American Bulldog
Bulldog with old-school style
American Bulldogs 101
Working groupThe American Bulldog is what the English Bulldog used to look like. The split came as early as the 18th century, and American Bulldog kept the longer legs and muzzle the English once had. The American Bulldog was used in the South to catch feral livestock and guard farmsteads.
What we love about American Bulldogs
Hearkens back to original Bulldog type.
The breed is often misidentified as a Pit Bull Terrier, and they do look similar. They are also similar in their devotion to family, although their size and strength may make them unsuitable for families with small children or elderly adults. Early socialization, manners training and consistent handling is essential with these strong and intelligent dogs. They are generally not enthusiastic about strange dogs, and may not be safe around small family pets.
Energy level
Energy level: 75% (High)
Bark level
- Very vocal
- Talkative
- As needed
Bark level: As needed. This breed only barks when necessary
Size
Size: 20 to 25 inches tall. This is a Large sized Dog.
- Energy level
- High (75%)
- Bark level
- As needed
- Height
- 20 to 25 inches
- Lifespan
- 10 to 12 years
- Weight
- 60 to 100 lbs
The American Bulldog stands 20 to 25 inches tall and weighs 60 to 100 lbs. American Bulldogs have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. They are known for a high (75%) energy level and a as needed bark.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How big do American Bulldogs get?
- American Bulldogs stand 20 to 25 inches tall and typically weigh between 60 and 100 pounds.
- How long do American Bulldogs live?
- The average lifespan of a American Bulldog is 10 to 12 years.
- Are American Bulldogs good for first-time dog owners?
- American Bulldogs are intelligent but have high energy. They do best with experienced owners who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
- Do American Bulldogs bark a lot?
- American Bulldogs typically only bark when necessary — they are not known to be excessive barkers.
My pet’s health plannerSM
This American Bulldog health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.
Mature adult American Bulldog
Risk level for common American Bulldog conditions
Mid-life American Bulldogs should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Cruciate ligament tear (knee) poses very high risk.
- Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
- Very High Risk
- Ear infection
- Above Average Risk
- Foreign body ingestion
- Above Average Risk
80% on risk scaleSenior American Bulldog
Risk level for common American Bulldog conditions
Senior American Bulldogs face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Skin cancer poses very high risk. Cruciate ligament tear (knee) is at high risk.
- Skin cancer
- Very High Risk
- Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
- High Risk
- Arthritis
- Moderate Risk
American Bulldog puppy
Risk level for common American Bulldog conditions
American Bulldog puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Skin allergies and Ear infection and Gastritis are at moderate risk.
- Skin allergies
- Moderate Risk
- Ear infection
- Moderate Risk
- Gastritis
- Moderate Risk
Young adult American Bulldog
Risk level for common American Bulldog conditions
As American Bulldogs grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant. Foreign body ingestion and Skin allergies and Ear infection are at moderate risk.
- Foreign body ingestion
- Moderate Risk
- Skin allergies
- Moderate Risk
- Ear infection
- Moderate Risk
Mature adult American Bulldog
Risk level for common American Bulldog conditions
Mid-life American Bulldogs should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Cruciate ligament tear (knee) poses very high risk.
- Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
- Very High Risk
- Ear infection
- Above Average Risk
- Foreign body ingestion
- Above Average Risk
Senior American Bulldog
Risk level for common American Bulldog conditions
Senior American Bulldogs face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Skin cancer poses very high risk. Cruciate ligament tear (knee) is at high risk.
- Skin cancer
- Very High Risk
- Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
- High Risk
- Arthritis
- Moderate Risk
American Bulldog puppy
Risk level for common American Bulldog conditions
American Bulldog puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Skin allergies and Ear infection and Gastritis are at moderate risk.
- Skin allergies
- Moderate Risk
- Ear infection
- Moderate Risk
- Gastritis
- Moderate Risk
Young adult American Bulldog
Risk level for common American Bulldog conditions
As American Bulldogs grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant. Foreign body ingestion and Skin allergies and Ear infection are at moderate risk.
- Foreign body ingestion
- Moderate Risk
- Skin allergies
- Moderate Risk
- Ear infection
- Moderate Risk
Nationwide can help you save on your American Bulldog's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
- Puppy (0 to 9 months)
- Skin allergies: Moderate Risk, Ear infection: Moderate Risk, Gastritis: Moderate Risk
- Young Adult (10 months to 3 years)
- Foreign body ingestion: Moderate Risk, Skin allergies: Moderate Risk, Ear infection: Moderate Risk
- Mature Adult ()
- Cruciate ligament tear (knee): Very High Risk, Ear infection: Above Average Risk, Foreign body ingestion: Above Average Risk
- Senior (5+ years)
- Skin cancer: Very High Risk, Cruciate ligament tear (knee): High Risk, Arthritis: Moderate Risk
The American Bulldog was developed in the Southern states, but with an English dog in mind. What the English Bulldog was before bull-baiting was banned is what the developers of the American Bulldog wanted. Some have argued the University of Georgia’s mascot should in fact be the American Bulldog, a dog of the South.
American Bulldog coat care and colors
The American Bulldog’s coat is easy to care for: Sleek and short, all it needs is weekly brushing and an occasional bath to keep it in perfect condition. Most of these dogs come in white, with patches of brindle or solid, dark colors. White dogs can be prone to sunburn and should avoid prolonged exposure to sun.
The American Bulldog is a large, strong dog, and that can make nail trims difficult. Avoid wrestling matches with adult dogs by acclimating puppies to having their feet handled and nails clipped. Some dogs better tolerate nail grinding rather than trimming, so experiment with which method works best.
How often should I bathe my American Bulldog?
How often should I bathe my American Bulldog?
What kind of brush do you use for an American Bulldog?
What kind of brush do you use for an American Bulldog?
Do American Bulldogs need haircuts?
Do American Bulldogs need haircuts?
American Bulldog exercise & training
American Bulldog fun facts
Top girl names for American Bulldogs
of American Bulldogs are female
of American Bulldogs are male
Top boy names for American Bulldogs
Nationwide loves American Bulldogs of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
| Gender | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male | 0% |
| Female | 100% |
Among American Bulldogs insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.
American Bulldog statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.
Other breeds like American Bulldogs
Best. American Bulldog insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
- Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
- Cancel at any time, risk-free