American Bulldog vs Scottish Terrier

Working · Large vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • American Bulldog is the larger breed at 75–100 lbs (males) vs 19–22 lbs for the Scottish Terrier.
  • The Scottish Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The American Bulldog has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Scottish Terrier sheds less.
  • The American Bulldog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAmerican BulldogScottish Terrier
Group
WorkingTerrier
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
USAScotland
Height (male)
22–25"10"
Height (female)
20–23"10"
Weight (male)
75–100 lbs19–22 lbs
Weight (female)
60–80 lbs18–21 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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 Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier is an independent, confident, spirited terrier from the Scottish Highlands — the original 'Scottie'. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 19–22 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as confident, independent, spirited.

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American Bulldog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Scottish Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Scotty cramp
  • Von Willebrand's disease
  • Bladder cancer