The American Bulldog Breed is a balanced athletic dog known for strength, stamina, agility, and disposition. They were originally developed as farm laborers and utility dogs.
The English Bulldog is the forerunner of the American bulldog breed standard. The pitbull American bulldog mix is thought to have arrived in America as early as the 17th century. Immigrants brought their working bulldogs to the United States in the nineteenth century. Small farmers and ranchers utilized this versatile dog for various jobs, such as catch dogs, stock dogs, and farm guardians. The breed has mostly survived because of its capacity to hunt and capture feral pigs, especially in the southern regions.
Before the Americans, many different names originally knew the American Bulldog American Bulldog. In some Southern states, he was called the White English Southern Bulldog, Dog Trazodone, but most people called him “bulldog.” The breed was named a bulldog because they performed actual bulldog tasks, not because of their appearance.
Life Expectancy for American Bulldogs Characteristics
Physical characteristics
Dogs that are American Bulldogs are robust and stocky. Usually standing 22 to 28 inches tall and weighing between 70 and 120 pounds, male bulldogs are noticeably bigger and stockier than females. Bulldog females weigh between 60 and 100 pounds and stand 20/26 inches tall.
The breed is distinguished by its powerful jaws, broad, square muzzle, and huge, square head. Although certain breed members may have blue, gray, or hazel eyes, their eyes are usually round or almond-shaped and brown in hue. The lips usually droop, and the ears are folded forward in a flap.
The short, velvety coat of an American Bulldog is usually white with black, brindle, black, red, or gray or brown patches.
Personality
American Bulldogs are known for their bravery, loyalty, and readiness to defend their masters in emergencies. They make great watchdogs, however, because they are incredibly loving and never act hostilely or aggressively toward their family or those they trust. American Bulldogs love the company of many people and get along well with children.
Lifespan
The average longevity of an American Bulldog is approximately 11.5 years, with a usual lifespan of 10 to 16 years. The American Bulldog is the healthiest of all the bulldog breeds, including the English and French bulldogs. It has fewer genetic health issues and the longest life expectancy.
How long do American Bulldogs live and American Bulldog Care Tips
Training and exercise
Early socialization and puppy training sessions are strongly advised. American Bulldogs require rigorous routines, sound training techniques, and positive reinforcement to maintain appropriate boundaries.
Puppies and American Bulldogs are extremely active and athletic canines that need a lot of exercise and a variety of companion-related activities, like jogging, hiking, and tug-of-war sports. They dislike being left alone in a backyard and need frequent stimulation.
Grooming
Because they don’t shed much, American Bulldogs require little grooming upkeep. They must be brushed frequently to maintain a clean and glossy coat. Bathing them frequently is only necessary if they get soiled. The nails should be cut every two weeks, the ears cleaned roughly once a month, and the teeth washed frequently.
Nutrition
American Bulldogs need food high in animal protein/omega-3 fatty acids but low in carbohydrates to avoid gaining weight because they are muscular and energetic. You will need to monitor your pet’s food intake and get advice from your veterinarian regarding a particular diet if your breed is prone to obesity. Supplements for muscles and joints should also be given to adult bulldogs.
Living with Bulldogs
Your American Bulldogs will be content in any household, whether a city apartment or a family home with a large yard, as long as you keep them active and involved. When American Bulldogs try to eat their food or play with their toys, they may become a bit irritable, even though they usually get along well with other animals they’ve known since puppyhood.
Ensure your yard is securely fenced to ensure your dog may run about safely. American Bulldogs can be tenacious and easily leap over a fence when pursuing a squirrel or a rabbit.
Consider designing a busy box or maze to ensure adequate mental activity and avoid boredom, which could lead to unwanted conduct. Also, ensure your Bulldog has engaging toys to occupy him while you are away.
Common American Bulldog Health Issues
Although the American Bulldog is generally regarded as healthy, the breed does have certain hereditary problems, including:
- Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL, a group of advanced degenerative diseases of the central nervous system)
- Osteosarcoma (bone cancer)
- Hip dysplasia
- Disorders of the thyroid and kidney
- ACL injuries
- Elbow dysplasia
- Cherry eye (prolapsed third eyelid)
- Entropion (an ocular disease that causes the eyelids to roll inward)
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Elbow and Hip Dysplasia
The American Bulldog Association states that, like many other larger dog breeds, American Bulldogs may be susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia. When those joints don’t fit together correctly, certain issues occur. Pain and, if untreated, arthritis may result. Responsible American Bulldog breeders will check their pets for this hereditary disorder.
Itchy Skin
According to the American Bulldog Association, American Bulldog puppies may also be susceptible to ichthyosis, a rare skin disorder that makes the skin flake and become itchy. The condition, which can vary from moderate to severe, is caused by a genetic mutation that impairs the normal development of the skin’s outer layer. While dogs with severe cases of ichthyosis need to be bathed and oiled daily, American Bulldogs with mild cases need to be bathed more frequently.
Responsible American bulldog puppy will test their pups for ichthyosis, as they do for hip and elbow dysplasia.
Allergies
According to the American Bulldog Association, an overactive immune system can result in allergies in American Bulldogs. The following are indicators that your dog has allergies:
- Itchy skin and scratching
- Fur loss
- Licking
- Red skin
- Recurring skin infections
If you notice these signs in your American Bulldog, contact your veterinarian for guidance.
American Bulldog Breed History
In the 17th century, bulldogs were first bred for bull-baiting. In England, bulldogs gradually became family pets once this gory sport became outdated. The English breed was introduced to North America to be exploited as farm laborers. Bulldogs were frequently used for hunting and herding because of their strength, intelligence, agility, and devotion.
Due to dedicated breeders like John D. Johnson and Alan Scott, who began producing American Bulldogs after the war, the breed was on the verge of extinction by the end of World War II. Two distinct Bulldog lines emerged during this time, although the modern American Bulldog is a hybrid of the two.
The United Kennel Club (UKC) admitted the breed in 1999. Although not registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC), the American Bulldog was accepted into the AKC’s Foundation Stock Service in 2019.
How long does a American Bulldog Live?
American Bulldog puppies are usually fed three times a day. It’s crucial to work with your veterinarian to develop a puppy feeding program that strikes the correct balance between supplying the dog’s nutritional requirements and preventing obesity or digestive issues.
American Bulldog puppies should be given two meals a day as they age. When selecting food, pet owners should seek food approved by the (AAFCO) Association of American Feed Control Officials.
How Much Should You Feed an American Bulldog?
The needs and lifestyle of each dog determine how much food pet parents give them each day. Although the AAFCO-approved dog food bag will advise you on portion sizes based on your dog’s weight, it’s also a good idea to consult your veterinarian.
FAQs
How long does an American Bulldog live?
The average Scott American bulldog lifespan is 10–12 years.
Is an American Grey Bulldog a good family Dog?
With the right training and exercise, the American Bulldog may be a wonderful addition to your family. Breed experts advise obedience training and early, regular socializing for this bright and active breed. The American Bulldog Rescue claims that American Bulldogs have a close attachment to their families.
Are American Bulldogs Aggressive a Pit Bull?
In a way! The American Pit Bull Terrier isn’t a dog breed, according to the Animal Humane Society; rather, the phrase refers to a collection of breeds, such as American Bulldogs, American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and several crosses between these breeds.