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Did you know?

In the movie, Return to Me, “Mel”, David Duchovny’s character’s dog, was played by an American Bulldog named Peetey.

American Bulldog

Acquiring a dog may be the only opportunity a human ever has to choose a relative. – Mordecai Siegal

American Bulldog puppy Canada

“Bella”

The original English Bulldog was used by butchers to catch and hold bulls. They were courageous and tenacious, and were brought to the southern US States by English colonists as early as the 17th century. In colonial America these bulldogs were used by butchers but also engaged in blood sports such as baiting contests with bulls, bears and buffaloes.

The modern American Bulldog’s ancestors worked as farmers’ helpmates in areas of the American southeast. With the strength to catch and hold hogs and cattle and the agility to dodge flying hoofs and sharp horns, the original Bulldog’s descendants found a new calling as cattle wranglers, soon becoming a favourite on the ranch.

The American Bulldog’s original purpose on these Southern plantations and ranches was personal and property protection and as an aid in handling (catching) large animals such as cattle and wild boar. He needed to be strong enough to put unruly bulls on the ground and athletic enough to catch free ranging hogs.

Photos displayed courtesy of Lance and Lesli Rose, Rosebull Kennel American Bulldogs, Ontario


C
onsidered a rare breed, the American Bulldog stands between 19 and 27 inches (48 – 68 cm) at the shoulder. He can weigh as much as 120 pounds (54 kg).

His coat is short and smooth, and comes in solid white, or white with tan, brown, or brindle patches. Since he has no undercoat, he is sensitive to extremes of heat and cold and should be protected accordingly.

The American Bulldog is an excellent family pet as he displays a friendly, confident, and loving manner. He loves children and is eager to please his master.

However, this breed has a high prey drive and can display aggression towards other dogs. He should always be leashed when out in public.

Fearless and loyal, this dog is also a superb watch dog and guardian of the home as he will face down anything from a wild animal to a human intruder! His ability to act cool and calm in the heat of conflict distinguishes him from other protection breeds.

The American Bulldog is not afraid to take charge in situations where his family or his family’s property are endangered.

American Bulldog Adult Canada

“Grim” and “Sue”

American Bulldog CanaDogs

“Bruno”

This dog may be too much for the inexperienced or mild mannered dog owner. Such large, strong dogs need equally strong, confident owners.

It should be kept in mind that the breed’s qualities of bravery, gameness, assertiveness, intelligence, mental stability, pain tolerance, and natural protectiveness absolutely require the highest level of responsible ownership.

Intelligent, willing, powerful and athletic, these dogs are happiest when they have a job to do whether it’s weight pulling, Schutzhund, protection, tracking, or hog catching.

Responsible ownership of American Bulldogs is imperative. The young American Bulldog must be taught what is right and what is wrong in order to live in society.

Early socialization and obedience training is the key to successfully owning this breed. They are easy to train but are independent thinkers so start early!

Regular exercise will keep him compact, muscular, and well-toned.

Purina Hall of Fame CanaDogs

CKC Breed Standard

No Breed Standard available

Breed Clubs

American Bulldog Club of Canada
137 Balaclava Street
St. Thomas, ON N5P 3C9
(519) 637-1096
Email 

American Bulldog Association

American Bulldog Registry and Archives (ABRA)

Bulldog Breeds Information Library

Rescue Organizations