The American Bulldog is more than what it seems as variations, like the Scott and Johnson American Bulldogs, have emerged on the scene. With their few similar features, it takes a good eye to notice their distinctions.
For the most part, the Scott and Johnson American Bulldogs have shared the same heritage. However, different breeding methods were employed, making each one unique in looks and traits.
This comparison guide will teach you all you need to know about these two stunning American Bulldog varieties. It tackles their differences in history, appearance, temperament, needs, and more. Read on!
Breed Comparison
| Scott American Bulldog | Johnson American Bulldog |
| Height: 22 – 27 inches | Height: 23 – 27 inches |
| Weight: 80 – 100 pounds | Weight: 90 – 120 pounds |
| Lifespan: 7 – 10 years | Lifespan: 8 – 10 years |
| Temperament: Independent, Friendly, Loving | Temperament: Protective, Patient, Affectionate |
| Health: Average | Health: Above Average |
| Activity Level: Very High | Activity Level: High |
| Grooming Needs: Low | Grooming Needs: Low |
| Trainability: High | Trainability: High |
| Family-friendly: Yes | Family-friendly: Yes |
Scott American Bulldog Breed Overview
Breed History
The origins of the Scott American Bulldog breed can be traced back to the 17th century, when their predecessor, the Old English Bulldog, came into being.
This remarkable breed was developed into several strains, some of which were utilized for cattle-driving tasks, while others were involved in bull-baiting — a prevalent pastime during that era.
However, in 1835, bull-baiting was outlawed in the United Kingdom due to growing concerns for animal rights. Some of these indigenous strains migrated to the United States, where they were developed for work.
By the time World War II dawned, the American Bulldog strain had begun to diminish. However, John D. Johnson made a move to revive the breed. He was accompanied by Alan Scott during the process.
At a certain point, Scott interbred Johnson’s dogs with other non-Johnson Bulldogs, ultimately giving rise to the Scott American Bulldog.
As a result, the American Bulldog breed survived, and its Scott variant enjoys the limelight, participating in dog events. In 2019, the American Kennel Club (AKC) added the breed to the Foundation Stock Service.
Appearance
The Scott American Bulldog, also referred to as the standard American Bulldog, bears a resemblance to the Pitbull with its sturdy, square-shaped head, small almond-shaped eyes, and a robust, wide jaw.
This breed typically sports a pure white coat, the fur laying flat against its skin. The only contrasting colors that distinguish the Scott variety are the black of its nose and the brown hues of its compelling eyes.
Furthermore, its body presents a remarkably muscular build, underscoring the Scott American Bulldog’s athletic strength. The chest is expansive, and all four legs are substantial, exuding a robust physical presence.
Despite its daunting appearance, the Scott American Bulldog should not be stereotyped as dangerous. Beneath its formidable exterior lies a loyal guardian cherished by many households.
Temperament and Personality
As with other breeds, the Scott American Bulldog’s personality will be factored by its genetics and environment. This dog can get along well with kids and other dogs if it receives proper socialization early.
Generally, the Scott American Bulldog is a calm and docile breed. Owners often speak highly of its gentle nature and its exceedingly affectionate attitude. Even though it values independence, this breed remains oriented towards people.
It can’t be left on its own for long periods since it’s prone to separation anxiety. A bored Scott American Bulldog would typically exhibit destructive behaviors to cope with stress and lack of activity.
It’s noteworthy that this canine may exhibit different behaviors indoors and outdoors. It can be a relaxed family companion within the home but may reveal a more active side when outside.
In a large, fenced yard, the Scott American Bulldog can be seen examining its environment. It loves to jump around and run after insects and other small animals.
Given this, constant supervision is crucial, especially when it’s around smaller pets.
Exercise and Training
Unsurprisingly, a strong dog like the Scott American Bulldog has lots of energy to burn. In fact, it requires an hour or two for its daily exercise. This should be divided into two smaller sessions to avoid over-exhaustion.
Your Scott Bulldog will greatly enjoy walks, jogs, or runs, preferably scheduled in the cooler hours of the early morning or late afternoon.
Equally enjoyable for a Scott American Bulldog are free-play sessions. However, it’s crucial to ensure the play area is secure to prevent any potential escapes.
You can also make use of its vigor for its training. As much as possible, your Bulldog should be taught proper manners and behaviors early.
Some of the lessons it needs to be taught with are crate training, potty training, and verbal commands. You can proceed to advanced doggy lessons, like obedience, once it masters the previous drills.
Socialization with other dogs should also be incorporated into your Bulldog’s routine. Begin by carefully introducing your other pets to your Scott American Bulldog puppy.
Over time, you can bring your Bulldog to dog parks for it to interact with other canines. On its initial encounters with other dogs, ensure your Bulldog is leashed.
Once it establishes relationships with others, you can allow it to play freely in an enclosed, spacious area.
Lifespan and Health Problems
The Scott American Bulldog is a healthy variation of the American Bulldog breed. Its average lifespan is between 7 and 10 years. A healthy lifestyle, nurturing environment, and balanced diet can help it surpass these marks.
Although it’s a robust dog, the Scott Bulldog is not entirely immune to health conditions. Since it’s predisposed to have a short muzzle, it may suffer from brachycephalic syndrome, which is common in flat-faced dogs.
This breed is also susceptible to obesity if its daily caloric intake exceeds the required amount, especially when coupled with an inactive lifestyle.
To avoid this, ensure it eats the right amount of high-quality dog food and treats that should only make up 10 percent of its daily caloric intake.
As is well known, obesity in dogs can lead to a series of other complications, such as heart disease, hypertension, cancer, osteoarthritis, and diabetes mellitus.
If these health complications are not promptly addressed by a veterinarian, they could significantly shorten your Scott Bulldog’s lifespan.
Johnson American Bulldog Breed Overview
Breed History
The Johnson American Bulldog descends from the Old English Bulldog. Immigrants, primarily laborers, brought this breed’s ancestors to the United States, where they served as essential farm and ranch dogs.
Later, it became widely recognized as the American Bulldog, distinctly different from its English cousin. Despite its usefulness on the farm, the American Bulldog’s existence was under threat due to World War II.
John D. Johnson took the initiative to prevent the extinction of the well-loved American Bulldog. He went South, where the finest specimens of the American Bulldog breed were eventually used for his breeding program.
He then crossbred these original lines with a throwback English Bulldog from the North, resulting in the robust Johnson American Bulldog.
Thanks to its athletic abilities, attractive appearance, and numerous other positive traits, the breed flourished effortlessly. It also swiftly gained popularity across the country, a trend that continues to this day.
Appearance
The Johnson American Bulldog showcases distinct features that set it apart. One way to distinguish it from the Scott type is by observing its face.
Its facial skin is less firm, the head shape is round, and the upper part of its head is curved rather than flat. Its lower lip is also loose, while the eyes are large and ring-shaped.
In terms of its build, the Johnson American Bulldog’s body is commonly described as heavy-set. The chest is certainly a standout feature, with well-defined muscles that are hard to ignore.
Moreover, its posture exudes confidence, making it an attractive sight for many enthusiasts. Unlike the Scott American Bulldog, the Johnson variety sports a short white coat adorned with black, red, and brown patches.
Watch the short clip below to see for yourself the enticing appearance of a Johnson American Bulldog:
While the appearance of the Johnson American Bulldog can be intimidating to some, its looks do not necessarily reflect its character.
Temperament and Personality
Johnson American Bulldogs are sweet, loving, and loyal toward their family members. They’re very careful when dealing with kids and are highly protective and territorial.
That said, it’s best to avoid getting near a Johnson American Bulldog if you haven’t been introduced to it. Acknowledging this dog’s strength, you have to give it time before it warms up to you.
On another note, a Johnson Bulldog is best suited to single-pet households. They often display intolerance towards other dogs, and having another canine at home could potentially result in inter-aggression.
However, this doesn’t mean that Johnson isn’t capable of building a relationship with another canine. Still, it takes lots of socialization and positive reinforcement to help mellow this disagreeable attitude.
Potential Johnson American Bulldog owners should have ample experience in managing strong-willed dogs. Given its dominant personality, this breed requires an owner who can confidently assume the role of firm leader.
Exercise and Training
Known for their high energy levels, Johnson American Bulldogs require between 45 minutes and 2 hours of exercise daily. Activities can include outdoor walks, hikes, swimming, and off-leash play in a fenced area.
Providing it with games helps tone its muscles, thus improving its figure even more. Tiring your Johnson would also help it rest well through the night, establishing a good sleeping pattern.
Mental stimulation is equally important for the Johnson American Bulldog. Investing in durable interactive toys like puzzle treats can help alleviate boredom.
Training is another avenue to expand your dog’s intellectual capacity. However, this breed can be moderately challenging to train and may require more patience and consistency from its owner.
Ideally, you must start training your Johnson American Bulldog puppy early so it immediately knows what behaviors are acceptable in the household.
Lifespan and Health Problems
The Johnson American Bulldog enjoys a life expectancy that spans between 8 and 10 years. With optimal health, this can extend to 16 years or beyond.
This Bulldog variety is generally healthy, but like other dogs, it’s not immune to health conditions. At any age, the Johnson American Bulldog can develop common medical issues, such as food allergies.
It may even be genetically predisposed to elbow and hip dysplasia, so ensure it doesn’t play too much, especially if it’s still a puppy. Cherry eye is common to the breed, too.
This is usually cured by administering vet-prescribed anti-inflammatory eye drops to deal with the discharge. If there is extreme discomfort, your Johnson Bulldog may have to undergo surgery.
Owners must also be prepared if their Johnsons suffer from hypothyroidism, breathing problems, obesity, and dental issues.
Given that some of these health problems are hereditary, it’s advisable to acquire your Johnson American Bulldog from a reputable breeder.
Reputable breeders screen their Johnson Bulldog stock and ensure they’re in optimal health to produce a litter of puppies.
Similarities Between Scott and Johnson American Bulldog
The Scott and Johnson American Bulldogs are fit to work on the farm. They have a history of fending off feral pigs, considered vermin without a predator.
These two variants of American Bulldogs are notably active, requiring 1 to 2 hours of exercise daily to stay physically and mentally engaged.
It is also worth emphasizing that they need training and socialization during puppyhood. Furthermore, these Bulldog variants are naturally strong and assertive, so owners must establish themselves as leaders early on.
As household pets, they are described as sweet and caring for their owners. Despite their tough exteriors, they are sensitive and can easily get in tune with their owners’ emotions.
That also implies that harsh punishments don’t do well for these dogs. They thrive better in encouraging environments where positive reinforcements are employed.
In terms of health, both Scott and Johnson American Bulldogs are generally robust, yet they require regular veterinary check-ups annually to spot signs of illnesses early on.
With these similarities, the Scott and Johnson American Bulldogs are not too different in many aspects. Both of them require responsible owners who understand them and have their needs set as a priority.
Scott vs. Johnson American Bulldog: Which Is Better for You?
Undoubtedly, both the Scott and Johnson American Bulldogs are intriguing variants. Despite their unique traits, they are remarkable dogs that have each garnered a strong following among dog enthusiasts worldwide.
Choosing the right Bulldog for you and your family should be done by factoring in your lifestyle and preferences.
This section details the qualities that potential owners should have, helping you determine which of these Bulldogs suits you best.
A Scott American Bulldog is better suited for you if you:
- Can provide ample companionship to your Scott American Bulldog at home.
- Are seeking a reliable guard dog to safeguard your family and property.
- Desire an energetic canine companion for outdoor activities.
- Can ensure your Scott American Bulldog receives plenty of exercise and training opportunities.
Conversely, a Johnson American Bulldog might be your ideal match if you:
- Have patience and experience training large, occasionally stubborn, breeds.
- Can devote time to socializing your Johnson American Bulldog with other dogs to encourage friendliness.
- Can provide ample time and attention for bonding activities to keep your Johnson Bulldog engaged.
- Do not currently own any other dogs and have no plans to add another after acquiring your Johnson American Bulldog.
Apart from what’s listed above, you may also factor in their appearance, but this shouldn’t be the primary factor in your decision-making.
Equally important is your commitment to the responsibilities entailed, whether you choose a Scott or Johnson American Bulldog. Consistent care for your canine companion throughout its life is highly important.
Final Thoughts
Deciding between the Scott and Johnson American Bulldog is challenging, given their many appealing traits and handsome appearance.
Ultimately, your decision will boil down to which American Bulldog you can handle better. If you prefer a dog that has an independent nature, the Scott American Bulldog would be the right companion for you.
Meanwhile, the Johnson American Bulldog would be a better fit if you are okay with having just one dog. Regardless of what Bulldog variety you go for, you must have enough energy to match the dog’s vigor.
Neither breed is suited to a sedentary lifestyle, as they were originally bred to work on farms as livestock guardians.
Have you made a decision about which American Bulldog to add to your family? Comment down below, as we would love to hear whether you chose a Scott or Johnson American Bulldog and hear about your experiences!
