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The American Bulldog is a descendant of a generic bulldog type of dog breed brought into the region that is now the Southern United States by working-class immigrants many years ago. These were all-around working dogs used by small farmers and ranchers for several tasks around the farm.
They were often found working as catch dogs, stock dogs, and overall farm guardians. When feral pigs were introduced to the New World, they had no natural predators and the population quickly grew out of control.
In addition to their farm duties, the settlers found the bulldog-type dog to be the best solution they had for dealing with it. So, the bulldog continued to thrive, especially in the South.
One of the facts about American Bulldogs is that they almost disappeared. The breed was near extinction by the time World War II began and it is thanks to the efforts of John D. Johnson and Alan Scott that we have what we know today as the American Bulldog.
Modern American Bulldogs can still be found working as all-around utility dogs, farm dogs, catch dogs, cattle drovers, and more. They can also be found competing in dog sports, working as a guardian, police, or military dog, and are also popular as a family pet.
American Bulldog Puppies Temperament
Overall, this dog breed tends to be confident, social, and is most at ease and relaxed when they are with the people they love. Properly socialized, they tend to be sweethearts with gentle, fun-loving natures.
The American Bulldog is affectionate and adores their families. They also tend to love children and tend to be good with other animals.
American Bulldogs can have a high prey drive, so you will want to make sure you introduce and socialize them properly with other small animals in the household. Due to their protective nature, they can be aloof towards strangers and strange dogs, especially when they are younger. Early socialization can help them be more comfortable navigating their guardian instincts.
This is an emotional dog breed and these dogs thrive on human attention and affection, so they tend to bond strongly with their owners and may come across as clingy sometimes.
They will also often convince themselves that they are lap dogs regardless of their size, so make sure you are ready for a lot of love and cuddles with your American Bulldog, drool and all!
Adaptability
The American Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They are strong, high-energy working dogs that love being around their favorite humans. This makes them better suited to larger homes with space for them to run.
They are not generally a good fit for apartment living, but they can adapt as long as they get more than enough exercise and attention every day.
Because they do tend to bond strongly with their owners and want to be near them, they do not tend to do well with long periods of time alone.
As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, but can adapt to well to most climates.
As a brachycephalic, or snub-nosed or flat-faced, dog breed, they are more sensitive to heat and you will need to monitor them closely while out with them in higher temperatures.
Health
There are some health issues that can be found in specific genetic lines and are not common to the breed overall, but these can be ruled out with genetic tests.
Some potential health conditions to be aware of in general with the American Bulldog include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, thyroid disorders, kidney disorders, bone cancer, and eye-related issues like ectropion, entropion, and cherry eye.
Good breeding practices and the health of the parents make a big difference in the health of American Bulldog puppies.
Talking to the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help allay potential concerns.
Owner Experience
American Bulldogs are highly trainable and eager to please, so they are a good fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time dog owners.
They can have a stubborn streak and they do grow into a large, powerful dog, so a first-time dog owner may want to consider enrolling in puppy training classes.
As with any dog breed, early and ongoing training and socialization are important for your American Bulldog puppy to grow into a well-rounded, and a well-behaved, dog.
Size
Fully-grown American Bulldogs usually stand 20-25 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 60-100 pounds.
On average, males stand 22-25 inches tall and weigh 75-100 pounds while females stand 20-23 inches tall and weigh 60-80 pounds.
Bottom Line
The American Bulldog is a working class breed of dog with an exciting personality.
They are at ease with their family, and love plenty of attention. They are a strong, muscular breed with a smooth coat.
This diverse canine is a capable watchdog, or an alluring family pet. They often enjoy an active lifestyle and love to exercise. They are also used by people to hunt boar, and also to drive cattle in some cases.