The American Bulldog may look intimidating due to its muscularity, athleticism, and undeniable strength, but this breed is actually quite playful and has a big heart. There are two varieties of American Bulldogs: the Johnson (also known as the Bully or Classic type) and the Scott (also known as the Standard or Performance type). The Johnson has a larger, heavier build and a shorter muzzle, resembling the English Bulldog. The Scott, on the other hand, is more athletic with a longer muzzle and a squarish head. Many American Bulldogs today are a mix of the two.
Despite being mistaken for the sometimes demonized American Pit Bull Terrier, the American Bulldog is a distinct breed. It possesses traits that make it an excellent family dog and a superb working dog. Despite their tough exterior, they are extremely emotional and sensitive to their surroundings. This makes them great family dogs, especially for those with children. They love to play and romp with kids and are able to sense the mood of the room. They are kind, loving, and have a high level of self-assurance, which often translates into loyalty, obedience, and a strong protective instinct. However, they may be hesitant around strangers and other dogs, so early training is important to ensure they fit well in all social situations.
American Bulldogs have a high activity level and prefer open spaces for running and regular exercise. However, they can adapt to apartment living as long as their owners lead an active lifestyle that they can share.
Below, we look at American Bulldog dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an American Bulldog, characteristics, and must-see facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of American Bulldogs!
| Dog Breed | American Bulldog |
| Size | Large |
| Weight | 60-120 lbs (average) |
| Height | 20-28″ (average) |
| Location | United States |
| Ancestry | English Bulldog, Old English Bulldog, Bull Terrier |
| Date of Origin | 17th Century |
| Group | Bull Baiting, Farming, Hunting, Companion |
| Life Expectancy | 10-12 years |
| Price | $500 – $600 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
American Bulldogs have a long history dating back to the 17th century. They are believed to be descendants of the Old English Bulldog and were brought to the American South by working-class immigrants from West Midlands, England. These dogs were highly valued by farmers and ranchers for their ability to hunt feral pigs, assist with cattle, and provide protection for both property and family. Before blood sports were outlawed in England and the US in 1835, American Bulldogs were also used in brutal bull and bear baiting events. However, as they were primarily used as utility dogs, little attention was given to controlling bloodlines or documenting ancestry. Breeders focused on breeding dogs with the best working characteristics.
After World War II, the American Bulldog faced near extinction. However, a war veteran named John D. Johnson played a crucial role in revitalizing the breed. Johnson searched rural farms and back roads in the South to find the best candidates for breeding. His efforts caught the attention of a young man named Alan Scott, who developed his own line of American Bulldogs by crossbreeding with Johnson’s dogs. This led to the development of the Standard American Bulldog. Johnson himself later interbred his line with the English Bulldog, creating the Classic or Bully type. Today, many American Bulldogs are a cross between the two types and they continue to be used as utility dogs for hunting, catching, sport, and protection. Additionally, they have become popular as family dogs due to their gentle nature, intelligence, and loyalty.
🐕 American Bulldog Appearance
The American Bulldog is a medium to big dog with a height range of 20 to 28 inches and a maximum weight of 120 pounds, however they often weigh closer to 90 pounds on average. They are a very robust and muscular breed, and their short coats help them to display this conspicuously in their physique. They can differ in general look due to their many lineages, most notably in their legs and faces, but practically all of them have a common set of traits. Regardless of kind, they all have small frames for their size, with a lot of their weight coming from a surplus of muscle that lines their necks, backs, chests, and all four legs. Large heads with powerful jaws, short, folded ears—ideally undocked—and broad, tapering tails are some of their physical characteristics. Strongly Johnson-like dogs often have a shorter nose and a somewhat heavier physique akin to the English Bulldog. The Standard, on the other hand, is often the taller specimen of the breed overall, with a more trim, athletic physique, a longer nose, and a more boxy head. Their short, rather thin coats, which were once known to be white with patches of every color—from black to red to brown—have now evolved to include a range of hues and patterns.
| 👀 Eye Color | Blue |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black, Brown |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Brown, Black, Brindle, Fawn, White, Red |
⚡ Fun Fact: American Bulldog dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn’t tolerate being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of American Bulldog
American Bulldogs are essentially kind, sociable, lovable dogs who are surprisingly sensitive and even considered emotional despite their intimidating look. American Bulldogs are fortunate enough to have both and use their skill sets appropriately, unlike many breeds that may be stigmatized as having either more brains or more brawn. They are incredibly clever, train fairly readily, and will do whatever it takes to demonstrate their devotion and obedience once they have an owner who is ready to act as a strong pack leader. If they do not have a strong leader to guide them appropriately early on, they may be wary or even violent towards strangers and other dogs due to their protective instincts. They are bold, strong-willed, and often non-hostile dogs, but a wise owner will make sure that they receive the right socialization and training to ensure that their conduct is as near to ideal as possible. Being patient with them is a virtue since, due to their emotional nature, they often respond much better to positive reinforcement and are prone to sulk and pout if reprimanded severely. They are generally well-behaved dogs when given the appropriate amount of attention, but without regular fun, exercise, and mental stimulation, they may become destructive and exhibit problematic behavior. They may adapt to smaller settings if they have an active owner who gets them enough of exercise every day, but they are often best suited for households with larger yards or space to run because of their high activity requirements. They also like big families that mimic a pack setting, but if they receive regular care, they may live happily with only one owner.
🤝 Are American Bulldogs Friendly or Aggressive?
American Bulldogs typically do not get along with other pets and may not be the most welcoming towards strangers. However, they are known to be good with children, making them a suitable choice for families with kids. When it comes to cats, American Bulldogs may not be the most friendly. In terms of their interactions with other dogs, they tend to be average in terms of friendliness. Finally, American Bulldogs are often recommended for elderly individuals, possibly due to their size, temperament, and ability to provide companionship.
This breed is known for being:
- Loving
- Energetic
- Alert
- Courageous
- Affectionate
- Gentle
- Going
- Social
🐩 American Bulldog Care & Maintenance
American Bulldogs are generally simple to maintain due to their short coats. They are light to moderate shedders and just require weekly brushing to maintain a healthy coat; baths can be given as needed by the owner. They do have a propensity to drool due to their heritage and lip/face shape, which should be watched for and occasionally wiped to keep them (and you) clean. Daily wiping and drying of the skin folds and crevices is necessary to prevent the buildup of germs that can lead to illness or odor. Due to their size, this breed consumes a lot of food, thus brushing teeth should be done once a week. As with any dog, the nail length should be monitored and cut as necessary.
American Bulldog dogs have a moderate shedding tendency, which is a normal part of their hair growth cycle. Regular brushing can help minimize the amount of hair that is shed. The frequency of shedding can also vary depending on the dog’s overall health and the specific breed type. Additionally, American Bulldogs generally require a bath every 3 to 4 weeks to keep their coat clean and healthy.
🍖 Food: We recommend 4 cups daily, costing you about $3.00 – $5.00 daily, or approximately $30.00 – $50.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: American Bulldog dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 14 miles per week, which equates to about 60 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: American Bulldog dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn’t the perfect choice for you.
❤️🩹 American Bulldog Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for American Bulldog Dog Breed can be:
- Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
While minor concerns include:
- Cherry Eye
- Thyroid
- Kidney Problems
- Ichthyosis
- Bone Cancer
🤧 Important: Is American Bulldog hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for American Bulldog.
⚡ American Bulldog Dog Breed Facts
What makes the American Bulldog a great choice for families with young children?
The American Bulldog is a great choice for families with young children because they are gentle, affectionate, and love to play. They have a heart of gold and are highly protective of their family members, making them excellent companions and guardians for children.
Is the American Bulldog breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
While the American Bulldog is a high-energy breed, they can adapt to apartment living as long as their owners have an active lifestyle and provide them with regular exercise and mental stimulation.
How much exercise does a American Bulldog require compared to other breeds?
American Bulldogs require a significant amount of exercise compared to some other breeds. They are muscular and athletic dogs that thrive with daily physical activity, such as long walks, runs, or playtime in a spacious yard.
Is the American Bulldog breed known for being good with other pets?
The American Bulldog breed can be cautious or even aggressive towards strangers and other dogs if not properly socialized and trained. However, with the right upbringing and guidance, they can learn to coexist peacefully with other pets.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the American Bulldog?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the American Bulldog include the Boxer, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and the Bullmastiff. These breeds share some physical and personality traits with the American Bulldog and require similar levels of exercise and care.
What are the common health issues that American Bulldogs are prone to?
American Bulldogs are generally a healthy breed, but they are prone to certain health issues. Some common health concerns include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and certain types of cancer. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help prevent or manage these conditions.
Are American Bulldogs known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
American Bulldogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them generally easy to train. However, they require a strong, consistent leader and positive reinforcement methods to ensure their obedience and loyalty.
Are American Bulldogs more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
American Bulldogs can be prone to separation anxiety, especially if they are not properly trained and socialized. They form strong bonds with their owners and thrive on human companionship. Providing them with mental stimulation and gradually increasing their independence can help mitigate separation anxiety.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the American Bulldog that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the American Bulldog that are suitable for people with allergies include the American Hairless Terrier, the Basenji, and the Portuguese Water Dog. These breeds have minimal shedding and produce less dander, making them more hypoallergenic.
What sizes of dogs similar to the American Bulldog are best for individuals or families with limited space?
For individuals or families with limited space, smaller-sized dogs similar to the American Bulldog, such as the American Bully, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, or the French Bulldog, may be a better fit. These breeds still possess some of the physical and personality traits of the American Bulldog but in a more compact size.
Is the American Bulldog breed known to be good with children with special needs?
American Bulldogs are known to be good with children, including those with special needs. Their gentle and affectionate nature, combined with their strong protective instincts, make them excellent companions and support dogs for children with special needs.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the American Bulldog?
The grooming needs of the American Bulldog are relatively low compared to some other breeds. They have a short coat that requires regular brushing to control shedding. They are not considered heavy shedders and are relatively easy to maintain in terms of grooming.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that American Bulldog dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
