10 Realities Of Raising An American Bulldog

Some dogs seamlessly fit into any household. American Bulldogs? They’re a mix of hilarious and challenging, with quirks that keep you on your toes. Before bringing one home, ask yourself: are you ready for a dog that thinks it’s both royalty and a comedian? This breed will outsmart you and make you wonder who’s really in charge. Get ready—you’re in for an exciting adventure!

Stubborn But Sensitive

Training an American Bulldog can feel like negotiating with a little dictator—one who conveniently forgets the rules when they don’t benefit them. Raise your voice, and they’ll act like you just turned their world upside down. Positive reinforcement is the way to go. They’re smart and quick to learn, but their stubborn streak means they’ll only follow the rules if it’s on their terms.

Jumping Experts

They’re powerful jumpers and can easily clear standard fences, making containment tricky. Most fences are more like warm-up obstacles for them. If your yard isn’t secure, be prepared for them to stretch the limits in ways you never planned. The American Kennel Club notes that, thanks to their muscular build, they can jump vertically over three feet.

Always Ready To Go

This breed is energetic and enjoys staying active. They love activities like hiking, swimming, and anything that involves movement. If you’re not ready for a brisk jog, they might not be the best match. A casual walk might not satisfy them—they need regular exercise. Without it, you can expect some persistence as they encourage you to get moving.

Affection Is A Full Contact Sport

An American Bulldog shows love like a linebacker—enthusiastic and a bit rough. If you prefer gentler affection, it’s a good idea to train them to tone it down. Without training, their cuddles can feel more like contact sports. If you’re around young kids, it’s safest to exercise caution to avoid accidental bumps or falls.

The Ultimate Bodyguard

Ever wanted a personal bodyguard who takes their job a little too seriously? The American Bulldog treats every visitor like a seasoned detective—except sometimes the “suspect” is just the mail carrier. Loyalty, if it had a physical form, would weigh 80 pounds of muscle. Without proper socialization, every stranger, human or dog, gets the full interrogation.

Tough But Fragile

American Bulldogs are strong and durable, but they do need extra care. Their joints require attention, and their skin can be sensitive to neglect. About 20% of American Bulldogs show signs of hip dysplasia by the age of five, making bone health a priority. Regular vet checkups and a balanced diet help keep them in great shape, even as they age.

Grooming Is A Daily Do

While they don’t shed much, keeping an American Bulldog clean is still a full-time job. Their wrinkles trap dirt and moisture, which can lead to bacterial infections. A quick wipe-down helps prevent this and keeps odors at bay. Their nails grow quickly, and skipping trims will turn your floors into a skating rink. Grooming isn’t just about appearance—it’s essential for their health.

Clumsy In Small Spaces

When an American Bulldog gets excited, everything in its path is fair game. They misjudge corners, bump into furniture, and unintentionally sweep objects off tables with their tails. In smaller homes, this is amplified. Owners in apartments or tight spaces need to bulldog-proof their homes—because coffee tables don’t stand a chance.

Perpetual Puppy Mode

They may look like full-grown powerlifters, but mentally, they’re still toddlers on a sugar rush. Other dogs settle down as they age. American Bulldogs? They perfect their chaos. The breed takes their time growing up. The American Kennel Club states they reach full size between 12 to 15 months, with bones still developing until 18 months.

Overreacting Is Their Specialty

These Bulldogs are always making social media waves with their dramatic reactions to everyday situations. Viral videos show their over-the-top responses to even the smallest inconveniences. Dinner’s five minutes late? Get ready for a full-blown hunger strike. They have a knack for turning every minor setback into a performance worthy of a standing ovation.