PetSecur Logo
HomeToolsBreed comparison

American Bulldog vs Old English Bulldog

Discover the differences between American Bulldog and Old English Bulldog to make the best choice for your situation.

Try different breeds

vs
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.

Old English Bulldog
England

Old English Bulldog

Non-Sporting Group
Medium

Strong, loyal, and affectionate, this breed thrives as a devoted companion with a calm yet protective nature. Distinctive looks and a gentle spirit make it a beloved family favorite.

Quick comparison

Size:

Large

Male:

32–54 kg

Coat:

Short, smooth

Lifespan:

10–12 years

Female:

27–41 kg

Energy:

High energy

Size:

Medium

Male:

23–36 kg

Coat:

Short, smooth

Lifespan:

8–10 years

Female:

20–30 kg

Energy:

Moderately active

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

Old English Bulldog

Friendliness
4/5

Affectionate with family, generally sociable with others

Intelligence
3/5

Learns basic commands, may need repetition

Energy Level
3/5

Moderate exercise needs, enjoys daily walks

Playfulness
3/5

Enjoys games but not overly exuberant

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to new environments and routines

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

Old English Bulldog

Grooming:
Minimal grooming needed (weekly)
Exercise:
45–60 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, respiratory issues

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

Old English Bulldog

First-time Owner
4/5

Fairly suitable

Generally easygoing but may need firm training for stubbornness

Apartment Living
4/5

Good option

Moderate exercise needs and calm demeanor suit smaller spaces

Active Lifestyle
3/5

Somewhat suitable

Enjoys play but lacks high stamina for rigorous activities

Kids
5/5

Very friendly

Patient and gentle with children when properly socialized

Multiple Pets
3/5

Possible conflicts

Can be territorial with other pets, early socialization is important

Being Left Alone
2/5

Not ideal

Dislikes being alone and may develop separation anxiety or destructive habits

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

Old English Bulldog

  • Loyal and devoted to family
  • Confident and stable temperament
  • Good with children when socialized
  • Moderate exercise needs suit urban living
  • Strong natural guarding instincts

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

Old English Bulldog

  • Prone to joint and hip issues
  • Can be stubborn during training
  • Sensitive to extreme heat or cold
  • Needs consistent early socialization
  • May show dog aggression without guidance

Ready to choose your perfect breed?

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

Discover more helpful tools

Make use of our other free tools to get the most out of your pet experience

Name Generator

Find the perfect name for your new furry friend with our smart generator

Breed Generator

Discover new and interesting breeds that could be perfect for you

Dog Quiz

Test your knowledge about dogs with our interactive quiz

Get your free pet insurance quote in 2 minutes!

Join pet owners who save money while keeping their furry friends protected

✓ Highest payouts in Netherlands ✓ No waiting period ✓ Quick claims processing

* Required fields

No obligations • Free consultation • Response within 24 hours