Arkansas does not ban the American Bully at the state level, but that fact alone will not keep your dog safe from seizure or a fine. The real legal risk for American Bully owners in Arkansas lives at the city and county level, where dozens of municipalities have enacted their own breed-specific ordinances — some with outright bans, others with strict permit and containment requirements.
Whether you already own an American Bully in Arkansas or plan to move there with one, the rules that apply to you depend almost entirely on your specific address. This guide walks through how Arkansas law treats bully breeds, which cities have active restrictions, and what you can do if your dog is targeted under a local ordinance.
Important Note: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Ordinances change frequently. Always verify current rules with your local animal control office or a licensed Arkansas attorney before making decisions about your dog.
Is the American Bully Recognized as a Separate Breed Under Arkansas Law
Arkansas state law does not recognize the American Bully (Canis lupus familiaris, selectively developed from American Pit Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier lines) as a distinct breed for regulatory purposes. The state’s dog statutes — found primarily in Arkansas Code Title 20, Chapter 19 — address licensing, rabies control, and mandatory sterilization of impounded animals, but they do not name or define specific breeds…