Is an American Bulldog a Pitbull?
This article highlights the Pitbull vs. Bulldog. Many people frequently confuse Pitbulls and American Bulldogs. They are two entirely separate breeds, even though they appear to have some resemblance. But most individuals are unable to distinguish between them.
Fortunately, we’ve outlined the key distinctions between the Pitbull and American Bulldog below to make it easier for you to tell them apart and assist you in determining which breed is a better choice for your household.
What is the Difference Between a Pitbull and a Bulldog?
You may wonder, what is the difference between Pitbull and American Bulldog? Pitbulls and American Bulldogs have a powerful, muscular build, yet there are a few subtle distinctions. Bulldogs have large shoulders and a deep, wide chest. They are stocky canines. Pitbulls have good proportions and are slightly slimmer.
Bulldog vs. Pitbull Side-by-Side Characteristic Comparison
Pitbull | American Bulldog | |
Size | Height: 17 to 20 inches (43.2 to 50.8 centimeters) Weight: 30 to 60 pounds (13.6 to 27.2 kilograms) | Weight: 60 to 120 pounds (27.2 to 54.4 kilograms) Height: 19 to 28 inches (48.3 to 71 centimeters) |
Color | Any color and any pattern | Solid colors, although usually white with black, brown, or red patches |
| Build | Lean, muscular, well-proportioned | Stocky with broad shoulders and a wide chest |
Face | Slightly rounded with a wide jaw. No underbite and no facial wrinkles | Large and square has a slight underbite and facial wrinkles |
Tolerance for other animals | Can be aggressive toward others | Good tolerance |
Bite Force | 235 pounds (106.6 kilograms) | 305 pounds (138.3 kilograms) |
Lifespan | 12 to 14 years | 10 to 12 years |
The Differences Between Bulldogs and Pitbulls
Let us look at the difference between American Bulldogs and Pitbulls.
American Bulldog vs. Pitbull Appearance
By contrasting their outward characteristics, an American Bulldog and a Pitbull can easily distinguish from one another. Let’s look at it! How do American Bulldogs and American Pitbull Terriers compare in appearance?
The look of the American Bully and the APBT is the main distinction between them. The American Pitbull Terrier is a well-muscled, short-coated medium-sized dog with an athletic-looking body and smooth, well-defined musculature.
Males can reach heights of 18 to 21 inches (45.7 to 53.3 centimeters) and weigh 35 to 60 pounds (15.9 to 27.2 kilograms). Females can weigh between 30 and 50 pounds (13.6 and 22.7 kilograms) and measure 17 to 20 inches tall. The American Bulldog, in contrast, is substantially bigger.
Males can weigh between 75 and 100 pounds (34 and 45.4 kilograms) and grow between 22 and 25 inches (55.8 and 63.5 centimeters). Females often weigh between 60 and 80 pounds (27.2 and 36.3 kilograms) and are tall and 20 to 23 inches (50.8 to 58.4 centimeters).
American Bulldogs are less muscular than American Pitbull Terriers, and they can have an underbite, a wider chest, and wrinkles on their faces.
It is simple to understand why the American Bulldog can be mistaken for a Pitbull at first appearance. Even so, you can easily identify an American Bulldog by its characteristic “bully” look and behavior. Both dogs look powerful, solid, and muscular; however, the American Bulldog has more noticeable cheek muscles than the APBT and a wider chest.
The American Bulldog has a wide, huge head, a broad muzzle, pronounced cheek muscles, a wide nose, and strong jaws. However, the Pitbull has a slimmer physique, more defined muscles, and a wider skull.
American Bulldog vs. Pitbull Temperament
Pitbulls and American Bulldogs have temperaments and personalities that are remarkably similar. Start with the AB first!
The American Bulldog’s temperament is comparable to an English Bulldog’s. They can be big lap dogs because they are kind and friendly dogs that get along well with kids. Particularly if you train them at a young age, they might show themselves to be amiable dogs who are particularly family-oriented.
Due to their courage, strength, and strong personalities, American Bulldogs do best with owners who aren’t hesitant to position them as dominant pack leaders. They can be wary of strangers and are frequently on guard.
They also have strong instincts for protection. The American Bulldog has a sense of devotion. When around unknown, smaller creatures like cats or dogs, they have an instinctive desire to hunt, which needs controlling. So how does a Pitbull’s disposition differ from a Bulldog’s?
However, Pitbulls are “less tolerant” of other dogs than many other breeds. Pitbulls are generally not violent with people. Despite the unfavorable myths and preconceptions surrounding this breed, studies on canine temperament place Pitbulls among the friendly, tolerant, and submissive dogs.
The American Pitbull Terrier is popular for its pleasant disposition and energetic temperament. They need early socialization and handling since they are tenacious dogs. Although American Pitbull dogs are more amusing and joyful dogs, American Pitbull Terries are just as devoted and loyal to their owners as American Bulldogs.
If they receive the proper training, they make great family dogs. It’s crucial to emphasize that reckless owners who incite hostility in their dogs to fight and defend themselves might cause both breeds to turn violent.
American Bulldog vs. Pitbull Health Problems
American Bulldogs and American Pitbull Terriers both have health difficulties
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Demodectic mange
- Thyroid defects
The American Bulldog and the APBT may experience genetic health issues like other breeds. You can prevent these health hazards by conducting an at-home dog DNA health test to detect any medical issues.
Health Issues Specific to American Bulldogs
American Bulldogs are vulnerable to the following health problems, according to PetMD:
- Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (a nervous system disorder with swelling and changes in some retinal cells)
- Kidney issues
- Cherry eye
- Bone cancer
- Also, due to their facial wrinkles, American Bulldogs may be prone to skin problems from chafing, heat, and wetness. You can clean your dog’s wrinkles, tear stains, and tail pockets and shield them with Squishface Wrinkle Paste.
Health issues specific to American Pitbull Terriers
The American Pitbull Terrier can develop several health problems, including
- Heart disease (i.e., valve malformations and irregularities in heart rhythm)
- Diabetes
- Aortic stenosis
- Cataracts
- Sensitive to allergies
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Kneecap dislocation
- Identity genetic risks related to drug sensitivities, vision, weight, and mobility.
American Bulldog vs. Pitbull Intelligence
The American Pitbull Terrier Intellect Index (ABI) rates the intelligence of this breed as average to above average. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier are two canine breeds in the Pitbull group (i.e., APBT) that scored average to above average on the Stanley Coren Intelligence Test.
This means that these dogs can correctly respond to a known command (on the first try) 70% of the time and understand a new order after 15 to 25 trials. American Bulldogs are also very intelligent canines. Due to their high level of intelligence and strong work ethic, American Bulldogs are exceptionally trainable canines.
The two American Bulldogs are equally intellectual, even though there are no official records of intelligence tests for these breeds. These dogs do tasks (such as herding animals) that require judgment, intellect, and focus. The typical dog could be better for that.
American Bulldog vs. Pitbull Cost
Pitbull vs. American Bulldog Cost Prices can change! But these are the costs associated with buying a Bulldog or Pitbull. The typical price of an American Bulldog with a top pedigree ranges from around $1,700 to $8,000 or even more. The cost of every American Bulldog sold is approximately $800 on average.
On average, American Pitbull Terriers cost about $1,100, making them significantly more expensive. However, American Pitbull Terriers’ costs range from approximately $3,700 to $10,000. If you’re interested in adopting an APBT, or American Bulldog, your local shelter could have some available.
Pitbull vs. American Bulldog Coat Color
American Bulldogs come in various colors, per the American Kennel Club breed standard. There are many variations (non-standard colors), including white and brindle, white and black, white and brown, and white and tan. The normal color of the American Bulldog is white with patches of brindle, red, tan, brown, or black.
On the other hand, the American Pitbull Terrier comes in various colors, from a creamy blonde to an almost reddish tint.
Pitbull vs. American Bulldog Training
Early socialization and puppy training sessions are ideal for all breeds. Pitbulls and American Bulldogs are both intelligent but independent. They are amiable and enjoy doing favors. However, training might be challenging for someone who is not a pack leader.
To channel this energy and establish and maintain appropriate boundaries while teaching these dogs, you must be a natural leader who is dependable and loving.
According to the United Kennel Club, “the APBT demands an owner who will carefully socialize and obedience train the dog” since some “APBTs demonstrate some level of dog aggression and because of its muscular size.”
Bulldogs and American Pitbull Terriers easily experience boredom without frequent structured activities, such as training and play to exercise, which results in negative behaviors.
Teaching an American Bulldog to be incredibly calm and obedient is crucial whether you’re parenting or training them. If you need assistance housebreaking your dog, the class offered by K9 Training Institute is a great training resource. You will learn the techniques service dog handlers employ with their puppies.
You can also read Matthew Masterson’s book, The Bible for Any American Bulldog Owner. It will assist you in raising, training, and creating a fruitful relationship with your dog. This book is the go-to guide for experienced and inexperienced Pitbull owners if you own a Pitbull Terrier.
American Bulldog vs. Pitbull Exercise Needs
One of the most active and athletic Molossers is the American Bulldog. This breed should engage in strenuous exercise for 45 to 60 minutes daily. American Bulldogs can engage in jogs, treks, tug-of-war matches, and training drills. Be cautious, though, as this breed is prone to harm to the bones and joints. To reduce these health hazards, focus on impact-free exercises.
American Bulldogs require a lot of physical activity. An under-exercised American Bulldog may exhibit behaviors like destructiveness, excessive barking, hyperactivity, over-excitement, anxiousness, and aggression due to pent-up energy.
Cesar Milan asserts that Pitbulls need at least 30 to 45 minutes of intense exercise daily and are just as active as American Bulldogs. Both dogs will benefit from athletic development in terms of being healthy and content. Use a toy like the Chuckit Sport Launcher to give them a fun workout. For a mentally challenging activity, try the Nina Ottosson Dog Smart Puzzle.
However, both types have strong bites that can quickly obliterate a toy. We advise purchasing durable toys for dogs with strong chewing habits, such as Pitbulls and American Bulldogs. They offer the best exciting sensation.
Pitbull vs. American Bulldog Grooming Needs
Fortunately, caring for your American Bulldog or Pitbull Terrier is not too difficult. They shed their hair seasonally and have short hair. Try to brush either breed’s coat with a soft to medium bristle brush at least once a week to disperse their natural oils and eliminate stray hair and debris when grooming them.
When they get dirty, giving them an occasional bath with dog-specific shampoo will help them stay clean and lustrous. In particular, Pitbull Terriers should have their ears cleaned once a month or as frequently as needed because of their perky ears, which are prone to infection.
Are Bulldogs and Pitbulls Related?
The Old English Bulldog, imported to North America by English settlers in the 1600s, is the ancestor of the American Pitbull Terrier and the American Bulldog. The Old English Bulldog was a big, strong dog utilized in the then-common bloodsport of bull-baiting.
However, the popularity of the Old English Bulldog started to fall after bull-baiting became illegal in 1835. Some breed enthusiasts started breeding it with other dogs, like Mastiffs and Terriers, to maintain the breed. These crosses resulted in two new breeds, the American Pitbull Terrier and the American Bulldog.
Similarities Between Pitbulls and Bulldogs
Some of the most notable parallels between American Bulldogs and Pitbulls are as follows:
- Short coat and a muscular build
- Both have broad heads
- Common ancestry
- Both used in bull-baiting in England
- Powerful jaws and bites
- Very similar temperaments
- Both are farm dogs
- They share a similar health profile and are prone to illnesses like Hip dysplasia and Hypothyroidism, making them excellent family dogs with the right training.
Individual Breed History
We can distinguish a Pitbull and a Bulldog from one another by considering their origins and histories.
American Bulldog
The English Bulldog is the ancestor of the American Bulldog (AB). Working-class immigrants imported old English Bulldogs to America in the 1800s to assist with various activities, including farm guardians, herding dogs, and hunting dogs.
The initial intent of this breed was to guard people and their property and serve as a valuable tool for small farmers and ranchers to handle (capture) large animals like cattle and pigs.
The breed had nearly completely disappeared by the end of World War II. However, a few devoted breeders, especially in the southern states, chose to preserve the breed by breeding them for family companions rather than farm dogs.
American Pitbull Terrier
According to the United Kennel Club, the crossing of Old English Bulldogs and Terriers created the American Pitbull Terrier (APBT). This dog combined the Terrier’s power and agility with the Bulldog’s gameness and skill.
The pastime of bull-baiting helped the Pitbull Terrier become more well-known in the British Isles. After bull-baiting became illegal, individuals used the APBT for dogfighting and ratting, a game of skill in which participants bet on which Pitbull could kill rats in the shortest time.
Immigrants brought these Bull-and-Terrier hybrids to America. The APBT’s skills were discoverable as these extreme sports lost their appeal. Many people use Pitbull Terriers as farm dogs and household pets.
Health Concerns Associated With the Breeds
Below are the ten frequent health problems affecting Pitbulls:
Pitbull Skin Problems
Unfortunately, Pitbulls are naturally predisposed to several skin conditions, including tumors, itchiness from allergies, and skin cancer. To avoid skin allergies, you should frequently groom your Pitbull and clean their ears. You must provide them shade because they are vulnerable to sunburns due to their short hair.
Additionally, consider buying a dog-safe bug repellent if your yard has mosquitoes and other insects. If the itching continues, your Pitbull can scratch itself until cuts appear, making the issue worse. The worst illness your Pitbull can have is skin cancer; therefore, if you see any skin anomalies, see a vet immediately.
Knee Complications
Pitbulls frequently experience knee problems. Pitbulls are exuberant dogs who like to play with toys, run around, and be active. Pitbulls’ high energy level and sturdy build make them susceptible to knee problems, ligament tears, and injuries to the hind legs.
Similar to the ACL in people, your dog’s cranial cruciate ligament may get effects from similar motions. On a Pitbull’s knee, a thin ligament known as the cranial cruciate connects the thigh bone to the tibia. Pitbulls are constantly moving, so the CCL has a difficult job. Due to the Pitbull breed’s playful nature, most partial tears will likely develop into complete tears.
The CCL issues typically start as a partial tear with symptoms including soreness or a minor limp. But if your dog keeps up the exercise, the issue can worsen. Surgery is frequently required to repair the injured connective tissue. As your Pitbull ages, it may cause various health concerns and mobility challenges if not treated promptly.
Over 60% of dogs with ruptured CCLs will likely experience subsequent knee problems. The opposite leg has to carry the weight of the weaker knee. You can use leg support to lessen the impact of imbalance.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a prevalent condition in Pitbulls. Due to rear leg health difficulties, Pitbulls can become less nimble. A common hereditary disease in Staffordshire Terriers is hip dysplasia. This condition leads to the hip developing improperly, which leads to arthritis and persistent pain.
Pitbull Hip Dysplasia Symptoms & Treatment
Dogs with hip dysplasia will struggle to run, climb stairs, and have lameness in their rear legs. Hip surgery is a standard treatment option for hip dysplasia, but there are also non-invasive ways to manage the problem.
A Pitbull with hip dysplasia and arthritis can benefit from hydrotherapy, acupuncture, chiropractic therapy, and canine rehab. A hip brace can help support your dog’s hips. Supporting the hip while exercising helps ease hip pain, encourage mobility during exercise, and reduce stiffness.
Pitbulls are prone to hip and hind leg issues due to genetics. Pitbulls’ bunny-hopping gait, lameness in the rear legs, and limping are among the early symptoms of hip pain. Our arthritic patients’ mobility can get support from supplements to assist their hurting joints and all-natural muscle supplements like Fortetropin, which can help maximize muscle mass and health.
Allergies
Pitbulls are more likely to develop allergies than other dog breeds. Pitbulls frequently experience skin allergies, resulting in hot spots, balding, and dry, itchy skin patches. Pitbulls are more sensitive to pollen, grass, ticks, and insects than other dog breeds. They also get effects from food allergies, especially grains or wheat.
A Pitbull with allergies lick, shed, drool, scratch, and excessively. Scratching can result in bleeding and sores. To avoid skin infections, treating your dog right away would be beneficial.
Thyroid Disease
For Pitbulls, thyroid illness is another major issue. Particularly vulnerable to hypothyroidism are Pitbulls. If your Pitbull’s thyroid glands aren’t producing enough thyroid hormones, they will overeat excessively and have skin issues.
Thyroid disease can generate terrified aggression in addition to clinical symptoms and other behavioral abnormalities. Your veterinarian will run blood tests to identify thyroid illness. To treat the condition, your Pitbull might require thyroxine dosages for the rest of his life.
Gastric Dilatation – Volvulus
The condition can be fatal in hours, even though many Pitbull owners dismiss it as little more than bloating. After eating, Pitbulls with this condition will have too much gas in their tummies. Consuming fermented food and “air eating” can worsen this disease.
If your dog exhibits symptoms like an enlarged stomach or anxiety, immediately take him to the clinic. The doctor will come up with plans to decompress the air.
Ichthyosis
Ichthyosis condition is prone to occur in Pitbulls. Ichthyosis is a congenital disability that, if left untreated, can become painful. The outer layer of the footpads and the skin on your Pitbull’s skin may occasionally become thicker. This could be a sign of ichthyosis in your dog. This issue, which is more typical in Terrier breeds, can pass down to your Pitbull from its parents.
It is an abnormal skin condition with symptoms resembling human dandruff or fish scales. As the dog ages, the scales will become worse if untreated.
Cataracts
It would be beneficial if you regularly examined your Pitbull’s eyes. Compared to other breeds, the Staffordshire Terrier is more prone to acquiring cataracts. This disorder may be hereditary or acquired. Cataracts can result from other medical problems like hypocalcemia, diabetes, and uveitis.
Pharmaceutical treatments can ease cataracts if identified early; otherwise, they will require surgery to remove the excess protein buildup. Juvenile cataracts can develop in young Pitbull puppies as well. The onset of juvenile cataracts occurs significantly earlier, typically before six.
Corneal ulcers, which cause the eye to become inflamed and infected, are another eye condition that affects the Pitbull breed.
Cerebellar Ataxia
Cerebellar ataxia, a hereditary condition that results in poor motor coordination and imbalance, affects one in 400 Pitbulls. As dogs develop, indications of cerebellar ataxia usually appear. Pitbulls suffering from this condition will tremble, move clumsily, walk awkwardly, and may become immobile in more challenging circumstances.
The added assistance of a wheelchair may be necessary for dogs with this illness to maintain balance and aid in improving movement. Dog with Wobbler’s Disease Gets a Dog Wheelchair with Walkin’ Wheels. Complete Support Walkin’ Wheels can help with balance, coordination, and the need for mobility for the assistance dog.
Heart Disease
The Pitbull breed is frequently affected by the genetic disorder congenital heart disease. Aortic stenosis, which is prevalent in the breed, is a heart condition. You should get your dog tested frequently so you might identify the issue earlier, as this disease rarely exhibits any signs.
The following are 10 English Bulldog common health problems.
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
Every English Bulldog has Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS), defined as having a smooshed face in Latin. Animals with BAS frequently have reduced facial characteristics that result in a pushed-in nose.
The throat and respiratory passageways in Bulldogs are typically small or flattened because they have relatively short muzzles and noses, according to the ACVS. Their shorter facial bones and narrower noses provide several health hazards, including
- Having trouble breathing and panting all the time.
- Intolerance to exercise.
- Eating difficulties.
- Obesity tends to worsen the symptoms of Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome, so feeding your dog a nutritious diet and keeping an eye on their weight can help.
- Brachycephalic breed dogs with just minor signs should avoid stress and overheating and acquire frequent exercise to treat BAS.
Difficulty Breathing
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome-related upper airway abnormalities significantly negatively impact Bulldogs’ overall health. Nobody wants their dog to have trouble breathing, but breathing may be a major issue for Bulldogs.
Selective breeding-induced genetic anomalies have a major negative impact on your dog’s airways. The following are the most typical breathing concerns in English Bulldogs:
Elongated Soft Palate
The soft palate of brachycephalic dogs frequently extends into the airway, making breathing more difficult. An extended soft palate lengthens the airway and increases airway resistance. And when pressure rises, it may cause edema or expansion of the palate, constricting the airways.
Stenotic Nares
When your dog’s nostrils are narrow, it makes it difficult for them to breathe. Because of the distinctive Bully snore and snort, you can identify this disorder. Your veterinarian might suggest surgical procedures to expand the nostrils if it poses a health risk.
Pneumonia
When the lower respiratory tracts get inflamed, pneumonia develops. This irritation typically happens when your dog inhales regurgitation or vomit, which can seriously harm the lungs and the tissue around them.
Temperature Regulation
Because panting controls body temperature, brachycephalic dogs struggle to do so. You must maintain a comfortable temperature for your English Bulldog. Avoid taking your dog outside in the heat, and make sure your home is air-conditioned. Overheating symptoms include
- A lot of panting
- Panting and heaving
- Flaky, discolored tongue
- Exhaustion while breathing through it
- Strange throat sounds
- The mouth starts to foam
Preventing and Treating Overheating
Ensure your dog has a ventilated location to sleep, and closely check their behavior in temperatures above 80 degrees to prevent overheating. Here are some things you can do if you notice any overheating symptoms:
Cooldown
Place your Bulldog in a cold water bath and spray them with fresh water. If you don’t have access to a tub, spray them down with a hose and make sure their paws are well-soaked.
On hot days, long hikes, or during heavy activity, some Bullie owners wear cooling vests that you dip in ice or cold water. These can be a tremendous help with overheating when used as instructed.
Hydrate
Give your dog lots of cold water to drink. Get out of the heat: Get indoors and in front of a fan after using water to cool your dog off to escape the heat.
Increase Airflow
Boost airflow by spreading your dog’s fur with your fingertips to let more air circulate through the coat. Moving a Bulldog’s wrinkled coat reduces the insulation it provides since wrinkles act as an insulator.
Sometimes it’s best to let your English Bulldog feel the heat for itself if they’re eager to go outside. On those hot days, let your dog out for a short while; they’ll soon be pawing at the door to get inside. Just make sure to watch them closely.
Skin Problems
Sadly, there is a drawback to the cute folds that Bulldog owners are familiar with. Skin infections and itchiness are signs of some health issues affecting English Bulldogs. Bulldogs are prone to eczema, often known as “canine atopic dermatitis.” It results in dry, itchy skin that can become scaly.
The three most frequent causes are allergies, stress, and insect stings. Infections caused by bacteria such as staph, pyoderma, and dermatitis can also happen. These infections may only affect the skin’s surface or extend deeper.
Round blisters on the skin, called “hot spots,” also known as “acute moist dermatitis,” are an allergic response to various skin irritants like parasites and insect bites. Acne with clogged pores can also affect English Bulldogs.
In Bulldogs, interdigital cysts are also typical. Between the toes, cysts develop and expand into noticeable pimples. You can use simple cleaning to treat cysts, but exercise caution not to overdo it. Excessive cleaning may make the situation worse.
Getting ahead of your dog’s scratching is the best approach to stop it. Consider using medicated shampoos and lotions made specifically for Bulldogs while washing your English Bulldog. Try certain supplements that boost immunity and reduce stress for a more all-encompassing approach.
Bone and Joint Disease
English Bulldogs have chondrodysplasia, a structural anomaly that accounts for their unique build. The abnormal formation of cartilage known as chondrodysplasia raises the risk of bone and joint issues in your dog.
Canine Hip Dysplasia
Dysplasia, most frequently encountered in the hips, occurs when bones do not fit tightly into their joints. It results in discomfort, an inability to exercise, lameness, and even trouble rising.
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals reports that 71% of English Bulldogs have hip dysplasia, making them the breed with the highest condition incidence. Due to their physical makeup, English Bulldogs are more prone to joint and ligament injuries.
Overtraining or injuries to your bullies, especially when they are young puppies, may cause long-term problems like osteoarthritis. The easiest approach to stop this is to maintain a nutritious diet for your dog and have him follow a regular exercise schedule.
Arthritis
Similar to human arthritis, canine arthritis occurs when the bone’s protective covering of cartilage wears away in the joints. The exposed bone begins to rub against one another, which is extremely painful.
Getting your dog to a healthy weight will help you prevent most joint and bone problems in Bulldogs. With English Bulldogs, watching out for symptoms like slow movements and a lack of enthusiasm in playing is critical because dogs frequently conceal their pain.
Eye Problems
If your bully is approaching old age, be aware that one of the health problems experienced by more senior English Bulldogs is eyesight impairment. The most prevalent eyesight issue in English Bulldogs is the Cherry Eye.
Cherry eye is a “very modest problem,” according to The Nest, “caused by an expansion and subsequent protrusion of the gland of the third eyelid.” Put: It seems to be a red bump at the corner of the eye.
The facial abnormality affecting English Bulldogs’ eyes is the brachycephalic ocular illness. Bulldogs’ shallow eye pockets allow for the infiltration of dust and debris, resulting in various visual disorders.
Bulldogs’ dry eyes develop due to a reduction in aqueous fluid, a crucial component of tears. Lack of tears irritates the eyes and can result in more severe eye issues because crying washes away debris from the eyes.
Maintaining your bully’s eyes daily can help ward off eye illness. Most problems arise from their shallow eyes allowing in debris; therefore, periodically clean your dog’s eyes with Bulldog-specific vision aids. Be on the lookout for eye illness signs like discharge and watery eyes.
Head Shakes
If you’ve witnessed headshakes, you know how frightful the illness may be. Your furry friend’s head starts shaking wildly and uncontrolled while you’re hanging out with them, sometimes violently enough to be mistaken for a canine seizure.
Take your beloved dog to the vet soon for examination if this occurs. Although stress and low blood sugar are the usual causes of this syndrome, there are occasionally more severe medical conditions that necessitate immediate care. When protecting your bully, it’s best to be safe than sorry.
Allergies
Due to irregular genetic makeup, Bulldogs have the highest rate of allergies of any breed.
Food Sensitivities
Bulldogs have strong feelings about food. English Bulldogs frequently experience allergic reactions to generic food brands with subpar components. Itchy skin, fecal problems, excessive shedding, and ear infections are among the symptoms. When at all possible, stay away from wheat, corn, soy, and artificial components.
Ask your veterinarian about which pet food brands are best for preventing Bulldog allergies. It’s crucial to feed your English Bulldog the correct food because they can be gassy. Limited-ingredient dog food products from Lucy Pet are ideal for sensitive stomachs and feature the perfect ratio of key nutrients.
Skin Allergies
Allergic dermatitis is one factor in skin infections in English Bulldogs. Your dog can be allergic to environmental allergens like pollen, mildew, or flea bites. When signs of a skin allergy appear, dogs scratch and may aggravate the situation by tearing the skin, which could cause an infection. You should treat skin irritation as soon as feasible.
Thyroid and Heart Disease
Selective breeding-related health difficulties have also led to complications with the internal organs.
Thyroid
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid slows down, which results in less production of thyroxine, the hormone in charge of controlling metabolism.
Heart
English Bulldogs are likelier than other breeds to have a heart condition known as pulmonary stenosis. A congenital narrowness or restriction of the outflow from the right side of the heart is pulmonary stenosis, according to UFAW. It prevents blood from flowing, which can cause heart failure or even death.
Regular cardiac exams at checkups can help you detect this condition early. Drugs that regulate hormone levels are beneficial in treating hyperthyroidism. Concerning the heart, you may surgically treat pulmonary stenosis by inserting a balloon into the constricted region to improve blood flow. Your veterinarian will choose how to handle your bully the best.
Cancer
Mast cell tumors and malignancies like lymphoma are particularly dangerous to Bulldogs. Lymphoma is a “blood-borne malignancy of lymphocytes, which are a particular type of white blood cell,” according to PetMD. You can take action to prevent lymphoma and diagnose it early if you are aware that your puppy is prone to it.
To keep an eye out for any potential swelling, frequently pet your Pitbull near the lymph nodes. One of the most prevalent diseases in dogs is lymphoma, but fortunately, it is also one of the most curable.
MCTs, or mast cell tumors, affect your dog’s reaction to allergens and inflammation. Given that Bulldogs are sensitive to various allergies, it makes sense that they might experience MCT. Mast cell tumors can present as raised lumps, redness, or swelling and might vary in appearance.
FAQs on Bulldogs and Pitbulls
Which Breed is More Dangerous?
When deciding which breed is more dangerous, there is no unambiguous agreement. Because Pitbulls were historically for fighting, some experts think this makes them more deadly. Others contend that the American Bulldog is a more dangerous breed because of its larger size and strength.
The truth is that it is only possible to determine which breed is the most deadly. However, like any dog, both types need responsible ownership and early socialization to keep them from becoming violent.
Which Breed is Right for Me?
One of the most obvious distinctions between the two dogs is their tolerance for other animals, even though both dogs have better temperaments than you would probably anticipate. Compared to Pitbulls, American Bulldogs are typically far more tolerant of other animals, such as cats and dogs.
Which Breed Sheds Less?
Bullies in America are moderate shedders. When the seasons change, they typically shed more. Pitbulls also shed all year long, with the late winter, spring, and fall into winter being the times when they typically shed the most.
Which Breed is the Better Guard Dog?
Despite being physically frightening, strong, and fiercely loyal to their owners, they are typically far too amiable to make good guard dogs.
Final Musings
We could answer most of your queries about the Pitbull vs. American Bulldog argument. If you consider getting either of these puppies, you can’t go wrong with either choice. Great dog breed options are the American Bulldog and the Pitbull Terrier. They are both outgoing people who only want to impress their bosses.
The American Pitbull Terrier is slightly smaller but more active and athletic than the American Bulldog, which is the fundamental distinction between the two breeds. The American Bulldog is just as entertaining but has a more laid-back disposition.
These two breeds make wonderful additions to families. No matter what you decide, you will undoubtedly bring home a dog everyone enjoys!