The American Bulldog was on the brink of extinction after World War II. John D. Johnson is the man credited with bringing the dog back to popularity. The dogs were popular in the rural South, and they were used by farmers and ranch hands to protect herds and people from bears, raccoon, squirrel, and wild boar. The dog was also utilized in the sport of bull baiting. American bulldogs share a strong tie to the English bulldog, having been selectively bred to have longer legs and longer muzzles. Today, the American bulldog is favored as a family pet all over the country. The breed is a strong one that, when properly trained, gets along well with humans. Potential owners are cautioned against owning an American bulldog if they will not have time for obedience training and socialization. The breed is physically strong and can have an independent streak. It is a working dog that requires not only obedience and socialization, but exercise and a job to do.
The American Bulldog is a medium-sized dog breed that is sturdy and muscular. They appear stocky and strong-looking with square heads and strong muzzles. Their ears are v-shaped and fold forward. The American Bulldog’s coat is short, dense and glossy. Grooming an American Bulldog is a breeze, they only need to be brushed when necessary. They tend to drool, so be prepared to clean up after them.
Personality
The American Bulldog is brave, courageous and very loyal. These dogs are very affectionate towards their owners. They like children a lot and will go to great lengths to protect their human families. Although this dog breed sometimes have a bad reputation, these are not aggressive dogs, they are just very protective. They usually don’t attack unless they feel threatened. They should be taken for long daily walks.
Breed Characteristics
| Type: | Pure |
| Function: | Working |
| Origin: | United States |
| Preferred Climate: | Any Climate |
| Group: | Working |
| Life Span: | 12-15 Years |
| Nicknames: | Bully, Pibble |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
American Bulldog Build Information
The American Bulldog is a medium-sized dog breed that is sturdy and muscular. They appear stocky and strong-looking with square heads and strong muzzles. Their ears are v-shaped and fold forward. The American Bulldog’s coat is short, dense and glossy. Grooming an American Bulldog is a breeze, they only need to be brushed when necessary. They tend to drool, so be prepared to clean up after them.
| Size: | Medium |
| Length (Male): | 22-27 in. |
| Length (Female): | 22-24 in. |
| Weight: | > 65 lbs |
| Litter Size: | 5 – 10 Puppies |
| Tail Dock or Crop: | No |
Behaviour and Personality
The American Bulldog is brave, courageous and very loyal. These dogs are very affectionate towards their owners. They like children a lot and will go to great lengths to protect their human families. Although this dog breed sometimes have a bad reputation, these are not aggressive dogs, they are just very protective. They usually don’t attack unless they feel threatened. They should be taken for long daily walks.
| Activity Level: | Active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Aggressiveness Level: | Easy |
| Barking: | Moderate |
| Dominating or Submissive?: | Dominating |
| Energy Level: | Active |
| Good to Other Pets: | Friendly |
| Guardian Skills: | Yes |
| Independant: | No |
| Kid Friendliness: | Friendly |
Appearance
American bulldogs do not require professional grooming. The short, tight coat of the dog is easily kept clean with an occasional bath. The breed sheds regularly, and owners report furniture and floors covered in bristly, white hairs. These dogs do not need regular bathing, but a daily brushing is recommended. Toenails should be clipped every four weeks or so, and ears should be cleaned daily. Like any short-muzzled breed, the American bulldog can have problems with its teeth. Regular brushing can keep the teeth clean and the mouth healthy.
| Colors: | Fawn, Red, Red-Black Brindle, Tan, Tan Brindle, White |
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | Medium Maintenance |
| Coat Type: | Fine |
American Bulldog Common Health Conditions
The most common health issues that afflict American bulldogs are hip dysplasia and bloat. If you are purchasing an American bulldog from a responsible breeder, be sure that its parents were certified as having healthy hips. To prevent bloat, feed your bulldog several small meals throughout the day rather than a single large meal. Do not let your bulldog exercise or play right after it eats, and do not let your dog drink large amounts of water in a single sitting.
American Bulldog Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
If not socialized early and regularly, the breed can become aggressive with other animals. American bulldogs are fiercely loyal to their families. The breed is an excellent one with children. If exercised regularly, bulldogs are well-suited for apartment life. American bulldogs slobber and drool; keep a towel ready. The breed can be trained quickly for work on a farm or ranch.
| Training: | Very easy to train |
| Hunting Companion: | Yes |
| Jolly for Jogging: | Yes |
| Sighting Capabilities: | No |
| Ideal for Tracking: | Yes |
| Retrieving Skills: | No |
| Pointing Breed: | No |
| Herding Skills: | No |
| Dutiful Watchdog: | Yes |
| Security Guard Capable: | Yes |
| Police Performer: | No |
| Wet Water rescues: | No |
| Assist Disable Owners: | No |
| Dog Sledding: | No |
| Able to Perform Dog Carting: | Yes |
| Agile/Zippy: | No |
| Fun with Lure Coursing: | No |
| Obedient: | No |
| Possible Schutzhund Work: | No |
| Trainable for Tricks: | No |
