American bulldogs are a canine breed that originated, just as their names suggest, in the United States of America. These big, robust pooches are kin to English bulldogs, but are speedier and have more elongated physiques. Historically, American bulldogs spent their days on farms, offering both hunting and protective services.
Background Information
Male American bulldogs tend to be slightly bigger than the females. While females usually only grow to between 20 and 25 inches in height, the males are usually between 22 and 27 inches tall. The females generally weigh in the ballpark of 60 to 100 pounds, while males are generally between 75 and 125 pounds. Their coats are often white or brownish, and many of them are blotted with red, brown or black. Their average life expectancies are 11 to 12 years.
Basic Temperament
American bulldogs are considered to have kind and amiable basic temperaments. However, it's not uncommon for these bulldogs to be somewhat quiet, cautious and distant in the presence of unfamiliar faces. Around other canines, individuals of this breed also frequently display self-assured behavioral patterns. Exhausting training is key to encouraging harmonious and safe interactions between American bulldogs and other household animals. A lot of the breed's working history involves running after animals, after all. In general, they work well alongside young kids, although close monitoring -- and proper training -- is a must.
Heavy Focus on Family
These sporty and dependable pooches are extremely family-oriented creatures. They thrive in the company of their loved ones and don't often do well with too much "all by myself" time. If an American bulldog doesn't receive ample interaction with his family, he might turn to misbehavior -- think chewing on furniture or excessive barking, for example. When it comes to family, they have strong defensive instincts. They sometimes are even willing to put themselves into harm's way for the sake of keeping loved ones secure and safe.
Task-Oriented
As far as the canine world goes, American bulldogs display workaholic tendencies. They tend to be most in their elements when they have specific duties and tasks to focus on -- say watchfully protecting your residence against unwelcome invaders. Boredom is not for them.