Country of origin: The American Bulldog is a descendant of the English Bulldog, imported to the American South to catch livestock and protect plantations, and used in the North to fight off feril pigs. The English Bulldog (or simply, Bulldog) was bred in England in the 1500's for bull baiting, a popular gambling sport in which one or more dogs were matched up against a chained bull (or bear). These dogs were bred for sheer fighting capacity, and they were famed for latching onto their prey with an iron jaw which they refused to release - they could even suffocate opponents this way. The American Bulldog is perhaps the most faithful strain to the English Bulldog, as it was imported to America before the English Bulldog was crossed with the Pug before the Industrial Revolution. American Bulldogs are generally divided into 2 strains - the classic American Bulldog, also known as the 'Johnson" (after it's breeder) or "bully", and the Standard American Bulldog, also known as 'Scott' (after it's breeder) or "performance.
Size: The American Bulldog is a bit faster and substantially larger than the English or French Bulldogs at 50-71 cm (20 to 28 in) and 27-54 kg (60-120 lbs). The Johnson American Bulldog is the larger of the two strains. The American Bulldog’s face resembles a Pit Bull, but the muzzle is boxier and it typically has uncropped ears and a bulkier head. The American Bulldog is built strong and agile, with a large chest and legs, low-set tail, and stocky frame.
Coat: The American Bulldog has a short coat which is close and stiff to the touch. Most American Bulldogs are white with patches, but any color combination is acceptable except solid black or blue, or white with black and tan.
Character: The American Bulldog is powerful, confident, and agile. It is naturally alert, inquisitive and fearless. It has often been called heroic, and when deployed against an intruder it is nearly unstoppable. The American Bulldog is a highly obedient and confident breed.
Temperament: The American Bulldog is affectionate toward children if properly trained and socialized. It can be somewhat standoffish or aggressive around strangers. Because they were originally bred to bring down bulls and other livestock, American Bulldogs have a strong aggressive instinct with other animals. They should be properly socialized when young.
Care: When the American Bulldog is shedding, use a coarse comb to remove dead hairs. It is prone to hip dysplasia. The American Bulldog has a lifespan of 8-12 years. Most American Bulldogs cannot swim and are averse to hot weather.
Training: Consistency is important, but the American Bulldog is highly sensitive to the tone of its handler's voice, making training a fairly simple process. It is inquisitive and quick to learn simple tasks, yet unpredictable as it is a bit stubborn on occasion. Training should begin as early in the American Bulldog's life as possible. It retains what it learns for a very long time.
Activity: The American Bulldog is very energetic and needs lots of exercise. American Bulldogs enjoy long walks, jogging, playing catch, and agility or skills trials.
