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American Bulldog vs Golden Retriever

Discover the differences between American Bulldog and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.

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American Bulldog
United States

American Bulldog

Working Group
Large

Strong, loyal, and confident, this breed thrives as a protective family companion. Muscular build and playful spirit make every day active and full of affection.

Golden Retriever
Scotland

Golden Retriever

Sporting Group
Large

A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.

Quick comparison

Size:

Large

Male:

32–54 kg

Coat:

Short, smooth

Lifespan:

10–12 years

Female:

27–41 kg

Energy:

High energy

Size:

Large

Male:

29–34 kg

Coat:

Double coat, water-repellent

Lifespan:

10–12 years

Female:

25–29 kg

Energy:

High energy

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

American Bulldog

Friendliness
4/5

Affectionate with family, can be wary of strangers

Intelligence
4/5

Learns commands quickly, responds well to training

Energy Level
4/5

Needs regular activity, enjoys physical exercise

Playfulness
4/5

Likes interactive games and playful activities

Adaptability
3/5

Adjusts to new situations with some guidance

Golden Retriever

Friendliness
5/5

Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs

Intelligence
5/5

Quick to learn commands and routines

Energy Level
4/5

Needs regular activity and mental stimulation

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive activities

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to various living environments

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

American Bulldog

Grooming:
Minimal grooming needed (weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Moderate shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates, struggles with heat
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, skin allergies

Golden Retriever

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Heavy shedding
Trainability:
Highly trainable
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates, tolerates cold well
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

American Bulldog

First-time Owner
2/5

Challenging for Beginners

Needs experienced handler for training and socialization

Apartment Living
2/5

Not ideal

Needs space and may be vocal indoors

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Very suitable

Enjoys regular exercise and active play

Kids
4/5

Good companion

Protective and gentle with proper supervision

Multiple Pets
2/5

Sometimes difficult

May be territorial with unfamiliar animals

Being Left Alone
1/5

Not recommended

Dislikes being left alone for long periods

Golden Retriever

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage

Apartment Living
2/5

Needs space

Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Highly suitable

Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people

Kids
5/5

Perfect fit

Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children

Multiple Pets
5/5

Very friendly

Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets

Being Left Alone
2/5

Prone to anxiety

Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues

Breed strengths

What each breed excels at and their best qualities

American Bulldog

  • Loyal and devoted to family
  • Protective instincts make good watchdogs
  • High pain tolerance and physical resilience
  • Strong work ethic and trainability
  • Generally good with children when socialized

Golden Retriever

  • Friendly with children and other pets
  • Highly trainable and eager to please
  • Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
  • Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
  • Strong retrieving and swimming abilities

Challenges & considerations

Potential challenges and considerations for each breed

American Bulldog

  • Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
  • Can be stubborn during training sessions
  • Needs daily vigorous exercise to prevent boredom
  • May show dog-aggression without proper socialization
  • Susceptible to hip dysplasia and joint issues

Golden Retriever

  • Prone to obesity without portion control
  • High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
  • Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
  • Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
  • Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions

Ready to choose your perfect breed?

Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

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