American vs English Bulldogs: Breed Comparison Guide

American and English Bulldogs are two beloved breeds that often get confused with each other. They share a similar appearance, but they have distinct differences in their origins, temperaments, and physical characteristics.

The American Bulldog was developed in the 18th century as a working dog, bred for its strength and tenacity. They were often used for guarding, driving cattle, and even fighting.

In contrast, the English Bulldog was bred in the 13th century for the cruel sport of bull-baiting. They were later refined for their unique appearance and gentle nature.

Both breeds are known for their loyalty and affectionate personalities, but American Bulldogs tend to be more energetic and playful.

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The English bulldog has a long history dating back to the 13th century, originating in England to participate in the sport of bullbaiting.

In the 17th century, the American bulldog was developed in Colonial America from the English bulldog and was used for various tasks, including baiting bulls and other animals.

The English bulldog was banned from bullbaiting in 1835, leading to its evolution into a companion breed. This marked a significant shift in the breed's purpose.

The American bulldog, however, continued to be used for various tasks, including farm work and protecting property.

The English bulldog was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1886 and is a member of the nonsporting group.

The American bulldog, on the other hand, was not recognized by the AKC until it was accepted into the Foundation Stock Service in 2019.

The earliest known mention of the bulldog breed dates back to 1500, describing a man with two Bolddogges, hinting at the breed's early existence.

In the 19th century, dedicated breeders worked to transform the bulldog from a ferocious breed to a gentle companion, a process that took several decades.

The first Bulldog breed club was formed in 1864, but unfortunately disbanded after just three years.

The Bulldog Club of America was founded in 1890, establishing a new standard for the breed that has remained in use to this day.

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American bulldogs are significantly larger than English bulldogs, with males growing up to 25 inches tall and weighing 100 pounds. They have a sturdy build and a short, smooth coat.

English bulldogs, on the other hand, are heavyset and low to the ground, with wide shoulders and a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors. They typically weigh 50 pounds and stand 14 to 15 inches tall.

The height difference between the two breeds is noticeable, with American bulldogs standing at around 20-28 inches and English bulldogs measuring about 14-15 inches.

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Bulldogs are heavyset dogs with wide shoulders, and they're low to the ground. They have a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors including red, white, fawn, and fallow.

Male English bulldogs typically weigh 50 pounds, while females weigh 40 pounds. They grow 14 to 15 inches tall.

American bulldogs, on the other hand, are much larger dogs. They can grow up to 25 inches tall and weigh between 75 to 100 pounds.

The American Bulldog Association's breed standard allows for a wide range of coat colors including white, pied, and up to 85 percent brindle. Dogs must have a coat that is at least 15 percent white.

Male American bulldogs are significantly larger than their English counterparts, with a weight range of 75 to 100 pounds.

American Bulldogs are known for their athletic build, standing taller and weighing more than their English Bulldog counterparts. On average, they weigh between 60-120 pounds.

English Bulldogs, on the other hand, are much smaller, ranging from 40-50 pounds. This significant weight difference is one of the most noticeable distinctions between the two breeds.

Bulldogs are a medium-sized breed, with mature males weighing around 50 pounds and females weighing approximately 40 pounds. For show dogs, the weight may be slightly higher, often adding about 10 pounds to their size.

In terms of height, Bulldogs typically stand between 12 to 15 inches at the shoulder, while American Bulldogs stand at around 20-28 inches.

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American and English Bulldogs share some similarities in temperament, but they also have some key differences.

Both breeds are known for being friendly and affectionate, but American Bulldogs are often described as confident, protective, and assertive, making them excellent guard dogs.

English Bulldogs, on the other hand, are renowned for their docile and gentle temperament, making them great with children.

Despite their calm nature, English Bulldogs can be curious in new situations and may be reserved around strangers.

American Bulldogs thrive with higher levels of mental stimulation and regular exercise to burn off their energy.

English Bulldogs benefit from daily exercise, but it's essential to keep it short and cool, especially for those with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome.

Both breeds need to be well-trained and socialized to be confident and well-mannered, and they can become food aggressive or develop destructive behaviors if bored.

Training American Bulldogs requires positive reinforcement methods, consistency, and patience, as they can be strong-willed.

English Bulldogs are relatively easy to train, but they do need to learn to release things they're holding in their mouth.

Ultimately, both breeds make wonderful family pets, but it's crucial to understand their unique needs and personalities to provide the best possible care.

Additional reading: English Bulldog Exercise

Bulldogs, whether American or English, are generally healthy breeds, but they do have some specific health considerations to be aware of.

The American bulldog is prone to several genetic health conditions, including hip and elbow dysplasia, allergies, and canine neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis.

Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and an active lifestyle can help mitigate these risks for American bulldogs.

English bulldogs, on the other hand, are more susceptible to breathing difficulties and overheating due to their brachycephalic syndrome.

They may also suffer from skin issues, hip dysplasia, and joint problems, which can be managed with proper care and attention.

Both breeds are sensitive to extreme temperatures and require a cool, air-conditioned environment to prevent heatstroke.

In fact, temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit can be particularly hazardous for bulldogs, so it's essential to provide them with shade, water, and AC at all times.

Their short snouts also mean they're not known for being particularly quiet, with lots of panting, snorting, and snoring.

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Bulldogs typically have a shorter lifespan than average, with an average lifespan of 8-10 years for English bulldogs.

This breed is predisposed to an array of medical concerns due to their unique physical traits, which can lead to medical issues requiring lifelong treatment or surgical correction.

Pet insurance is a great option if you're considering adding a bulldog to your family, as it can help cover the costs of potential health issues.

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American Bulldogs have a relatively easy-to-maintain coat that requires only occasional brushing. This is a big plus for busy pet owners.

Their short and dense coat sheds moderately, so regular brushing can help reduce hair on clothes and furniture. Regular grooming sessions also offer an opportunity to check for any sores, rashes, or signs of infection on their skin.

English Bulldogs, on the other hand, have a short, smooth hair coat that requires more attention due to their unique facial folds and wrinkled skin. This can lead to skinfold dermatitis, bacterial, yeast, and tail pocket infections if not properly cared for.

To prevent skin issues, it's essential to regularly clean their facial folds, nose rope, tail pockets, and ears. Squishface Wrinkle Wipes & Squishface Wrinkle Paste can be used to assist in diminishing tear stains, raw wrinkles, and can even be used on their paws and tail pocket.

Both breeds are prone to skin issues such as dermatitis, fungal infections, demodectic mange, and dry, flaky skin. Regular grooming and cleaning can help prevent these issues and keep your dog healthy.

The American Bulldog's coat requires less maintenance than the English Bulldog's, which needs to be bathed once a week to every other week, with special attention given to their skin wrinkles/folds.

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