BREEDS

GENERAL IMPRESSION

The American Bully should give the impression of great strength for its size. It is a compact and medium/large size dog with a muscular body and blocky head. The American Bully should have the appearance of heavy bone structure with a bulky build and look.

CHARACTERISTICS

The American Bully is a companion breed exhibiting confidence, a zest for life, along with an exuberant willingness to please and bond with their family, thus making the American Bully an excellent family companion. Despite the American Bully’s fierce and powerful appearance their demeanor is gentle. They are great with kids, and extremely friendly with strangers, other dogs, and other animals. Human or dog aggression, extreme shyness, or viciousness is very uncharacteristic of the American Bully and is highly undesirable.

HEAD

• The distinct heavy, large and broad head of the American Bully exemplifies breed type.
• Medium in length, deep throughout, broad skull, well chiseled with very pronounced cheek muscles, distinct and deep stop.
• Ears- Set high and can be either natural or cropped.
• Eyes- All colors equally accepted except albinism (pinkish to red) which is a disqualification. Blue eyes, lack of pigment around the eyes are undesirable.
• Eye shape is oval to almond shape, low down in skull and set far apart. Round eyes are undesirable, and bulging or protruding eyes are a fault.
• Visibility of the haw should be minimal.
• Faults: Overly visible haw. Both eyes not matched in color. Bulging or protruding eyes.Disqualifying Faults: Albinism eyes.
  • Muzzle- Short-Medium in length and broad in width. Length to be shorter than the length of the skull with distance from the tip of the nose to the stop approximately one- third of the distance from the tip of the nose to the occiput; but not so short as to interfere with normal breathing. The muzzle is blocky or slightly squared to fall away abruptly below eyes. The topline of the muzzle is to be straight with nose neither pointed nor turned up in profile.
  • Jaws- well defined.
  • Under jaw- to be strong and parallel to muzzle, never turning upward. Lips- semi close and even, minimal looseness accepted but not preferred.
  Faults: Muzzle too long or snipey; muzzle so short as to interfere with normal breathing; lack of pronounced cheek and deep stop; weak under jaw; under jaw turning up; nose turning up or pushed back; excessive flews.
  • Upper Teeth- to meet tightly outside lower teeth in form or scissor bite.
  Faults: Level bite, overshot bite, undershot bite and wry bite. Serious Faults: Severely overshot or undershot bites, measuring 1/4 inch (0.6cm) or more.

   

  NECK

  • Heavy, muscular, slightly arched, tapering from shoulder to back of skull. Compact to medium size should have minimal or no loose skin.
  Faults: Neck too thin or weak; neck too short or too long.

   

  FOREQUARTERS

  • Shoulders to be strong and muscular with wide blades set wide; and well laid back. The upper arm is approximately equal to the length of the shoulder blade and joined at an angle of approximately 35 to 45 degrees.
  • Forelegs- straight, strong, and sturdy with large or round bones, pasterns are strong, short and nearly erect. Feet- straight forward.
  • Distance from the withers to the elbow is equal to the distance from the elbows to the bottom of the feet. Dogs that are slightly shorter in distance from the elbows to the bottom of the feet are acceptable but not desirable.
  Faults: Upright shoulders; steep and forward scapula (shoulder blade). Upper arm too short. Feet toeing either in or out; front legs bowed; down at the pasterns; splayed or flat feet; long toes.

   

  BODY

  • Heavily muscled, massive bulky body type of compact/medium length giving the impression of great power for its size and exemplifying the breed type of the American Bully.
  • Ribs well-rounded creating a barrel chest with all ribs close together; rib cage to extend to the elbow or slightly below.
  • Forelegs set rather wide apart to permit chest development.
  • Chest- should be broad, deep, and well filled in; but should not be exaggerated as to interfere with normal movement.

   

  BACK

  • Fairly short to medium back, slight sloping from withers to rump or straight accepted with gentle short slope at rump to base of tail. The American Bully should give the appearance of a square body, equal in length when measured from point of shoulder to point of buttocks and from the withers to the ground.
  Faults: Back too long; rear higher than withers; weak or swayed topline; roached or wheel back.

   

  HINDQUARTERS

  • Well muscled, let down at hocks, turning neither in nor out.
  • Muscular development, angulation and width of the hindquarters should be in balance with that of the forequarters.
  • When viewed from the rear legs are to be straight and parallel.
  • Croup should have a slight downward angle.
  Faults: Hocks turning in or out; cow hocks; sickle hocks; narrow hindquarters; straight or over-angulated stifle joints; bowed legs.

   

  TAIL

  • Medium in comparison to size, low set, tapering to a fine point and extending approximately to the hock.
  • When relaxed tail is to be carried low. When moving tail is carried level with the topline or in a raised position when excited (challenge tail), but should never be carried curled over, breaking the plane of the back (gay tail).
  • Tail to be clear of any kinks, knots or any curvature.
  Faults: Tail to long or too short approximately up to an inch above or below point of the hock. Gay tail (carried over the plane of the back). Serious Faults: Kinked, knotted, or fused tail. Extremely short tail. Disqualifying Faults: Screwed, bobbed, or docked tail.

   

  FEET

  • Should be rounded and of moderate size in proportion to the dog, compact, well arched and tight.
  Faults: Splayed or flat feet, long toes.

   

  COAT

  • Short, glossy, close, stiff to smooth to the touch.
  • Coat no longer than ½ inch (1.27 cm) in length.
  Faults: Curly or wavy coat. Serious Faults: Long coat.

   

  COLOR AND PATTERN

  • All colors and patterns are permissible except the pattern Merle/blotched per competition.
  Disqualifying Faults: Merle pattern/Blotched per competition

  SIZE

  • Dogs should be healthy and should NOT reach the point where it is considered obese.
  • Weight- There is no particular weight for the breed.
  • Height and weight should be in proportion of the body frame.
  • Height-Please see Variety Amendments.
  • All varieties to exhibit “Bully” characteristics and breed type traits as described in the American Bully Standard, which are key elements of breed type for the American Bully breed.

   

  STANDARD AMERICAN BULLY

  Males 17 inches – 20 inches (43 cm – 51 cm) at the withers. Females 16 inches – 19 inches (40 cm – 48 cm) at the withers. Important to note that the Standard American Bully dogs are not to be penalized for exhibiting heavily muscled, massive, bulky body type.

   

  GAIT

  • The American Bully moves with a confident and proud attitude, while keenly alive and alert to its surroundings.
  • Gait should be effortless and powerful. The action must, be unrestrained, free and vigorous with powerful drive off the rear. Front reach should be moderate and in balance with the rear.
  • Legs turn neither in nor out, nor ever cross or interfere with each other.
  • Dog moving on the same plane – Each leg moving in the same plane shared with the other leg on the same side with minimal convergence.
  • Backline should remain level, with flexing to be very slight.
  Faults: Rolling; pacing; sidewinding; hackney action; paddling or pounding. Not moving on the same plane; legs over reaching; legs crossing over in front or rear; rear legs moving too close or touching.

   

  FAULTS

  Faults to be penalized but not disqualifications for showing are:
  • Both eyes not matched in color
  • Overly visible haw
  • Bulging or protruding eyes
  • Muzzle too long or snipey
  • Lack of pronounced/deep stop
  • Weak underjaw
  • Underjaw turning up
  • Albinism nose (light pink)
  • Nose turning up or pushed back
  • Tail too long or too short (approx. 1 inch (2.5 cm) from point of hock)
  • Curled tail (gay tail)
  • Level or flush bite
  • Overshot or Undershot bite
  • Wry or cross bite
  • Neck too thin or weak
  • Neck too short or too long
  • Upright shoulders; steep and forward scapula (shoulder blade)
  • Upper arm too short
  • Severe turned fronts (in or out)
  • Bowed front legs
  • Down at the pasterns (weak pasterns)
  • Splayed or flat feet
  • Long toes
  • Hocks turning in or out; cow hocked
  • Curly or wavy coat
  • Movement: Rolling, pacing, sidewinding, hackney action, and paddling or pounding
  • Not moving on the same plane – legs over reaching, crossing over in front or rear, or rear legs moving too close or touching

   

  SERIOUS FAULTS

  Faults to be heavily penalized but not disqualifications for showing are:
• Severely overshot or undershot (1/4 inch (0.6cm)or more)
• Kinked tail
• Twisted tail
•  Knotted tail
•  Fused tail
•  Overly Short tail
•  Long coat

•  

  DISQUALIFICATIONS

   Nose- Large with wide open nostrils. All colors/pigment acceptable except albinism (light pink in color).
  • Displaying or possessing aggressive behavior towards humans
  • Pink or Albino eyes
  • Merle pattern/Blotched per competition
  • Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchidism (missing one or both testicles)
  • Unilateral or bilateral deafness (deafness in one or both ears)
  • Screwed tail
  • Bobbed tail
  • Docked tail

Pocket Bully

XL Bully

Classic

This is an amendment to the basic standard which a Classic Bully is determined by its body structure and build. Both sex dogs with lighter body frames and less overall body mass, but still exhibiting “bully” traits.

Example of Bully Traits – Blocky/heavy heads; short/square muzzles; heavier bone, muscle, and compact body. Overall more bone and substance than the modern and more “terrier type” American Pit Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier.

Classic Bully to give the appearance of bullier, old style American Pit Bull Terriers and/or American Staffordshire Terrier, which made up the origin of the American Bully.

Classic Bully variety is simply an American Bully dog having lighter body frames (lighter bone) and less overall body mass (less substance) than the Standard American Bully. Aside from this difference, the Classic Bully variety follows the same standard as the Standard American Bully.

Males 17 inches – 20 inches (43 cm – 51 cm) at the withers. Females 16 inches – 19 inches (40 cm – 48 cm) at the withers.

The ideal Olde English Bulldogge is a loyal, courageous dog of medium size with a large powerful head and stout muscular body. Olde English Bulldogges are athletic and most importantly of very good health, males are free breeders and females are free whelpers. The Olde English Bulldogge is devoid of all breathing issues and is capable of enjoying outdoor activity without concern except in extreme heat or cold. The temperament is very stable and trustworthy making them a loyal companion, capable protector and the ultimate family member. Old English Bulldogges thrive on pleasing their owners and are very trainable.

Head

Large and high, moderately sunken between the eyes (medial furrow). The circumference of the head should be equal to or greater than the dog’s height at the shoulder. A narrow head or one that appears too small for the body is a fault.

Ears

Rose ears set well on the sides of the head are preferred. Dropped ears are acceptable as long they are small, not “hound like”. Full pricked ears that stand up on top of the head should be considered a serious fault.

Muzzle

Broad, deep and short with moderate wrinkling. The bite is undershot with the bottom jaw turning up noticeably. Lower canines should not protrude. Muzzle too long (more than 3 inches), scissor bite or even bite are disqualifying faults. Muzzle should be no shorter than 1 _”. Wry jaw is a disqualifying fault.

Eyes

Wide apart and of moderate size. Any color is acceptable. However, odd eyes (one dark, one blue or light) should be considered unpreferred. Misshapen or bugged eyes are a serious fault. Lacking pigment around the eyes is undesirable. Crossed eyes or non-symmetrically shaped eyes are a disqualifying fault.

Nose

Broad with open nostrils with no sign of air restriction. The nose should not be pushed up between the eyes. From the stop to the end of the nose must be at least one and one half inches. The nose should be a solid color. Lacking pigment is a serious fault. A nose lacking all pigment is a disqualifying fault.

Neck

Short to medium in length and very muscular flowing into the shoulders and should not be set on the dog so it appears to stop at the shoulders.

Chest

Ribs should be well sprung (rounded) and the chest wide and deep. Depth of chest should be at least to the elbows. A hollow or narrow chest (slab sided) should be considered a serious fault.

Back

Males should appear square and balanced. Females should appear similar with consideration given for body length. Short with a very slight rise from the shoulders to a slight drop in the croup is preferred. A level back is acceptable as long as the tail does not come straight off the top of the back. Shoulders : Shoulders should be well laid back with significant angulations to allow for good movement. Straight shoulders are a fault.

Legs

Forelegs should be straight and wide apart, neither bowing out nor turning in. There should be significant bone substance. Elbows should be relatively close to the body. Lacking bone and substance is very undesirable. Elbows that are loose or “fiddle fronts” are a disqualifying fault. “East / West” forelegs are a serious fault. Rear legs should exhibit significant bend of stifle so to allow for good movement. They should be well muscled. Straight or “posty” rear legs are a serious fault. Cow hocks are a disqualifying fault.

Movement

Dogs should have a balanced gait that drives off the rear and is complimented by reach allowing the dog to cover ground with a sense of power. Dogs should single track. Pacing or crabbing is a serious fault.

Feet

Round, tight both front and rear, and the pasterns should be strong. Weak pasterns and/or splayed feet are disqualifying faults.

Height

Males – 18 to 20 inches at the shoulder. Females – 17 to 19 inches at the shoulder.

Weight

Between 50 to 70 lbs. for females and 65 to 85 lbs. for males. Although height and weight above the standard is to be discouraged, there is no penalty as long as the dog is well proportioned, otherwise correct and balanced.

Color

Any color, except merle, is acceptable with no preference for one over another. The coat is short. A wavy coat or a long coat is a disqualifying fault. There should be no signs of feathering on the legs or neck area, also a disqualifying fault.

Tail

A pump handle tail that naturally reaches the hock is preferred, screwed short or a docked tails are acceptable. The pump handle tail should be carried low and not over the back of the dog.

Temperament

Disposition should be outgoing and happy. While a watchful nature may be expected at home, human aggression without provocation is a disqualifying fault.

Standard

Shorty Bulls® as they are often referred to are a compact and muscular bulldog of small stature. They are athletically inclined and incredibly agile. Shorty Bulls® have a strong desire to please, are highly intelligent and good natured. Shorties make excellent family dogs and are very tolerant of children and other animals. They are bred to be well rounded family companions. Shorties have a zest for life and are little comics. They can easily adapt to different lifestyles from living in an apartment to life on a farm. Grooming is minimal. Shorty Bulls® should never be extremely shy or aggressive.

HEIGHT

15 “and under (Over 15” is a Disqualification)

WEIGHT

40 lbs. Over 40 lbs is allowed but should be proportionate to height. Obesity is a fault.

HEAD

Round head with typical bulldog features. Eyes should set far apart and not protrude. Nose should turn up slightly and may be black or liver colored. Dudley noses are a cosmetic fault.

BITE

All dogs must be undershot but not protruding.

EYES

May be of any color but brown is preferred. Eyes should have an oval shape and not protrude from the skull.

EARS

Cropped, close to the head. In countries where cropped ears are not allowed, dogs may show with natural ears that are either dropped or rose and symmetrical. Prick ears are a disqualification from the show ring.

BODY

Body should be short from withers to tail. Chest should be broad for height and have a depth reaching the elbow. A compact look is desired, width of front and hind quarters should be proportionate, not lending to a narrow rear. The chest may be broader than the rear, but narrow hindquarters are a fault.

SHOULDERS AND RUMP

Well rounded and well muscled, lending to the appearance of strength. There may be a slight rise over the loins but not to an extreme degree.

LEGS

Heavy boned and in direct proportion to the body. Long legs in proportion to the body or fine bones are a serious fault. Cow hocks and pigeon toes are a fault.

FEET

Tight feet and straight pasterns are desired. Splayed feet and weak pasterns are a fault.

TAIL

Tail must be short, either docked or screwed. No long tails permitted in the show ring.

COLOR

All coat colors are acceptable with the exception of black and tan, and merle.

TEMPERAMENT

Good natured and even tempered. Extreme shyness or undue aggression is a fault.

The “Bully” American Bulldog Standard

The American Bulldog has a history that is traced back to 1121 BC and some would argue even thousands of years before that. We won’t get into every aspect of our history dating to 1121 BC… We will focus on what the modern American Bulldog is and what it represents. The modern American Bulldogs ended up in the South Eastern part of the United States, including Georgia and it’s surrounding states. The majority of them came with early English settlers between 1732 and 1736. This is where the story of the modern American Bulldog begins… The general purpose of the modern American Bulldog was to serve as a farm utility dog. A dog that had enough grit and athleticism to deal with the likes of wild boars, out of control livestock or trespassers. A dog whose temperament allowed it to become part of the family it was bred to protect. Used as an “estate dog” or a “farm utility dog” the modern American Bulldog was to exemplify these valued traits. The modern American Bulldog was to be visual and physical deterrent for any wrong doers with improper intentions. The beginning of the modern American Bulldog as a breed began around the 1950′s when John D. Johnson began to collect Bulldogs from around the GA area to breed, sell and advertise as the American “Pit” Bulldog. Later in 1985, he would drop the “Pit” from the name so as not to be confused with it’s cousin the American Pit Bull Terrier. The original standard was written by John D. Johnson on a paper napkin decades ago. Through the years as other American Bulldog registries have emerged .. the standards have been changed little by little. In our humble opinion, we feel that the standard still does not correctly reflect the vast majority of the “Bully Type” American Bulldogs. We are one of the only breeds that have allowed 2 standards for one breed. The argument has been that we are a working breed and we shouldn’t have a “type”.. Without a “type” how do we call ourselves a breed? There are many “working breeds”… but any registered breed has a “look/type”.. Why should we be any different? The “Bully” movement is less then a decade old (as of 2006)… the dogs are changing based on what people are breeding/buying. And the thing about it is, that even in the beginning… when a few “bully” dogs would pop up from here and there… none would fit the standard as it was written. We have created a standard that represents dogs that are found in every bully enthusiasts yard and appreciate them as such… Accordingly, the standard for the “Bully” American Bulldog is as follows.

General Appearance

The Bully American Bulldogs is a short haired, heavy muscled dog. A well bred Bully American Bulldog should have a compact sturdy frame. They should exude strength, health and function. The males are more masculine in appearance then the females.

Temperament

American Bulldogs should be alert, outgoing and confident. Aloofness with strangers is acceptable. An American Bulldog may show dominance/assertiveness towards other dogs, however dogs may be dismissed at the judge’s discretion for disrupting their class. A dog showing weak nerves or showing to be overly aggressive will be excused from the confirmation ring. Dismissal is at the Judge’s discretion ONLY!

Size

Males should range between 20″ and 24″ at the withers and weigh between 80 and 125 pounds. Females should range between 18″ and 22″ at the withers and weigh between 60 and 100 pounds

Head

The head should be broad and blocky with muscular and a well pronounced stop.

Muzzle

A heavy broad muzzle with wide open nostrils. The muzzle should resemble a tunnel, slightly tapering towards the nose. The chin should also be broad, and never overlap or cover the upper lip. The muzzle should be 25% to 35% of the overall length of head.

Nose

Black or liver are accepted. Full pigmentation preferred.

Bite

Teeth should be medium to large in size, and not visible when the mouth is closed. Pigment on the lips should be full. They should be undershot but not severely. 1/4 to 1/2 inch depending on the size of the head. A wry mouth is a disqualification.

Eyes

The eyes should be almond to round in shape. Lack of pigment or non-symmetrical eyes are faults. Crossed eyes are a disqualification.

Coat

The coat should be short with sheen. Skin must be in good condition, free of flaking and sores.

Ears

The ears should be set evenly on the top skull and with a medium to small proportion to the head.

Neck

The neck should be thick and muscular slightly tapering from the head to the shoulder.

Body

The body should maintain compact proportions with heavy muscle. Square and powerful in appearance.

Chest

The chest should be wide and deep. The front legs to are to set on the outer edge of the chest, yet maintaining an athletic non -bowed appearance. The shoulders should remain tight in the socket. Loose shoulders, elbows or narrow chests are a fault.

Top line

The top line should be even. Sway and severe roach backs are faults. The rear end should not be excessively higher then the front.

Backs

The backs should be short to medium. Long backs are a fault.

Hindquarters

The hindquarters should be thick, well muscled and properly angulated. Cow hocks, straight stifles, sickle hocks, are faults.

General Appearance

The perfect Bulldog must be of medium size and smooth coat; with heavy, thick-set, low-swung body, massive short-faced head, wide shoulders and sturdy limbs. The general appearance and attitude should suggest great stability, vigor and strength. The disposition should be equable and kind, resolute and courageous (not vicious or aggressive), and demeanor should be pacific and dignified. These attributes should be countenanced by the expression and behavior.

Size, Proportion, Symmetry

The size for mature dogs is about 50 pounds; for mature bitches about 40 pounds. Proportion–The circumference of the skull in front of the ears should measure at least the height of the dog at the shoulders. Symmetry–The “points” should be well distributed and bear good relation one to the other, no feature being in such prominence from either excess or lack of quality that the animal appears deformed or ill-proportioned. Influence of Sex In comparison of specimens of different sex, due allowance should be made in favor of the bitches, which do not bear the characteristics of the breed to the same degree of perfection and grandeur as do the dogs.

Eyes

The eyes, seen from the front, should be situated low down in the skull, as far from the ears as possible, and their corners should be in a straight line at right angles with the stop. They should be quite in front of the head, as wide apart as possible, provided their outer corners are within the outline of the cheeks when viewed from the front. They should be quite round in form, of moderate size, neither sunken nor bulging. The lids should cover the white of the eyeball, when the dog is looking directly forward, and the lid should show no “haw.”

Ears

Ears–The ears should be set high in the head, the front inner edge of each ear joining the outline of the skull at the top back corner of skull, so as to place them as wide apart, and as high, and as far from the eyes as possible. In size they should be small and thin. The shape termed “rose ear” is the most desirable. The rose ear folds inward at its back lower edge, the upper front edge curving over, outward and backward, showing part of the inside of the burr. (The ears should not be carried erect or prick-eared or buttoned and should never be cropped.)

Head

The skull should be very large, and in circumference, in front of the ears, should measure at least the height of the dog at the shoulders. Viewed from the front, it should appear very high from the corner of the lower jaw to the apex of the skull, and also very broad and square. Viewed at the side, the head should appear very high, and very short from the point of the nose to occiput. The forehead should be flat (not rounded or domed), neither too prominent nor overhanging the face. The cheeks should be well rounded, protruding sideways and outward beyond the eyes. The temples or frontal bones should be very well defined, broad, square and high, causing a hollow or groove between the eyes. This indentation, or stop, should be both broad and deep and extend up the middle of the forehead, dividing the head vertically, being traceable to the top of the skull. The face, measured from the front of the cheekbone to the tip of the nose, should be extremely short, the muzzle being very short, broad, turned upward and very deep from the corner of the eye to the corner of the mouth.

Nose

Nose–The nose should be large, broad and its tip set back deeply between the eyes. The distance from bottom of stop, between the eyes, to the tip of nose should be as short as possible and not exceed the length from the tip of nose to the edge of underlip. The nostrils should be wide and large with a well-defined line between them.

Flews

The chops or “flews” should be thick, broad, pendant and very deep, completely overhanging the lower jaw at each side. They join the underlip in front and almost or quite cover the teeth, which should be scarcely noticeable when the mouth is closed. The jaws should be massive, very broad, square and “undershot,” the lower jaw projecting considerably in front of the upper jaw and turning up. The teeth should be large and strong, with the canine teeth or tusks wide apart, and the six small teeth in front, between the canines, in an even, level row.

Neck

The neck should be short, very thick, deep and strong and well arched at the back.

Topline

There should be a slight fall in the back, close behind the shoulders (its lowest part), whence the spine should rise to the loins (the top of which should be higher than the top of the shoulders), thence curving again more suddenly to the tail, forming an arch (a very distinctive feature of the breed), termed “roach back” or, more correctly, “wheel-back.

Body

The brisket and body should be very capacious, with full sides, well-rounded ribs and very deep from the shoulders down to its lowest part, where it joins the chest. It should be well let down between the shoulders and forelegs, giving the dog a broad, low, short-legged appearance. Chest–The chest should be very broad, deep and full. Underline–The body should be well ribbed up behind with the belly tucked up and not rotund. Back and Loin–The back should be short and strong, very broad at the shoulders and comparatively narrow at the loins. Tail–The tail may be either straight or “screwed” (but never curved or curly), and in any case must be short, hung low, with decided downward carriage, thick root and fine tip. If straight, the tail should be cylindrical and of uniform taper. If “screwed,” the bends or kinks should be well defined, and they may be abrupt and even knotty, but no portion of the member should be elevated above the base or root.

Forequarters

The shoulders should be muscular, very heavy, widespread and slanting outward, giving stability and great power. The forelegs should be short, very stout, straight and muscular, set wide apart, with well developed calves, presenting a bowed outline, but the bones of the legs should not be curved or bandy, nor the feet brought too close together. The elbows should be low and stand well out and loose from the body. The feet should be moderate in size, compact and firmly set. Toes compact, well split up, with high knuckles and very short stubby nails. The front feet may be straight or slightly out-turned.

Hindquarters

The hind legs should be strong and muscular and longer than the forelegs, so as to elevate the loins above the shoulders. Hocks should be slightly bent and well let down, so as to give length and strength from the loins to hock. The lower leg should be short, straight and strong, with the stifles turned slightly outward and away from the body. The hocks are thereby made to approach each other, and the hind feet to turn outward. The feet should be moderate in size, compact and firmly set. Toes compact, well split up, with high knuckles and short stubby nails. The hind feet should be pointed well outward.

Coat

The coat should be straight, short, flat, close of fine texture, smooth and glossy. (No fringe, feather or curl.)

Skin

The skin should be soft and loose, especially at the head, neck and shoulders.

Wrinkles and Dewlap

The head and face should be covered with heavy wrinkles, and at the throat, from jaw to chest, there should be two loose pendulous folds, forming the dewlap.

Color

All coat and nose colors of the English Bulldog are acceptable including standard and rare colors.

Gait

The style and carriage are peculiar, his gait being a loose-jointed, shuffling, sidewise motion, giving the characteristic “roll.” The action must, however, be unrestrained, free and vigorous.

Temperament

The disposition should be equable and kind, resolute and courageous (not viscous or aggressive), and demeanor should be pacific and dignified. These attributes should be countenanced by the expression and behavior.

General Appearance

The French Bulldog has the appearance of an active, intelligent, muscular dog of heavy bone, smooth coat, compactly built, and of medium or small structure. Expression alert, curious, and interested.

Proportion and Symmetry

All points are well distributed and bear good relation one to the other; no feature being in such prominence from either excess or lack of quality that the animal appears poorly proportioned.

Influence of Sex

In comparing specimens of different sex, due allowance is to be made in favor of bitches, which do not bear the characteristics of the breed to the same marked degree as do the dogs.

Size, Proportion, Substance

Weight not to exceed 30 pounds. Proportion–Distance from withers to ground in good relation to distance from withers to onset of tail, so that animal appears compact, well balanced and in good proportion. Substance–Muscular, heavy bone.

Head

Head large and square. Eyes any color, wide apart, set low down in the skull, as far from the ears as possible, round in form, of moderate size, neither sunken nor bulging. No haw and no white of the eye showing when looking forward. Ears Known as the bat ear, broad at the base, elongated, with round top, set high on the head but not too close together, and carried erect with the orifice to the front. The leather of the ear fine and soft. Other than bat ears is a disqualification. The top of the skull flat between the ears; the forehead is not flat but slightly rounded. The muzzle broad, deep and well laid back; the muscles of the cheeks well developed. The stop well defined, causing a hollow groove between the eyes with heavy wrinkles forming a soft roll over the extremely short nose; nostrils broad with a well defined line between them. Nose any color. Flews thick and broad, hanging over the lower jaw at the sides, meeting the underlip in front and covering the teeth, which are not seen when the mouth is closed. The underjaw is deep, square, broad, undershot and well turned up.

Neck, Topline, Body

The neck is thick and well arched with loose skin at the throat. The back is a roach back with a slight fall close behind the shoulders; strong and short, broad at the shoulders and narrowing at the loins. The body is short and well rounded. The chest is broad, deep, and full; well ribbed with the belly tucked up. The tail is either straight or screwed (but not curly), short, hung low, thick root and fine tip; carried low in repose.

Forequarters

Forelegs are short, stout, straight, muscular and set wide apart. Dewclaws may be removed. Feet are moderate in size, compact and firmly set. Toes compact, well split up, with high knuckles and short stubby nails.

Hindquarters

Hind legs are strong and muscular, longer than the forelegs, so as to elevate the loins above the shoulders. Hocks well let down. Feet are moderate in size, compact and firmly set. Toes compact, well split up, with high knuckles and short stubby nails; hind feet slightly longer than forefeet.

Coat

Coat is moderately fine, brilliant, short and smooth. Skin is soft and loose, especially at the head and shoulders, forming wrinkles.

Color

All colors acceptable. All nose colors acceptable.

Gait

Correct gait is double tracking with reach and drive; the action is unrestrained, free and vigorous.

Temperament

Well behaved, adaptable, and comfortable companions with an affectionate nature and even disposition; generally active, alert, and playful, but not unduly boisterous.

Disqualifications

Other than bat ears.

HISTORY:

The American Pit Bull Terrier has been around for over 150 years. Originally designed to be the ultimate gladiator, the American Pit Bull Terrier was bred to be a physically active, agile, and tenacious breed of great power, athleticism, and musculature. Designed in England, Ireland, and Scotland during the nineteenth century by dog fanciers looking for a dog that exhibits the tenacity and gameness of the terrier combined with the strength of the Bulldog, the American Pit Bull Terrier is personalized with all of the qualities of a great warrior: power, courage, and tenderness with its loved ones. These qualities make the American Pit Bull Terrier a very versatile breed once sought after as a gladiator, catch dog, hunter, to drive cattle, and loyal family companion. Today the breed has evolved into the ultimate companion and competitor in many performance and conformation events.

For over a century the American Pit Bull Terrier has maintained breed type true to its athletic roots and any deviation that may impair its ability to perform its traditional work, or have an effect on the health and welfare of the dog should be considered a fault; and the seriousness of this fault is measure by its degree of effect. Any Characteristics that clearly indicate impurity or crossing of other breeds is not tolerated.

GENERAL APPEARANCE:

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a powerful and athletic dog of medium size, gracious and agile with a solid build, short and smooth coat, and well-defined musculature without being overdone or appearing bulky, nor fine-boned and rangy. The body is slightly longer than it is tall, giving special consideration to bitches that may be a bit longer in body than males. The American Pit Bull Terrier must possess the functional capability to serve as a catch dog that can hold, wrestle, and breathe easily while performing its task, making balance and harmony of all parts fundamental to breed type.

Serious Faults: Any unproportioned or overdone characteristic that may interfere with physical or working ability. Example: too short of leg, excessive bone, massive head or massive body.

CHARACTERISTICS:

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a highly intelligent terrier breed exhibiting confidence, a zest for life, enthusiasm, and an exuberant willingness to please; this making the American Pit Bull Terrier an excellent family companion with a noted love of children. The breed does exhibit some level of dog aggression; hence making it is imperative that owners carefully socialize and obedience train the dog. The APBT is extremely friendly, even with strangers; therefore, any aggressive behavior toward humans is highly uncharacteristic of the breed and highly undesirable.

Disqualifications: Viciousness or extreme shyness.

HEAD:

• The chiseled and large, bricklike shaped, and well-proportioned head of the APBT exemplifies breed type; and exhibits the appearance of strength, elegance, and character while remaining proportioned to the body.

• Medium in length, flat skull broadest at the ears; well chiseled with pronounced cheek muscles and tightly fitting skin free from wrinkles.

• Skull and muzzle are parallel and joined by a well-defined, moderate deep stop.

• Ears should be set high on the head and can be “rose” or “half-prick”. Ears can be cropped or natural; prick or flat ears not desired.

• Eyes shape is oval to almond shape, low down in skull and set far apart. Round eyes are undesirable and bulging or protruding eyes are a fault.

• Eyes – All colors equally accepted except albinism (pink to red) which is a disqualification. Blue eyes, and lack of pigment around the eyes are undesirable.

• Visibility of haw should be minimal.

Faults: Overly visible haw. Both eyes not matched in color. Bulging or protruding eyes.

Disqualifying Faults: Albinism eyes. • Muzzle – Medium in length, broad in width, and deep. Length to be shorter than the length of the skull with a ratio of 2:3. Slightly tapers from the stop to the nose and slightly falls away below the eyes. The topline of the muzzle is straight, tight fitting lips, and well developed under jaw.

Faults: Muzzle too long or snipey; weak under jaw; flews

Serious Faults: Muzzle so short as to interfere with normal breathing. • Upper Teeth to meet tightly outside lower teeth in form of scissor bite.

Faults: Level bite.

Serious Faults: Undershot or overshot bite, wry bite, and missing teeth. • Nose – Large with wide open nostrils. All colors/pigment accepted except albinism (light pink in color).

NECK:

• The neck should be muscular and moderate in length with a slight arch at the crest. The neck should be narrowest just behind the ears and widen downward gradually to blend smoothly into the withers. The neck should be free from looseness of skin.

Faults: Thin or weak; ewe neck; dewlap.

Serious Faults: Too short and/or too thick of neck that would interfere with function ability.

FOREQUARTERS:

• Shoulders to be strong and muscular with long and wide shoulder blades; and well laid back. The upper arm is approximately equal to the length of the shoulder blade and joined at an approximate right angle.

• Forelegs – Straight, strong, and sturdy with strong, short, and flexible pasterns. Elbows set close to the body, the forelegs are set moderately wide apart, and feet straight forward turning neither in nor out.

Faults: Upright shoulders; steep and forward scapula (shoulder blade); upper arm too short; feet either in or out; front legs bowed; down at the pasterns; elbows turned out or tied-in.

Serious Faults: Front legs too short or bowed as to interfere with normal movement.

• Feet – Should be rounded and of moderate size in proportion to the dog, compact, well arched and tight.

Faults: Splayed or flat feet; long toes.

BODY:

• Well-defined musculature without being overdone or appearing bulky, nor fine-boned and rangy.

The body is slightly longer than it is tall, giving special consideration to bitches that may be a bit longer in body than males.

• The loin short, muscular and slightly arched to the top of the croup, but narrower than the rib cage and with a moderate tuck-up.

Serious Fault: Overly massive body that impedes working ability.

• Chest – Deep, moderately wide but never wider than deep, with well sprung ribs to extend well back, then flattening to form a deep body extending to the elbows; the forechest extending to the point of the shoulder.

BACK:

• Strong and firm, slightly sloping from withers to rump or straight/level accepted with gentle short slope at rump to base of tail.

Faults: Back too long; rear higher than withers; weak or swayed topline; roached or wheel back.

HINDQUARTERS:

• Strong, muscular, and moderately broad with hock joint well bent and rear pasterns well let down turning neither in nor out.

• Muscular development, bone, angulation, and width of the hindquarters should be in balance with that of the forequarters.

• When viewed from the rear, legs are to be straight and parallel.

• Croup should have a slight downward angle.

Faults: Hocks turning in or out; cow hocks; sickle hock; narrow hindquarters; straight or over- angulated stifle joints; bowed legs.

TAIL:

• Medium in comparison to size, low set, tapering to a fine point and extending approximately to the hock.

• When relaxed tail is to be carried low. When moving tail is carried level with the top line or in a raised position when excited (challenge tail), but should never be carried curled over, breaking the plane of the back (gay tail).

• Tail to be clear of any kinks, knots, or any curvature.

Faults: Tail too long or too short approximately up to an inch above or below the point of the hock. Gay tail (carried over the plane of the back).

Serious Faults: Kinked, knotted, or fused tail; extremely short tail.

Disqualifying Faults: Screwed, bobbed, or docked tail.

COAT:

• Short, glossy, close, stiff, and smooth to the touch.

Faults: Curly or wavy coat.

Disqualifying Fault: Long coat.

COLOR AND PATTERN:

• All colors and patterns are permissible except the pattern merle.

Disqualifying Faults: Merle pattern.

Size:

• The actual weight and height are less important than the actual proportion of the weight to height. To be both powerful and agile the overall balance and correct proportions are detrimental and far more important.

• Desirable weight for a mature male is 45 – 65 and for a mature female is 35 – 55 pounds.

• Height is a general and approximate guideline only:

• Males 18” to 21” at the withers.

• Females 17” to 20” at the withers.

• *Dogs over or under these weights and heights are not to be penalized as long as the weight and height are proportionate, and not massive or rangy.

Serious Faults: Excessively large, overly massive, and extremely shorter or taller than the desired weight/height as to compromise health, structure, movement, or function ability.

GAIT:

• The American Pit Bull Terrier moves with a confident and proud attitude, while keenly alive and alert to its surroundings.

• Gait should be effortless, smooth, powerful, and well-coordinated. Front reach and rear drive should be moderate and in balance with one another.

• Legs turn neither in nor out, nor ever cross or interfere with each other.

• Dog moving on the same plane – as speed increases feet tend to converge toward center line of balance.

• Backline should remain level, with flexing to be very slight to indicate suppleness.

Faults: Rolling; pacing; sidewinding; hackney action; paddling or pounding; not moving on the same plane; legs over reaching; legs crossing over in front or rear; rear legs moving too close or touching.

FAULTS

Faults to be penalized but not disqualification for showing are:

• Both eyes not matched in color

• Overly visible haw

• Bulging or protruding eyes

• Muzzle too long or snipey

• Weak underjaw

• Flews

• Albinism nose (light pink)

• Level or flush bite

• Neck too thin or weak

• Ewe Neck

• Dewlap

• Upright shoulders; steep and forward scapula (shoulder blade)

• Upper arm too short

• Turned fronts (in or out)

• Bowed front legs

• Down at the pasterns (weak pasterns)

• Elbows tuned out or tied-in

• Splayed or flat feet

• Long toes

• Back too long

• Rear higher than withers

• Weak or swayed topline; roached or wheel back

• Hocks turning in or out; cow hocked; sickle hock

• Narrow hindquarters

• Straight or over-angulated stifle joints

• Tail too long or too short (approx. 1″ from point of hock)

• Curled tail (gay tail)

• Curly or wavy coat

• Movement: Rolling, pacing, sidewinding, hackney action, and paddling or pounding.

• Not moving on the same plane – legs over reaching, crossing over in front or rear, or rear legs moving too close or touching.

SERIOUS FAULTS

Faults to be heavily penalized but not disqualifications for showing are:

• Any unproportioned or overdone characteristic that may interfere with physical or working ability.

• Muzzle so short as to interfere with normal breathing.

• Overshot or undershot

• Wry or cross bite

• Missing teeth

• Neck too short and/or too thick

• Overly massive body that impedes working ability.

• Kinked tail; twisted tail; knotted tail; fused tail

• Overly Short tail

• Excessively large, overly massive, and extremely shorter or taller than the desired weight/height as to compromise health, structure, movement, or function ability.

DISQUALIFICATIONS

• Displaying or possessing aggressive behavior towards humans.

• Viciousness or extreme shyness

• Pink or Albino eyes

• Screwed, bobbed, or docked tail.

• Long coat

• Merle pattern

• Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchidism (missing one or both testicles)

• Unilateral or bilateral deafness (deafness in one or both ears)

• Dwarfism

GENERAL APPEARANCE/IMPRESSION

The Miniature Bull Terrier, a smaller compact version of the Bull Terrier, maintaining the physical and temperamental qualities of the standard size. The Miniature Bull Terrier is a stocky, strongly built, well balanced muscular dog. The Miniature Bull Terrier is courageous, intelligent, outgoing, inquisitive and can be notoriously stubborn and head strong. Almost clownish at times, the Miniature Bull Terrier is happy, thrives on affection, fearless and loyal to his owner. His need for attention makes the Miniature Bull Terrier suitable for an active family where he receives a great deal of interaction and companionship. The Miniature Bull Terrier does not do well left alone for extended periods of time. The Miniature Bull Terrier needs daily exercise, firm training and excels in a structured environment.

HEAD

The Miniature Bull Terrier’s most unique feature is his head. Its distinctive egg like appearance shows off its keen determined expression. The Miniature Bull Terrier’s head should be long, strong oval looking in shape almost flat at the top from ear to ear sloping down to the nose, but not coarse (No stop). Viewed from the front it should be full completely filled in void of any depression, cavity or crater in its surface. It should not be sunken or concave. In side view, (profile) the head curves downwards from the top of the skull to the tip of the nose, which should be dark in color and bent downwards at the tip, nostrils well developed. The head should demonstrate the depth and strength of muzzle and underjaw, the underjaw should be deep and well defined. The Miniature Bull Terrier has a triangular (almond shaped) eye. The eyes are small, well sunken and closely set high up on the dogs head. There should be greater distance from nose to eyes than eyes to the top of skull a dark eye is preferred but any color except blue is permissible. Ears are high, small, and thin and should sit erect. The Miniature Bull Terrier should have clean tight lips and teeth. The Miniature Bull Terrier’s teeth should meet in either a level or in a scissor bite. A normal scissor bite is where the incisor teeth in the upper jaw are in contact with but slightly overlap those in the bottom jaw. A level bite is one where the incisor teeth meet exactly surface to surface.

NECK

Very muscular, long, arched, tapering from shoulders to head, no loose skin

CHEST

The Miniature Bull Terrier’s chest, when viewed from the front, should be deep and broad. There should be great distance from withers to brisket so that the latter is nearer the ground than the belly.

BODY

The body of the Miniature Bull Terrier is well rounded with prominent spring of rib. The back should be short and strong, the back ribs deep. The backline behind the withers is level, arching or roaching slightly over broad well-muscled loins. The Underline from brisket to belly forms a rising curve.

The shoulders should be strong and muscular but without bulk or mass (overloaded). The shoulder blades should be wide and flat and there should be a very unmistakable backward slope from the bottom edge of the blade to the top edge forming an almost right angle with upper arm. Behind the shoulders there should be no dip at the withers.

LEGS

The Miniature Bull Terrier’s forelegs have the strongest type of round quality bone. The forelegs should be of adequate length and the dog should stand soundly upon them. They should be perfectly straight. Elbows held straight and strong turning neither in nor out, pasterns upright. Hind legs in parallel when viewed from behind. Thighs muscular rand second thighs well developed, stifle joint well bent and hock well angulated with bone to foot short and strong.

TAIL

Short set low and carried horizontally, thick at the base and tapers to a fine point.

FEET

Round and compact, well arched toes

COAT

Short, flat and shiny with a hard texture, no loose skin

COLOR

White and Colored. All colors and patterns acceptable with the exception of Merle

SIZE

Height 10 to 14 inches, there should be an impression of substance to size of dog consistent with quality and sex. Weight in proportion to height and balanced. The Miniature Bull Terrier should give the appearance of being square.

MOVEMENT

The Miniature Bull Terrier covers ground with smooth easy strides. When trotting, movement parallel, front and back, only converging towards center line at faster speeds, forelegs reaching out well and hind legs moving smoothly at hip, bending well at stifle and hock, with great drive.

FAULTS

* Undershot or Overshot mouth

DISQUALIFICATION

* Blue Eyes

* Exhibiting human aggression

* Failure to stand for Examination

* Males must have two normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

General Appearance

Ancient Italian breed medium-large size Molossus Dog. Sturdy, with a strong skeleton. Muscular and athletic, it moves with considerable ease and elegance. It has always been a property watchdog and hunter of difficult game such as the wild boar.

Size, Proportion, Substance

A muscular, balanced, large-boned dog, rectangular in proportion. The length of the dog, measured from the point of the shoulder to the point of buttock is approximately 10 percent greater than the height of the dog measured from the highest point of the shoulder to the ground. Height – Dogs 25 to 27½ inches; bitches 23½ to 26 inches. Weight – Proportionate to height.

Head

Molossus, large, its total length reaches approximately one third of the height at the withers. Planes of the skull and muzzle are slightly convergent; they are not parallel. The circumference of the head measured at the cheekbones is more than twice the total length of the head; skin is firm and smooth.

Skull

Viewed from the front, skull is wide and slightly curved; width is equal to the length. From the side, a prominent arch begins above the eyes and then flattens backward toward the occiput. Viewed from the top, it has a square appearance due to the zygomatic arches and powerful muscles swathing it. Stop – Well-defined due to developed and bulging frontal sinuses and prominent arch above the eyes.

Expression

Very alert and attentive. Some wrinkling on forehead occurs when alert.

Eyes

Medium-size, almond-shaped, not round or bulging, tight fitting rims preferred with only a minimal amount of haw being visible. Eye color-Dogs with black muzzles (coat colors of black, fawn or red, and these colors brindled) dark brown eyes are preferred. Gray muzzles (coat colors of gray, fawn or red and these colors brindled), lighter shades are approved. Pigmentation of the eye rims is complete, pigmentation of eye rim matches pigment color of dog. Disqualification – Yellow bird of prey; blue eyes.

Ears

Set well above the cheekbones. May be cropped or uncropped. If cropped, it is in an equilateral triangle. If uncropped, they are medium size, triangular in shape, held tight to the cheeks, and not extending beyond the jaw bone. Nose – Large with well-opened nostrils, pigment color to match pigment color of the dog. Dogs with black pigment have black noses; gray pigmented dogs have gray noses; pigmentation is complete. The nose is an extension of the topline of the muzzle and does not protrude beyond nor recede behind the front plane of the muzzle.

Muzzle

Very broad and deep, width is almost equal to its length, which reaches approximately one third of the total length of the head; the depth of muzzle is more than 50 percent of the length of the muzzle. The top and bottom muzzle planes are parallel, and the nose and chin form a perpendicular line. Viewed from the front, the anterior face should look flat and form a trapezoid, wider at the bottom. Muzzle is not overly narrow or snipey. Lips – Rather firm. Upper lips moderately hanging, they join under the nostrils to form an inverted “U.” Pigmentation matches color pigment of dog. Dogs with black pigment have black lips; gray pigmented dogs have gray lips.

Bite

Slightly undershot (no more than ¼ inch) and level preferred. Scissor bite is acceptable, if parameters of the head and muzzle are correct. Dentition is complete. Incisors are in a straight line. No more than two missing teeth. Disqualification – More than two missing teeth; wry mouth. Undershot more than ¼ inch.

Neck, Topline, Body

Neck – Slightly arched, flowing smoothly into the shoulders with a small amount of dewlap. The length of the neck is approximately one third the height at the withers. Body – Depth of the ribcage is equal to half the total height of the dog, descending slightly below the elbow. Ribs are long and well sprung. Moderate tuck up. Chest – Broad, well-muscled, strong forefront. Back – Wide, strong, muscular. Highest part of shoulder blade slightly rising above the strong, level back. Loin – Well-muscled, and harmoniously joined to the back. Croup – Long, wide, slightly sloping. Rump should be quite round due to muscling. Tail – Tail set is an extension of the backline. It is thick at the root with not much tapering at the tip. When not in action, carried low, otherwise horizontal or slightly higher than back, not to be carried in a vertical position. It is docked at the fourth vertebrae. In the case of natural tails, the tip reaches the hock but not below. Carried low, it is neither broken nor kinked but supple. Hanging when the dog is in repose; generally carried level with the back or slightly above the level of the back when the dog is in action, without curving over the back or being curled. Disqualification – A natural tail that is atrophied or a natural tail that is knotted and laterally deviated or twisted.

Forequarters

Strong and muscular, well-proportioned to the size of the dog. Straight when viewed from the front or side; height of the limb at the elbow is equal to 50 percent of the height at the withers. Shoulders- Muscular, laid back. Upper arms – Strongly muscled, with good bone, powerful. Elbows – Held parallel to the ribcage, turning neither in nor out. Forelegs – Straight and with good bone, well-muscled. Pasterns – Almost straight, strong but flexible. Feet – Round with well-arched toes (catlike). Lean, hard, dark pads and nails, except in the case of white toes. Front dewclaws – Can remain or be removed, if left intact should only be a single dewclaw on each leg.

Hindquarters

As a whole, they are powerful and strong, in harmony with the forequarters. Straight when viewed from the rear or front. Thighs – Long, wide, angulated and well-muscled. Stifle – Should be moderately angulated, strong. Legs – Strong bone and muscle structure. Hocks- Wide set, thick and clean, let down and parallel when viewed from behind. Rear pastern – straight and parallel. Rear dewclaws – Any rear dewclaws are removed. Hind feet – Slightly more oval-shaped and less-arched toes.

Coat

The coat is short, stiff, shiny, adherent and dense with a light undercoat that becomes thicker in cold weather.

Color

Acceptable colors are black, lighter and darker shades of gray, lighter and darker shades of fawn, and red. Brindling is allowed on all of these colors. Solid fawn and red, including lighter and darker shades, have a black or gray mask. The mask does not go beyond the eyes. There may be a white patch on the chest, throat, chin, backs of the pasterns, and on the toes. Disqualification – Any color with tan pattern markings as seen in black-and-tan breeds.

Gait

The movement is free flowing and powerful, yet effortless, with strong reach and drive. As the dog accelerates, the feet converge toward a center line of gravity in a near-single track. When viewed from the side, the topline remains level, with minimal roll or bounce.

Temperament

The Cane Corso as a protector of his property and owners is unequaled. Intelligent, he is easily trained. Noble, majestic and powerful his, presence is impressive. He is docile and affectionate to his owner, loving with children and family.

Summary

The overall conformation of the dog should be well-balanced and proportionate. The foregoing description is that of the ideal Cane Corso; any deviation from the above described dog is penalized to the extent of the deviation.

Disqualifications

* Yellow bird of prey; blue eyes.

* More than two missing teeth; wry mouth.

* Undershot more than ¼ inch.

* Any color with tan pattern markings as seen in black-and-tan breeds.

* A natural tail that is atrophied or a natural tail that is knotted and laterally deviated or twisted.

General Appearance

Molossian normal type, mesomorphic and macrothalic, within the desirable proportions without gigantic dimensions. Its aspect is harmonic and vigorous due to its powerful muscles which stand out under the consistent and elastic skin adhered to the body through a not very lax subcutaneous tissue. It walks quietly but firmly, showing its intelligence and quick responsiveness and revealing by means of its movement its permanent happy natural disposition. Of a kind and loving nature, of a striking whiteness, its physical virtues turn it into a real athlete.

Size, Proportion, Substance

As a mesomorphic animal, no part stands out from the whole body which is harmonic and balanced. Mesocephalic, its muzzle should be as long as its skull. The height at the withers is equal to the height at the croup. The depth of the thorax equals 50 percent of the height at the withers. The length of the body exceeds the height at the withers by 10 percent.

Head

Of mesocephalic type, it looks strong and powerful, without abrupt angles or distinct chiseling. Its profile shows an upper line which is concave – convex: convex at the skull because of the prominence of its masticatory muscles and its nape; and slightly concave at the foreface. The head joins the neck forming a strong muscular arch.

Cranial Region

Skull: – Compact, convex in the front to back and transverse direction. Its zygomatic arches are far apart from the skull, forming a large temporal cavity which enables the large development of the temporal muscle. Its occipital bone is not very prominent due to the strong muscles of the nape. The central depression of the skull is slightly noticeable. Stop – Slightly defined, as a transition from the convex skull region to the slightly concave foreface. From the side, it shows a definite profile due to the prominence of the superciliary ridges.

Facial Region

As long as the skull. Nose – Ample nostrils. Black pigmentation. It is slightly elevated forwards, finishing off the concave profile of the muzzle. From the side, the front line is perpendicular and straight, coinciding with the maxillary edge or slightly projected forward.

Muzzle – Strong, a bit longer than deep, well developed in width, with sides slightly converging. The upper line is slightly concave, an almost exclusive trait of the Argentinean Dogo. Lips – Moderately thick, short and tight. With free edges, preferably with black pigmentation. Jaws/Teeth – Jaws strong and well adapted; no under-or overshot mouth. The jaws should be slightly and homogeneously convergent. They ensure maximum bite capacity. Teeth big, well developed, firmly implanted in line, looking clean without caries. A complete dentition is recommended, priority being given to the homogeneous dental arches. Pincer bite, though scissor bite is accepted. Cheeks – Large and relatively flat, free from folds, bulges or chiseling, covered by strong skin.

Eyes – Dark or hazel colored, protected by lids preferably with black pigmentation though the lack of pigmentation is not considered a fault. Almond-shaped, set at medium height, the distance between them must be wide. As a whole, the expression should be alert and lively, but at the same time remarkably firm, particularly in males.

Ears – High and laterally inserted, set well apart due to the width of the skull. Functionally, they should be cropped and erect, in triangular shape and with a length which does not exceed 50 percent of the front edge of the auricle of the natural ear. Without being cropped, they are of mid-length, broad, thick, flat and rounded at the tip. Covered with smooth hair which is a bit shorter than on the rest of the body; they may show small spots, not to be penalized. In natural position they hang down covering the back of the cheeks. When the dog is alert they may be half-erect.

Neck, Topline and Body

Neck Of medium length, strong and erect, well-muscled, with slightly convex upper line. Truncated cone-shaped, it joins the head in a muscular arch which hides all bony prominences in this part, and fits to the thorax in a large base. It is covered by a thick and elastic skin that freely slips over the subcutaneous tissue which is a bit laxer than on the rest of the body. It has non-pendent smooth folds at the height of the throat, a fundamental trait for the function of the animal. The coat in this part is slightly longer than on the rest of the body.

Body - The length of the body (from the point of the shoulder to the point of the buttock) exceeds the height at the withers by 10 percent.

Upper line - Level; the withers and the pin bones of the croup are at the same height, constituting the highest points. Withers – Large and high. Back – Large and strong, with fully developed muscles forming a slight slope towards the loins. Loins – Strong and hidden by the developed lumbar muscles which form a median furrow along the spine. Slightly shorter than the dorsal region, rising very slightly to the top of the croup. The development of muscles in the parts of the upper line causes the dogs to show a slightly depressed profile without being actually so, which is enhanced in adults due to the fully developed dorsal and spinal muscles. Croup – Of medium length, large and muscular; slightly showing the tips of both ilium and ischium. Its width is equal or a bit less than that of the thorax; the angle to the horizontal is of about 30 degrees, thus the upper line falling in a slightly convex slope towards the insertion of the tail. Chest – Broad and deep. The tip of the breastbone is level with the tip of the shoulder joint (scapulo-humeral joint) and the sternal line of the thorax is level with the elbow line. Large thorax providing maximum respiratory capacity, with long and moderately curved ribs which join the breastbone at the height of the elbow line. Abdomen – Slightly tucked up beyond the bottom line of the thorax, but never greyhound-like. Strong with good muscular tension as well as in the flanks and loins.

Tail

Set medium high, with 45 degree angle to the upper line. Sabre-shaped, thick and long, reaching to the hocks but not further down. At rest it hangs down naturally; when the dog is in action, it is slightly raised over the upper line and constantly moving sideward. When trotting, it is carried level with the upper line or slightly above.

Forequarters

As a whole, they form a sturdy and solid structure of bones and muscles, proportionate to the size of the animal. Forelegs straight and vertical, seen from the front or in profile. Shoulders – High and proportioned. Very strong, with great muscular contours without exaggeration. Slanting of 45 degrees to the horizontal. Upper arm – Of medium length, proportionate to the whole. Strong and very muscular, with a 45 degree angle to the horizontal. Elbows – Sturdy, covered with a thicker and more elastic skin, without folds or wrinkles. Naturally situated against the chest wall of which they seem to be part. Forearm – As long as the upper arm, perpendicular to the horizontal, straight with strong bone and muscles. Pastern joint – Broad and in line with the forearm, without bony prominences or skin folds. Pastern – Slightly flat, well boned, slanting of 70 to 75 degrees to the horizontal plane. Front feet- Rounded; with short, sturdy, very tight toes. Fleshy, hard pads, covered by black and rough-to- the-touch skin.

Hindquarters

With medium angulation. As a whole, they are strong, sturdy and parallel, creating the image of the great power their function requires. They ensure the proper impulsion and determine the dog’s characteristic gait. Upper thigh – Length proportionate to the whole. Strong and with fully developed and visible muscles. Coxo-femoral angle close to 100 degrees. Stifles – Set in the same axis as the limb. Femoral-tibial angle close to 110 degrees. Lower thigh - Slightly shorter than the upper thigh, strong and with similarly developed muscles. Hock joint / Hock – The tarsus-metatarsus section is short, strong and firm, ensuring powerful propelling of the hind limb. Sturdy hock joint with a noticeable calcaneus (tip of hock). The angle at the hock joint is close to 140 degrees. Sturdy hock, almost cylindrical and at 90 degrees angle to the horizontal. If present, dewclaws should be removed. Hind feet – Similar to forefeet, though slightly smaller and broader, but with the same characteristics.

Coat

Uniform, short, plain and smooth to the touch, with an average length of ½ to ¾ inch. Variable density and thickness according to different climates. In tropical climates the coat is sparse and thin (letting the skin shine through and making pigmented regions visible which is not a cause of penalty). In a cold climate it is thicker and denser and may present an undercoat.

Color

Completely white; only one black or dark colored patch around the eye may be admitted, provided that it does not cover more than 10 percent of the head. Between two dogs of equal conformation, the judge should always choose the whiter one.

Skin

Homogeneous, slightly thick, but smooth and elastic. Adhering to the body through a semilax subcutaneous tissue which ensures free movement without forming relevant folds, except for the neck area where the subcutaneous tissue is laxer. With as little pigmentation as possible, though this increases with the years. An excessive pigmentation of the skin is not accepted. Preference should be given to dogs with black pigmentation of the rims of labial and palpebral mucous membranes.

Gait

Agile and firm; with noticeable modification when showing interest in something, changing into an erect attitude and responding to reflexes quickly, typical for this breed. Calm walk, extended trot, with a good front suspension and a powerful rear propelling. At gallop, the dog shows all of its energy displaying its power fully. The four feet leave simple, parallel traces. Ambling (pacing) is not accepted and is considered a serious fault.

Size

Height at the withers – Dogs: 24 to 27 inches. Bitches: 23½ to 26 inches.

Temperament

It is cheerful, frank, humble, friendly, and not a hard barker, always conscious of its power. It should never be aggressive, a trait that should be severely observed. Its domineering attitude makes it continuously compete for territory with specimens of the same sex, most noticeable behavior in males. As a hunter, it is smart, silent, courageous and brave.

Faults

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog.

Serious Faults

• Poor bone and muscle development (weakness).

• Nose with little pigmentation.

• Pendulous lips. Small, weak or decayed teeth. Incomplete dentition.

• Eyes excessively light; entropion, ectropion.

• Barrel chest; keel chest. Flat ribs.

• Excessive angulations of the hindquarters.

• Hock too long.

• Untypical movement.

• Excessive skin pigmentation in young dogs.

• Appearance of small areas with colored hairs.

• Unsteady temperament.

Disqualifying Faults

• Aggressiveness.

• Nose without pigmentation.

• Over or undershot mouth.

• Light blue eyes; eyes of different color (heterochromia).

• Deafness.

• Long coat.

• Patches in the body coat. More than one patch on the head.

• Height under 23½ inches and over 27 inches.

• Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioral abnormalities shall be disqualified.

• Male animals without two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum.

SAVE-A-BULLY

The Save-A-Bully Class is a licensed conformation class designed to provide a venue for exhibition of all altered Bully Breeds as recognized by the ABKC. This class allows the opportunity for rescue dogs, retired show dogs, and altered pets to participate, be evaluated, and earn titles with the ABKC. Also, this class enables breeders to see a wider range of production from their breeding programs.

The ABKC believes that being involved in dog events promotes responsible ownership and grows the bond between owner and dog. The privilege and benefit of being involved in conformation shows should not be reserved only for owners of show quality dogs to evaluate breeding stock, but should be extended to all dog lovers and fanciers who devote much of their lives to their pets. We encourage rescue/adoption and commend those involved. The second chance to life given to rescues, adopted retired show/breeding dogs, and others in need is priceless…

This is an ABKC licensed class and will follow the same fundamental philosophy as described in the ABKC Code of Ethics. All participants are expected to conform to the ABKC Rules and Regulations applying to exhibitors and spectators. Owners are responsible for the behavior of their dogs at all times. Dogs participating in ABKC events are expected to have stable temperament and be sufficiently well trained so that their behavior does not interfere with the Judge’s ability to evaluate the dog and its performance. Owners or designated handlers are expected to ensure at all times that their dogs present no threat to persons or other dogs attending the event. Show host reserve the right to refuse entry of any dog deemed out of control or aggressive.

*Please refer to the American Bully Kennel Club Rules and Regulations for complete details.

Dogs Eligible to Compete:

Altered purebred dogs that are permanently registered with the ABKC and rescue dogs registered with the ABKC Save-A-Bully Certification. All Bully Breeds and Pit Bull type dogs permanently registered with the ABKC. All altered dogs eligible for registration that have a valid Temporary Number as of the day of the show. Dogs must be at least six months of age or older on the day of the event. Dogs that have been altered (spayed/neutered).

Guidelines:

General guidelines for judging: Interaction between dog and owner/handler. Dog’s performance and alertness in the ring.

Conformation:

This based strictly on structure and temperament. A variation of all Bully Breeds and Pit Bull type dogs may compete; therefore dogs are not to be “faulted” on type, but rather be evaluated on overall quality.

Gait – In consideration of the different breeds and variation in “type”, the gait will be an individual evaluation utilized to asses each individual dog as a total unit (balance, correct structure, and attitude).

Save-A-Bully Show Class Information:

Classes Dogs – All different breeds, varieties, and types to compete together in three (3)separate classes determined by age groups and divided by gender(Male/Female).

Male/Female Novice Puppy 6-12 months.

Male/Female Adults 1-4 years of age.

Male/Female Seniors 4 and up years of age.

Champion Class – All dogs having earned a Champion Title in the Save-A-Bully Class and competing to earn a Grand Champion Title.

Grand Champion Class – The elite dogs that have met all requirements and have earned their ABKC Save-A-Bully Grand Champion Title.

Save -A-Bully Class Points:

1st Place in Class = 10 Points (1st Place winners from each class will compete for Best Male or Best Female)

Best Male/Best Female = 20 Points (Best Male/Best Female will compete for Best of Winners)

Best of Winners = 20 Points (Best of Winners will compete against the Best Champion and Best Grand Champion for Best Save-A-Bully In Show)

Save-A-Bully Champion Title Requirements:

A total of 150 points is required for an ABKC Save-A-Bully Show Champion Title. Dogs must earn at least two (2) major wins under two (2) different judges as Best Male/Best Female with competition*. (* Competition is considered two (2) or more dogs in the class.)

For Example: Your dog is in the Adult Class and you had at least one (1) other dog in your class, a win earns 10 points (if no other dogs then no points). You have at least one (1) other male to compete with for best male you, a win earns 20 points (if no other dogs then no points). You compete against the female for Best of Winners, a win earns 20 points (if no other dogs then no points). Dog Must have attained points under two different judges. Reserve Male/Female will be awarded for points if winner is found to not be eligible for win.

Save-A-Bully Grand Champion Requirements:

Total of 5 Champion wins for Grand Champion Title. Must have wins under three (3) different judges.

ABKC Events Hosting Save-A-Bully Classes:

Events hosting the Save-A-Bully Class will be indicated as “SAB” on the Upcoming Events page, advertisements, banners, etc.

The Save-A-Bully Competition is to proceed the ABKC Junior Showmanship competition, which is held at the beginning of each show.