American Bulldogs – Old Time Southern Bulldogs – Old Southern Whites

The Southern Bulldog can trace its origins back to indigenous American working dogs that have populated the rural South for the past 200 years. While it is unclear how much of the “Bulldog” lineage is in the mix, the Southern Bulldog likely has ancestors from several breeds, including the Boxer, English Bulldog, Mastiff, White English Terrier, Labrador, Catahoula, American Staffordshire Terrier, Plott Hound, and Black Mouth Cur, among others.

Southern Bulldogs were widely used as general-purpose utility dogs, serving various roles such as watchdog, companion dog, and hunting dog. Some lines of Southern Bulldogs have been successfully trained to compete in obedience and weight-pull competitions. Other lines have competed at high levels in sport work, such as French Ring and Schutzhund, although they may not reach the same high levels as breeds like the German Shepherd or Malinois. This is because the Southern Bulldog has evolved over generations to perform general utility work on farms. It is a “Jack of all trades” breed, combining intelligence, loyalty, athleticism, and tenacity, making it capable of taking on a wide range of tasks.

Variously known as American Bulldogs (ABs), Old Southern Whites (OSWs), Johnson Bulldogs (JDJABs), or White English Bulldogs (WEBs), these dogs varied in size, color, temperament, and appearance depending on the geographical area they populated and the tasks for which they were used. Some breeders believe that “pure” examples of these lines still exist in certain areas, but this has proved impossible to verify. What can be said with accuracy is that there have been a few “lines” bred and maintained within families for many years. However, the exact origins of these lines remain unknown, and due to the extensive interbreeding over time, it is often difficult to trace their origins.

The answer to the “big question” about the origins of the American Bulldog is simpler than often believed. Aside from the well-documented and relatively recent infusion of registered English Bulldog blood by J.D. Johnson, there is no definitive proof that the American Bulldog originated anywhere else but the USA. A common belief among breeders is that English settlers brought Bulldogs with them when they arrived in America during the 17th and 18th centuries. Between 1732 and 1736, many English settlers moved to Georgia, bringing with them various livestock, including dogs. These dogs were likely descendants of the English Bull or Bear-baiting dogs, although no definitive proof exists—only speculation. Whether these dogs remained in their “pure” form or how much interbreeding occurred over the next 250 years is debated. What is clear is that the Southern Bulldog evolved from a variety of working dogs, created to be useful, intelligent, and strong farm dogs capable of a variety of tasks. The specific tasks—ranging from hunting to working cattle, to acting as watchdogs and controlling predators—dictated the selection of dogs used and, consequently, the preferred structure, color, and temperament.

Commonly regarded as the “grandfather” of the American Bulldog, John D. Johnson of Georgia played a crucial role in the breed’s establishment and popularization. After World War II, Johnson sought out as many good examples of the breed as possible, gathering dogs from farms throughout the rural South. These dogs often lacked formal pedigrees, so Johnson relied on his memories and experiences with these dogs from his youth in the 1920s and 1930s. He then set about breeding the best examples to achieve a consistent type and temperament. In 1985, Johnson changed the name of his dogs from “American Pit Bulldog” to “American Bulldog” to avoid confusion with the “American Pit Bull Terrier.”

In 1970, the first official breed standard for the American Bulldog was written by John D. Johnson, Alan Scott of Alabama, and the Alabama-Georgia American Bulldog Club. The breed standard was approved, and the American Bulldog was officially registered by the National Kennel Club on July 7, 1970.

While understanding the history of the Southern Bulldog is important, it is equally important to focus on the breed’s future. We cannot change history, but we are setting clear goals for the future.

Since 1996, we have been dedicated to collecting quality dogs from both the United States and New Zealand to breed a line of dogs that are healthy, people-friendly, stable in temperament, and capable of performing the general tasks their ancestors were known for. We have focused on eliminating dog and human aggression and prioritizing trainability and athleticism. Most people want a reliable and stable family dog, not one that will bite without provocation. Our goal is to produce dogs that are free from health problems such as hip dysplasia and NCL (neuroaxonal dystrophy). This is a time-consuming and expensive process, but it is a rewarding one.

Since 1996, we have kept our breeding program closed to the public, and we do not sell to other breeders or those seeking to make a quick profit. We retain all paperwork on our dogs to control future breedings and directions. We maintain strong working relationships with a few select, quality breeders and will continue to strive for excellence in both form and function.

The decision to change the breed name from “American Bulldog” to “Southern Bulldog” was made to distance ourselves from some unprofessional, unethical, and inept breeders in Australia today. Our “Southerns” embody the essence of the old working farm dog of the rural South—once a dying breed, now successfully transitioned from the American Deep South to Australia.

Country of Origin:
United States

Size:
X-Large 55-90 lb
XX-Large 90-120 lb+

LifeSpan:
12 to 15 Years

Trainability:
MODERATE Effort Required

Energy Level:
Varies From One Dog To The Next

Grooming:
Brushing Once a Week or Less

Protective Ability:
Very Protective

Hypoallergenic Breed:
No

Space Requirements:
House with Yard

Compatibility With Other Pets:
Known To Be Dog Aggressive
May Be Okay With Other Pets If Raised Together
May Have Problems With Non-Canine Pets
Not Recommended For Homes With Existing Dogs
Not Recommended For Homes With Small Animals

Litter Size:
3-10 Puppies

Names:
Southern Whites, Old Southern Whites, American Pit Bulldogs, Scott-type: Standard or Performance-type, Johnson-type: Bully or Classic-type
HEIGHT/WEIGHT
Males:
70-150 lbs, 22-27 inches

Females:
60-120 lbs, 20-25 inches
KENNEL CLUBS AND RECOGNITION
UKC (United Kennel Club):
Guardian Dog

HISTORY:

The American Bulldog’s history is surrounded by much mystery, as its ancestors developed long before written records were kept on dog breeding. What is clear is that the breed’s origins began with the English Mastiff or Bandog. The Mastiff, whose exact origin is unknown, has been present in England for over two thousand years. Initially used as a war dog and guardian of estates, it was quickly adopted by English farmers for agricultural work, particularly with livestock.

Farmers faced the challenge of managing cattle and pigs that were allowed to roam freely on common land. These animals were semi-feral and difficult to handle. The Mastiff’s strength and large jaws enabled it to subdue these animals, holding them in place until they could be captured or killed. Over time, bull-baiting became a popular sport, where Mastiffs were used to hold onto a bull until it stopped fighting. However, Mastiffs, being large and cumbersome, were not ideal for this task. They lacked agility and were vulnerable to injury from the bull’s goring. Consequently, a more athletic and aggressive breed emerged, distinct from the traditional property-guarding Mastiff.

While the exact development of the Bulldog remains unclear, references to it began appearing in the 1630s, and by this time, the Mastiff and Bulldog were considered separate breeds. Some speculate that the addition of Spanish Alano or German Bullenbeiser blood contributed to the Bulldog’s development. The Bulldog’s popularity grew in England, especially during the 17th and 18th centuries, when it was brought to the American colonies by British settlers. Bull-baiting never gained popularity in the U.S., but Bulldogs were used for other practical purposes.

In the early 1500s, Spanish explorers introduced wild hogs and cattle to Florida and Texas, and these animals eventually became aggressive and dangerous, posing a threat to crops and local settlements. Old English Bulldogs were used to catch and hold these wild hogs and cattle, a task for which their strength and tenacity were well-suited. While cattle were eventually re-domesticated, wild hogs continued to proliferate, especially in the southern states, where Bulldogs were invaluable in hunting them. These dogs were also used for guarding homes and estates, earning a reputation as loyal protectors.

The breed continued to thrive until the 1830s, when the introduction of Bull and Terriers (a cross of Bulldogs and terriers) shifted focus toward dog fighting. The American Pit Bull Terrier emerged from these crosses, eventually becoming the preferred choice for hog hunting due to its speed and aggression. Meanwhile, the traditional working Bulldog began to decline, particularly after the Civil War, when many Bulldogs lost their homes and masters.

In England, the Bulldog’s transformation into a show dog began, leading to the creation of the modern English Bulldog. This transformation distanced it from its working roots, and the breed became more suited to companionship rather than labor. However, the American Bulldog, though facing challenges, remained more closely tied to its working heritage, especially in rural America.

John D. Johnson, a dedicated breeder in Georgia, played a pivotal role in preserving the American Bulldog. After recognizing the breed’s decline following World War II, Johnson sought to save the breed by carefully breeding Bulldogs that stayed true to the working type. He refused to breed dogs too closely related and worked to ensure genetic diversity. His efforts were supported by other breeders, most notably Alan Scott, who favored a more athletic appearance.

By the 1970s, Johnson’s American Bulldogs were recognized by the National Kennel Club, though he later switched to the Animal Research Foundation, where he renamed the breed the American Bulldog to avoid confusion with the American Pit Bull Terrier. Johnson’s line and that of Alan Scott’s continued to evolve, with more breeders contributing to the breed’s recovery.

In the 1980s, the American Bulldog experienced a resurgence, with its reputation as a hardworking, affectionate, and protective dog growing. The breed’s popularity soared, especially after the 1993 Disney film Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey, which featured an American Bulldog. By the end of the 1990s, the breed gained recognition from the United Kennel Club.

Despite its rise in popularity, the American Bulldog has faced challenges, including breed-specific legislation, which targets dogs like the Pit Bull and sometimes includes the American Bulldog. Many countries and regions have banned the breed, associating it with dangerous dogs despite its generally gentle and loyal nature. However, the breed has continued to spread internationally and is now found in many countries across the globe.

The American Bulldog’s history is intertwined with the development of several other breeds, including the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Olde English Bulldogge. Its impact on the creation of new breeds and hybrid dogs, especially for hunting and protection, has been significant. Today, the American Bulldog is one of the fastest-growing breeds in the U.S., and its popularity continues to rise as both a working dog and companion animal.

Though the breed is still primarily bred for working ability, an increasing number of American Bulldogs are kept as pets. The breed’s loyal and affectionate nature, combined with its intelligence and protective instincts, makes it a great choice for families who can meet its needs for exercise and mental stimulation. Despite the challenges, the American Bulldog’s legacy as a working dog and beloved companion continues to thrive.

APPEARANCE:

The American Bulldog is one of the most variable modern dog breeds in terms of appearance. The breed displays a wide range of size, build, head size and shape, muzzle length, shape, and coloration. There are two distinct lines of American Bulldog: the Scott/Standard/Performance Type and the Johnson/Bully/Classic Type. However, these two lines have been heavily mixed, and most breed members show characteristics of both. Generally, the Johnson Type is larger, more stockily built, with a broader head and shorter muzzle, while the Scott Type is smaller, more athletic, with a smaller head and longer muzzle. Although many breed fanciers dislike this comparison, the Johnson Type American Bulldog tends to resemble the English Bulldog, while the Scott Type has more similarities with the American Pit Bull Terrier.

Regardless of type, the American Bulldog is a large to very large dog. On average, male American Bulldogs stand between 22 and 27 inches tall at the shoulder, and females stand between 20 and 25 inches. It is not uncommon for individual dogs to be up to two inches taller or shorter than this, and differences of up to four inches are not unheard of. Both types are powerful and muscular. The Johnson Type is generally bulkier than the Scott Type, but individual dogs range from sturdy yet lean to thick and tank-like. However, under no circumstances should any American Bulldog appear overweight. The weight of the American Bulldog is influenced by height, gender, build, and type, with males typically weighing between 70 and 150 pounds, and females between 60 and 120 pounds. The natural tail of the American Bulldog is long and whip-like. While the majority of owners keep the dog’s natural tail, some opt to have it docked short.

The head and face are the primary differences between the two types of American Bulldog. Both varieties have very large and broad heads, but not to the extent of the English Bulldog. The Johnson Type’s head is typically flat and square, while the Scott Type often has a slightly wedge-shaped head. The muzzle and head connect abruptly, almost at a right angle. Both the muzzle and the top of the skull should be straight and parallel. The major difference lies in the muzzle: the Johnson Type has a very short muzzle, resembling the English Bulldog, about 25 to 30% the length of the skull, while the Scott Type has a longer muzzle, similar to the American Pit Bull Terrier, approximately 30 to 40% the length of the skull. The lips of both varieties are thick and loose but not overly pendulous. Most American Bulldogs have a slight underbite, which is considered preferable, but an even bite is also acceptable.

Both types tend to have facial wrinkles, although the Johnson Type often has more. The nose is large with wide nostrils, and black is the preferred color. However, some dogs may have red or brown noses. The eyes are medium-sized and should be unobstructed by wrinkles or hair. Dark brown is the preferred eye color, although blue eyes are also favored by many fanciers. Some owners may crop the ears of their American Bulldogs, but this is strongly discouraged. Natural ears are small to medium in size and highly variable in shape and direction. They may face forward, to the sides, or even backward, and can be rose, drop, or semi-prick in shape. The overall expression of an American Bulldog is one of toughness, intensity, intelligence, and courage.

The coat of the American Bulldog is short, close, and varies from soft to prickly in texture. Ideally, the hair should be about an inch or less in length. American Bulldogs can come in any color and pattern except for solid black, solid blue, any color of merle, and tricolor (white with tan and black markings). All American Bulldogs must have some white on their coats, comprising at least 10% of their total body area. A solid black mask on the muzzle is a disqualification. In practice, most breeders and owners favor dogs with as much white as possible, and many breed members are either predominantly or entirely white. Occasionally, an American Bulldog may be born with improper coloration. Such dogs may be penalized or disqualified in the show ring and should not be bred, though they still make excellent working dogs and companion animals.

TEMPERAMENT:

American Bulldogs are primarily bred as working dogs and possess the temperament one would expect from such an animal. They are intensely devoted to their owners, often forming very close bonds. This breed demonstrates incredible loyalty and would unhesitatingly protect its loved ones. When raised in a single-person household, American Bulldogs tend to become one-person dogs, but in a family setting, they usually form strong attachments to all family members. They thrive on being in the constant company of their family, which can sometimes lead to separation anxiety. Despite their imposing size, American Bulldogs are often big softies with their loved ones and can be incredibly sweet. Many of them believe they are lapdogs, which may be problematic if someone doesn’t want a 150-pound dog on their lap.

When well-socialized, American Bulldogs are generally trustworthy around children. However, dogs that have not been properly introduced may be nervous around children or mistake them for a potential threat. Furthermore, many American Bulldogs do not realize that young children cannot play as roughly as adults and may accidentally injure a small child during boisterous play.

American Bulldogs are highly protective and often suspicious of strangers. Proper socialization is vital for this breed; without it, they may perceive new people as threats and develop aggression issues. Once properly socialized, most American Bulldogs will be polite and tolerant of strangers but usually remain aloof and distrustful. They may take some time to warm up to new people, such as a spouse or roommate, but typically form close bonds once they do. American Bulldogs make excellent watchdogs due to their protective nature, alertness, and territorial instincts, and their appearance alone is often enough to deter potential wrongdoers. They also make excellent guard dogs, unwilling to let any intruder enter their territory unchallenged. Although they typically try to intimidate intruders, they are more than willing to use force if necessary. Under no circumstances would an American Bulldog tolerate harm coming to a family member; they are completely fearless and relentless in their defense.

American Bulldogs generally do not do well with other animals. Both male and female breed members often display high levels of dog aggression, including territorial, possessiveness, dominance, prey-driven, and same-sex aggression. With careful training and socialization from a young age, some American Bulldogs can be more accepting of other dogs, but some never become trustworthy around them. Most American Bulldogs do best as the only dog in the household or with a single dog of the opposite sex. Even the least aggressive American Bulldogs are unlikely to back down from a confrontation. The breed is even more aggressive toward non-canine animals. Originally bred to bite down hard on dangerous animals and never let go, most American Bulldogs are highly prey-driven and will pursue any creature they spot. If left alone in a yard, they may bring home “presents” ranging from insects to larger animals like raccoons. This breed has a reputation as a cat killer, though they typically don’t harm cats they were raised with, while strange or new cats may not be safe.

American Bulldogs are extremely intelligent, and many owners swear they are the smartest dogs they’ve ever known. However, this intelligence can be problematic, as young puppies have been known to figure out how to open doors or jump onto counters. This breed gets bored very easily, often becoming destructive minutes after being left alone. American Bulldogs need plenty of mental stimulation, thriving with tasks such as hunting, competitive obedience, or games like Frisbee.

Thanks to their high intelligence and strong work drive, American Bulldogs are highly trainable. This breed excels in canine sports such as schutzhund, competitive obedience, and agility and can learn almost any task except those requiring complete lack of dominance or defensiveness. The American Bulldog is often regarded as one of the most trainable Molosser-type dogs. However, inexperienced owners may find training challenging, as these dogs are typically dominant and will not obey someone they perceive as lower in the pack order. Owners must maintain firm dominance, or they may find themselves with an uncontrollable dog. This can result in a situation where the dog is obedient to one owner but refuses to listen to another.

American Bulldogs are among the most energetic and athletic of all Molossers, capable of performing hours of vigorous activity. As a result, they have high exercise requirements. They should receive a minimum of 45 minutes to an hour of vigorous physical activity daily, but more is preferable. The breed tends to exercise in short bursts, running around energetically for 15 minutes before crashing. An under-exercised American Bulldog is likely to develop behavioral issues such as destructiveness, excessive barking, hyperactivity, nervousness, and aggression. Once they’ve gotten the exercise they need, American Bulldogs tend to relax at home, often spending hours lounging.

Potential owners should be aware that American Bulldogs are among the “doggiest” of all dogs and can be quite a handful. They love to dig in the dirt and may destroy a garden in moments. They will drop a tennis ball in your lap for hours, bark loudly, chase cars, knock over trash cans, snore loudly, whip your legs with their tail, and regularly produce room-clearing flatulence. While this breed makes an excellent companion for the right family, it is definitely not a refined or gentle breed.

GROOMING REQUIREMENTS:

American Bulldogs have very low grooming requirements. This breed typically does not need to see a professional groomer, with only regular brushing being necessary. They do shed, and many American Bulldogs shed heavily. Many breed members leave an avalanche of white hairs behind all year long, making them a poor choice for allergy sufferers or anyone who dislikes cleaning up dog hair. The stiffer hair of some American Bulldogs can cling to fabric even after vacuuming and may stick to the skin like a splinter.

HEALTH ISSUES:

Due to the many different American Bulldog registries, conducting accurate health surveys on the breed has proven nearly impossible. As a result, it is difficult to make generalizations about the breed’s health. Most sources suggest that the breed is generally in good health compared to other Molosser breeds. However, due to a lack of testing and genetic screening by many American Bulldog breeders, hip dysplasia has become a significant problem within the breed. It is difficult to determine the exact percentage of American Bulldogs affected by this condition, though it is likely quite high.

Hip dysplasia is caused by a malformation of the hip joint, which prevents the leg bone and hip from connecting properly. Over time, this condition causes discomfort, pain, arthritis, difficulty moving, and sometimes even lameness. While hip dysplasia is genetically inherited, environmental factors can influence its onset and severity. Although there is no widely accepted cure for hip dysplasia, there are several treatments available to manage its symptoms. As most of these treatments are lifelong and expensive, they can become burdensome. Several screening tests for hip dysplasia are available, and responsible breeders are beginning to use them to help reduce the condition’s prevalence.

A list of health problems to which the American Bulldog may be susceptible includes:

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Skeletal Growth Abnormalities
  • Arthritis
  • Demodicosis/Demodectic Mange/Demodex Mange
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
  • Cataracts
  • Brachycephalic Syndrome
  • Shortness of Breath
  • Snoring
  • Flatulence
  • Unilateral Deafness/Partial Deafness
  • Bilateral Deafness/Complete Deafness
  • Sunburn

These are the Bulldogs and Mastiffs we breed and sell.

The pictures on each page are for identification purposes and OldBulldogs.com does not own every animal pictured. These pages are informational and intended to describe the standards of each breed.