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The American Bulldog is a lovable powerhouse, combining strength and loyalty with a goofy streak that makes them endlessly entertaining. With their big hearts and even bigger muscles, these dogs are the ultimate combination of cuddly companion and action-packed adventurer.
Fiercely loyal and protective, American Bulldogs (also called AmBulls for short) often act as the family bodyguard. They’re affectionate and loving with their humans, showering them with slobbery kisses, but they tend to be suspicious of strangers, so early socialisation is essential. Consistent training is also a must, as while they’re smart cookies, they can be strong-willed and will try to establish themselves as top dog if given the opportunity.
With an enthusiastic, energetic nature (and bull-in-a-china-shop antics) it’s a wonder these dogs aren’t called American Bulldozers! Originally bred to work on farms as guardians and cattle drivers, they’re hardworking, tenacious dogs that love to keep active. They need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom kicking in, as otherwise, expect lots of mischief such as chewing, digging, or attempting to escape from the garden. Their bounciness can be too much for some, especially young children or the elderly, as they can easily cause accidental harm.
In the wrong hands and without sufficient training, these super strong dogs can be quite a lot to handle. They need a confident, assertive, experienced pet parent to take charge and establish the pecking order. So, if you’re looking for a deeply devoted doggo and are willing to put in the work, the American Bulldog could be the breed for you.
There are two types of American Bulldog; the Johnson type and the Scott type. The Johnson type (also known as the ‘Classic’ or ‘Bully’ line) is larger, beefier, and stockier, with a more pronounced underbite and a boxy head. The Scott type (also known as the Standard American Bulldog or ‘Performance’ type) is sleeker and more agile, with a longer muzzle and lighter build. Both types share the breed’s signature loyalty, energy, and protective instincts, but they differ in their work style. Johnsons were bred for guarding, so they’re powerhouse protectors, while Scotts shine in herding and agility tasks. Most American Bulldogs are now a hybrid between these two lines, meaning appearances vary greatly between each dog. However, they’re all loving, people-oriented companions that thrive with an active, confident owner.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Loyal and devoted to family | Can be stubborn and strong-willed |
| Good with children | Fair amount of drool, slobber, and gassiness |
| Excellent watchdogs | Potential aggression towards other animals |
| Low maintenance grooming needs | Puppies can be rambunctious and boisterous |
| Strong and athletic | Needs extensive socialisation and training |
| Intelligent and trainable | Not suitable for first time owners |
Yes. The American Bulldog can be a wonderful family dog for active owners who are able to meet their training and exercise needs. Devoted, loving, and affectionate, these pups utterly adore their humans and will protect them at all costs. And despite their imposing looks, American Bulldogs can be real snuggle monsters! However, they’re strong-willed, powerful pooches that need a confident hand when it comes to training, and are unsuitable for families with very young, frail, or vulnerable members. For the AmBull to shine, they need households with structure, consistency, and plenty of stimulation.
Yes, when properly socialised and trained, American Bulldogs are known to be good with children. They’re loyal and affectionate dogs that form strong bonds with their families, including young ones. However, being such strong, vigorous dogs, they can easily knock down toddlers and cause injury. They’re better suited to households with older children or teens that know how to behave appropriately around dogs.
You should always teach children how to properly interact with dogs, regardless of breed. This includes no pulling, smacking, poking, or disturbing them while they’re eating and sleeping. Great care should also be taken when introducing dogs and children, making sure to never leave little ones unsupervised no matter how well trained your pooch is.
It depends. American Bulldogs can get along with other dogs – and some enjoy the company of a cat too – but only if they’ve been extensively socialised and well trained from a young age. They’re a protective breed that can be territorial, so some might not tolerate living with another dog at all, especially of the same sex. When playing with other dogs, supervision is needed around small breeds as AmBulls can have a strong prey drive and don’t always know their own strength.
Introducing new animals into the pack should always be managed carefully. Remember, every American Bulldog is unique, so monitor their body language, provide space and reward good behaviour.
We all want our dogs to live long, happy, healthy lives, so it’s important you know how to look after an American Bulldog properly. From tasty nutritious meals to exercise, training and grooming, we’ve got it covered.
Full-grown American Bulldogs need 1–2 hours of exercise each day, mixing energetic walks, off-lead running in secure areas, and plenty of interactive games.
These powerhouses love strength-building activities like tug-of-war, agility training, and weight pulling, and make ideal exercise buddies for joggers and hikers. They also love long games of fetch and scent work too.
Due to their impressive strength, a sturdy harness and lead are essential for walks, especially if they spot something exciting to chase! Your back garden also needs to have Fort Knox level fencing to keep their adventurous side safely contained during zoomies.
When not having fun outside, the intelligent AmBull needs plenty of mental stimulation to give their brain a good workout too. Puzzle toys and games of hide-and-seek with their favourite treats will keep their sharp minds engaged.
Without enough exercise and stimulation, these lovable goofballs can turn into destructive troublemakers, so keeping them active is key. Whether it’s a game of chase or a woodland trek, American Bulldogs love to move and spend time with their favourite people.
American Bulldogs are intelligent and quick to learn, but they’re a large, strong-willed breed that can try to dominate if they don’t sense you’re taking charge. For training to be successful, it needs to start early and remain consistent. Teaching them polite manners from the get go and enforcing boundaries is essential, as otherwise they can grow to be unruly. For this reason, they’re better suited to more experienced owners that know how to handle them correctly.
Unleash your American Bulldog’s potential with some fun training tips.
1. Be positive. Always use positive reinforcement by rewarding good behaviour with lots of praise and tasty treats, such as our High Protein Baltic Beef Jerky. Avoid using harsh tones or heavy handed corrections, as this can instil fear, and a fearful dog can be a dangerous one.
2. Socialise, socialise, and socialise some more. Early and extensive socialisation is crucial for the American Bulldog, as they’re naturally wary of strangers and have a strong, protective instinct. Without enough socialisation, they can be suspicious of everything and potentially show aggressive behaviours. Expose them to new people, children, dogs, animals, smells, and situations from an early age to help them become calm and confident canines.
3. Establish who’s top dog. AmBulls need to know who is alpha (hint, it’s not them!), so it’s important you’re a confident leader that’s firm but fair. Make sure you set and consistently enforce boundaries from day one, as this will help them understand their position in the pecking order and reduce the risk of them becoming dominant and unruly.
4. Be consistent. American Bulldogs are smart cookies but they’ll pick up bad habits as easily as they learn good ones, so consistency is key. You should also make sure the household is using the same commands.
5. Make them wait for their food. This is a good way to establish yourself as leader of the pack and build respect between you and your AmBull.
6. Practise recall. This is essential if you want to safely let your American Bulldog off lead in open areas. Use a long line lead, clear vocal commands, and high value treats to encourage them to come back to you.
7. Get them used to a lead. Stocky and muscular, American Bulldogs can be strong pullers, so they need to learn how to walk nicely on a lead and harness. Practice indoors where there are fewer distractions, and gradually move to busier environments as they become more comfortable.
8. Nip jumping in the bud. Due to their size and strength, AmBulls shouldn’t be jumping up at people to say hello. Teach them the ‘off’ command and reward them when all four paws are kept firmly on the floor.
9. Teach bite inhibition. American Bulldogs have a tremendous bite force, so it’s important they’re taught bite inhibition as a pup. When they mouth too hard, yell ‘ouch!’ in a high pitched voice and redirect their playful nips onto a toy instead. They should also have lots of ‘indestructible’ toys and chews to play with too.
10. Channel their hardworking energy. These dogs love keeping busy, so set up an obstacle course in the garden or enrol them in agility classes to give their brains and bodies a good workout.
12. Reduce the risk of separation anxiety. While they should never be left alone for hours on end, you can help them be more comfortable with their own company by gradually increasing the amount of time you're away from home. Start with small increments (e.g., 5-10 minutes) and make sure they have a toy or puzzle to keep them busy.
American Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that’s easy to maintain – perfect for time-poor pet parents. But they do shed moderately throughout the year and have sensitive skin that needs special attention.
Their coat is mostly white and often has coloured patches across their body and face. Common American Bulldog colours are solid white, white and black, white and brown, white and red, white and brindle, or white and fawn. You might come across lilac, tricolour, and blue merle dogs, but these don’t conform to breed standards.
Here are some American Bulldog grooming tips to keep them looking their best all year round.
Properly looked after, cared for, and loved, the American Bulldog lifespan is 10–12 years. However, like all dogs, they’re predisposed to certain health issues.
Healthy American Bulldogs should be seen by a vet at least once a year, with senior dogs (seven years and older) needing more frequent visits. Monitor your pooch regularly and ensure they’re getting what they need for a healthy and happy lifestyle.
Feeding your American Bulldog a well-balanced diet that’s tailored to their size and medical needs is an essential part of being a responsible dog owner. From helping their coat stay shiny to maintaining healthy joints, the food you give them is so im-paw-tant!
The amount you feed your AmBull will depend on a number of factors, such as whether they’re a puppy or an adult, if you’re using dry food, wet food or a mix, their energy levels, and whether they’ve been neutered or spayed.
A good rule of thumb is to feed an adult American Bulldog 2 times a day to fuel them for all their activities. This is a strong, muscular dog that needs plenty of protein, but with their large appetites, they shouldn’t be allowed to free-feed, as this could lead to obesity and a poor quality of life.
You'll find a handy feeding calculator at the bottom of every product page here at Pooch & Mutt, helping you identify how much of our health-led recipes are right for the age, size and weight of your dog. Take our quick quiz to find your pooch’s perfect food!
Feed a balanced diet
AmBulls need a vet-recommended, high-protein dog food that meets their nutritional needs. You should also consider adding natural supplements to their diet such as Salmon Oil, which helps to boost your pet’s physical and mental health.
Protect their joints
To help keep the hip and elbow dysplasia at bay, consider a Joint Care Dry Food, or add Joint Supplements to their diet as an extra preventative measure. Also, puppies should never be over exercised while they’re still developing.
Monitor weight
A healthy adult American Bulldog weighs 27–54 kg. Make sure table scraps don’t become a fixture in their diet though, as extra weight on these pooches can increase the risk of joint issues. For dogs getting a bit too big, consider this Slim & Slender Dry Food that’s good for weight management.
Look after their eyes
Regular eye tests can detect early signs of cataracts, and a balanced diet rich in omega-3s (found in fish) can help support eye health.
Protect their skin & coat
For dogs suffering from itchy, inflamed skin, you might want to consider a daily care supplement like our Bionic Biotic, or feed them hypoallergenic dog food.
Exercise regularly
These athletic dogs need a lot of exercise each day to burn off energy, stay trim, and prevent boredom kicking in.
Stay out of the heat
American Bulldogs have a short muzzle, which makes it hard for them to release heat through panting. As such, they’re prone to overheating and don’t do well in hot weather.
Take them to the vet
It might not be their favourite place in the world but regular check-ups with a vet can help identify potential health issues early on.
Always speak to your vet about the best course of action in treating health problems in your dog.
Take a look at the American Bulldog’s dream home.
| Type of owner? | Active individuals, couples, and families with older children that have prior dog ownership experience and can dedicate time to exercise and training. |
| Outdoor space? | A secure, fenced-in back garden is essential, along with regular access to country walks and the great outdoors. |
| Adaptability? | They’re not suited to living in small apartments due to their size and energy levels, but they can adapt to city life if they have outdoor space and are given enough exercise. |
| Multi-pet home? | They can potentially live with another dog or cat if they’ve been thoroughly socialised and trained, but they might not tolerate dogs of the same sex. |
Deciding between an American Bulldog and an English Bulldog depends on your lifestyle and preferences. American Bulldogs are larger, athletic, and high-energy, making them ideal for active families or individuals who love outdoor adventures. They’re protective, loyal, and thrive with firm, consistent training.
On the other hand, English Bulldogs are laid-back couch potatoes, famous for their wrinkly faces and affectionate nature. They’re smaller, less energetic, and perfect for apartment living or a more relaxed pace. While American Bulldogs need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, English Bulldogs are content with short walks and cuddles.
However, English Bulldogs may require extra care due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) features, which can lead to breathing issues, while American Bulldogs are generally healthier but need room to stretch their legs. Both breeds are loving companions; the choice depends on whether you’re seeking a lively athlete or a chill snuggle buddy!
No, the American XL Bully is a new variant of the American Bulldog, developed in the late 1980s in the United States. There are several differences between an XL Bully and an American Bulldog, mainly their size, build, and classification. American Bulldogs are a well-established working breed, known for their athleticism, loyalty, and energy.
XL Bullies were developed through selective breeding to be larger, bulkier, and more imposing than the AmBull, while still maintaining a stable, friendly temperament that’s ideal for family companionship. Although they’re described as having a welcoming, sociable demeanour, XL Bullies have been involved in numerous fatal attacks and are now banned in the UK under the Dangerous Dogs Act. Unlike XL Bullies, American Bulldogs are not banned in the UK and remain a popular, family-friendly breed.
The unconditional love of an American Bulldog is priceless, but there are costs to consider if you plan to own one.
The cost of an American Bulldog is anywhere between £400 and £1,000. The price you pay will depend on the breeder or private seller, and the pedigree of the dog. The total monthly cost for owning an AmBull can be up to £170, depending on food and insurance levels.
Set up costs
Primary vaccines in the UK cost between £40-£70 on average, but this depends where you live and the vets you choose. You’ll also need equipment such as a lead, collar, harness, dog tag (this is a legal requirement), bedding, food bowls, toys, and a crate if you’re crate training. If you decide to neuter your pup, the cost of the operation ranges from £110 to £300, and is usually done between six and 12 months old. Spaying costs can be higher and you should always talk to your vet about the best time to have this procedure done.
Ongoing costs
When it comes to food, these pooches need a high-quality dog food packed with vitamins and natural ingredients. On average in the UK, feeding an American Bulldog costs between £30 and £50 per month. On top of this, you’ll also have booster vaccinations, flea and worm treatments and regular accessories like poop bags to buy.
Insurance costs
It’s highly recommended to purchase pet insurance for your American Bulldog, should anything happen. The exact cost of insurance is based on your location, your dog’s age, breed, medical history and the type of cover you choose. Pet insurance prices vary wildly so always compare to get the right protection. (The average annual cost to insure a pedigree dog without any pre-existing conditions is around £403. This might sound a lot but you can’t put a price on peace of mind.)
Get to know the American Bulldog even more with these interesting titbits and tales!
American Bulldogs can trace their roots back to England, where their ancestors, the Old English Bulldogs, were bred for working on farms and handling livestock. Known for their strength, tenacity, and protective nature, these early Mastiff-type dogs were the ultimate all-purpose farmhands.
However, as their name suggests, Bulldogs were also used for bull-baiting and fighting; a devastating blood sport that was abolished in England in 1835.
When English immigrants made their way to the United States in the 17th and 18th centuries, they brought these tough dogs along to help them settle into their new lives. Living the American dream, these pups found a new purpose, excelling as farm guardians where they’d help keep the feral pig population under control.
This invasive species had no natural predators, but they soon became the American Bulldogs’ prey! They particularly thrived in the Southern states, where their athleticism, loyalty, and adaptability proved indispensable on farms and ranches.
American Bulldogs weren’t considered a breed, but rather a type, and no breeding records were kept between farmers. Different types of Bulldog existed in different regions, and they all had different names.
Their numbers fell dangerously low during World War II, but thanks to dedicated breeders, John D. Johnson, and Alan Scott, they survived extinction. Johnson and Scott refined these generic Bulldogs into the American Bulldog we know today, which is where the two breed types get their name. The term ‘American Bulldog’ was first used in the 1980s, and as they’re such a new breed type, they’re not yet recognised as a pedigree by any well-respected organisation.
From English farms to American homesteads, this breed has always been about heart, grit, and love for their family. Whether they’re working hard or playing harder, American Bulldogs embody their storied past in every wag of their tail!
Before you bring a new furry friend into your life, you need to know you’re getting it from a reputable source. To help you navigate this decision, here are some essential tips for buying or adopting an American Bulldog.
1. Research the breed. American Bulldogs need a lot of socialisation and training, and are big, powerful dogs. You need to make sure your lifestyle is suited and you have the means to care for this breed properly.
2. Ask potential American Bulldog breeders for references from previous customers, veterinarians, or other breeders. This will help you get an idea of their reputation and the health of their dogs.
3. Beware of scammers. A genuine seller will never ask for money upfront before seeing the dogs, and will always offer for you to see them in person before making a commitment. Also be wary if the price is significantly cheaper than other listings.
4. Always visit the breeder in person to see the mother with her American Bulldog puppies and to check the environment. A responsible breeder or seller will never release the pups before they’re eight week olds.
5. Watch out for people who breed multiple breeds at once. This is a sign they might not have the expertise on American Bulldogs and don’t prioritise their dogs’ health.
6. A reputable breeder will provide a health guarantee for your puppy, including paperwork about their lineage, vaccinations and microchipping.
When adopting an American Bulldog, research the shelter to ensure they’re a reputable rescue organisation, and meet with their adoption specialist to discuss your lifestyle, needs and dog ownership experience. AmBulls in shelters may have complex medical conditions or be quite senior, so you’ll need to ensure you have the time, love and dedication to give them a happy fur-ever home.
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