Legal Liabilities

You'll want to check your local ordinances regarding American Bulldogs.  In many areas, they are considered in the same classification as American Pit Bull Terriers and you are required to meet the same stipulations for ownership.  You'll want to check your home insurance for any special requirements for owning an American Bulldog.  There is also an increased risk of a law suit if your American Bulldog misbehaves.

2.

Slobbering & Drooling

Yes.  American Bulldogs slobber and drool.  You will never again be able to walk out of your home in a crisp suit or dry jeans.  A quick shake of the head will send puddles of slime over your furniture and walls.  As with many breeds, the amount of slobbering and drooling will vary between dogs.  Kyra has a fairly dry mouth unless she's nervous, while Glacier takes a drink from his bowl and carries it to the far corners of the house in his jowls.

3.

Less Room on the Couch, the Bed, pretty much everywhere.

American Bulldogs are a large breed who feel that every area in the house is theirs.  Without a firm consistent hand, they will take over every piece of furniture you have, not to mention the entire back seat of the car.  If you are comfortable with your dog sleeping with you, begin when they are very young and make them comfortable UNDER the covers.  Once they lay on top, you'll never be able to roll over and take the blanket with you again and that's only if they give you the room to roll over. 

4.

Strange Odors and Sounds that Don't Seem to Have an Origin.

American Bulldogs are gassy.  There is no polite way to put it and at times the odor will have you fleeing from the room in order to take a breath.   Their snoring will have you elbowing your husband or your wife, only to be told that it's the DOG!

5.

Shedding

The shedding varies in our house.  Kyra has a shorter, more course hair and doesn't seem to shed at all.  Glacier has a much softer coat (when it's actually clean) and you can see the hair fly every time you run your hand down his back.  Plan on purchasing a vacuum made for pet hair, it's your best bet.

6.

Energy

Once again, the American Bulldog is a large breed dog.  A large dog with a lot of energy.  Without proper exercise, they will treat your home as a playground and most of them think they are lap dogs.  They will use your table legs (if not the entire table) as chew toys, not to mention shoes, pillows, and anything else they can sink their teeth into.   A coffee or end table can be cleared with the wag of a tail.

7.

A Strong Will & Independent Nature

The American Bulldog will challenge you every step of the way until you prove without a doubt that you can MAKE him do what you want him to do.  Sometimes even then, they will challenge your authority.  They are loyal and very willing to please their owners and most times, with consistent training, they will follow the house rules.  However, be prepared when they find something they don't like or don't want to do.  

8.

Protectiveness and Potential Aggression

The American Bulldog is a very protective breed, who must be socialized with both people and other animals at a young age and as often as possible to prevent aggression.  Only by learning how people act in a normal situation, will they be able to distinguish when the situation is not normal.  Dog aggression can be curbed somewhat by socializing, however, you must always be prepared. 

9.

After reading 1 - 8, Why would I ever want an American Bulldog?

If you have ever owned one of these magnificent dogs, or even just spent time with one, you would never have to ask this question.  An American Bulldog is a wonderful addition to most families.  They are loyal, reliable, brave and determined.  Alert and self-confident, this breed genuinely loves children and has been known for its acts of heroism toward its master.  They can be goofy or serious, energetic or placid, hard-headed or sweet.  The American Bulldog can have you ready to throw your hands up in frustration one minute and rolling on the floor laughing in the next.  If you do your research and make sure you have the time and energy to devote to this breed, you'll never regret sharing your life with an American Bulldog.