How Much Does an American Bulldog Cost?

American bulldogs are considered one of the most famous canines throughout the whole world. American Bulldog is exceptionally friendly, quiet, and loving, and many people can’t get enough of him. It’s no surprise that these gentle giants are popular with both families and farmers.

Even though owning an American Bulldog is expensive, the vast majority of American Bulldog enthusiasts are unable to resist the temptation of purchasing an American Bulldog puppy when they come across one available for purchase. This dog breed is highly devoted and friendly with children and other family members.

Modern-day breeders focus on producing companion dogs who can be curled up on your sofa, but this wasn’t always the case. If you ever get the chance to witness an American Bulldog fight, you’ll understand precisely what kind of beasts they are. Despite its good looks, this gorgeous dog is a fearsome fighter, which is precisely why it was developed in the first place: to entertain people by participating in dog fights and also as a pack hunting dog.

All of the distinctive traits of their predecessors have survived in modern American Bulldogs, including their devoted and fiercely protective natures, their ease of trainability, their incredible intellect, and their incomparable bravery and courage. Because of all of these characteristics, this is a highly sought-after dog breed.

However, even though American Bulldogs are extremely friendly and affectionate, they are not suitable for all households. For example, because of their size, they require significantly more space and area to play. However, there is more to consider than just the size and area of the structures

This heavy dog is tough to breed, which is why it comes with a hefty price tag.

For those of you who are keen on learning how much an American Bulldog puppy costs, this information will be helpful to you. We will cover various topics related to American Bulldog ownership, beginning with the day you bring your puppy home and continuing into its golden years.

We will discuss the cost of American Bulldog pups and the factors that determine their cost and the first-year cost of keeping an American Bulldog, followed by the cost of maintaining an American Bulldog in each successive year after that. We will also cover the price of training, the cost of your American Bulldog’s food, the cost of basic canine supplies, and the cost of vaccinations. Finally, we will cover all medical expenses as well as incidental expenses such as dog walking, grooming, travel, and pet boarding.

To save time, the following summary may be of use to you:

Cost of American Bulldog Puppy?

Bulldogs are often recognized as one of the most expensive dog breeds globally, and this is especially true in the United States. Given that this is a dog that is definitely on the more expensive side of things, it is recommended that you avoid purchasing one of these pups if you don’t have a lot of money available upfront.

Here are two basic reasons why American Bulldogs are so expensive:

• First, they are challenging to come by, and second, they are pretty expensive. For starters, they are a popular breed of canine companion that many people like having around. In order to meet the massive demand for them, they are in great demand. According to the laws of capitalism, increased demand leads to an increase in the prices that are charged to consumers.
• Second, due to the difficulty of breeding American Bulldogs, they are more expensive than other breeds. American Bulldogs are frequently healthier than their French and English counterparts, but breeding them is a time-consuming and expensive endeavor. Because of the size of their skulls, the cesarean surgery necessary to birth them is both expensive and potentially dangerous.

As a result of these reasons, American Bulldog puppies are highly pricey. For this wonderfully gorgeous dog, you may expect to pay anywhere from $1500 and $3500 in the United States.

The following table displays the price of American Bulldogs pups, including the lowest, highest, and average amounts.

Factors that Influence the Cost of American Bulldog Pups

Breeders

In the United States, there are very few breeders of the American Bulldog breed.

All of their pups and adult dogs are well-cared for, and they only sell their puppies to those who will not use the dogs in unlawful fights or for other purposes prohibited by law. As a result, they rigorously scrutinize any possible purchasers before approving them. Breeders that care about their dogs and put in a lot of effort to keep them in good condition are rare. It goes without saying that this will have an impact on the price of your American Bulldog puppy.

Health-guarantee

Another issue that might influence the price of your American Bulldog is whether or not it comes with a health guarantee. Breeders that are well-known for their quality will issue a 2-year warranty against genetic faults. This will likely result in a considerable rise in the price of your dog since the breeder will want to recoup the costs of the vet bills.

Basic Supplies your American Bulldog will Need and Approximate Costs

Before you bring your American Bulldog home, you’ll need to stock up on a few essentials.

Toys

This large dog needs toys and accessories that are durable enough to withstand its size and strength. Investment in durable toys that will last longer and be safe for your young American Bulldog puppy is a good idea because even a little puppy has tremendous power. The cost is around $50-$75.

Crate, crate pad, dog bed

Caution should be used when crate training your American Bulldog. This is not a punishment; instead, crate training teaches your pup to appreciate me-time, occupy himself, and even learn to comfort himself when he is distressed. Potty training is made more accessible with the help of crate training. A robust crate for this huge dog may be purchased for around $75, including a crate pad. You may also put a comfy chew-proof dog bed inside the crate to keep your dog comfortable. This will cost around $50.

Strong leashes

When your veterinarian gives you the go-ahead to take your American Bulldog for a walk outside, you’ll need a robust leash, no-pull halter, and collar to keep your dog safe. Make sure that the leashes and collars you purchase are chew-resistant. You may expect to spend around $20 on them.

Food and water bowls

Invest in solid bowls that will not simply topple over. Bowls made of stainless steel are an excellent choice. Additionally, a rubber pad can be placed under the bowls to keep the mess contained and prevent the bowls from slipping and skidding. The cost is around $20.

Training aids and equipment

From the very beginning, your American Bulldog puppy will require strict training. Clickers for clicker training, high-quality (low-calorie) treats, toilet training pads or pee pads, no-chew training bitter sprays to stop chewing on furniture, and other accessories can all help with the training process. Clickers for clicker training are available here. The cost is around $75.

Basic grooming supplies

Unlike other dog breeds, the American Bulldog has a short, white coat that does not require much care. They do, however, shed regularly, so you will need to brush them from time to time. Get yourself a slicker brush to help you get rid of the loose hairs. You will also require a dog shampoo to bathe your pet every month.

In addition, get a dog toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental chew sticks to help your dog maintain good oral hygiene. Pet wipes can be used to remove boogers from the eyes and muck from the ears. Clip or grind the nails of your American Bulldog with robust clippers or nail grinders to keep them healthy. The overall cost of these fundamental items is around $80 to $100.

American Bulldog Training Cost

In order to train your American Bulldog, you may select from a variety of different dog training options.

For your American Bulldog, you have the option of personalized in-home training or group training sessions at a local facility. Professional dog trainers create training regimens specifically for this unique breed while working with clients in individual sessions. They also include consultation with the customer as well as particular behavior training for concerns like aggressiveness, fear, excessive barking, and so on. However, private training is not only ineffective, but it is also highly costly.

There is also the option of taking a board and train. You may send your dog to live with a trainer, who will teach your dog the fundamental instructions he needs to know.

Since the outbreak of the Covid-19 virus, online dog training has also grown increasingly popular. In this cutting-edge practice, trainers assist parents in training their puppies through video chat sessions with the pups. There are several pricing levels for these dog training alternatives, which are listed in the following table:

American Bulldog Food Costs

It is likely that your American Bulldog puppy will have weaned itself off its mother’s milk and will be eating puppy food by the time your breeder hands over the puppy to you. During the first several weeks, you can provide your pet with the same food that he or she is used to eating. Your mature American Bulldog will weigh between 75 and 110 pounds and measure between 20 and 26 inches at the withers when fully grown.

Which is better: dry or wet food?

Dry dog food, such as kibble, is a good option for your adult American Bulldog to consume. Please keep in mind that this high-energy dog needs a substantial amount of protein, complex carbohydrates, and necessary fats to maintain its general health and well-being.

Several low-cost dog meals are available on the market that is touted as high in protein for dogs. These, on the other hand, are more likely to include soy. Dogs have flatulence due to eating soy, which is one of the undesirable side effects of soy. As a result, seek dog food that has a balanced amount of proteins, vitamins, and minerals and is free of fillers such as corn, soy, by-products, fillers, and artificial flavors, among other things. Protein should account for at least 22.5 percent of the total protein in the diet. Chicken, rabbit, turkey, fish, and other high-protein foods are recommended for American Bulldogs.

Wet food is another option that is suitable for the majority of dogs. On the other hand, some American Bulldogs have been known to develop diarrhea after transitioning from dry to canned or wet food. Others experience behavioral problems as a result of their addiction to canned food. As a result, if your American Bulldog appears to be suffering from indigestion or any of the behavioral difficulties listed above, always visit your veterinarian before making any dietary changes.

How much to feed?

• Feed your American Bulldog puppy three times a day with high-quality food. At least two and three-quarter cups of kibble each day, split into three meals, will be required for a 3-month-old American Bulldog. If your pet likes wet or canned food, give him or her 1.5 to 2 cans of 3.5 to 5 oz each day, depending on their size.
• Feed your adult American Bulldog weighs 80 lbs. 4 to 5 cups (1000g) of kibble every day. It is recommended that you serve at least five cans of 3.5 to 5 oz. each day if you are feeding wet food.

Here is a table that shows the monthly prices of several types of food for American Bulldogs:

Comparing American Bulldog Dog Food Costs

The American Bulldog is a vast, high-energy dog with a lot of stamina. Fortunately, it is not particularly picky about what it eats and will eat almost everything you put in front of it. It is also not necessary to restrict the diet of this robust canine, but you should still offer it a high-quality meal that is high in protein and good fats, as well as complex carbs and antioxidants.

Look for food that is of human-grade quality and contains natural components. You may feed your dog wet or canned food, or you can offer him kibble or dry dog food if you prefer. In general, kibble is healthier for your American Bulldog’s teeth than rawhide.

Check on your American Bulldog’s health regularly, if possible. If your dog looks to be gaining weight despite the moderate amount of exercise, you may need to lower the amount of food it consumes. In this case, your veterinarian can assist you.

There are a variety of high-quality dog meals available on the market. The following table will outline the specific pricing range and benefits of several dog diets for the American Bulldog.

Medical Costs of American Bulldog

Vaccination costs

As recommended by the American Animal Hospital Association, your American Bulldog will require several basic vaccines to protect him against potentially fatal infections such as parvovirus, distemper, hepatitis, and other diseases.

Non-core vaccinations for your American Bulldog, such as those for Bordetella, Leptospirosis, Borrelia Burgdorferi, and other diseases, will also be required.

Some veterinarians charge per the injection, while others charge by the package of immunizations. Most immunizations will cost between $20 and $40, depending on how much the veterinarian office will have to pay for them. Some low-cost clinics charge between $10 and $20 for each shot, depending on the location. Vaccine costs are determined by mandates in some states, which are set by the state legislature.

You may also take your American Bulldog to a veterinarian who, in addition to immunizations, will do some other preventative examinations on him as well. Examples include preventative yearly checkups, biannual exams, deworming, and screening blood tests performed at some practices, among other things. Preventive packages of this nature might cost up to $200.

In addition, you will need to deworm your puppies regularly. Your breeder will deworm American Bulldog puppies that are 2-3 weeks old. In addition, you must deworm your puppy every two weeks until he or she is around six months old. Once your American Bulldog reaches the age of 12 months, deworm him or her every 3-4 months. Deworming medications can range in price from $15 to $45.

The control of fleas and ticks is essential for American Bulldog owners. Your pet might suffer significantly if you do not provide this. Flies and ticks can cause acute itching, and if their populations are not controlled, they can cause large-scale infestations. As a result, apply flea-tick prevention products regularly, such as shampoos, sprays, collars, powders, and spot treatments.

The prices of core and non-core vaccinations and the expenses of emergency treatment, and the costs of various medical operations for dogs

This table shows the estimated costs of therapeutic procedures for American Bulldogs:

Costs of special tests

American Bulldog Inherited Diseases

The American Bulldog is generally a hardy breed, but unethical breeding and puppy mills could cause these dogs to inherit specific genetic issues from their parents. These include:

Nerve Disease

Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL) is a degenerative neurologic condition that affects various breeds, including your American Bulldog. Clinical indications mainly occur in puppies and young dogs, usually between one and three years. In the early stages, it is possible to have weakness and imbalance in the back leg. It can proceed to a state of weakness affecting all four legs, and in some instances, the dog may lose his vision. At present, there is no effective therapy for this condition, although there is a genetic test available to diagnose it. Dogs with the mutation should not be used for breeding since the mutation is quickly passed on to subsequent generations of dogs. There is no ultimate cure, so we can not judge the treatment price.

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

Both the hips and the elbows of American bulldogs are at risk for dysplasia. This genetic illness causes the joints to grow incorrectly, resulting in arthritis in the affected joint or joints. In the later stages of his life, your Bulldog’s elbows and hips may become painfully stiff, especially as he grows. You may notice that he becomes lame in his legs or that he has trouble getting up from a lying-down position as time goes on.   In severe and life-threatening conditions, surgery may be a viable choice in some instances, which usually costs around $3000.

Thyroid Problems

American Bulldogs are predisposed to a common illness known as hypothyroidism, in which the body does not produce enough thyroid hormone to keep up with demands. Dry skin and hair, hair loss, susceptibility to other skin disorders, weight gain, fearfulness, anger, and other behavioral changes are all possible symptoms. To screen for the illness, the vet will do a blood screening test once a year. The treatment is typically simple: hormone replacement in a tablet is administered, which usually costs around $2000 – $3000.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma in American Bulldogs can cause eye discomfort, blurred vision, squinting, redness of the eyes, and tears. The only method to cure it is with a diode laser, which will cost you around $1800 for both eyes.

Ichthyosis

Dry, flaky, and itchy skin is a frequent problem for many dogs, but American Bulldogs, in particular, are prone to ichthyosis. This severe peeling skin disorder can be life-threatening. This condition generally manifests itself exceptionally early in life, with most affected puppies born with abnormal skin. Many palliative treatments, such as specific shampoos and fish oils, provide varying degrees of comfort, but there is no definitive solution for this genetic condition. Genetic tests are available for several breeds to establish whether a dog is clean, a carrier, or impacted by a genetic condition. Secondary treatments to cope with this illness usually cost around $2000.

Pet Insurance for your American Bulldog

Pet insurance for American Bulldogs tends to be a little more expensive than for other breeds of dogs. This is because it is a rare breed that is also pure in its genetic makeup. Insurance premiums for mixed-breed dogs are somewhat cheaper than for purebred dogs. As a result, do your research and select a plan that will provide complete coverage without any gaps.

Unexpected and regular vet expenditures are both covered by suitable insurance carriers. Some companies even pay the price of training and grooming. Some businesses provide loyalty benefits and reimbursements for services including spaying and neutering, nail trimming, dental cleaning, nutritional supplements, and other similar services. Many insurance companies cut your deductible by $50 each year that you do not file a claim.

The following table will show you how different insurance providers stack up against one another:

Additional Costs of American Bulldog

Home setup

Ideally, an American Bulldog should have a big home with a fenced yard. It’s safe to say that this enormous and lively dog is not suitable for apartment living. If you have an open yard, you may want to consider installing a robust fence around it. Depending on the size of your yard, you should expect to pay at least $1000 for the fence.

Travel/ pet sitting/boarding

If you have to leave your American Bulldog at home while you travel, you may hire a dog sitter to come over and monitor your pet while you are away. They can also walk your dog twice or three times a day. If you do not have time to care for your pet, you can board him at a dog boarding facility. This might cost anywhere from $30 to $50 each night. If you have a large dog, such as an American Bulldog, a dog sitter will charge you around $25 per hour. If you decide to take your American Bulldog with you on your trip, you’ll need to budget at least $120-$200 for flight expenses one-way.

Grooming

Because American Bulldogs have a short coat, they do not require a great deal of maintenance. You must, however, brush your pet regularly to remove any stray hair. Additionally, wash its teeth daily. If you opt to get your hair cut and styled by a professional, it will cost between $40 and $75 for basic services such as wash, cutting, and nail care, depending on your location.

Dog walking

American Bulldogs require a lot of physical activity. It’s important to remember that these canines were raised to hunt in groups and fight dog fights. If you do not offer it the exercise it needs, it is likely to become ill, sad, and possibly engage in inappropriate conduct. According to the National Dog Walking Association, dog walkers charge an average of $35 for a 30-45-minute walk with a large dog like the American Bulldog.

Key Takeaways – How Much Does an American Bulldog Cost?

The first-year cost of owning your American Bulldog

Although you are thrilled to have this adorable puppy, you should be prepared to spend at least $2000 in its first year with it. These prices may not include the expense of purchasing it from a well-known breeding facility. Some breeders have even been demanding as much as $8000 for this highly uncommon canine species. The price of immunizations, routine checkups, basic supplies, spaying/neutering, dog training, and other expenses are included in the first year’s expenses.

The monthly cost of having an American Bulldog

Healthy food for American Bulldogs can cost up to $200 per month, depending on the breed. In addition, include typical and unexpected vet expenditures and additional spending for toys, nutrients, and other items. This can cost upwards of $300 per hour.

Costs on an annual basis

After the first year, you may anticipate spending almost $1000 on the upkeep of your American Bulldog. These expenses include flea and tick treatment, deworming four times a year, the cost of food and treats, basic medical expenses, the cost of dog walking and training, and any unexpected vet expenses.

Lifetime costs

The life expectancy of an American Bulldog is around 10-12 years on average. If you spend an average of $1000 every year for the rest of your life, your total expenditures might reach $12000. If your American Bulldog develops health problems during his or her senior years, these expenses can quickly mount up and become prohibitive. Be prepared to spend at least $2000 each year on therapy or hospitalization if either is required. Pet insurance might assist you in avoiding the majority of these expenses.

We hope the information will assist you in budgeting and planning for the arrival of your American Bulldog.