The American Bulldog Mix is a unique and lovable breed that has gained popularity in recent years. They are a cross between an American Bulldog and another breed, often resulting in a loyal and affectionate companion.
These dogs are known for their muscular build and short coats, requiring regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day to prevent obesity and other health issues.
The American Bulldog Mix is generally a good family dog, but they can be challenging for inexperienced owners due to their strong will and potential for stubbornness. They require consistent training and socialization from an early age to develop good behavior.
Their intelligence and loyalty make them excellent watchdogs, but they can be wary of strangers and may require time to warm up to new people.
Breed Information
The American Bulldog is a type, not a pedigree type, recognized by any well-respected canine organizations.
The breed can trace its ancestry to England, where it was bred for working, cattle driving, farm guarding, and unfortunately, bull-baiting.
American Bulldogs were imported by working-class immigrants to the US, who appreciated their eager-to-please nature and ability to thrive on a less-than-ideal diet.
They were originally bred for bull baiting, a horrific sport that was outlawed in England in 1835.
The breed was brought over from England in the 17th century, where early settlers packed them for service on farms and ranches.
The American Bulldog became a utility player, stepping in to accomplish many tasks, such as guarding livestock and catching cattle and feral pigs.
There are two types of American Bulldogs, the Scott type and the Johnson type, which differ in appearance.
The Johnson American Bulldog has a bigger, stronger build, a larger head, and short muzzle, while the Scott American Bulldog has more lithe features, such as an athletic, small-boned frame and a longer muzzle.
The American Bulldog is not recognized as an AKC breed, but has been recorded in the Foundation Stock Service in 2019, which is a step towards becoming approved by the AKC.
A puppy from a reputable breeder can cost between $1,800 and $3,500, but is usually screened for health and temperament issues.
You can find a reputable breeder through the AKC puppy finder or seek out local American Bulldog rescues to find a worthy, loving dog to call your own.
Related reading: Staffordshire Bull Terrier Kennel
Care and Feeding
Providing a diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids is highly beneficial for American Bulldog mixes, so look for dog foods that are high in these essential fatty acids.
American Bulldog mixes do best on protein-based dog foods to keep up with their active lifestyles. This means choosing a food that is high in protein and has a balanced ratio of protein to fat.
You'll be spending a lot of time exercising and training your American Bulldog mix, so it's good to know that they need minimal work when it comes to grooming.
A balanced diet and healthy lifestyle can help your American Bulldog mix live up to 12 years, which is a great age for this breed.
Giving your American Bulldog mix food rich in vitamins and minerals is essential, so consider using Wellness Core Dog Food or Dog For Dog Food.
Kibble that offers the right protein-to-fat ratio is always the best choice, and it will help your dog stay lean and healthy.
For puppies, it's especially important to pay attention to their diet, as they need extra nutrients to support their growth and development.
For your interest: Big Dog Poodle Mixes
Training and Behavior
Training an American Bulldog mix requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. They are intelligent dogs who learn best when their trainers are confident and patient.
Socialization is key to helping your American Bulldog mix feel comfortable around strangers and other dogs. Regular socialization training with other dogs and people, as well as introducing them to new settings, will help your pup acclimate.
American Bulldog mixes are quick to learn, but they can also learn the wrong things as fast as they learn the right things. So, be sure to establish clear rules and boundaries from an early age.
Here are some tips for successful training:
- Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behavior.
- Be consistent and patient, as American Bulldog mixes can be stubborn at times.
- Start training early, as socialization and habituation are vital for this breed.
By following these tips and being a confident and patient trainer, you can help your American Bulldog mix become a well-behaved and loving companion.
Temperament
The temperament of an American Bulldog is truly one of its most lovable qualities. They have a confident demeanor and are known for their almost clown-like antics when excited.
Their playful nature is infectious, and they'll follow your cues whether you're training them to sit or throwing the ball. They take their playtime seriously, which makes them an excellent family companion.
American Bulldogs are not likely to bite, even with their powerful bite force. However, with other dogs, they can be far less easy going, so socialization is vital.
Their intelligence is well-regarded, and with consistent training and established rules and boundaries, this powerful pup can learn with the best of them. They're capable of learning quickly, but also quickly learn the wrong things if not trained properly.
Here are some key temperament traits to keep in mind:
- Confident demeanor
- Playful and energetic
- Not likely to bite, but can be wary of other dogs
- Intelligent and capable of learning quickly
Overall, the American Bulldog's temperament is a unique blend of confidence, playfulness, and intelligence. With proper training and socialization, they can thrive as a loyal and loving companion.
Health
As you start training your American Bulldog, it's essential to be aware of the potential health issues that can impact their behavior and training progress. Joint Dysplasia is a common issue in medium to large breeds, causing dogs to run, jump, and climb less than usual.
A unique perspective: Training Black Mouth Cur Dogs
This condition can be inherited, so it's crucial to ask for health records from the breeder or vet wellness check from the rescue. Joint supplements, medications, rehab therapy, or surgery can help manage the condition.
Deafness, on the other hand, may be acquired or inherited, and it's more common in dogs with light coats and eyes. While there's no treatment for inherited deafness, dogs can adapt and do well with the condition.
Skin conditions and allergies are another common issue in American Bulldogs, causing itching, scratching, hair loss, and skin infections. If you notice any of these signs, consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Here are some common health issues in American Bulldogs:
Cherry Eye and Spinal Issues, such as Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) and Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL), are also potential health concerns in American Bulldogs. These conditions can lead to secondary issues, such as eye problems, weakness, and paralysis, and may require surgery or physical therapy.
Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is a highly intelligent breed that excels in training. Its high trainability is due to its working dog background.
This breed is known for being easy to train, which is great news for anyone looking to bring one home. With the right approach, an Australian Shepherd can learn a wide range of commands and tasks.
One thing to keep in mind is that the Australian Shepherd is a large breed, with some individuals reaching up to 20 inches in height and weighing as much as 120 pounds. This means they require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Here are some key characteristics of the Australian Shepherd breed:
- Intelligent and easy to train
- Large in size, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation
Grooming and Hygiene
American Bulldog mixes have short hair, so they don't require a lot of coat care.
Weekly brushing with a bristle brush will help keep their fur smooth and shiny.
Light shedding is a bonus, making it easy to keep their coat under control.
Daily tooth brushing is ideal, but a few times a week is a good goal to prevent dental disease.
Don't forget to schedule a yearly vet cleaning to keep their teeth healthy.
Nail trimming every couple of weeks and ear cleaning monthly will keep them looking and feeling their best.
Baths are only needed about once a month, unless they get into something stinky!
Appearance
The American Bulldog's appearance is quite striking. They typically stand between 50-70cm tall and weigh between 27-54kg.
Their coats are smooth and hard, making them easy to keep clean and tidy, but be prepared for a lot of shedding.
The ideal coat color for an American Bulldog is white, sometimes with subtle markings in black, brown, red, tan, or brindle.
Ears are a notable feature of the American Bulldog, and they can be either cropped or left uncropped. Uncropped ears may droop forward, prick up, or fold backward.
Here's a quick rundown of the American Bulldog's key features:
Grooming
Grooming is a breeze with an American Bulldog. They shed lightly, so weekly brushing with a bristle brush will help their fur slough off naturally.
You'll want to brush their teeth daily, but a few times a week is also a good goal to beat back sticky plaque and tartar and prevent dental disease.
Nail trimming is essential, so plan on doing it every couple of weeks. It's a good idea to get your vet to give your pup a professional cleaning every year.
Ear cleaning is also important, and doing it monthly is usually enough. You may be able to go a month without a bath, but if you notice an unpleasant odor or your pup rolls in something gross, it's time to suds up.
Shar Pei
The Shar Pei is a unique breed that requires some special attention when it comes to grooming and hygiene. They have a distinctive wrinkled skin that needs to be kept clean to prevent skin infections.
Their short coat is relatively easy to maintain, but they do shed heavily, so regular brushing is a must. You'll want to brush them at least twice a week to prevent matting and tangling of their fur.
The Shar Pei American Bulldog mix, also known as the American Bull-Pei, is a combination of the Shar Pei and the American Bulldog. This mix can weigh between 40 to 65 pounds and stand between 12 to 20 inches tall.
Both parents of this mix have a rich history, making it easier for owners to research and understand their needs. A reputable breeder is essential when getting an American Bull-Pei puppy, as they can provide a guarantee that the puppy is healthy.
You might enjoy: Shar Pei Bull Terrier Mix
Family and Lifestyle
When considering an American Bulldog mix as part of your family, it's essential to think about your lifestyle and living situation. They're not recommended for small homes due to their size and strength.
If you have small children, it's crucial to supervise interactions between them and the dog, as they need to be taught to respect each other. Even with proper training, dogs and young children should never be left alone together.
Expand your knowledge: Bulldog Breeds Small
Good Family Dogs?
If you're looking for a loyal companion for your family, an American Bulldog might be a good fit - but only if you're an experienced owner with dog-aware teenagers.
Their size and strength mean they're not recommended for small homes or families with frail or vulnerable members.
Puppies from breeders who prioritize temperament and health are crucial for a well-behaved American Bulldog.
Even with proper training and socialization, American Bulldogs need adult supervision when interacting with young children.
Dogs and young children should never be left alone together, and it's essential to teach both to respect each other's boundaries.
American Bulldogs can be devoted to their families, but their needs require careful consideration.
Favorite
If you're looking for a pet that's perfect for families, you're absolutely right to think Bulldogs are the way to go.
Bulldogs are wonderful companions and can't be improved upon, but if you're open to exploring other options, there are some great mixes out there that can take the Bulldog to the next level of awesomeness.
You're not alone if you think some of these mixes manage to do just that, and it's great to have options when it comes to finding the perfect furry friend for your family.
Family dynamics can be unpredictable, but one thing is for sure: having a pet can bring everyone together and create lasting memories.
In fact, Bulldogs have been known to thrive in families with children, and their gentle nature makes them a great choice for households with little ones.
Intriguing read: Are Pit Bulls a Good Family Dog
Doberman Buldober
The Doberman Buldober is a unique breed that's a mix of two excellent family pets and activity partners - the American Bulldog and the Doberman. It's a gigantic dog that can weigh between forty to ninety pounds and grow up to fourteen to twenty-eight inches in height.
If you're considering bringing a Doberman Buldober into your family, be prepared for a dog that needs a lot of exercises to maintain its health. Both the Doberman and the American Bulldog are active breeds, and their offspring will likely require regular physical activity to stay happy and healthy.
One thing to keep in mind is that there isn't a lot of information available about the Doberman Buldober, but its parent breeds have outstanding canine histories. This means that with proper care and attention, a Doberman Buldober can make a wonderful and loving companion for your family.
For another approach, see: Staffy Mix Breeds
Popular Breeds
The American Bulldog mix is a popular breed due to its gentle nature and loving personality. They are often described as "nanny dogs" because of their strong maternal instincts.
One of the most popular breeds used to create the American Bulldog mix is the Pitbull, known for its strength and loyalty. They are also often crossed with the American Bulldog to create a smaller, more agile mix.
These mixes can be a great choice for families with children, as they are generally gentle and patient.
25 Popular Breeds
The Bullhoula is a unique breed that's a mix of a Bulldog and a Catahoula. They're muscular and athletic, requiring an active owner to keep up with them.
These dogs are quite rare, making them an even bigger conversation starter than usual. The Catahoula breed itself is also lesser-known, adding to the Bullhoula's novelty factor.
If you're considering getting a Bullhoula, be prepared for a lot of energy and exercise needs. They need an owner who can keep up with their active lifestyle.
Bulldoodle
The Bulldoodle is a unique and lovable breed that's a mix of a Bulldog and a Poodle. They can come in various sizes, ranging from standard to toy, depending on the genes of their parents.
Their coat can be short to medium in length with a wavy texture, which requires constant grooming and brushing.
These dogs need training and socialization as puppies to prevent separation anxiety when left alone. They can get very attached to their owners.
It's essential to find a reputable breeder who has subjected their dogs to testing for genetic disorders. This will give you peace of mind and ensure you're bringing home a healthy puppy.
Here are some key characteristics to look out for in a Bulldoodle:
- Short to medium length coat with a wavy texture
- Constant grooming and brushing required
- Requires training and socialization from an early age
Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a breed that's often paired with other popular breeds to create unique hybrids. The American Bullstiff, for example, is a mix of the American Bulldog and the Bullmastiff, also known as the American Bandogge Mastiff.
This hybrid requires moderate exercise, which is about 45 minutes a day to keep them happy and healthy. If they don't get enough physical activity, they can become lazy.
The American Bandogge Mastiff has a British canine temperament, making them a great companion for families with children. In fact, they're often self-appointed babysitters, which is a testament to their gentle and loving nature.
Some potential genetic health issues to be aware of in the American Bullstiff include those common to American Pit Bull Terriers and Mastiff-type breeds. Researching these common illnesses can help you better care for your hybrid dog.
If this caught your attention, see: Bernese Mountain Dog and English Mastiff Mix
Newfoundland Newfoundbull
The Newfoundland Newfoundbull is a unique breed that combines the features of the American Bulldog and the Newfoundland. It's a combination of the bulky American Bulldog and the large Newfoundland.
The American Newfoundbulland, as it's also known, is an obscure breed with little-documented information. Unfortunately, this means that owners may need to look into the parent breeds to learn more about it.
The Newfoundland is a capable and hardworking dog that can work on land and water. It's a great swimmer, and this trait is likely to be passed down to the Newfoundbull.
If you're considering bringing a Newfoundbull into your family, be prepared to talk to a reputable breeder and a veterinarian before making a decision. American Bulldog Newfoundland puppies are hard to find, and it's essential to do your research before making a commitment.
Here are some key characteristics to keep in mind:
Great Dane
The Great Dane is a gentle giant that's perfect for families or individuals who have plenty of space. It's a large breed that can weigh anywhere from 100 to 200 pounds.
One thing to keep in mind when considering a Great Dane is that it requires daily brushing to reduce dead hairs. This is especially true for crossbreeds like the American Dane, which combines the Great Dane with another breed, such as the American Bulldog.
For your interest: Bull Terrier Great Dane Mix
The American Dane, also known as the American Bull Dane, is a popular crossbreed that's often used for hunting, police work, and military activities. This is likely due to its size and strength, which allows it to perform physically demanding tasks.
Despite its large size, the American Dane has a low energy level, which means it doesn't require a lot of exercise. In fact, it's happy with just two to three walks per day. This makes it a great choice for owners who don't have a lot of time to devote to exercise.
Here are some key characteristics of the Great Dane breed:
- Height: 27-35 inches
- Weight: 100-200 pounds
Overall, the Great Dane is a loving and loyal companion that's perfect for families or individuals who have plenty of space. With proper care and attention, it can thrive and become a beloved member of the family.
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a breed that's often overlooked, but it's definitely worth considering if you're looking for a loyal companion. They have a strong history and are known for their athletic ability.
One thing to keep in mind is that the Cane Corso is a rare hybrid dog, which means its history is still unavailable for research. However, we do know that the American Corso, which is a mix of the Cane Corso and the American Bulldog, has a parent breed history that's available for study.
If you're considering bringing a Cane Corso into your family, be prepared for a dog that's very protective of its loved ones. With proper training, they can make for beautiful guard dogs for your home and your children.
English
The English breeds are a fascinating mix of characteristics. The English Bulldog is a popular parent breed, often crossed with other breeds to create unique hybrids.
The English Bulldog American Bulldog Mix, also known as the American English Bulldog, is a headstrong yet loving and affectionate hybrid dog. It has a lifespan of twelve to sixteen years.
These dogs are known for their low to moderate shedding, requiring brushing at least twice a week to keep their coat healthy and free from dirt. Regular grooming is essential to prevent matting and tangling.
For more insights, see: All Types of Pit Bulls
In terms of exercise, it's crucial to provide constant amounts of physical activity at a young age. If not, they may become lazy and enjoy long periods of naps. A daily routine that includes playtime with other dogs at the park can help meet their exercise needs.
Here's a brief overview of the English Bulldog mixes:
The Bulloxer, a mix of an English Bulldog and a Boxer, is another English breed hybrid. It's highly intelligent and trainable, but requires quite a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. If left unsatisfied, a Bulloxer can become destructive.
Boxer
The Boxer breed is a popular choice for many dog owners. They are known for their loyalty to their owner and family.
One of the unique characteristics of Boxers is that they can be slow to mature, often behaving like untrained puppies for years. This can be both a blessing and a curse for new owners.
Boxers are also known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them a great addition to families with children.
If you're considering bringing a Boxer into your home, be prepared for a long-term commitment - they can live for about nine to twelve years or even longer.
Their coats come in a variety of colors, including brindle, fawn, and white.
Sources
- American Bulldog Dog Breed Information (purina.co.uk)
- 25 Popular Bulldog Mixes: Adorable Crossbreeds (With ... (dogster.com)
- brachycephalic (hillspet.com)
- Pumphrey, Stephanie A., et al. “Glaucoma Associated with Uveal Cysts and Goniodysgenesis in American Bulldogs: a Case Series.” Veterinary Ophthalmology, vol. 16, no. 5, 30 Oct. 2012, pp. 377–385., (nih.gov)
- https://www.americanbulldogfarm.com/ (americanbulldogfarm.com)
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Bulldog (wikipedia.org)
- AKC puppy finder (akc.org)
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