American Bulldog

Breed Type: Not recognized by AKC, but can be classified as Working.
Weight: 70 to 125 lbs for Males, 60 to 100 lbs for Females
Height: 22 to 28 inches for Males, 20 to 26 inches for Females
Coat type: Short, stiff and close coat

The American Bulldog is a breed of domestic dog. Though larger in size, they are the closest surviving relative of the Old English Bulldog. These dog were not altered as much in America as in European countries. American Bulldog is divided into two types. One is the Johnson type, named after the breeders, John D. Johnson and other is the Scott type, named after the breeder Allen Scott. These types are also known as Classic or Bully type and Standard or Performance type. Today, American Bulldogs are used either as a working dog or as a family pet. This breed is also very efficient in several dog sports such as Schutzhund, French Ring street protection sport, Iron Dog competition and weight pulling.

History
During 17th and 18th centuries, Bulldogs became very famous in England. They helped their masters in various tasks, such as, holding livestock as butchers' dogs and as guardians. These dogs hunt in the woods, guard property, and were also used in gambling and sport. Today, bulldog is one of the most preferred pet in England. The original breed of Bulldog was brought to South America by working class immigrants from England. However, World War II almost destroyed the breed. Then Mr. John D. Johnson, who was a war veteran, decided to revive this breed. Along with Alan Scott and several other breeders, Johnson carefully began the program of breeding American Bulldogs. On 1 January 1999, the American Bulldog was recognized by the United Kennel Club.

Appearance
The American Bulldog is a stocky and well built breed of dog, having powerful jaws. Its coat is generally short and smooth. These dogs are found in a variety of colors and patterns, such as, solid white or any color pattern including black, red, brown, fawn and all shades of brindle, but blue color is highly undesirable. American bulldogs of solid black, solid blue colors, or the white ones which have patches of black and tan colors are not at all preferred. It is considered as a serious fault and can become a reason for disqualification by most breed standards. The weight of American Bulldogs is generally found between 70 to 125 lbs for Males and 60 to 100 lbs for Females. While the height is generally 22 to 28 inches for Males and 20 to 26 inches for Females

Personality
American Bulldogs are famous for strong muscles, bones and a sturdy compact frame. They are strong, confident, agile, alert, fearless and curious. They also have great patience. They can be easily trained to behave properly and to be around children and love them. At times, they can be aggressive amid strangers and other pets. American Bulldog has a good memory and retains the commands taught to him for a long time. An American Bulldog is generally a happy, friendly, and confident dog that loves to be its family and even fine with outsiders if they don't pose threat. If they are properly introduced and socialized, this breed can become a great family pet and guardian. American Bulldog is considered to be a dominant breed and they are usually very aggressive towards other dogs, especially those of the same sex.

Genetic Disease
American Bulldog suffers from certain health problems, such as neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL), enlarged hearts, disorders of the kidney and thyroid. Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, entropion, ectropion, and bone cancer are very common to the population of American Bulldogs.

Grooming
Like other breeds, little grooming is regularly required to keep this dog breed in good shape. You have to frequently brush the hair of the dog with a coarse comb to minimize the shedding of hair. A lot of exercise, such as, long walks, jogging, playing games, rigorous agility, skills trials, etc, is necessary for the high energy levels of this dog breed, on daily basis.