Short History of the Antebellum Bulldog

The Antebellum Bulldog was developed on rice plantations near the Altamaha River in Georgia prior to the Civil War, a fact that explains why the breed is sometimes called Altamaha River Dogs. This breed was useful in helping control the feral hogs and wild cattle that often damaged lucrative crops, but they also served as family companions. During their later years, Antebellum Bulldogs also worked in logging camps but, by that period, their popularity was waning and other dogs had begun to take over the jobs they once performed. Although the original line of Antebellum Bulldogs went extinct sometime in the 19th century, modern enthusiasts including have been working hard to reestablish the breed.

Temperament

In spite of their intimidating appearance and large stature, Antebellum Bulldogs are a good choice for families. These laid back, easy going dogs are perfectly content to spend time with their humans. With that said, this exuberant breed should be closely monitored when it is playing around young children. These large dogs could accidentally cause harm to a toddler simply by being too playful. Antebellum Bulldogs often form lasting attachment to one person in particular, but they are nonetheless devoted to their entire families.

These dogs have a very strong guarding instinct and will not hesitate to let others know that they have stepped onto its turf. While they are wary of strangers, these dogs will accept those individuals that have either become familiar to them or those who have been welcomed in the past by their human owners.. Members of this breed may not do well in environments where there are smaller pets, such as cats. Early socialization is a key factor in preventing these dogs from misbehaving or becoming unruly around both people and other animals. Once trained, owners should have no trouble getting their dogs to obey them but Antebellum Bulldogs are also known for their stubborn disposition.

Grooming & Bathing

Antebellum Bulldogs do not have to be professionally groomed. As is the case with most breeds, these dogs benefit from having their teeth brushed and their nails clipped on a regular basis. It is a good idea for owners to start performing these routines on their bulldogs as puppies, so that the animals can become accustomed to the procedure from an early age.

Exercise & Training

The Antebellum Bulldog is an active, highly energetic breed that is ill suited to apartment life. A rural setting with lots of wide open space is best for these bulldogs so they can race about and wear themselves out in the same manner that their forebears did. However, this breed will also be content with households that contain a backyard for them to play in.

Owners should note that the Antebellum Bulldogs are prone to destructive, unhealthy, or irritating behaviors if they spend too much time alone. Members of this breed have been known to chew up furniture, ruin drapes, and bark excessively if they have to spend all day indoors. However, leaving these dogs outside on chains for long periods is not the answer as doing so can promote high aggression levels in one’s pet.

Antebellum Bulldogs may not be accepting of small pets, cats, or other dogs at the best of times. Therefore, it is recommended that owners of this breed begin socializing their pets at a young age to reduce the risk of unpleasant encounters. It is likewise suggested that these dogs receive obedience training as soon as possible. While the breed has a tendency to be stubborn, Antebellum Bulldogs do not forget what they have learned once they have been mastered it. As with most breeds, rewards based training and patient instruction will work wonders.