American Bully is not only “Pocket and Standard”. Under the ABKC (American Bully Kennel Club) there are four official varieties: Pocket, Standard, Classic and XL. This is not a quality ranking — it is mainly height (and for Classic: build within the same height range as Standard).
At Night Guardians we focus mainly on Pocket, and we also keep Standard-type dogs. Below is the full picture so you know what people mean when they talk about size.
1. Pocket
Adult height at withers: males about 14 to under 17 in (36–43 cm); females about 13 to under 16 in (33–40 cm).
The shortest official variety while keeping classic bully power: wide chest, strong head, compact outline. For many families it is the sweet spot — bold look, easier everyday life in an apartment than XL.
- works well in apartments with regular walks,
- easier to lift into a car (still a strong dog — not a toy),
- needs training and socialization like any bully.
2. Standard
Adult height: males about 17–20 in (43–51 cm); females about 16–19 in (40–48 cm).
The baseline height variety: balanced height, mass and bully type. More dog in the house and on the leash than Pocket. A natural fit for people with a house/garden who like a larger silhouette.
- more awareness needed in narrow spaces,
- food and gear costs rise with mass,
- temperament depends on lines and raising — not the “Standard” label alone.
3. Classic
Same height range as Standard (males about 17–20 in; females about 16–19 in).
Classic is not “smaller than Standard”. It differs in build: lighter frame, less body mass, often a more moderate outline — still with bully traits. It suits someone who wants Standard height without the heaviest, bulky mass.
- lighter movement and often less joint load than a very massive type,
- still needs responsible handling and socialization,
- do not confuse with Pocket — Classic is taller, just leaner in type.
4. XL
Adult height: males over 20 to 23 in (about 51–57 cm); females over 19 to 22 in (about 48–56 cm).
The tallest official ABKC variety. It should keep American Bully type — not be “just a tall dog”. More space, more power on the leash, usually higher upkeep. For an experienced owner with the right conditions.
- not a “small apartment with no plan” choice,
- key: joint health, proportions and temperament — not height alone,
- taller ≠ better dog.
What is not official in ABKC
Marketing sometimes uses names like “Micro” or “Extreme”. Micro is not an official ABKC variety. Extreme is often a build style description, not a separate ABKC size class. When choosing a kennel, stick to clear varieties: Pocket, Standard, Classic, XL.
Do not confuse
Variety is mainly frame (and for Classic — mass at the same height). Character is built in the kennel and at home. Pocket does not mean “mini toy”. XL does not automatically mean calmer or harder.
How we decide here
In reservation talks we ask about living conditions and size expectations. The current Tequila × Gasper litter is Pocket — see Litters and the litter post.
Unsure about variety? Start with who the breed is for — “bully or not” often matters more than Pocket vs XL.