Why are American Bulldogs prone to overheating during warm weather conditions?
Struggle to release heat effectively due to their short muzzle.
The physical structure of the American Bulldog, particularly its facial conformation, presents a specific vulnerability regarding temperature regulation. Because they possess a short muzzle, a physical trait inherited from bulldog ancestry, they are considerably less efficient at cooling themselves down through the natural process of panting compared to breeds with longer snouts. This impairment in evaporative cooling means they are highly susceptible to overheating when exposed to warm temperatures. Owner vigilance during hot weather is therefore essential not just for comfort, but for maintaining the dog's stability, as a dog suffering from heat exhaustion can become unpredictable and distressed.
