American Bulldog
Breed Group: non_sporting
"Don’t be deterred by my grumpy grimace. I’m as sweet as they come."
Breed Profile
You may recognize a Bulldog’s signature grump face from a mile away, but their appearance is rarely indicative of their personalities. Beneath that scurly scowl is one of the most affectionate, low-maintenance dogs around. They’re the perfect companions for adults, kids, and just about anyone who appreciates a relaxing day on the couch.
Behavior
Bulldogs are affectionate and gentle pups with simple personalities. They're very bright, highly intuitive, deeply empathetic, and fearlessly brave. . They’re loyal to their families and feel happiest when by their side. Bulldogs are active pups that crave and actually need attention, so they're more likely to misbehave when feeling bored or ignored.
Coat
The Bulldog has a short, smooth, glossy coat that comes in beige, mottled colors, brindle, or white. Their fur is easy to groom and only requires a quick brushing a few times each week. However, their facial wrinkles need a little extra TLC, as the folds can gather bacteria quickly. Wipe them clean with a damp towel to prevent dirt build-up and potential infection.
Lifestyle
Bulldogs enjoy living with other dogs and pets. The breed is great with children and can adapt to any lifestyle. Their size and general lack of barking make them well-suited for apartment life, but they won’t complain about having a home with more space and a yard. Regardless of the setting, they should be kept as primarily indoor dogs. Bulldogs also love to snuggle, but their drooling and snoring may make you think twice about inviting them into bed.
Activity
The Bulldog’s easygoing personality extends to its exercise needs too. They don’t need much activity and will adapt themselves to your family’s lifestyle whether energetic or sedentary. Bulldogs will happily go along for a short walk, but they’ll be ready for a nap after a few blocks. These pups are sensitive to the heat, so they should be given access to the fan or air conditioner whenever they seem to be panting and only walked when it’s cool enough outside.
Characteristics
Space Needs
Activity Needs
Intelligence
Playfulness
Grooming Needs
Trainability
Watch Ability
Dog-friendliness
Child-friendliness
American Bulldog Buyer's Guide
The Bulldog’s scowl belies their effervescent personality. Despite the token frown, these are gentle, loving dogs that love relaxing and being around family. The breed’s personality and activity needs are about as relaxed as it gets. Your Bulldog will likely be happy to join you for a walk, but only if it’s followed by a deep snooze on the couch. They’re sensitive to the heat and prefer setting up shop at a cool spot indoors than playing out in the yard all day. If you’re on the hunt for a low-maintenance, loyal breed that fits in well with any family, Bulldogs may make the perfect companion for you.
Breed information reviewed by the Puppies.com editorial team. Helping families find their perfect puppy since 2003.
American Bulldog Quick Facts
97
Available Now
From $100
Starting Price
60–100 lbs
Adult Weight
20–25"
Adult Height
Frequently Asked Questions About American Bulldogs
What's the personality of a American Bulldog?
You may recognize a Bulldog’s signature grump face from a mile away, but their appearance is rarely indicative of their personalities. Beneath that scurly scowl is one of the most affectionate, low-maintenance dogs around. They’re the perfect companions for adults, kids, and just about anyone who appreciates a relaxing day on the couch. Full-grown, they typically weigh 60-100 pounds and stand 20-25 inches tall.
Are American Bulldogs safe around children?
American Bulldogs are generally okay with older children who know how to handle dogs. Bulldogs enjoy living with other dogs and pets. The breed is great with children and can adapt to any lifestyle. They're relatively quiet and don't bark much.
How much exercise does a American Bulldog need?
The Bulldog’s easygoing personality extends to its exercise needs too. They don’t need much activity and will adapt themselves to your family’s lifestyle whether energetic or sedentary. Bulldogs will happily go along for a short walk, but they’ll be ready for a nap after a few blocks. Overall, their exercise needs are moderate.
Are American Bulldogs high-maintenance when it comes to grooming?
The Bulldog has a short, smooth, glossy coat that comes in beige, mottled colors, brindle, or white. Their fur is easy to groom and only requires a quick brushing a few times each week. However, their facial wrinkles need a little extra TLC, as the folds can gather bacteria quickly. Grooming-wise, this breed is low-maintenance.
How much space does a American Bulldog need?
American Bulldogs are best suited for a home with a yard, though they can adapt to apartment life with enough exercise. Their size and general lack of barking make them well-suited for apartment life, but they won’t complain about having a home with more space and a yard. Regardless of the setting, they should be kept as primarily indoor dogs. They are fairly easy to train.
