American Bulldog Scientific Classification
Kingdom Animalia
Phylum Chordata
Class Mammalia
Order Carnivora
Family Canidae
Genus Canis
Scientific Name: Canis lupus
American Bulldog Locations
North America
American Bulldog Facts
Color Black, Tan, White, Red, Brown
Skin Type Hair
Lifespan 10 – 12 years
Type Mastiff
Group Dog
Diet Omnivore
Average Litter Size 8
Training Hard
Energy level Active
Size 20 – 27 inches
Weight 60 – 130 pounds
2 Pros and Cons of Owning an American Bulldog
Pros
Loyal and Strong
These are the most trusted pets on farms worldwide. Despite their small size, they never disappoint their owners.
Fun and Friendly
They love to play with families; you never miss a fun moment if you have a pup.
Cons
Separation Anxiety
They are family dogs and want to be with family all the time. If they are left alone, they show signs of distress.
Aggressive tendencies
Because of their stubborn nature, some untrained Bulldogs are known to attack humans and other animals.
American Bulldog History and Origins
The American Bulldog breed was initially produced for bullwaiting in the 17th century. Later, when this gruesome sport became obsolescent, Bulldogs progressively became family dogs in England. They were carried to North America to be used as functioning dogs on farms. Due to their powerful bodies and cleverness, Bulldogs were typically used for hunting and herding.
After World War 2, this dog breed became almost extinct, and only a few active breeders, such as John D. Johnson and Alan Scott, continued breeding American Bulldogs once more after the war. During this period, two different lines of Bulldogs appeared, but the present dog breed is a cross between the two.
The United Kennel Club (UKC) recognized the dog breed for the first time in 1999. The American Kennel Club (AKC) does not register the dog breed, but it added it to its Foundation Stock Service in 2019.
American Bulldog Behavior and Temperament
The American Bulldog breed is intelligent, friendly, and affectionate. These powerful dogs are not for the beginner owner, and operative training plays a significant role in ensuring they are safe, happy companions. They are usually prey-driven but sometimes become protective of their loved ones.
It is necessary to build a strong bond with these dogs, understand them individually, and make them a suitable choice as pets. Boundaries and rules must be established through regular training from a young age to ensure these dogs learn how to be fun-loving and caring family members.
Having different types of toys and challenges to make them mentally and physically strong encourages positive behavior and prevents boredom; otherwise, they become destructive. This dog breed shows different behaviors throughout life, such as jumping, chewing, and nibbling as puppies.
Size and Weight
These are medium—to large-sized dogs with tiny legs and distinctively wrinkled faces. They are strong dogs, which makes them the most popular pet dogs on farms and ranches.
The average male measures 20 – 27 inches and weighs 60 – 130 pounds. Females are significantly smaller than males. The average female measures 20 – 23 inches and weighs 60 – 90 pounds.
Height and Weight of Males
Height (Male) 20 – 27 inches
Weight (Male) 60 – 130 pounds
Height and Weight of Females
Height (Female) 20 – 23 inches
Weight (Female) 60 – 90 pounds
American Bulldog Lifespan
The average lifespan of an American Bulldog is 10 – 12 years, but with proper care and diet, they may also live to 16 years of age. This is the fittest breed of bulldogs, with a very long life expectancy and some genetic health problems.
Best food for the American Bulldog
Because of their muscular bodies, they need high-quality animal-based proteins to fuel their strong muscles. Chicken, lamb, beef, and fish are the primary protein sources. In addition to protein, well-mixed healthy fats, carbohydrates, and assorted minerals are also necessary.
The recommended protein content for a growing puppy is 22% to 25%, while an adult maintenance diet with 18% protein is necessary. A healthy diet ensures that your dog keeps up a good weight. Balanced weight also helps avoid issues like hip and elbow dysplasia.
Avoiding food that causes inflammation is helpful, as this breed is prone to many conditions, such as itchy skin. Proper nutrition also lessens the chances of your dog getting sick.
Dogs’ nutritional requirements change with age. To ensure that your dog gets everything needed, provide it with food with additional beneficial ingredients, including superfoods.
Maintenance and Grooming
Due to their short coats, American Bulldogs need more grooming. Brushing once a week is adequate for retaining their coat, making it charming and glossy, and removing loose hairs.
Trim your dog’s nails frequently and examine the ears for coarse smells. Good dental hygiene is essential, as dogs are disposed of for dental disease.
Exercise
Looking at their muscular bodies, you might think they need much exercise, and you should be correct. They play tug-of-war, take long walks, and grind on robust toys.
These dogs are brilliant. They are mainly farm dogs that have proven to do many tasks and require mental stimulation. Indoors, you can satisfy them with puzzle feeders and treat toys. Proper exercise is necessary for their body and mental health.
Training
They need sufficient socialization, and during the socialization period of 8 to 16 weeks, they become well-adjusted adult dogs. This means taking them to places to see many inexperienced sights, including people and other pets. Ignore barking and whining and instantly reward decent, lenient behavior.
They are strong dogs and need firm owners who know when to establish and hold boundaries. They are very eager to please, especially when delicious treats are involved. Start training with basics such as their name and commands like sit or stay. They can learn advanced commands. Some are famous for excelling at athletics, like agility.
Puppies
American Bulldog puppies are a very lovable and versatile dog breed. These pups have muscular bodies, intelligence, and brave behavior. They are often bred to work as farm dogs but are also good companions for homes and families.
American Bulldog Common Health Problems
Although this dog breed is healthy, it is prone to various skin-related diseases and dysplasia.
Elbow and Hip Dysplasia
These dogs are prone to elbow and hip dysplasia, which occurs when these joints do not fit together correctly. If left coarse, this may cause dog agony and lead to arthritis. Responsible breeders also check their dogs for this genetic situation.
Itchy Skin
In unusual situations, American Bulldog puppies are prone to skin problems known as ichythyosis, which causes the dog’s skin to fleek and become itchy. This genetic alteration infection prevents the outer layer of the skin from developing well. Regular bathing is also necessary to lessen the disease.
Allergies
These dogs are prone to allergies, and the symptoms of allergy are:
- Hair loss
- Licking
- Red skin
- Recurring skin infections
Eye Problems
Their form makes them prone to eye problems, like ectrentropion and red eye. If you notice anything that may damage your dog’s eyes, talk to your vet about treating eye irritations.
American Bulldog Popular Names
- Boo
- Monster
- Tulip
- Donut
- Bear
- King
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Is an American Bulldog a good family dog?
Their love and affection for children make them good family dogs. This dog breed requires enough exercise and doesn’t like being alone for long. They may show destructive behavior if bored, so consider your lifestyle before getting this dog.
Are American Bulldogs banned in the UK?
According to the government’s announcement on September 15th, the breed is not banned in the UK. However, the related breed, American XL Bully, is being considered for a ban.
How strong is an American Bulldog?
The American Bulldog breed is intelligent, friendly, and affectionate. These powerful dogs are not for the beginner owner, and operative training plays a significant role in ensuring they are safe, happy companions. They are usually prey-driven but sometimes become protective of their loved ones.
What do American Bulldogs eat?
Because of their muscular bodies, dogs need high-quality animal-based proteins to fuel their strong muscles. Chicken, lamb, beef, and fish are the primary protein sources. In addition to protein, well-mixed healthy fats, carbohydrates, and assorted minerals are also necessary. The recommended protein content for a growing puppy is 22% to 25%, while an adult maintenance diet has 18% protein.
Can American Bulldogs be aggressive?
They are a broad, charming dog breed with high bite power. Although they are considered friendly with children, they were responsible for 15 dangerous bites in 2017, so they are aggressive towards other pets.
What is the lifespan of the American Bulldog?
The average lifespan of an American Bulldog is 10 – 12 years, but with proper care and diet, they may also live to 16 years of age. This is the fittest breed of bulldogs, with a very long life expectancy and some genetic health problems.
Do American Bulldogs have health problems?
They are prone to various health problems, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, itchy skin, eye problems, and allergies. You protect your dogs from these diseases by proper care and regular veterinary checkups.
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