Facts about American Bulldogs

Want to learn some interesting facts about the American Bulldog? We present you some facts to know about the American Bulldog dog breed.

Some Interesting Facts about the American Bulldog

Descendants of the Old English Bulldog

The Old English Bulldog is an extinct dog breed that was a famous working dog throughout the UK. It was a stocky and powerful dog that was in charge of various tasks on British farms and was used as a catch dog. Europeans started traveling to the New World, and they took their working dogs with them. Many of those working dogs were Old English Bulldogs. These European farmers traveled south, and instead of keeping the breed “clean,” they mixed it with other bull-type dogs that had the best working abilities. Selective breeding (in the broadest term) is responsible for the creation of the American Bulldog.

Pig hunters

The main reason the American Bulldog became so popular in the South of the United States is feral pigs. Feral pigs are not a native species to the American South, and they had no natural predator. They are considered an invasive species and were often destroying crops and attacking farmers and animals. American Bulldog had incredible strength and powerful jaws. Powerful enough to catch and hunt feral pigs. These dogs proved to be very effective in pig hunting, so many Southerners decided to get the American Bulldog for pig hunting.

Fierce protectors

Because these dogs are descendants of the Old English Bulldog, it is not surprising they inherited many of their traits. One of the characteristics they inherited is their guarding instinct. Three centuries ago, American Bulldogs were protecting farmers and their families from intruders and vermin like feral pigs. Pretty soon, they ended up being one of the most popular Southern guard dogs.

Size difference

The American Bulldog can vary in size a lot. Although the size that is considered standard for this breed is from 20 to 27 inches, some breeders selectively breed these dogs to be a lot taller, and some breeders want their dogs to be smaller but more muscular. The American Bulldog’s average weight should be between 60 and 120 pounds, but again, it depends on the breeder. Some efforts are made to standardize the breed, and it even has a full standard registered in the United Kennel Club. Even that standard describes that American Bulldogs come in different sizes depending on their purpose.

American Bulldog vs. Pitbull

Some who are not familiar with the breed often mistake the American Bulldog with Pitbulls. These dogs have a relatively bloody history and were used for blood sports such as bull-baiting and dog fights. They are muscular, powerful, stubborn breeds that need strong leadership. You can see some differences, and the most prominent ones are their muzzles and their body mass. A well-bred Pitbull should have a thin, muscular body and a longer muzzle, while the American Bulldog is heavier with a shorter muzzle.

Suspicious characters

The American Bulldog is a natural guard dog. These dogs require proper socialization while they are still puppies, so they don’t become overly aggressive and territorial when they grow up. The American Bulldog is naturally suspicious of strangers, which is one of the traits that make them such great guard dogs. They have a good understanding of their territory and will stop at nothing to protect it. Their stubbornness and perseverance were inherited and shared with the modern-day English Bulldog. If their owner gives a command, they will do everything they can to obey it, even if the command is impossible to execute. Ensure your dog is socialized correctly from the beginning, so it doesn’t have any behavioral problems in the future.