What makes the American Bullnese Unique?
The American Bullnese is a natural clown, known for its sense of humor and antics. Their size and laidback demeanor make them perfect for country or city living. These are true companion dogs who prefer cuddling to playing ball; they make excellent lap warmers. The American Bullnese was developed to combine certain features that were admired in a few different breeds of dogs. The American Bullnese has stumpy legs and an elongated body which is responsible for the breed’s adorable, hopping run.
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Is the American Bullnese Right For You?
The American Bullnese was bred for its sunny temperament, but also its short nose and squat body. This means you might have a heavy-breathing pup who has trouble sleeping because of congestion. Their long torsos and short legs may result in back trouble, which is why it’s important not to overexercise them. However, they have a tendency to obesity, so they do require light daily exercise. The American Bullnese is typically a healthy breed, but they can suffer from corneal ulceration, hernia, pinched nostrils, and disk disease.
In 5 Words
- Happy
- Clownish
- Firm
- Confident
- Adorable
Characteristics
Learn About the American Bullnese
Description
The American Bullnese should look like an active muscular dog, of heavy bone, and should imply courage and boldness. They are heavy in front, with a deep broad chest with well sprung ribs and broad shoulders. In proportion, they should be built low to the ground with short forelegs that are slightly bowed with a lean muscular build. The hind legs should be firm, well shaped and long. The American Bullnese should have a long body, with a tail that is slightly curled and almost sickle-like.
Males American Bullnese are commonly taller and heavier, standing between 9.5 to 12 inches (24 to 30 cm) tall and weighting between 18 to 30 pounds (8.2 to 14 kg), with females commonly between 8.5 to 11 inches (22 to 28 cm) and averaging around 15 to 25 pounds (6.8 to 11 kg).
The head should be large and square, The stop should be well defined causing a hollow or groove between the eyes. The muscles of the cheeks should be well developed. The flews should be thick and broad, hanging over the lower jaw. The withers should be relaxed, with thick with loose skin at the dewlap. The eyes of the American Bullnese should be round in form, facing forward and quite large. The ears should be velvety with a soft fold.
Short History of the American Bullnese
The American Bullnese was created in Florida in the late 1980s by Robert E. Rice, who selected the traits he loved — humor, amicability, a short snout — from several existing breeds. There is a Bullnese Hybrid that is a cross of the French Bulldog and Pekingese. The American Bullnese breed is a combo of those two dogs plus three others that remain secret, though a guess could be the Pug, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and perhaps the Bulldog. Rice insists the breed did not originate from the American Bulldog.
Temperament
The American Bullnese was developed to combine certain features that were admired in a few different breeds of dogs. The American Bullnese has stumpy legs and an elongated body which is responsible for the breed’s adorable hopping run. The American Bullnese also possess a unique, happy and clownish temperament, which is accompanied by a large head and chest with a thick upper body. The combination and refinement of these features created an outstanding dog that is regarded as one of the most adorable and revered house pets in the world. Like all dogs, this breed needs a firm, confident consistent pack leader. Do not allow the dog to develop Small Dog Syndrome, human induced behaviors where the dog believes he is pack leader to humans.
Caring for Your American Bullnese
General Health
The American Bullnese has no reported genetic problems or health concerns. Their average life span is 10 to 15 years. It is important to remember they have short noses, wrinkly faces, and they may have breathing problems. If their wrinkles are not kept clean, they may develop infections between the folds of their skin.
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Grooming & Bathing
The American Bullnese has facial creases that should be cleaned on a regular basis. The breed’s coat is low-maintenance and needs little grooming. An occasional brush and shampooing are sufficient.
Exercise & Training
The American Bullnese is good for apartment life. It is relatively inactive indoors and will do okay without a yard. American Bullneses are strong dogs with short, straight legs. They enjoy energetic games and will keep in better health if given regular exercise. This breed should be taken on daily walks.
American Bullnese Picture Gallery
