American Bulldog
Size
Grooming requirements
Exercise requirements
Good with other dogs
Watchdog ability
Energetic
Training requirements
Playful
Affectionate
Good with other pets
Good with children
Good with strangers
Winter
Summer
Healthiness
Protective
Life Span
Pure Breeds | Member |
Breeds A - Z | A |
Breeds by Group | Non-Sporting |
Overview: | Originally used in the 17th century for bull baiting—a wagering sport in which dogs fought bulls in a ring—Bulldogs had taller, more athletic frames (much like the Olde English Bulldogge). When bull baiting was outlawed in 1835, Bulldogs were bred to be kinder, heavier and more relaxed. However, American Bulldogs—which were brought to the U.S. before this breeding pattern—retained the size and strength of the original Bulldogs. Great family dogs, American Bulldogs are sweet to children. They love family-oriented occasions and want to be involved. With proper training and socialization, you’ll find them outgoing and exceedingly loyal. Some American Bulldogs will go to great lengths to protect their masters. Tough and determined, American Bulldogs have an impressive stamina and strength. They are always game for playtime in the back yard or working in the field. |
Breed Group: | Non-Sporting |
Weight (lbs): | male-70-120 female-60-100 |
Height (in): | 19-27 |
Colors: | white, brindle, brown, red or tan |
Coat: | Short, coarse coat. For such a short haired dog, American Bulldogs shed more than you might think. Their short coarse hairs come off on your hands when you pet them, and stick tenaciously to your clothing, upholstery, and carpeting. |
Character: | American Bulldogs are friendly, happy lovable dogs with an assertiveness and confidence that never gets out of control. Though initially stubborn in training, they soon respond to their masters’ commands and prove to be endlessly faithful companions. |
Temperament: | American Bulldogs are loyal and loving animals that prefer to be with people. They do well with children, when socialized from a young age. May not do well with other dogs. |
Care: | The short coat requires infrequent bathing and brushing. |
Training: | This breed needs firm, consistent, but not harsh training. They are highly trainable and can be used as agility or search and rescue dogs. |
Activity: | American Bulldogs MUST have regular opportunities to vent their energy and do interesting things. Otherwise they will become rambunctious and bored -- which they usually express by barking and destructive chewing. Bored American Bulldogs can make a shambles of your house and yard. |
Country of Origin: | USA |
Health Issue: | American Bulldogs generally live from 10 to 16 years, and tend to be strong, physically active, and often healthy. Some health problems in American bulldogs are often found within certain genetic lines, and are not common to the entire breed, while others, such as neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL),[1] Ichthyosis, disorders of the kidney and thyroid, ACL tears, hip dysplasia, cherry eye, elbow dysplasia, entropion, ectropion, and bone cancer are more common to the general population of American Bulldogs. There are DNA tests available to help breeders screen breeding animals for NCL (neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis)[1] and Ichthyosis. It is highly recommended to spend time to research your breeder information, including your American Bulldog's family history. A Penn Hip (Pennsylvania Hip Improvement project) or OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) screening is recommended for all potential breeding animals. Some breeds of American Bulldog are prone to allergies. Symptoms like a runny nose or a rash are examples of signs of allergies. Some vets recommend dog owners to give 25 mg of Benadryl per day; in most cases it helps. |
Life Expectancy: | 14-16 |
American Bulldog Puppies for saleSee all puppies for sale
Bubba x Pumpkin Litter Summer 2025

American Bulldog
Male(s) and Female(s), 8 Weeks Old
USA GALLUP, NM, USA
Date listed: 08/27/2025
These puppies come from champion lines! They also have great temperaments and really love their people. They are confident and friendly with their family and new people. They are...
NKC American Bulldogs

American Bulldog
Male(s) and Female(s), 9 Weeks Old
USA FOLKSTON, GA, USA
Date listed: 07/31/2025
Full blooded, NKC registered American Bulldog puppies.
American Bulldog Dogs for adoptionSee all dogs for adoption
Echo - American Bulldog (short coat) Dog For Adoption

American Bulldog
Male, Adult
USA Martinsburg, WV, USA
Date listed: 08/27/2025
Dog Breed: American Bulldog (short coat). Don't forget!! We are currently open by appointment only. This is to control the traffic in the building at one time. If you would like...
SYRACUSE - American Bulldog (medium coat) Dog For Adoption

American Bulldog
Female, Adult
USA Tavares, FL, USA
Date listed: 08/27/2025
Dog Breed: American Bulldog (medium coat). Hi there! I am newer to the shelter and the team is still getting to know me!
WADE - American Bulldog (short coat) Dog For Adoption

American Bulldog
Male, Adult
USA Pasadena, CA, USA
Date listed: 08/27/2025
Dog Breed: American Bulldog (short coat). A5712223 Meet Wonderful Wade a 3-year-old, 87 lb American Bully mix who’s playful, confident, and full of love! This...
MANTIS - American Bulldog (medium coat) Dog For Adoption

American Bulldog
Male, Young
USA Rancho Cucamonga, CA, USA
Date listed: 08/27/2025
Dog Breed: American Bulldog (medium coat).
SARGEANT MAJOR GREY - American Bulldog (medium coat) Dog For Adoption

American Bulldog
Male, Senior
USA Louisville, KY, USA
Date listed: 08/27/2025
Dog Breed: American Bulldog (medium coat).
ROGUE - American Bulldog (medium coat) Dog For Adoption

American Bulldog
Male, Adult
USA Salisbury, NC, USA
Date listed: 08/27/2025
Dog Breed: American Bulldog (medium coat).
AMAZON - American Bulldog (medium coat) Dog For Adoption

American Bulldog
Male, Adult
USA Tavares, FL, USA
Date listed: 08/27/2025
Dog Breed: American Bulldog (medium coat). Hi there! I am newer to the shelter and the team is still getting to know me!
PEARLA - American Bulldog (medium coat) Dog For Adoption

American Bulldog
Female, Adult
USA Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
Date listed: 08/27/2025
Dog Breed: American Bulldog (medium coat).
HAPPY - American Bulldog (medium coat) Dog For Adoption

American Bulldog
Male, Adult
USA Naples, FL, USA
Date listed: 08/27/2025
Dog Breed: American Bulldog (medium coat).
*XENA - American Bulldog (short coat) Dog For Adoption

American Bulldog
Female, Adult
USA Forestville, MD, USA
Date listed: 08/27/2025
Dog Breed: American Bulldog (short coat). Xena is a big, gentle girl who may already have some house training knowledge since she went potty right away on her walk. She knows...
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American Bulldog BreedersSee all breeders
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Breed Mixes of American Bulldog
Mix With: Dogue de Bordeaux

Mix With: Jack Russell Terrier

Mix With: Bull Terrier

Mix With: American Pit Bull Terrier
Non-Sporting Group
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