An American Bulldog poses in the forest.

American Bulldog

Height

20 - 25"

Weight

60 - 125 lbs

Type

N/A

Life Expectancy

10 - 12 years

Area of Origin

United States

American Bulldogs are renowned for their size and athleticism, as well as an unexpected loyalty and amiability. Descendants of the Old English Bulldog, these gentle giants do well with families, especially children. However, due to their initial vocation as guard dogs, it's best to take caution when introducing them to strangers and other animals. Socialization is critical at a young age for these dogs and they do best with an experienced owner. This is not a breed suited for small living spaces, like apartments, since they require room to exercise and play. With the right environment and proper training, they can become wonderful family companions.

Energy Level

Playfulness

Friendliness to dogs

Friendliness to strangers

exercise requirements

affection level

friendliness to other pets

watchfulness

Grooming Requirements

Vocality

When Was the American Bulldog Breed Developed?

The American Bulldog breed was developed in the southern United States sometime in the 1700s. They were created by crossbreeding the English Bulldog, the American Pit Bull Terrier, and the Bullmastiff, and intended to be a massive, powerful, and ferocious breed. They were initially used as farming dogs to help herd larger animals and hunt potential predators.

There are two different versions of the breed: the Classic, which is larger than the Standard version, and the Standard version, which is slightly smaller and has a shorter muzzle.

The American Bulldog has yet to be recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Caring for an American Bulldog

What Kind of Diet Does an American Bulldog Need?

Bulldogs should be fed a high-quality, well-balanced large-breed dog food for their first 14 months to ensure proper bone and muscle development. Because of their sheer size, feeding will become expensive over time. Consult your veterinarian to help determine a healthy meal plan.

How Much Grooming Does an American Bulldog Need?

A monthly bath and brushing are enough to keep an American Bulldog healthy and happy. They do, however, tend to drool and slobber quite a bit, so keep their lips and the skin around the mouth clean and dry to prevent bacterial infections.

Are American Bulldogs Healthy?

Like most large-breed dogs, American Bulldogs are prone to a variety of diseases.

They should be screened for hip and elbow dysplasia at a young age. Hip dysplasia is a common congenital disease caused by an improperly developed hip joint, which prevents smooth and natural movement of the hind legs. Dogs with this condition typically need surgery to walk comfortably. Elbow dysplasia is a similar condition that affects the front limbs.

The American Bulldog breed has an average life expectancy of 10 to 12 years.

American Bulldogs are predisposed to: hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, brachycephalic syndrome, laryngeal paralysis, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, patent ductus arteriosus, tetralogy of Fallot syndrome, ventricular septal defect, aortic stenosis, urolithiasis, deafness, demodectic mange, entropion, prolapse of the third eyelid (cherry eye), and osteosarcoma.

How Much Training Does an American Bulldog Need?

Positive reinforcement training and socialization must be started at an early age for this breed. Without proper training, they can become aggressive toward other animals and strangers, due to their natural instinct to guard and protect.

This is not a dog for first-time pet owners. Those with training experience and an active lifestyle are best suited for this breed.

How Much Exercise Does an American Bulldog Need?

This is a massive dog breed with a high energy level that loves to play and interact with their owners. They need to be walked two to three times a day for at least 20 minutes to keep them healthy and out of trouble.

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Are You Ready to Adopt an American Bulldog?

To adopt an American Bulldog, start by making sure a dog of this size and demeanor will fit your lifestyle. Use our pet adoption checklist to walk through each step in the adoption process. Complete the necessary adoption applications and be prepared for interviews or home visits. Spend time with potential dogs to find a good match. Finally, prepare your home for the new pet, ensuring it's safe and welcoming.

Pet Insurance Options for American Bulldogs

Pet insurance for an American Bulldog may help cover costs for conditions like cancer and elbow dysplasia. Consider a policy that includes hereditary and congenital conditions, flexible coverage options, and reasonable premiums.

Use our insurance aggregator tool to compare providers and find the best plan for your dog's unique needs.

What Are the Physical Characteristics of an American Bulldog?

How Big Are American Bulldogs?

The American Bulldog is a stocky and muscular breed. Males weigh anywhere from 75 to 125 pounds and females weigh between 60 and 80 pounds. Males stand 22 to 25 inches in height, while females are 20 to 23 inches tall. People often get the American Pitbull and the American Bulldog confused. The American Bulldog is larger in both height and weight. Bulldogs also have facial wrinkles and a wider chest than the Pit Bull Terrier.

What Do American Bulldogs Look Like?

American Bulldogs have round heads, small, folded ears, black eyes, and wide nostrils. They’re known for having large, drooping jowls that hang over their bottom lip and muscular jaws.

Are American Bulldogs Strong?

Strong and stocky, the American Bulldog is built to take down stray cattle and has the muscular frame to prove it.

Are American Bulldog Tails Docked?

Though some Bulldogs have a docked tail, the natural tail is far more common. It’s long, strong, and narrow at the tip.

American Bulldog Front Legs

Bulldog legs are straight and parallel, featuring massive shoulders and dense bones.

What Colors Are Common for American Bulldogs?

The American Bulldog coat is short, slick, and seen in a variety of colors and patterns. Solid white and fawn are the most popular, but solid brindle, white with black or brindle patches, red, black, and blue are all possible for the breed.

American Bulldog Back Legs

The Bulldog hindquarters are powerful, well-muscled, and symmetrical.

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