American Bulldogs are known for their strength, loyalty, and protective instincts. Originally bred as working dogs, these muscular, energetic dogs make excellent family pets and guard dogs. The average American Bulldog lifespan is 10-12 years. Caring for an American Bulldog involves understanding their unique needs and providing consistent training, exercise, mental stimulation, and proper diet to stay happy and healthy.
Understanding the American Bulldog Breed
American Bulldogs boast a variety of jobs held over the centuries: guardians, cattle chasers, farm dogs, and hunting partners. This medium-large and muscular breed can reach up to 25 inches tall and weigh between 60 and 100 pounds. American Bulldogs are loyal, intelligent, and active dogs who require focused training and plenty of exercise. They love to spend their days playing tug-of-war, running agility courses, and going on long walks with their pet parents. These dogs have a short, mostly white coat that can have a few different-colored markings-it’s not uncommon to find a white and brindle American Bulldog or a white and black American Bulldog. No matter their color, this breed doesn’t shed a lot. American Bulldog’s personality makes them generally outgoing and friendly dogs, according to the ABA. Because they are so loyal to their family, they may bark to alert you when anything seems out of the ordinary. Because of their history as working dogs and guardians, and because of how much they love their family, American Bulldogs may be guarded around new people at first.
Exercise and Training Needs
American Bulldogs are large, active dogs who need to be kept busy physically and mentally. The amount of exercise your pup needs depends on your dog’s age and health status, but healthy adult American Bulldogs typically need one to two hours of exercise daily. Aim for 1-2 hours of physical activity daily, including brisk walks, runs, or playtime in a secure area. Be cautious in warm weather, as American Bulldogs can overheat easily. American Bulldogs require dedicated training from their pet parents. Luckily, they are a smart dog breed that’s eager to please. Begin socializing your American Bulldog puppy as soon as you bring them home. Early exposure to new people, environments, animals, and other stimuli will help your little puppy grow into a confident and well-mannered dog. Start with basic commands like sit, stay, and come, using treats and praise to reward good behavior. American Bulldogs excel in advanced training and agility exercises. Leash training is essential for American Bulldogs, especially due to their strength. Socialization is key for a well-rounded American Bulldog. Hide treats around the house or in the yard to encourage their natural hunting instincts.
Grooming and General Care
American Bulldogs require a moderate level of grooming and care. Like most dogs, American Bulldogs need a bath when they are dirty or smelly. The American Bulldog’s wrinkles require special attention. It’s important to keep them clean from dirt and any other debris that might build up, or skin infections can occur. American Bulldogs have a short, low-maintenance coat, and pet parents can brush them weekly to catch any loose hairs. Brush your American Bulldog once a week, and increase brushing during shedding seasons. American Bulldogs typically don’t require any special eye care. Some dogs, especially white American Bulldogs, can get brown discoloration around their eyes from tearing. Routine veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor for potential health issues. While American Bulldogs have a short coat, they still shed moderately, especially during seasonal changes. American Bulldogs are social dogs that need a comfortable and safe home environment. Create a designated space with a comfortable bed, water, and toys. American Bulldogs need durable toys that can withstand their powerful jaws.
Nutritional Needs of American Bulldogs
Feeding your American Bulldog well isn’t just about filling their bowl; it’s about fuelling their body, supporting their health, and giving them the best chance to thrive. When it comes to nutrition, most dogs, regardless of breed, have surprisingly universal needs. American Bulldogs need a balanced, high-protein diet to support their muscle mass and energy needs. A balanced, high-protein diet with moderate fat is ideal. Feed your American Bulldog twice a day and adjust portions based on their age, weight, and activity level. Understanding these dietary requirements is essential for maintaining their overall health and well-being.
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Dietary Classifications and Biological Needs
Dogs are classified as facultative carnivores. That means meat is their biological staple, but they can survive by scavenging and eating other food types, including some plant matter. Think about it like this: a human can technically live on fast food: burgers, chips, fizzy drinks. But will they feel their best? It’s the same story with dogs. Modern dogs may appear different from their wild ancestors, but biologically, they remain remarkably close to wolves. That’s not a criticism; most dog owners simply want to do their best. Dogs have little requirement for carbohydrates, especially refined ones. However, most commercial dry dog foods are loaded with them, often making up more than 50% of the recipe. Why? Because carbs like grains, legumes and starchy fillers are cheap to bulk out food, not because they benefit your dog. That’s why more and more dog owners are turning to grain-free dog food or making the transition to feeding their dogs a fresh diet. Better digestion, more vitality, shinier coats, and healthier teeth are some of the benefits observed when dogs eat better. Food isn’t just fuel, it’s nourishment. It affects everything from digestion to behaviour, immunity to energy. What goes in their bowl has a ripple effect on every part of their health. So don’t let it be an afterthought.
Importance of a Balanced Diet
A healthy American Bulldog will be lean and well-muscled with little fat and with no ribs showing-your veterinarian can show you how to assess your dog’s body condition score. American Bulldog puppies are typically fed three times each day. As American Bulldog puppies mature, feeding them two meals a day is recommended. The amount of food pet parents provide daily depends on their individual dog’s needs and lifestyle. The bag of AAFCO-compliant dog food will give you guidance on portions based on your dog’s weight. Avoid feeding your dog table scraps, which may be dangerous to their health. Dogs fed a complete and balanced commercial food diet should not need any nutritional supplements unless recommended by a veterinarian. However, your vet might recommend certain supplements depending on your dog’s health, such as probiotics, fish oil or joint supplements.
Types of Dog Food
With so many choices, from canned dog food and kibble to grain-free formulas and the increasingly popular raw diet, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
Commercial Dog Food
Most commercial dry dog foods are loaded with carbohydrates, often making up more than 50% of the recipe. Carbs like grains, legumes, and starchy fillers are cheap to bulk out food, not because they benefit your dog.
Raw Dog Food
Raw dog food is whole food served in their most natural state with no heat processing and delivers nutrients in their most digestible and usable forms, with no need for synthetic additives, preservatives or mystery fillers. A raw, species-appropriate diet, also referred to as BARF diet for dogs (biologically appropriate raw food diet), includes muscle meat, organ meat, bone, raw fats, and a small amount of vegetables or berries. Contrast that with ultra-processed commercial dog food. While convenient, it’s the exact opposite of raw. The high-heat manufacturing process depletes nutrients, denatures proteins, and creates inflammatory compounds. Worse still, the added carbs, synthetic vitamins, and often rancid heated fats can contribute to a long list of chronic health issues that are now on the rise - not just in dogs, but in humans too. As more dog owners become aware of the benefits of fresh, natural feeding, the industry is evolving. But as with any dog food, quality matters.
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Transitioning to a New Diet
Switching your American Bulldog from processed food to a raw, biologically aligned diet is one of the most impactful health decisions you can make. Even introducing just a few raw meals a week, or adding a fresh food topper like raw meat, a cracked egg, or a spoonful of bone broth, can deliver meaningful nutritional benefits for your dog. During the transition, keep an eye on your dog’s poo (yes, really), energy levels, and appetite. Digest, a dog gut health supplement, can help soothe the gut, reduce gas, and ease the shift to fresh food.
Feeding Guidelines and Portion Sizes
When it comes to portion sizes, there’s no universal answer. Just like people, every dog is different with their own metabolism, energy levels, and health goals. As puppy parents who may be used to commercial dog food or dry dog food, switching to a fresh feeding approach can feel like a significant change. Raw feeding offers significant advantages in terms of nutrient absorption and overall health. For safe growth, it’s important to feed a raw puppy-specific formula. Puppy feeding guidelines are different from adult dogs and change as your young dog grows.
Addressing Specific Health Concerns Through Diet
American Bulldogs, like many other larger dog breeds, can be prone to elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. These conditions are where those joints don’t fit together properly. American Bulldogs can have allergies caused by an overactive immune system, according to the ABA. Although it’s rare, American Bulldog puppies can be born with a skin condition called ichthyosis, which causes the skin to flake and become itchy, according to the ABA.
Joint Health
Choosing the right dog food for American Bulldogs supports their muscular build and joint health. Look for high-protein formulas with glucosamine and chondroitin to aid mobility. Senior dogs benefit from shorter, more frequent walks to maintain joint health and avoid strain.
Food Allergies and Sensitivities
Avoid common allergens like corn or soy to prevent digestive upset and skin reactions. Maintain your dog’s hydration. Consider an elimination diet by replacing common farmed meats like beef and chicken with novel proteins such as venison or goat raw dog food.
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Skin and Coat Health
Incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids for coat and skin condition.
Expert Opinions and Recommendations
Holistic vets are advocating for an integrative approach to dog health. Minimally processed, species-appropriate diets are key to this method, along with functional supplements, gut health support, and environmental enrichment. Always transition diets gradually and consult a vet for tailored nutrition plans.
Additional Tips for a Healthy American Bulldog
- Brush your American Bulldog once a week, and increase brushing during shedding seasons.
- A balanced, high-protein diet with moderate fat is ideal.
- Yes, with proper socialization, American Bulldogs are typically very affectionate and protective with children.
- Common health issues include hip dysplasia, heart disease, and skin allergies.
- With the right preparation, American Bulldogs can make great travel companions. If your dog experiences anxiety while traveling, start with short trips and gradually increase the distance.
- Feed your puppy high-quality large-breed puppy food to ensure proper growth.
- Raw food arrives frozen, so ensure you have sufficient freezer space.
- Want to personalise the bowl? You can safely use most real foods in moderation, but there are a few ingredients to avoid.
- If you’re feeding complete meals no additional ingredients are needed. They’re expertly balanced and nutritionally complete.
- Got a picky eater? It might not be the food.