Long story short the girlfriend and I are about to move in together.  One of the things we've talked was getting a puppy.  We both like the way the American bully looks along with what we've read about them.  That and I stay gone with work and want something besides a yap dog that will fit in your pocket staying with her and the kids.  So what's everyones experience with this breed.

I never owned one but I helped out with the AB rescue in Indianapolis for a couple of years.  Every one that I came into contact with was a big baby.  The only problem that I had was that a few of them were dog aggressive.  A friend of mine adopted one that wasn't afraid of anything unless it was a spray paint can.   When I picked him up he had paint on his side.  He must have been jumped by a case of rustolium.  :)  

With American Bulldogs, it's very important that you choose a good breeder that breeds for excellent temperament. They are known for being dog aggressive, especially same-sex aggressive. Some lines have questionable temperament with regards to people as well. They need a strong leader that will socialize early and often. They need lots of exercise, both physical and mental.

It's also of note that there are two lines of American Bulldog, and they can be pretty different in both appearance and temperament.

Johnson lines are more "bully", with the issues that come along with brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds.




Scott lines are much more athletic, with the corresponding energy that comes with that.




Both lines are confident, loving dogs when trained, socialized, and exercised properly, but can be too much for some owners to handle. Take time to get to know the breeder and their dogs. Make sure you are ready for the responsibility that comes with a large, powerful, driven dog. Ensure that the breed isn't banned where you live, as it is often included in breed specific legislation. In other words, look before you leap.