Archive for July, 2009
American Bulldog: One Of The Less Tampered Bulldogs
As a member breed of the bulldog family, the American Bulldog is well-known not only in the US but around the world, too, as a reliable family pet. Having descended from the bull baiting breeds of England, the American Bulldog remained to be the closest look-alike of the now extinct Old English Bulldog. Other bulldogs in Europe were highly altered but not the American Bulldog whose appearance remained as is even for many decades.
This breed has two types: the Johnson type and the Scott type. The developers of these types were famous breeders John D. Johnson and Allen Scott. Moreover, the other names for the types are Classic or Bully type and the Standard or Performance type.
Commonly, the American Bulldog is confused for a white Boxer because indeed, these two hold similarities with each other. The American Bulldog is described as a stocky, powerful and well-built dog with powerful jaws. Its weight generally ranges from 60 to 125 pounds while its height is between 20 to 28 inches.
The coat of this breed is generally smooth and short and sheds lightly or moderately. The coat colors often appear solid white, solid white with black markings, red, brown, brindle and fawn. Standard eye color is brown, and the mouth drools and this most especially with dogs that have looser lips.
The Johnson type is best described as having a bigger and heavier body with a shorter muzzle compared to the Scott type. The Scott type on the other hand is best described as a huge, leggy dog that resembles a Pit Bull. In general, the American Bulldog is described as leggier, more agile and faster dog than its English relatives.
The American Bulldog possesses a cheerful and sociable behavior, is comfortable being with the family and does not mind befriending other humans so long as they don’t pose a threat. This dog has a strong bond with its master and is sociable to other animals given that he is trained in obedience and socialization at an early age. This dog also needs a constant share of attention because if not, it may develop destructive behaviors.
The American Bulldog is an energetic working dog that’s why constant activities will suit it best. A wide yard is also sufficient enough for its activities such as running or chasing. This breed also requires daily exercise such as walking in order to keep its mind and body healthy.
The ancestors of this breed came from England and were ultimate fighters in bull baiting. When the bloody sport was banned, breeders developed the breeds in to gentler and smaller dogs. Some of these new breeds came to the US and were further developed and the American Bulldog is one of the products.
