🏆 ABKC vs. UKC vs. BKC: Why Certification & Registration Matter

When it comes to owning or breeding an American Bully, certification and registration are key factors that can impact your dog's value, pedigree, and credibility. The American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC), United Kennel Club (UKC), and Bully Kennel Club (BKC) are three of the most recognized registries in the Bully world, but they serve different purposes.

Understanding these organizations, their standards, and how they affect your Bully can help you make informed decisions as an owner or breeder. In this guide, we’ll break down each registry, their importance, and what certification means for your dog.

🔎 Why Registering Your American Bully Matters

Registering your American Bully is more than just paperwork—it determines:

✔ Pedigree Verification – Confirms your dog’s ancestry and bloodline purity.

✔ Breed Standard Compliance – Ensures your Bully meets physical & temperament standards. ✔ Show & Competition Eligibility – Allows participation in official conformation shows & events.

✔ Breeding Credibility – Increases the value of puppies by proving authentic lineage.

✔ Resale & Reputation – Registered Bullies sell for higher prices and hold stronger market demand.

Strength, Prestige, and Pedigree – The Power of a Registered American Bully.

💡 If you plan to breed, compete, or ensure your Bully’s authenticity, registration is essential.

📜 Understanding the Major Registries

1️⃣ ABKC (American Bully Kennel Club)

✔ Founded: 2004

✔ Purpose: The original registry for the American Bully breed

✔ Focus: Preserving & promoting American Bully breed standards

✔ Recognized Classes: Standard, Pocket, XL, Classic, Extreme

✔ Event Participation: Hosts official ABKC-sanctioned dog shows & competitions

Pros:

✅ The most widely respected registry for American Bullies

✅ Sets clear breed standards for different Bully classes

✅ Increases breeding credibility and puppy value

✅ Allows Bullies to compete in official conformation events

Cons:

❌ Stricter registration requirements than BKC

❌ Does not accept all Bully variations (e.g., Exotic Bullies)

💡 Best For: Breeders & owners who want a legitimately recognized American Bully with documented lineage.

2️⃣ UKC (United Kennel Club)

✔ Founded: 1898

✔ Purpose: A multi-breed registry that recognized American Bullies in 2013

✔ Focus: Maintains a broader approach, allowing registration for many breeds

✔ Event Participation: Allows Bullies to compete in obedience, weight-pulling, and agility events

Pros:

✅ Recognized for maintaining strict health & temperament standards

✅ Offers more performance-based events than ABKC

✅ Dual registration with ABKC is possible

Cons:

❌ More generalized—does not focus exclusively on American Bullies

❌ Some breeders prefer ABKC’s stricter breed definitions

💡 Best For: Owners who want their Bully to compete in multiple sporting & performance events.

3️⃣ BKC (Bully Kennel Club)

✔ Founded: Early 2000s

✔ Purpose: A registry focused on Extreme, Exotic, and Classic Bullies

✔ Focus: Less strict breed standard, allowing variations like Exotic Bullies

✔ Event Participation: Hosts Bully-specific events, often including Exotics & Micros

Pros:

✅ More inclusive than ABKC, allowing Exotic & Micro Bullies

✅ Easier registration process

✅ Expands breed diversity

Cons:

❌ Less recognized than ABKC & UKC

❌ Some BKC-registered dogs do not meet ABKC breed standards

💡 Best For: Those breeding Exotic, Micro, or non-standard Bullies.

⚖ Registry Comparison Table

Registry	Best For	Breed Focus	Show Eligibility	Recognition
ABKC	Breeders, show competitors	Standard American Bullies	Yes (ABKC Shows)	Most Recognized
UKC	Owners wanting competition options	American Bullies, other breeds	Yes (UKC Events)	High
BKC	Exotic Bully breeders	Exotic, Extreme, Micro Bullies	Yes (BKC Events)	Moderate

💡 ABKC is best for those wanting a true, breed-standard American Bully.

📝 How to Register Your American Bully

📌 ABKC Registration Steps

1️⃣ Obtain your dog’s pedigree history from a certified breeder.

2️⃣ Fill out an ABKC registration application (available online).

3️⃣ Submit the form with a $30-$50 fee (varies by class).

4️⃣ Provide proof of lineage (ABKC prefers at least a 3-generation pedigree).

5️⃣ Receive official ABKC paperwork & certification.

💡 Once registered, your dog can compete in ABKC-sanctioned events and gain pedigree credibility.

📌 UKC Registration Steps

1️⃣ Check if your American Bully meets UKC breed standards.

2️⃣ Complete a Single Registration Application online.

3️⃣ Pay the $50 processing fee.

4️⃣ Submit required photos & documentation.

5️⃣ Receive a UKC Pedigree Certificate (allows competition in UKC events).

💡 UKC registration allows your Bully to enter sporting & performance competitions.

💰 How Certification Impacts Puppy Prices

Registration	Price Range
No Papers	$500 - $2,500
BKC Registered	$2,500 - $5,000
UKC Registered	$3,000 - $8,000
ABKC Registered	$5,000 - $15,000+

💡 A dog with ABKC & UKC certification holds the highest market value!

🔥 Final Thoughts: Which Registry Should You Choose?

✔ If you want the most legitimate, recognized Bully registry → Go with ABKC.

✔ If you’re looking for sporting & competition events → UKC is a great choice.

✔ If you own an Exotic or Micro Bully → BKC is the most flexible option.

💬 What registry do you prefer for your Bully? Let’s discuss in the comments!