen testing.
82. How do canine heat cycles work?
4 stages: Proestrus, Estrus (fertile), Diestrus, Anestrus. Each lasts 2–3 weeks.
83. What is progesterone testing?
A blood test measuring ovulation. Breeders use it to pinpoint breeding day for AI or natural tie.
84. What’s the difference between AI, TCI, and surgical insemination?
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AI (Artificial Insemination): Semen placed manually.
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TCI (Transcervical Insemination): Endoscopic placement directly in uterus.
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Surgical AI: Direct placement into uterine horns via surgery.
85. How do I evaluate semen quality?
By motility (% swimming), morphology (normal shape), and concentration.
86. How do I ship semen correctly?
Use an extender, chill semen, ship overnight in insulated containers. Frozen semen is stored in liquid nitrogen.
87. What are typical stud fees?
$2,000–$10,000+, depending on pedigree, titles, and production record.
88. What are normal litter sizes?
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Micro/Exotic: 3–4 puppies
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Pocket: 6–8 puppies
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Standard: 8–10 puppies
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XL: 8–10 puppies
89. When are C-sections necessary?
When pups are too large, labor stalls, or distress is seen. Costs: $1,000–$3,000.
90. What is proper whelping setup?
Whelping box, heating pads, clean towels, calcium supplements, and constant supervision.
91. How do I screen puppy buyers?
Applications, phone calls, references, proof of living situation. Avoid impulse buyers.
92. How do I avoid scams in stud services?
Use contracts, escrow, and verify stud reputation with previous litters.
93. What role do foundation females play?
They build consistency, health, and structure. Studs get attention, but females set programs apart.
94. How do breeders prevent fading puppy syndrome?
Heat regulation, colostrum intake, supplements, and vet care.
95. When do puppies open eyes and walk?
Eyes: 10–14 days
Walking: 3–4 weeks
96. What is ENS (Early Neurological Stimulation)?
Neonatal handling protocol that improves stress resilience and confidence.
97. How do I treat mastitis in a nursing dam?
Warm compress, vet antibiotics, possible hand-feeding pups.
98. What vaccines do breeding dogs need?
Core vaccines plus Brucellosis testing for studs and dams.
99. How do I protect semen during shipping?
Double-insulated containers, semen extenders, tracking, backup straws.
100. How do you measure production consistency in a stud?
Evaluate multiple litters over time—consistent head, bone, temperament, and health.
Legal, Housing & Travel FAQs (101–110)
101. Are Bullies banned anywhere?
Yes—BSL affects parts of the UK, EU, Canada, and certain U.S. cities.
102. What paperwork is required for travel?
Health certificate, rabies vaccine, microchip, sometimes import permits.
103. How do I handle breed restrictions in rentals?
Provide references, temperament certificates, and consider ESA/service dog registration if applicable.
104. What liabilities should owners know?
Obtain pet liability insurance and follow local leash laws.
105. How do I fight HOA/landlord restrictions?
Get written policies, provide breed documentation, negotiate exceptions.
106. How does BSL affect Bullies in the UK/EU?
UK XL Bullies face bans in 2024–2025. EU rules vary country to country.
107. Are Pockets exempt from BSL?
Sometimes—they’re smaller, but still labeled under “bully breeds.”
108. Can emotional support certification override bans?
Only for housing (Fair Housing Act in the U.S.). Not for air travel or all bans.
109. What paperwork is required for semen import/export?
Health certificate, USDA APHIS approval, and customs clearance.
110. What USDA rules apply to breeders?
USDA requires licensing for breeders selling/transporting across state lines if above a certain threshold.
Showing, Market & Community FAQs (111–125)
111. How do I register my Bully with ABKC or UKC?
Submit pedigree paperwork, photos, and fees through their official sites.
112. What titles can Bullies earn?
ABKC Champion, Grand Champion, Best in Breed, Best in Show.
113. What are the biggest Bully shows?
ABKC Nationals, The Bully Market Show, Bullycon, regional ABKC-sanctioned events.
114. How do handlers prepare Bullies for shows?
Stack training, leash control, grooming, conditioning, and socialization.
115. What’s the difference between Champion vs. Grand Champion?
Champion = multiple class wins.
Grand Champion = higher consistency with multiple majors and show points.
116. How do I stack a Bully?
Front legs under shoulders, rear legs extended back, head high, chest forward.
117. How does ear cropping affect showing?
Accepted but not required. Judges should not penalize natural ears.
118. Are cropped ears required to win?
No. Cropped or natural are both acceptable under ABKC.
119. What does market saturation mean in 2025?
Too many breeders producing puppies. Quality programs still thrive; backyard breeding fails.
120. How do I evaluate stud demand?
Look at litter consistency, breeder demand, and repeat customers.
121. What contracts protect breeders from flippers?
No-resell clauses, return-to-breeder policies, and penalties for breach.
122. How do waitlists work?
Buyers reserve “picks” in order of deposit. First pick = highest priced.
123. What are red flags of a puppy scam?
No health tests, no contract, stock photos, refusing video calls, pressuring deposits.
124. How do I verify breeder reputation?
Reviews, references, show results, and proven productions.
125. Why is transparency critical in breeding?
It builds trust, prevents scams, and ensures healthy, well-placed puppies.
✅ The Wrap-Up
The American Bully world is thriving in 2025, but buyers and breeders must separate fact from hype. With this 125-question FAQ, you now have clear, expert-backed answers on puppies, studs, bloodlines, breeding ethics, health, training, and laws.
👉 Looking for a Pocket Bully puppy or stud service? Explore Venomline’s Available Puppies and Studs today.
📌 People Also Ask (PAA)
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What is the lifespan of a Pocket Bully? → 8–12 years
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Are American Bullies aggressive? → No, stable temperament is a breed hallmark
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What’s the rarest Bully color? → Platinum tri or champagne tri
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How much exercise does a Bully need daily? → 15–45 minutes
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Do Pocket Bullies need C-sections? → Often, due to compact build and big heads
🐾 Further Reading
- The 2025 Pocket Bully Buyer’s Guide: Prices, Deposits & What to Expect
- The Definitive Guide to the Pocket Bully
- The Real American Pocket Bully Temperament: A Definitive Guide
- Decoding Pocket Bully Health Testing: 2025 Protocols for Maximum Lifespan
-
American Bully Coat Color Genetics & Breeding Ethics (2025)
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Top American Bully Studs of 2025: Venomline’s Elite Lineup
📚 Venomline Pocket Bullies Blog Hub (2025)
The #1 centralized resource for American Bully puppies, studs, genetics, health, training, buyer education, and media features
🖊 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.
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