Today, let’s dive into why the American Bulldog could be the ideal furry sidekick for your on-the-go life. Whether you’re a weekend hiker, a city stroller, or a family that thrives on outdoor fun, this breed has qualities worth knowing about.
American Bulldogs
If you’re someone who loves hitting the road, exploring new trails, or simply living an active lifestyle, you probably want a canine companion as energetic and ready for adventure as you are. Perhaps the American Bulldog—a breed that might just tick all your boxes for sporty, loving, and oh-so-loyal.
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Bulldogs were originally bred for bull-baiting in the 17th century. Later, when this gruesome sport went out of fashion, Bulldogs slowly became family dogs in England.
The English version of the breed was brought to North America to be used as working dogs on farms. Due to their strength, intelligence, agility, and loyalty, they were often used for both hunting and herding.These Bulldogs held a variety of jobs held over the centuries: guardians, cattle chasers, farm dogs, and hunting partners.
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History Of The American Bulldog
Though the breed has been in the United States since the 17th century, the American Bulldog started to become more popular in the late 1980s, according to the American Bulldog Association (ABA).
By the late 1940s, the breed was almost extinct, and only survived by devoted breeders like John D. Johnson and Alan Scott who started breeding American Bulldogs after the war. Johnson began crossing his original lines with an English bulldog from the northern UK that had maintained its pre-ban genetic athletic vigor, creating the Bully type American Bulldog, also known as the Johnson type. During this period, two different lines of Bulldogs appeared but today’s American Bulldog is a cross between the two.
Registration Of American Bulldogs History
- The United Kennel Club (UKC) recognized the breed in 1999.
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- The American Bulldog Association was founded in 1989
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- The United Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1999
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- The American Bulldog is not registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC), but the AKC recognized the breed into its Foundation Stock Service in 2019.
Physical Characteristics
Think “muscle-bound powerhouse,” and you wouldn’t be far off. These dogs are quintessentially robust and athletic. Adult males typically weigh between 75 and 125 pounds, while females come in a bit lighter, around 60 to 100 pounds. But it’s not just about size—these dogs exude strength without any hint of unwieldiness. Their bodies are compact yet well-muscled, giving them a balanced, agile profile that speaks to their history as farm workers and guardians.
Height-wise, adult American Bulldogs usually stand between 20 and 28 inches at the shoulder. They have a broad chest, strong neck, and a slightly arched back that hints at their endurance and stamina. These aren’t couch potatoes; they’re built for movement.
One cannot talk about the American Bulldog without spotlighting their iconic head—large, broad, and square-shaped, with a pronounced jaw and strong muzzle. Their expression, often described as alert and confident.
Adult Female American Bulldog
Temperament
American Bulldogs are loyal, intelligent, and active dogs who require focused training and plenty of exercise. They love to spend their days engaging in physical activities and interacting with their families.
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Beyond loyalty and playfulness, American Bulldogs are known for their intelligence and adaptability. They catch on quickly to training and enjoy tasks that challenge their smarts. What’s more, their affectionate nature means they’re just as happy curling up by your side after a busy day as they are bounding around in the park.
Health Concerns
Elbow and Hip Dysplasia
According to the ABA, American Bulldogs, like many other larger dog breeds, can be prone to elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. These conditions are where those joints don’t fit together properly. This can cause pain and, if left untreated, arthritis.
​Allergies
​American Bulldogs can have food or environmental allergies caused by an overactive immune system, according to the ABA. Signs that may include that your dog has allergies are: 
If you notice any of these signs in your American Bulldog, contact your veterinarian for guidance. Bulldog Allergies >
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​​Eyes​
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Cherry eye: A condition where the third eyelid protrudes and becomes inflamed.
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Cataracts: A clouding of the eye lens.
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Glaucoma: A condition that increases pressure within the eye and can lead to blindness.
​Cardiovascular
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Heart disease: American bulldogs are prone to several types of heart disease, including cardiomyopathy.
​Endocrine
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Hypothyroidism: A condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone
Dental Problems
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Dental Problems:Due to their short and crowded teeth, they are prone to dental problems.
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Obesity
American bulldogs are prone to obesity, which can exacerbate other health issues.
American Bulldogs
American Bulldogs indeed make excellent family pets with their loyal and playful nature, thriving in active households. Their strong bonding with families and protective instincts, combined with their athleticism and need for regular exercise, make them well-suited for families who enjoy outdoor activities and endurance sessions. Early socialization and training help them develop into well-balanced companions.
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A loyal and protective breed that can make a great family pet if you're willing to put in the work to train 'em right. These muscular pups have a strong prey drive and can be a bit stubborn, so you gotta be the alpha dog from day one. With consistent training, positive reinforcement, and setting clear boundaries, your bulldog will learn who's boss and aim to please. They've got a ton of energy to burn, so long daily walks or play sessions in a fenced yard are a must.
Properly socialized bulldogs are real sweethearts with their humans and great with kids, but they can be a bit wary of strangers at first. Once they know you're part of their pack though, you've got a devoted best friend for life who'll always have your back.
Buying from a responsible breeder is vital, pet shops and certain online puppy listing platforms, sell 'puppy mill' puppies, that have not been health screened with one or both parents, or have a healthy breeding lineage, and they have not been socialized at a critical young development age. Read our how to spot a 'puppy mill' .
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