American Bulldogs weigh between 27 to 57 kg (60 to 125 lb) and are 52 to 70 cm (20 to 28 in) at the withers, but have been known to greatly exceed that.
Temperament:
An American Bulldog is typically a happy, friendly, and assertive dog that is at ease with its family and fine with outsiders who pose no threat. They bond strongly with their master and family. This breed tolerates children and can do well with them, provided they are socialized or obedience trained early.
The more exposure to good training practices, other dogs and people, the more likely the success at being controlled both inside and outside of their environment. One way to help accomplish this goal can be done in the simplest of ways, by walking them regularly in a local park. There they can meet other people and dogs. If properly introduced and socialized, this breed can become a great family pet and guardian.
They are working dogs with high energy drives, thus American Bulldogs do best in a home with a large backyard and plenty of exercise. They need an owner who can provide the necessary space and time, for leaving them of their own accord for long periods can cause destructive tendencies. This breed can sometimes be wary towards cats and smaller pets, but the correct socialization at an early age (see above, temperament) can greatly increase the chances of them accepting these animals. American Bulldogs are considered a dominant breed and are not recommended for first time dog owners, or those who have no experience with large, dominant breeds. Aggressiveness towards other dogs, especially those of the same sex, is not uncommon.
Health:
American Bulldogs can live from 10-14 years, and tend to be strong, physically active, and healthy. Some health problems in American bulldogs are usually found within certain genetic lines, and are not common to the entire breed. However, certain health problems, such as neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL), enlarged hearts, disorders of the kidney and thyroid, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, entropion, ectropion, and bone cancer are more common to the general population of American Bulldogs.
