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American Bulldog

Working Group

Strong, confident and loyal

Breed Overview

The American Bulldog is a muscular and powerful breed known for its strength, confidence, and loyalty. Originally bred for farm work, they have evolved into versatile working dogs and beloved family companions. With their distinctive appearance and strong personality, American Bulldogs make a lasting impression wherever they go.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Large
  • Height Male: 22-27 inches; Female: 20-25 inches
  • Weight 70-120 pounds; Female: 60-100 pounds
  • Lifespan 10 to 15 years
  • Coat The American Bulldog has a short, smooth coat that lies close to the body.
  • Color American Bulldogs come in various colors and markings, including: white, brindle, fawn, red, brown, black, and piebald (white with patches of color).
  • Grooming Low maintenance. Their short coat requires regular brushing to minimize shedding and occasional baths as needed.
  • Temperament They are confident, intelligent, and protective, but can be assertive and dominant, requiring firm leadership and consistent training.
  • Energy Level High
  • Intelligence High
Health Needs
  • Exercise High. American Bulldogs require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental health.
  • Trainability Early socialization and obedience training are essential. Positive reinforcement methods work well with this breed.
  • Socialization Proper socialization and training are essential to ensure they are well-behaved and obedient.
  • Grooming American Bulldogs have a short coat that requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing helps to minimize shedding and keep their coat healthy and shiny.
  • Health Issues Prone to certain genetic health issues such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and certain heart conditions
Environment
  • Suitability for Families American Bulldogs can be great family pets for experienced dog owners who understand their needs. They are affectionate with children and form strong bonds with their human family members.
  • Suitable Living Space American Bulldogs thrive in homes with ample space to move around and explore. They love having a job to do.

About the Breed

Bred for their strength and versatility, they were used for a variety of tasks, including catching livestock and guarding property. Over time, American Bulldogs became valued as loyal and dependable companions, known for their courage and protective instincts.

History of the Breed

The history of the American Bulldog dates back to the 17th century, when they were used by farmers and settlers for various purposes. They played a crucial role in working on farms, protecting livestock, and serving as guardians of the homestead. Despite facing challenges such as declining numbers and breed preservation efforts, American Bulldogs have persevered and thrived as beloved family pets and working dogs.

United States of American (USA)

Fun Facts About the American Bulldogs

What To Expect When Caring For an American Bulldog

Health

American Bulldogs may be prone to certain genetic health issues such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and certain heart conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and responsible breeding practices are crucial for maintaining their health.

Grooming

American Bulldogs have a short coat that requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing helps to minimize shedding and keep their coat healthy and shiny.

Exercise

American Bulldogs are active dogs that require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks, playtime, and outdoor activities are essential for meeting their exercise needs.

Training

Early socialization and obedience training are important for American Bulldogs to ensure they are well-behaved and obedient companions. Positive reinforcement methods work well with this intelligent breed.

Nutrition

A balanced diet tailored to their age, size, and activity level is essential for American Bulldogs' overall health and well-being. High-quality dog food and portion control help to maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity.

With the right care, training, and love, your American Bulldog will be a loyal, loving companion for years to come.

American Bulldog Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

American Bulldogs are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health problems. Early detection and regular veterinary check-ups can help manage or mitigate some of these issues. Here's a list of some of their common health concerns and recommended tests:

Description: A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis and mobility issues.

Description: A developmental abnormality affecting the elbow joint, causing pain and lameness.

Description: A condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing irritation and potential damage to the eye.

Description: American Bulldogs may be prone to various skin allergies, including environmental and food allergies, which can cause itching, redness, and skin infections.

Description: Some American Bulldogs may develop heart conditions such as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a condition where the heart muscle becomes weakened and enlarged.

Description: A thyroid disorder that affects metabolism, leading to weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems.

Hip Dysplasia

Description: A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis and mobility issues.

Elbow Dysplasia

Description: A developmental abnormality affecting the elbow joint, causing pain and lameness.

Entropion

Description: A condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing irritation and potential damage to the eye.

Skin Allergies

Description: American Bulldogs may be prone to various skin allergies, including environmental and food allergies, which can cause itching, redness, and skin infections.

Heart Disease

Description: Some American Bulldogs may develop heart conditions such as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a condition where the heart muscle becomes weakened and enlarged.

Hypothyroidism

Description: A thyroid disorder that affects metabolism, leading to weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems.

Regular veterinary check-ups and open communication with your veterinarian are crucial for maintaining your American Bulldog's health and addressing any concerns promptly. Additionally, responsible breeding practices, including health screenings of breeding dogs, can help reduce the incidence of genetic health issues in future generations.

Prescription Medication Assistance for American Bulldogs

The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

How Much Does It Cost To Care For An American Bulldog?

The annual cost to care for an American Bulldog can vary depending on various factors such as location, the dog’s age and health, lifestyle, and individual preferences. However, here’s a general breakdown of the expenses you can expect:

A purebred American Bulldog puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

Initial Cost

$1500 - 3000

Potential Additional Costs:

When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow American Bulldog enthusiasts.

Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

Initial Cost

$200 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

Choose a high-quality dog food and treats for a large breed dog.

Estimated Cost

$300 - 800

Potential Additional Costs:

Learn more about the best quality dog food for dogs.

American Bulldogs have short coats that require minimal grooming, but occasional baths, nail trimming, and ear cleaning may be necessary.

Estimated Cost

$100 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, and nail trimmers.

Routine veterinary care including annual check-ups, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and dental care is essential for maintaining your American Bulldog's health.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your dog's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

Your American Bulldog will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

Estimated Cost

$100 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

Estimated Cost

$500 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

Estimated Cost

$50 - 200

Total Estimated Annual Cost:

$3150 - $7300

It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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