American Bulldog vs Golden Retriever

Working · Large vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • American Bulldog is the larger breed at 75–100 lbs (males) vs 65–75 lbs for the Golden Retriever.
  • The Golden Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The American Bulldog sheds less.
  • The Golden Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAmerican BulldogGolden Retriever
Group
WorkingSporting
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
USAScotland
Height (male)
22–25"23–24"
Height (female)
20–23"21.5–22.5"
Weight (male)
75–100 lbs65–75 lbs
Weight (female)
60–80 lbs55–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the American Bulldog

The American Bulldog is a loyal, athletic, hard-working farm guardian — taller and more athletic than the English Bulldog. Originally from USA, this large working breed typically weighs 75–100 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, athletic, hardworking.

About the Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is a friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat. Originally from Scotland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–75 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, intelligent, devoted.

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American Bulldog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cherry eye
  • Skin allergies
  • Kidney disease

Golden Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Skin conditions