American Bulldogs are descendants of the English Bulldogs. Despite their menacing appearance, American Bulldogs are known to be fun, almost clown-like dogs, especially when they are excited. Ever heard of a dog that can spring up? The American Bulldog can reach a height of more than three feet when they jump vertically.
History
American Bulldogs were originally bred to help out on the farm in herding, drafting, and, most importantly, guarding livestock and people. The Ab has been on American soil since the 17th century and is known for its incredible ability to catch wild pigs. However, during World War, the breed faced the risk of extinction and continues to do so till today – sufficient efforts are being made to revive the breed and its glory.
About the Breed
Nutrition
American Bulldogs do not require any special diet as long as they are receiving all their nutrients in optimal balance in accordance with their age, size, and activity level. ABs benefit from a dog food meant for ‘large breeds’ for the first 14 months of their life. Keeping them on this diet for so long ensures slow and steady development. When they grow into adulthood, ABs must be started on supplements like calcium, prebiotics, probiotics, and immune boosters.
Grooming
Bathe your AB only when he is visibly dirty or smelly. A weekly coat brushing using a slicker brush and a deshedder along with nail trims, teeth brushes, and ear cleans should keep them in good shape. During shedding season, you can choose to either take your dog to a professional groomer or remove dead fur at home with a good de-shedder.
Exercise
Non-impact and non-injury prone activities are essential for this breed so as to protect their joints from wear and tear for as long as possible. Non-impact exercises for American Bulldogs include slow-paced frequent walks, drafting, treasure hunts, occasional hikes, playing with toys – fetch, tug-of-war, puzzle toys. ABs must never be left unsupervised in the backyard, or else, you’ll come back to a destroyed flower bed! American Bulldogs need frequent exercise to keep them from spending all their energy on destructive behaviour like chewing, digging, howling etc.
Training
The more you socialise this breed, the better it is for you and him. American Bulldogs thrive on socialisation and good training. They need to be taught manners from the beginning to keep misbehaviour at bay. Patient, positive reinforcement training and all-round socialisation is key to having a mild-mannered AB.
Health
ABs are prone to a few health complications like hypothyroidism, diabetes, obesity, bloat, hip and elbow dysplasia, cataracts, and degenerative myelopathy (disease of the spinal cord leading to weak limbs). Hence, routine checkups are the only way you can help nip these problems at the bud. This, along with regular exercise and nutritious food, can prevent or at the least delay the onset of such complications.
Temperament
A well socialised and trained AB is calm, friendly, loving, and loyal. They enjoy the company of people and, at times, of household pets as well.
Why are the advantages of raising an American Bulldog?
American Bulldogs are excellent watchdogs.
They are affectionate with puppy playfulness all through their life
ABs are fairly easy to groom
They enjoy cold climatesABs are good with kids and tolerant towards other pets.
Why are the disadvantages of raising an American Bulldog?
American Bulldogs need exercise to keep them from gaining weight
They are prone to health complications and a short life span
ABs are hard to train, and if not trained well, they can be aggressive
They need to be socialised early in life
ABs slobber and drool – everywhere!
American Bulldogs are one of the goofiest dogs out there, and with them by your side, life will always seem hunky-dory!
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