If you own an American Bully in Maryland — or you’re thinking about getting one — the legal landscape here is more nuanced than a simple yes-or-no answer. Maryland does not ban any breed at the state level, but local jurisdictions have historically imposed some of the strictest breed-specific rules in the country, and those rules are still shifting.
The most significant recent change is the November 2025 repeal of Prince George’s County’s nearly 30-year pit bull ban, which has direct implications for American Bully owners across the state. Understanding what changed, what stayed the same, and what varies county by county is essential before you bring a bully breed home, sign a lease, or renew your homeowner’s insurance.
This guide walks you through every layer of Maryland’s legal framework as it applies to American Bullies — from state statutes and local ordinances to housing restrictions and dangerous dog classifications.
Is the American Bully Recognized as a Separate Breed Under Maryland Law?
Maryland state law does not recognize the American Bully (Canis lupus familiaris, selectively developed from American Pit Bull Terrier and bulldog lines) as a distinct breed for legal purposes. Maryland law does not distinguish between different breeds of dogs or single out pit bulls for special treatment — all dog owners have a common set of responsibilities. The American Bully is not named in any Maryland statute, and no state-level registry or permit requirement applies to the breed by name…