The origins of the American Bulldog are hard to determine; this type of bulldog has an unclear history. There are no official records about this breed of dog until the National Kennel Club’s involvement in 1968.
Until the moniker ‘American Bulldog’ was given, this breed was known by an assortment of names including Country Bulldog, Southern White Bulldog, White English Bulldog, White Bulldog and sometimes just Bulldog. The word ‘white’ was often used in different names for this dog breed because white is the predominant color of most American Bulldogs.
There are 5 main types of American Bulldogs. Regardless of the specific type, however, American Bulldogs are muscular and athletic medium-sized dogs. They are compact and well balanced with unlimited stamina. Known for their protective nature, American Bulldogs are inquisitive, happy and alert. They have an even temperament and make a wonderful pet.
The Classic or Johnson Type of American Bulldog
Stocky and powerful, the Classic American Bulldog looks similar to a Bullmastiff. This type of bulldog has a wide frame which is often referred to as a ‘bully breed’ shape. Their head is blunt with a short muzzle and pronounced muscles along the jaw. The typical weight range for a Classic American Bulldog is over 120 lbs. for the male dogs. It is believed that this dog was bred to appear strong and intimidating to fill the role of a guard dog on the old Southern plantations.
The Standard or Scott Type American Bulldog
The Standard American Bulldog is lean and more athletic looking than the Classic type. This dog was bred for performance and is sometimes referred to as the Performance Type American Bulldog. Their muzzles are typically long with a distinct scissor bite; some Standard American Bulldogs have a slight under-bite and resemble a pit bull. This type of bulldog has long legs and a body frame similar to sporting and hunting dogs. The typical weight range for a Standard American Bulldog is 85 – 95 lbs. for the males. Female dogs generally weigh less than 75 lbs.
The Hybrid Type of American Bulldog
The Hybrid American Bulldog is just what the name implies, a dog with blood-lines that are a combination of the Classic and the Standard American Bulldog. These bulldogs are crossed with the intention of combining the best features of both types of American Bulldogs.
The Southern White American Bulldog or White English Bulldog
It is believed that the Southern White American Bulldog was the first true American Bulldog – but the name was not coined at that time. The original breeders of the Classic Type American Bulldog and the Standard Type American Bulldog probably started their dog breeding efforts with the Southern White American Bulldog as the foundation dog.
Southern White American Bulldogs can still be found in the Deep South of the USA and have a broad range of appearances. They can look like a hound dog or resemble a typical bulldog. Some dog breeders believe that any pedigree the Southern Whites have is diluted by now.
The Painter or Margentina Type of American Bulldog
Small and strong, this type of American Bulldog was bred to be another performance type of dog. Known to be agile and tough, this dog was regrettably bred to be used in dog fights. The typical weight range for a male Painter American Bulldog is 55 – 75 lbs.
Sources:
The Canine Information Library
Doggehouse
