American Bulldog

Breed Summary

The American Bulldogs are a well-balanced athletic dog that demonstrate great strength, endurance, agility, and a friendly attitude. Historically, they were bred to be a utility dog used for working the farm. American Bulldog has broad, square-shaped head, pendant-shaped ears, stocky, muscular body and strong legs. American Bulldog is bigger and faster than English Bulldog. Thanks to its powerful hind legs, American Bulldog can jump obstacles that are 6 to 7 feet high. The American Bulldog is a descendant of the English Bulldog. They came to the United States in the 1800s, with immigrants who brought their working bulldogs with them.

Coat

Length: Short

Characteristics: Straight

Colors: Brindle, Red, Fawn, white

Overall Grooming Needs: Low

Nutrition

American Bulldogs are healthy dogs and will do very well with a variety of quality dog foods. American Bulldog puppies should be fed a large-breed puppy food for the first 14 months of their life in order to ensure slow and steady growth. Puppies should not be fed added calcium until they are advanced to adult food. Adult dogs should be fed a quality large-breed food along with added supplements for joint, muscle and coat care.

Training

Early socialization and puppy training classes are vital in channeling the American Bulldog’s energy. They require a firm but loving hand to establish and retain proper boundaries. Stop American bulldogs from jumping on you by turning away and saying “no.” If the jumping behavior of your puppy is not corrected in early stage, it will travel into adulthood and cause potential danger.

Exercise

The American Bulldog is an athlete. For puppies, owners will need to practice non-impact exercises to decrease possible bone and joint damage. As adults, the American Bulldog will need a range of activities from jogs, hikes, tug-a-war games, to training exercises. The breed does not do well being left alone in a back yard. As this may lead to a variety of behavior problems related to pent-up energy. This breed requires frequent exercise and constant stimulation. Developing his athletic abilities will help this breed stay fit and happy.

Health Concerns

The American Bulldog is considered a healthy breed. Owners should maintain a schedule of examinations and vaccinations as recommended by their veterinarian during their lifetime. Hip and joint problems are a concern for this breed, hip and elbow evaluations should also be done. American Bulldog has the potential to develop genetic health problems that need to pre-screen by breeders for any potential breeding pairs.

Country of Origin: U.S.A

AKC Classification: Foundation Stock Service

UKC Classification: Companion Dog

Exercise Requirements: 20-40 minutes/day

Height: Female: 20-23 inches; Male: 22-25 inches

Weight: Female: 60-80 lbs; Male: 75-100 lbs

Physical traits: Stocky, Muscular, Strong

Personality traits/Temperament: Loyal, Self-confident

Energy Level: Laid back

Tendency to Drool: High

Tendency to Snore: High

Tendency to Bark: Low

Tendency to Dig: Low

Social/Attention Needs: Moderate

Life Expectancy: 10-12 years

Fun Fact

By the end of World War II, the American Bulldog was almost extinct in this country. John D. Johnson, a returning war veteran, resurrectted the breed and now they are the 6th most popular breed in America.

References

1. American Kennel Club. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.akc.org/

2. Dog Breeds | Hill’s Pet. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/breeds

3. List of Dog Breeds | Petfinder. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.petfinder.com/dog-breeds/

4. All Dog Breeds - Complete List of Dog Profiles. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/profiles

5. Dog Breeds | Types of Dogs | Purina. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.purina.com/dogs/dog-breeds