English Bulldog versus American Bulldog, depending on your tastes, you might even say that, on the surface, Bulldogs are one more breed that offers much to enjoy – stout and stocky yet cute; those wrinkled faces are simply adorable.
However, in comparing the English Bulldog to the American Bulldog, some key contrasting characteristics are obvious. Right from their appearances to character traits, the two breeds possess such contrasting and unique characteristics that endear them to the hearts of so many.
You may be searching for an easygoing lapdog or a valiant protector; these are the very subtle differences that help you select the dog suitable for you and your family.
So, let’s see some of the differences that would have given you the knowledge to decide which Bulldog would be yours.
English Bulldog Versus American Bulldog Origins and History
English Bulldog, Symbol of British Courage: English bulldogs, or bulldogs as they are popularly known, possess an unrivalled history as old as 13th century England.
This breed was then reared to use it for bull-baiting, now prohibited and out-grown because of its valued characteristics: strength, courage, and determination.
Owned by bull-baiting for almost all of the 19th century, the breed transformed; and gave possibility change that led it to a more placid and amiable personality which eventually came to be known in these modern times, as a friendly and loyal pooch.
American Bulldog: A Working Dog with a Rich Heritage
As would be expected, the American Bulldog traces back to the United States as well, as having been brought by immigrants from Europe into the continent.
It primarily served as a working animal on farms to guard property, herd livestock, and even hunt once in a while for wild game.
This breed almost became extinct by the second half of the 20th century because the American Bulldog was being cultivated by a few dedicated breeders to safeguard its functional athletic build and working abilities.
English Bulldog Versus American Bulldog Physical Characteristics
English Bulldog: Compact and muscular identification is brought about by the unique stout, muscular body, the wide stout chest, and the pushed-up nose.
On average, British bulldogs weigh from 40 to 50 pounds and are generally 12 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder.
Their context has given the world’s distinctiveness, which is usually perceived as an almost comical view, a much-wrinkled face with loose skin and underbite.
American Bulldog: Athletic and powerful, in marked contrast, American bulldogs normally differ between weighing as much as 60-120 pounds, while the height ranges from 20-2to 8 inches.
All this comes with a more muscular body, very agile, because of a longer muzzle and less prominent wrinkly face as compared to its cousin.
Their aesthetic reflection is of course very much in keeping with their working heritage in the sense of an athletic, powerful frame built for endurance and strength.
English Bulldog Versus American Bulldog Character and Temperament
English Bulldog
Gentle and Affectionate English Bulldogs will often laugh at themselves and their shadows while remaining completely calm.
The breed has placed itself as gentle brutes guarding whatever family it finds itself in the company of at the time—they have an extra measure of calmness—they are, for all intents and purposes, couch potatoes.
They can exhibit a little stubbornness, ensuring they are one of the best companions for toddlers and other animals. Consequently, English Bulldogs are among the calmest of dog breeds on Earth as they exercise with almost no activity besides their very moderate daily activity and half the time, just lying around.
American Bulldog: Confident and Protective
Confident and ProtectiveConfident and protective, American Bulldogs would be fiercely loyal to and devoted to their families and would bond well with their family members.
Indeed, American Bulldogs will be extremely brave and protective of their home and family members they definitely will protect—this breed makes a great family dog.
However, early socialization and training methods should be considered to ensure these dogs become manageable and relaxed around others, both strangers and other animals.
Any data we evaluate here implies a post-October 2023 cut-off date regarding dog training.
Exercise and Activity Level
English Bulldog
Low to Moderate Exercise NeedsEnglish bulldogs all have one thing in common: they are not high-energy dogs. In terms of exercise, they are very low-maintenance and only a couple of brief moderate walks and some play will keep them happy and relatively fit.
English bulldogs suffer from brachycephalia (short nose). Because of this, they can have issues with overheating, so do not want to over-exercise them when the weather is warm outside.
American Bulldog
Very High-Activity and Exercise American bulldogs are very high-energy and require a lot of vigorous exercise to maintain their overall physical and mental wellness.
They love to run, hike, and play fetch. If they do not have enough exercise, the American bulldog typically will show their displeasure in other ways.
Hence, this breed is more suitable for active families or individuals who can provide them with that level of exercise.
Health and Life Expectancy
English Bulldog
Susceptible to Health Issues English bulldogs are, unfortunately, quite susceptible to all types of health problems as a result of their unique body structure.
The most common health problems are brachycephalic syndrome, hip dysplasia, skin infections, and breathing issues.
The average life expectancy is around eight to ten years, although some do live longer with responsible ownership and consistent veterinary care.
American Bulldog
Generally Healthy with Limited Exceptions American bulldogs are generally a healthier breed of dog, but may also be affected by some inherited conditions such as elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and certain kinds of cancers.
An average life expectancy of 10-15 years is typical for this general breed. Keeping your American bulldog healthy involves exercise, proper nutrition, and medical treatment as needed.
Grooming and Maintenance
English Bulldog
Moderate Grooming Requirements English Bulldogs have generally low grooming requirements; however, their wrinkled skin requires extra care to avoid infections.
You need to clean out their facial folds, ears, and tail pocket regularly. They shed moderately, and they should be brushed weekly to remove loose hair and support coat health.
Bathrooms may be needed but not too often, as this can lead to dry skin.
American Bulldog
Low Grooming Requirements American Bulldogs have short smooth coats that can be groomed easily.
They shed a low amount, and hair can be removed with no more than occasional brushing to keep the coat shiny.
You should bathe as needed, as they don’t need grooming often. You should check their toenails, clean their ears, and care for their teeth.
Training and Association
English Bulldog
Stubborn but Trainable English bulldogs have the reputation of being rebellious, making training very tricky.
They can be easily taught the fundamentals of obedience and, with an ounce of patience and consistency, really, very simple manners and cues using positive reinforcement.
A very important aspect of English Bulldogs is socialization since it is needed for your Bulldog to have personal experience with other dogs and people.
English Bulldogs reasonably respond to gentler, non-forceful reward-based training methods.
American Bulldog
Eager to Please but Strong-Willed Intelligent American Bulldogs are dogs that want to please their masters. But tend to be quite willful and independent. For American bulldog puppies,
Consistency of assertive training should begin right from puppyhood. Early socialization of American bulldogs is also very important to curb aggression or fearfulness tendencies.
There will be no dog aggression or fearfulness later if you do proper socialization to an adult state. American bulldogs respond to pure reinforcement quite well and are willing to learn commands and tasks whenever possible.
Living Environment
Apartment-Leaving English Bulldog
Because of their low energy levels and low exercise requirements, English bulldogs make quite good apartment dogs. These indoor dogs cannot handle too much heat or cold.
So the English bulldog will live best in an air-conditioned environment, where it can comfortably lie down on a soft bed or a couch.
American Bulldog: Needs Space to Roam
American Bulldogs prefer homes in larger houses with yard space to run freely. They don’t do well in apartments since they have high energy and require exercising regularly. American bulldogs feel most at home with plenty of running space to expend their energy.
Cost of Ownership
English Bulldog: Higher Initial and Ongoing Costs
English bulldogs are generally above-average in the purchase price. Its initial price ranges from about 1,500 to above 4,000, depending on the particular breeder and the lineage.
Along with high prices at the time of purchase, a life-long commitment to potential health problems can rack up some pretty serious veterinary bills.
Vet visits, surgery, and extra care on the skin and respiratory systems can potentially pile up costs to make English bulldogs on that list considered an expensive breed to own.
American Bulldog
Up Front Costs Low, but Time Will Be Costly American bulldogs are not so expensive to buy, standing at an average price range of 800 to
2,000.
However, they require a significant investment in food, exercise, and veterinarian bills. They are much healthier than the English bulldog, but can still have certain health conditions for which vet attention will be required, so future expenditures would be something the prospective owner of this breed should consider.
Choosing the Right Breed for You
Think Lifestyle
Choosing between an American Bulldog and an English Bulldog requires one to consider lifestyle and living conditions.
If you live in an apartment and want a pure couch potato, then perhaps the English Bulldog would be more appropriate.
An American would be your best choice if there is a big yard and you lead an active life.
Think Long-Term
Both breeds demand long-term commitment in terms of time, energy, and finances.
While special care due to health conditions might be needed for English bulldogs, American bulldogs don’t require frequent training or any specialized exercise.
Factor in your accessibility concerning each breed in making a decision.
Meet the Breeds
If you can, spend some quality time with either breed before deciding. Visit breeders, attend dog shows, or spend time with friends or family members who own English or American Bulldogs.
This will give you a better idea of the temperament, energy level, and personality profile of both breeds and allow for a more informed decision.
Conclusion
Both English bulldogs and American bulldogs have some marvellous breeds with different characteristics. The English Bulldog is a loving and affectionate partner, best suited to a relaxed lifestyle.
The American Bulldog will score as a heavy, athletic working dog that will require both weighty physical exercise as well as mental stimulation.
You will now be able to make a just decision about your bulldog all because of the differences and similarities these breeds have.
