Working American Bulldog

The working American Bulldog is a descendant of the Old English Bulldog originally developed for controlling cattle and guarding the property. These dogs were used by butchers and farmers for routine work. Familiarity with livestock, courage, and strength led to the breed’s popularity in bull baiting. Athletic, agile, and very powerful, these dogs were able to bring down not only bulls, but also bears, boars, and even lions. When baiting was outlawed in England, the original Bulldog was replaced by a less athletic stocky dog with short legs and very large head.

The working American Bulldog has much more in common with the original Bulldog than the English Bulldog of today. The American Bulldog was developed from the dogs taken to the American South by the immigrants. These dogs were used for many tasks: herding large cattle, hunting large game, and guarding the property. American Bulldogs were never used for bull baiting.

Different types of work the working American Bulldog had to do led to the formation of several lines. The Johnson and Scott are the most famous bloodlines of the American Bulldog. The Johnson (Classic or Bully) type of the American Bulldog is very massive, with a large head, short muzzle, and a definite undershot bite. The Scott (Standard or Performance) type of the American Bulldog is lighter in bone and muscles. Today, most American Bulldogs are the crosses of two or more lines.

Modern American Bulldogs serve as all-purpose dogs. Their courage, strength, protective instinct, intelligence, and devotion to humans make them both efficient guards and loving family companions. American Bulldogs are both agile and strong. They are able to chase and bring down livestock. Dogs of this breed are very energetic and quick-witted. They should have a task to do to give them both mental and physical exercise; otherwise they may become bored or hyperactive. Though these dogs enjoy being in the center of attention, they can well entertain themselves and can be left alone during the day time. This breed is not suited for big cities, but is ideal for the country. A working American Bulldog should not be kept in an apartment.