American Bulldog vs English Bulldog: Two Very Different Dogs

Side by side

Size: the AKC lists the Bulldog at 14 to 15 inches, about 50 pounds for males and 40 for females. The UKC standard gives American Bulldog males 22 to 27 inches and females 20 to 25, with weight in proportion. Lifespan: AKC gives the Bulldog 8 to 10 years. Registry: the Bulldog is an AKC breed ranked 10th; the American Bulldog is recognized by the UKC, since 1999. Coat: both short and easy to brush weekly.

Energy: VCA rates the Bulldog 1 out of 5 as a jogging partner and calls it a calm housedog; it rates the American Bulldog moderate to high. Heat: VCA rates the Bulldog 1 out of 5 for warm weather and calls the American Bulldog sensitive to extreme heat. Strangers: Bulldogs are friendly; American Bulldogs may be cautious or protective. Best for: Bulldogs suit relaxed apartment or house life; American Bulldogs suit experienced, active owners with a fenced yard.

Origins

VCA explains that the Bulldog originated in England for bull baiting, a blood sport outlawed around 1835. Admirers then remade it as a stylish companion, breeding for temperament and exaggerated features, so today's Bulldog looks little like the original. The AKC recognized it in 1886 and describes it as kind but courageous, friendly but dignified, a thick-set, low-slung bruiser whose sourmug face symbolizes tenacity.

The American Bulldog kept its working job. The UKC describes it as a hog and cattle catching dog and protector of property, powerful and agile with a large head and strong jaws, and in the same breath a gentle, loving family companion. It comes in a range of types, from leaner standard dogs to thicker bully types, which is why sizes vary so much.

Temperament

VCA describes the Bulldog as a loyal, fun-loving companion, playful and good with children, friendly toward strangers and other pets, though not friendly toward strange dogs. It is willing to please but stubborn and may rebel against forceful methods, so reward-based training works best. The AKC calls Bulldogs docile and loyal, adapting well to town or country.

The American Bulldog is loyal and strongly bonded to family, per VCA, but may be cautious or protective around unfamiliar people and can show territorial behavior without consistent training. The UKC notes young American Bulldogs are often standoffish with strangers until about 18 months. VCA rates it best for confident or experienced owners and advises careful introductions with other pets.

Exercise and heat

The Bulldog needs only a leisurely daily walk or some backyard games, VCA says, and is extremely prone to overheating because of its flat face, so indoor games are better in warm weather. VCA adds that most Bulldogs cannot swim, so supervise closely around pools, and that the short coat gives little protection against cold.

The American Bulldog needs regular daily exercise, playtime and structured activities to prevent boredom, and VCA recommends access to fenced outdoor space. It handles more activity than a Bulldog but is still sensitive to extreme heat, and VCA lists brachycephalic airway disease among its concerns. Exercise both in the cooler hours and watch for heavy, noisy breathing.

Grooming and health

Both coats need only a weekly brush. The Bulldog's facial wrinkles, and any folds around the tail, should be checked, cleaned and dried daily, according to VCA, and it tends to run slightly overweight. For American Bulldogs, VCA advises weekly brushing, routine nail and ear care and watching the skin for irritation or infection.

VCA lists hip and elbow dysplasia, brachycephalic airway disease, ichthyosis and neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis among American Bulldog concerns, and notes the breed matures slowly, so controlled growth matters. For Bulldogs, VCA suggests a large-breed growth food for puppies, which it says may decrease the incidence or severity of hip dysplasia. Ask your vet about diet and breathing health for either breed.

Which to choose

Choose an English Bulldog if you want a calm, friendly, low-exercise companion that is happy with short walks and lots of couch time, and you are ready for daily wrinkle care, careful heat management and a shorter average lifespan. Choose an American Bulldog if you want a large, athletic, protective family dog and have the experience, space and time for daily exercise and training.

Either way, ask breeders about health screening of both parents, and for Bulldogs specifically about breathing. Check rental and insurance rules before bringing home an American Bulldog, since large bully breeds can face restrictions.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.