Overview
The American Bulldog is the old English working bulldog as it survived on farms in the southern United States: long-legged, muscular and able to run, with a muzzle long enough to breathe properly. There are two broad types, the heavier bully type and the leaner standard type, and both are stronger than they look.
They are affectionate, confident and often clownish with people they know. With strangers they can be reserved, and with other dogs they range from friendly to intolerant. The best ones are superb all-rounders; the worst-raised ones are a handful.
Exercise and walking needs
A young adult needs around ninety minutes a day with some real exertion in it. Tug, flirt poles, hill walks and fetch all work. They are powerful rather than tireless, so a hard half hour followed by a steady walk suits them well.
Muscle holds heat. Even with the better muzzle, these dogs warm up fast in summer and need shade, water and sensible timing.
On the walk
- Strength: Expect to be tested on the lead, especially by an excited young dog. A harness with a front clip and a short, thick lead give you leverage.
- Other dogs: Some are sociable, some are not. Ask, then assume caution. Avoid face-to-face meetings on narrow paths with unknown dogs.
- Greetings: A thirty kilo dog that jumps up to say hello can knock a person flat. Teach a sit before greetings and keep it off strangers.
- Prey: Catch dog ancestry means a chase instinct for cats, livestock and sometimes small dogs. Stay alert and keep the lead on near fields.
Tips for professional walkers
- Burn the first ten minutes with a game or a brisk trot before the real walk; it settles the dog for everything that follows.
- Keep the dog clear of busy dog parks until you know exactly how it responds to pushy strangers.
- Carry a water bottle and a bowl from spring onwards and stop regularly in warm weather.
- Check for cuts and scrapes after rough play; these dogs do not notice minor injuries.
What to ask the owner
- Is the dog the bully type or the standard type, and how much weight does it carry?
- How does it get on with other dogs, and are there specific dogs or routes to avoid?
- Any history of chasing cats, livestock or wildlife, and what is its recall like?
- Any skin allergies, hip or breathing concerns the vet has raised?