Last Updated on April 12, 2022 by Marco C.
American Bulldogs are one of the three main Bulldog breeds and some new owners wonder how long do American Bulldogs live for. These animals are a bit different from their English and French cousins, and in today’s article, we’ll be taking a look at their general health, caring, and grooming conditions, as well as what are some things to look out for.
American Bulldog Health and Longevity
American Bulldogs are generally healthy dogs with just a few things that you need to keep in mind. Their life span is usually 10 to 12 years of age, but there are instances where dogs live for a bit longer than that. Interestingly, they’re not similar to the Frenchie or the English Bulldog when it comes to obesity.
These dogs aren’t prone to putting on excess weight and they’re generally healthier than other Bulldogs. A similarity that they share with their cousins comes in the form of allergies – these dogs have sensitive skin and it’s easy for them to irritate their skin. This is a trait that all Bulldogs have.
Similarly, they also often have problems with their eyes. This is caused by the odd shape of their head, which makes them more susceptible to issues with their eyes. Eyes dryness and irritation are not uncommon at all.
Learn more about: Bulldog Eye Infections Explained
Since they’re so susceptible to skin diseases, a common one is an ichthyosis – an illness that causes scaly patches to form on a dog’s skin – reminiscent of fish scales. This is why it’s also called the fish scale disease. The treatment for this illness is very expensive, but it’s possible to treat it, while it’s also not difficult to spot it.
A large positive that has to be taken into account with American Bulldogs is that unlike their English and French counterparts – they’re not brachycephalic. These dogs might experience some issues with their breathing, but nothing as nearly as extreme as the issues that are apparent with English and French Bulldogs.
Appearance and Temperament
American Bulldogs can measure up to 25 inches in height and they can weigh up to 100 pounds, which makes them much healthier than English and French Bulldogs, taking into account the height-to-weight ratio. They’re large dogs with a short, smooth coat that comes in black, brown, white, and chocolate colors.
They’re quite muscular for a dog, but they’re not bulky. They’re also very intelligent and trainable. These dogs typically aren’t aggressive and they love to play around. However, they like being trained and stimulated intellectually, which is why it’s necessary for their owner to regularly run them through exercises – not just physical ones but cognitive exercises too.
These dogs turn out best if they’re socialized with other dogs from an early age – combining that with constant training ensures that they grow into well-mannered dogs that understand right from wrong. Dogs that don’t get early socialization and training will often cause tantrums because they feel unstimulated – essentially, their mind is like an itch that needs to be constantly scratched.
This will manifest through constant digging, barking, and chewing – so you might witness your dog ripping your couch apart just because you didn’t work with it. They’re also very physically active, so you’ll need to spend a lot of time walking them too. Unlike their European cousins, these dogs don’t just enjoy laying around on the couch – they need exercise too.
Your American Bulldog will most likely enjoy it if you take them biking, more so than taking them on a walk. Keep in mind that these dogs are active and they’re a good fit for athletic owners.
Caring and Environmental Requirements
Even though these dogs aren’t massive, they’ll enjoy their time much more if they live in a yard in comparison to living in an apartment. Energetic dogs prefer natural, open spaces where they can run rampant and enjoy their time, instead of being stuck in an enclosed space all the time.
This is why it’s better to keep this dog if you live in a house with a yard. Additionally, they don’t have a problem spending the night outside too, as long as they have their doggie house ready.
When it comes to caring, the most important thing about these dogs is hygiene – because of their sensitive skin, it’s necessary to give them a good wash every now and then. Consult with your vet on what shampoo would be the best to use to give your dog the most protection from potential bacteria and infections.
Make sure to brush them at least once a week – but that won’t be a problem since their hair is short and they don’t shed too much. It would also be beneficial to take care of their teeth by using dental sticks or something similar.
Read more about: When Do American Bulldogs Stop Growing?
FAQ
What do American Bulldogs usually die from?
American Bulldogs typically die from old age. These dogs aren't susceptible to any lethal illnesses, like cancer, more than any other dog breed, so you don't have to worry about diseases.
What health problems do American bulldogs have?
These dogs have sensitive skin and they can easily develop infections and skin problems if you don't wash them. It's best to give them a good wash whenever they get dirty. On the positive side, they're not as brachycephalic as English and French Bulldogs.
What age do American Bulldogs live to?
Usually, American Bulldog lifespan is about 12 years, but some dogs have lived longer than that. They usually die from old age.
To End
American Bulldogs are a generally healthy breed that can live up to 12 years of age. These dogs enjoy spending their time socializing with people, but also exercising their body and their mind with their owner. Unlike English and French Bulldogs, they usually don’t suffer from major brachycephalic symptoms and breathing isn’t an issue for them.
These pups are usually very healthy and they die from old age. One weakness for them is skin infections – they can easily develop skin infections, but they’re usually easy to take care of. This is why it’s important to give them a good wash when they get dirty.