The American Bulldog

Key Facts:

Size: Large
Height: 48 - 71 cm (19 - 28 inches)
Weight: 65 - 130 lbs
Life Span: 12 years
Grooming: Minimal
Exercise: Demanding
Feeding: Medium
Temperament: Fearless & confident
Country of Origin: United States
Other Names: Old Country Bulldog

Temperament:
The American Bulldog is gentle, confident, fearless, determined and very protective. American Bulldogs should be socialized and trained not to be overly aggressive with other dogs despite their self-confidence and bravery. The American Bulldog breed generally loves children and have very strong protective instincts towards their handler and family. To help prevent American Bulldogs from becoming overly protective or dominant (which can lead to problems) they need to be socialized with a variety of animals, people and situations during there time as a puppy. They tend to be reserved when meeting strangers and make excellent guard dogs. American Bulldogs can make truly devoted and loving pets when they receive the proper training and socialization needed to form that bond at an early age.

Grooming:
American Bulldogs don't really need much grooming except when there coat is shedding. During these times the coat should be brushed regularly with a firm brush to remove the dead hairs, your American Bulldog and just about any dog will enjoy this.

Exercise:
American Bulldogs are very, very energetic and need all of the exercise you can provide. They enjoy long walks, jogging, running, or playing catch. If American Bulldogs receive adequate daily exercise they should be calm when indoors.

History:
In the 1800s a group of European immigrants brought the original type of Bulldog from England to the United States. These Bulldogs had been used for bull baiting and bull fighting in England until this brutal sport became illegal.

As a result these beautiful dogs disappeared from Britain and made their way to America with working class immigrants. These dogs were used to work on farms with livestock, but nearly became extinct by the end of World War II. It was John Johnson, Alan Scott and other dedicated breeders who managed to revive this breed and develop the American Bulldog.

General Appearance: Sturdy, powerful, athletic, muscular and hardy.
Color: Any color, color pattern, or combination of colors is acceptable, except for solid black, solid blue, and tricolor (white with patches of black and tan).
Coat: Short, close, and stiff.
Tail: Set low, tapering and can either be natural or docked.
Ears: Set high, of medium size and may be dropped, semi-pricked or even rose-shaped. The ears may be cropped but natural ears are preferred.
Body: The chest should be deep and moderately wide with well sprung ribs. The back is broad and muscular with the top line slightly declining downwards. The loin is short, broad, and slightly arched, blending into a moderately sloping croup. The flank is moderately tucked up and firm.

Additional Comments:
The American Bulldog is higher on the leg and much more agile than its cousin the English Bulldog. Some of these dogs have been known to leap six feet or more into the air.
The American Bulldog should not be confused with uniquely different breeds such as the American Staffordshire Terrier or the American Pit Bull Terrier.

Share this article on The American Bulldog with friends.

If you enjoyed this article please take a look at our Pet Tips and Information Archive.