American Bulldogs 101

Working group

The American Bulldog is what the English Bulldog used to look like. The split came as early as the 18th century, and American Bulldog kept the longer legs and muzzle the English once had. The American Bulldog was used in the South to catch feral livestock and guard farmsteads.

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Hearkens back to original Bulldog type.

The breed is often misidentified as a Pit Bull Terrier, and they do look similar. They are also similar in their devotion to family, although their size and strength may make them unsuitable for families with small children or elderly adults. Early socialization, manners training and consistent handling is essential with these strong and intelligent dogs. They are generally not enthusiastic about strange dogs, and may not be safe around small family pets.

Energy level
Energy LevelEnergy Level
Bark level
  • bark-very-vocalVery vocal
  • bark-talkativeTalkative
  • bark-as-neededAs needed
Size
20 to 25 inches tall
Group Size Large
Lifespan
10 to 12 years
020
Weight
60 to 100 lbs
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Mature adult American Bulldog

4 years

Risk level for common American Bulldog conditions

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Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

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Ear infection

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Foreign body ingestion

Senior American Bulldog

5+ years

Risk level for common American Bulldog conditions

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Skin cancer

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Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

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Arthritis

American Bulldog puppy

0 to 9 months

Risk level for common American Bulldog conditions

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Skin allergies

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Ear infection

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Gastritis

Young adult American Bulldog

10 months to 3 years

Risk level for common American Bulldog conditions

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Foreign body ingestion

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Skin allergies

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Ear infection

Mature adult American Bulldog

4 years

Risk level for common American Bulldog conditions

risk-level-bar

Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

risk-level-bar

Ear infection

risk-level-bar

Foreign body ingestion

Senior American Bulldog

5+ years

Risk level for common American Bulldog conditions

risk-level-bar

Skin cancer

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Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

risk-level-bar

Arthritis

American Bulldog puppy

0 to 9 months

Risk level for common American Bulldog conditions

risk-level-bar

Skin allergies

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Ear infection

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Gastritis

Young adult American Bulldog

10 months to 3 years

Risk level for common American Bulldog conditions

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Foreign body ingestion

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Skin allergies

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Ear infection

2-American bulldog laying down GettyImages-454071391

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The American Bulldog was developed in the Southern states, but with an English dog in mind. What the English Bulldog was before bull-baiting was banned is what the developers of the American Bulldog wanted. Some have argued the University of Georgia’s mascot should in fact be the American Bulldog, a dog of the South.

American Bulldog coat care and colors

The American Bulldog’s coat is easy to care for: Sleek and short, all it needs is weekly brushing and an occasional bath to keep it in perfect condition. Most of these dogs come in white, with patches of brindle or solid, dark colors. White dogs can be prone to sunburn and should avoid prolonged exposure to sun.

The American Bulldog is a large, strong dog, and that can make nail trims difficult. Avoid wrestling matches with adult dogs by acclimating puppies to having their feet handled and nails clipped. Some dogs better tolerate nail grinding rather than trimming, so experiment with which method works best.

American Bulldog exercise & training

Loves walks

Exercise level

The American Bulldog doesn’t need massive amounts of exercise. A long daily walk will suffice. Because of the breed’s strength, though, good leash manners are a must.

Independent study

Trainability

American Bulldogs are strong, smart and independent. Consistency and leadership is an essential part of training, as is rewarding good behavior.

American Bulldog fun facts

Top girl names for American Bulldogs

100%

of American Bulldogs are female

0%

of American Bulldogs are male

Top boy names for American Bulldogs

Nationwide loves American Bulldogs of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like American Bulldogs

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