American Bulldog
Also known as Old Southern White · Hill Bulldog · Country Bulldog
United States, Bull and bully breeds
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 50–65 cm
- Weight
- 27–52 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–15 yrs
- Confident
- Loyal
- Athletic
- Protective
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The American Bulldog is a large, athletic, muscular dog descended from the working bulldogs of colonial America. It is mostly white, often with patches of brindle, red, brown or fawn, and has a short, harsh coat. Two broad types are seen: the leaner, longer-muzzled 'Standard' or Scott type and the heavier 'Bully' or Johnson type. It is a separate breed from the American Bully.
Size
- Size
- Large
- Height at shoulder
- 50–65 cm
- Adult weight
- 27–52 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Bigger breeds keep filling out until 18–24 months.
Lifespan
10–15 years
Most American Bulldogs live 10–15 years. Like other large dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 7, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
American Bulldogs are usually confident, loyal and very attached to their families, with a natural protective streak. Some can be wary of strangers or intolerant of other dogs, especially of the same sex, so early socialisation and steady handling are important.
- Confident
- Loyal
- Athletic
- Protective
Food
For a typical 39.5 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,770 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 1.6 L–2.4 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Puppies of large breeds need a diet made for large-breed growth, so they grow steadily rather than fast.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayA strong, energetic dog that needs at least an hour of exercise a day, ideally mixing walks with play, tug games or structured activities. Take care in hot weather, particularly with shorter-muzzled dogs.
Grooming & shedding
The short coat needs only a weekly brush. Check the skin regularly, as the breed is prone to skin problems.
Health
Its size, power and guarding instinct make reward-based training from puppyhood essential. Check local rules before getting one, as bulldog and bully types can be subject to restrictions in some places. See a vet for persistent itching, skin sores or lameness.
The breed can be prone to
- Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL)
- Ichthyosis
- Allergic skin disease
- Juvenile-onset demodicosis
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Cranial cruciate ligament rupture
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scoring
- NCL DNA test
- Ichthyosis DNA test
Not every American Bulldog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Bulldog-type dogs came to the American colonies with British settlers and worked on farms as guards, stock dogs and catch dogs for cattle and hogs. After the Second World War they were close to disappearing, but John D. Johnson and Alan Scott gathered surviving dogs from Southern farms and rebuilt the breed, giving rise to the two main types. The UKC recognised the breed in 1999, and the AKC added it to its Foundation Stock Service in 2019.
- Country of origin
- United States
- Type
- Bull and bully breeds
- Recognition
- Recognised by the UKC and part of the AKC's Foundation Stock Service; not recognised by the FCI or The Kennel Club
Is a American Bulldog right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 10–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
American Bulldog FAQ
How big does a American Bulldog get?
Adult American Bulldogs typically stand about 50–65 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 27–52 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do American Bulldogs live?
Typically 10–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a American Bulldog need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a American Bulldog need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are American Bulldogs easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do American Bulldogs shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are American Bulldogs good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a American Bulldog live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do American Bulldogs have?
The breed can be prone to neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (ncl), ichthyosis, allergic skin disease. Not every American Bulldog is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.