American Bully vs English Bulldog: Key Differences Explained

The American Bully and English Bulldog are two distinct breeds with unique characteristics. You’ll find that both have stocky builds and wrinkled faces, but their differences are noteworthy.

English Bulldogs have been around since the 1500s. They were originally bred for bull-baiting in England. Today, they’re known for their gentle nature and compact size. American Bullies are a newer breed. They were developed in the 1990s from several bulldog-type breeds. Their goal was to create a family-friendly companion with an athletic build.

When choosing between these breeds, consider your lifestyle and preferences. Each has its own unique appeal and can make a wonderful companion for the right owner. Let’s take a look at the similarities and differences between these two breeds.

Physical Characteristics

American Bullies and English Bulldogs have distinct looks. Their sizes, builds, and varieties set them apart. Let’s explore their key physical traits.

Appearance Comparison

American Bullies are larger and more muscular than English Bulldogs. You’ll notice their athletic build and broader chest. They stand taller, usually between 16-20 inches at the shoulder. Their weight ranges from 65-120 pounds.

English Bulldogs are shorter and stockier. You’ll see their wrinkled faces and pushed-in noses. They typically stand 14-16 inches tall and weigh 40-50 pounds. Both breeds have short, smooth coats. American Bullies come in various colors, including blue, black, and brindle. English Bulldogs often have fawn, red, or white coats with brindle patterns.

Standard Varieties

American Bullies have four main types:

1. Standard: The most common variety
2. Pocket: Smaller version, under 17 inches tall
3. Classic: Less muscular with a lighter frame
4. XL: Largest type, over 20 inches tall

English Bulldogs don’t have official varieties. But you might see terms like “mini” or “toy” used by some breeders. These aren’t recognized by major kennel clubs. American Bullies show more variety in size and build. English Bulldogs stick closer to their classic look. Your choice depends on your space and preferences.

Behavior and Temperament

American Bullies and English Bulldogs have distinct personalities that shape how they interact with people and other pets. Their temperaments and family-friendly qualities set them apart in important ways.

Temperament Comparison

• American Bullies are confident and friendly dogs. They tend to be outgoing and enjoy meeting new people. These dogs are usually calm but can be protective of their families when needed.
• English Bulldogs have a more laid-back nature. They’re known for being gentle and affectionate. These dogs often prefer lounging around the house to high-energy activities.
• Both breeds can be stubborn at times. This may make training a bit challenging. Patience and consistency are key when working with either type of bulldog.

Family Integration

• American Bullies make great family pets. They’re usually good with children and enjoy being part of family activities. These dogs need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
• English Bulldogs are excellent family companions. They’re gentle with kids and don’t require much space or exercise. Their calm nature makes them ideal for apartment living.
• Both breeds can be protective of their families. This makes them good watch dogs. However, proper socialization is important to prevent any aggressive tendencies.

Health and Maintenance

Both American Bullies and English Bulldogs need special care to stay healthy. These breeds have some shared health concerns and grooming needs you should know about.

Common Health Issues

• American Bullies and English Bulldogs face similar health challenges. Hip dysplasia is common in both breeds. This joint problem can cause pain and trouble walking.
• Breathing issues are a concern, especially for English Bulldogs. Their flat faces make it hard to breathe in hot weather or during exercise.
• Both breeds can get skin allergies. Watch for itching or rashes on their skin.
• Cherry eye, a problem with the third eyelid, can happen in both breeds. It looks like a red bump in the corner of the eye.
• Obesity is a risk for both types of bulldogs. Keep an eye on their weight to avoid joint problems.

Grooming and Care

• American Bullies and English Bulldogs have short coats that are easy to care for. You’ll need to brush them once a week to keep their coat healthy.
• Both breeds shed a bit. Regular brushing helps control hair fall around your home.
• Clean the folds on their face daily. This stops skin infections from starting in moist areas.
• Trim their nails every few weeks. Long nails can make walking uncomfortable.
• Brush their teeth often to prevent dental problems. Bad teeth can lead to other health issues.
• Both breeds need exercise, but don’t overdo it. Short walks and play sessions are best, especially for English Bulldogs.

Training and Socialization

Training and socializing American Bullies and English Bulldogs require different approaches due to their unique traits. Both breeds need consistent training and early socialization for the best results.

Training Techniques

• American Bullies are eager to please and highly trainable. You’ll find them responsive to positive reinforcement methods. Use treats and praise to encourage good behavior.
• English Bulldogs can be stubborn. They need patience and persistence in training. Keep sessions short and fun to maintain their interest.
• Both breeds benefit from early obedience training. Start with basic commands like sit, stay, and come. Use firm but gentle guidance.
• For American Bullies, focus on controlling their strength and energy. Teach them to walk calmly on a leash.
• English Bulldogs may need extra motivation. Find what excites them, whether it’s food or toys, and use it as a reward.

Socialization Needs

• Proper socialization is crucial for both breeds. Expose your puppy to various people, animals, and environments early on.
• American Bullies are naturally friendly but can be protective. Socialize them with other dogs and people to prevent aggression.
• Take your American Bully to dog parks and puppy classes. This helps them learn appropriate play behavior.
• English Bulldogs are generally easygoing but can be wary of strangers. Introduce them to new experiences gradually.
• Expose your English Bulldog to different sounds and situations. This helps prevent fear or anxiety later in life.
• Both breeds benefit from regular outings. Take them to pet-friendly stores or on walks in new neighborhoods.
• Remember, each dog is unique. Adjust your approach based on your pet’s personality and needs.

Living Considerations

American Bullies and English Bulldogs have different needs when it comes to living spaces and activity levels. These factors can greatly impact your choice between the two breeds.

Adaptability to Environments

American Bullies adapt well to various living situations. They can thrive in apartments or houses, as long as they get enough exercise. These dogs are fairly adaptable to different climates but may struggle in extreme heat.

English Bulldogs are more sensitive to their environment. They prefer moderate temperatures and can’t handle heat well. These dogs are great for apartment living due to their lower energy levels.

Both breeds can be good with families and children. American Bullies tend to be more protective, while English Bulldogs are usually gentle and patient with kids.

Exercise and Space Requirements

American Bullies need more exercise than English Bulldogs. You should plan for:

• Daily walks (30-60 minutes)
• Playtime in a fenced yard
• Mental stimulation activities

English Bulldogs have lower energy levels. Their exercise needs include:

• Short walks (15-20 minutes)
• Indoor play sessions
• Less intense activities due to breathing issues

American Bullies benefit from having a yard, but can manage in apartments with regular outings. English Bulldogs are well-suited for smaller spaces and don’t require as much room to move around.

Bottom Line

American Bullies and English Bulldogs both make wonderful companions with distinct personalities and care needs. If you’re interested in bringing one of these lovable breeds into your home, it’s essential to find a reputable breeder to ensure a healthy start. Trusted sources connect you with breeders who prioritize health and socialization, making it easier to find a happy, well-adjusted puppy. PuppySpot, for example, offers a $250 discount and matches you with carefully vetted breeders, helping you welcome the perfect American Bully or English Bulldog into your family with confidence.