Antebellum Bulldog vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison

Antebellum Bulldog vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed ComparisonAntebellum Bulldog is originated from United States but Australian Silky Terrier is originated from Australia. Antebellum Bulldog may grow 40 cm / 16 inches higher than Australian Silky Terrier. Antebellum Bulldog may weigh 62 kg / 137 pounds more than Australian Silky Terrier. Both Antebellum Bulldog and Australian Silky Terrier has same life span. Antebellum Bulldog may have more litter size than Australian Silky Terrier. Antebellum Bulldog requires Low maintenance. But Australian Silky Terrier requires Moderate maintenance

History

antebellum bulldog - historyThe history of the Antebellum Bulldog dates back the 1600s where it was used as a lasting solution to drive away hogs in rice plantation farms in Altamaha River in Georgia. After the plantation system became dominant in most parts of the United States, a majority of the farmers had to think of a more creative way of driving away wild feral pigs and cattle. Having caused multiple deaths to humans due to their massive bodies and extremely sharp horns, farm owners had no option but to employ bulldogs as the only means of security.

Although these dogs served their purpose of protecting their masters while still being family companions, their age of extinction came during the Civil War where the economy at the Altamaha region was permanently altered. After the fall of plantation farming and abolition of slavery, the Antebellum Bulldog became a forgotten breed something which led to its extinction. However, as years passed by, this rare breed was eventually reintroduced by the Maxwell family under strict guidelines by the Animal Research Foundation.

australian silky terrier - historyMany toy breeds have been bred for centuries and were kept as lap dogs and companion dogs. Known at first as ‘The Sydney Silk’ the Australian Silky Terrier originated in Australia, but before the 2nd World War, the Australian SilkyTerrier was all but unknown outside Australia.

The toy breed came about by crossing the Yorkshire Terrier and the Australian Terrier, but further crossings contributed to the silky coat and the small size we are familiar with today. Despite this little dog being classified in the Toy Group, this spunky dog has the ability to hunt and kill rodents.

Victorian and Tasmanian breeders claimed to be originators of the breed, so the official name, Australian Silky Terrier, was adopted in 1956. Since recognition by the American Kennel Club in 1955, the breed has enjoyed a solid build up of fans.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Toy dog
Origin:
United States
Australia
Height Male:
46 - 66 cm
18 - 26 inches
23 - 26 cm
9 - 11 inches
Height Female:
46 - 66 cm
18 - 26 inches
20 - 25 cm
7 - 10 inches
Weight Male:
36 - 68 kg
79 - 150 pounds
4 - 6 kg
8 - 14 pounds
Weight Female:
32 - 50 kg
70 - 111 pounds
4 - 6 kg
8 - 14 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 8
3 - 5
Size:
Large dog
Small dog
Other Names:
Altamaha Plantation Dog, Altamaha Plantation Bulldog
Silky Terrier, Sydney Silky
Colors Available:
White, sable brown, brindle and beige
blue/tan, grey/blue and cream.
Coat:
Short and soft
long, straight and silky
Shedding:
Minimal
Temperament:
Aggressive, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Responsive, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
Yes
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Description

antebellum bulldog puppy - descriptionThe Antebellum Bulldog is a recently introduced breed that was developed with an aim of recreating the historic working bulldog or Southern breed. First introduced in the United States, this bulldog was initially bred to be used as a working dog in rice plantations in Altamaha River Valley, a region in South East Georgia.

By nature, the Antebellum Bulldog is an extremely loving, loyal, affectionate, and very intelligent pet. Due to that reason, this breed is a perfect choice for a family dog. If we can get back to history, it’s evident that this dog breed was used in plantation farms to secure the rice from damages caused by cattle and wild hogs. Relating these tasks to the dog’s overall personality, you will find that indeed the Antebellum Bulldog is one such breed that can be trusted as a watchdog in today’s homes.

Appearance

The Antebellum Bulldog is very similar to the American Bulldog only that it’s a little bit larger and bulkier with a proportionally bigger head. These breeds usually range from bigger to biggest with males weighing around 36 to 68 Kg (80—150 pounds) and females 32 to 50 Kg (70—110 pounds). Similar to the American Bulldog, the Antebellum Bulldog has a rough coat, long legs, an athletic body and short tail/ears that don’t require any cropping.

Temperament

Despite of their intimidating appearance, the Antebellum Bulldog is an extremely loving, passionate, and loyal pet that will suit perfectly as a family dog. These dogs will lie down to their masters and will need nothing more than constant company. According to professional breeders, the Antebellum Bulldog is most likely to form a close attachment to one member of the family although they still do enjoy hanging out with the rest of the family members.

As it is the case with most American Bulldogs, the Antebellum Bulldog has a very strong protective instinct that makes it react violently when strangers step into its territories. Something else you need to know about this Bulldog breed is that it does get along well with kids to a point of being overprotective. Since puppies are usually over playful, adults are highly advised to watch out as they can accidentally bowl or knock over your toddler.

Grooming needs

The Antebellum Bulldog doesn’t have to be professionally groomed as is the case with most dog breeds. Apart from a weekly brushing of the coat, the other grooming needs you’re supposed to observe include; regular brushing of the teeth and trimming of nails from an early stage.

Small but Spunky

australian silky terrier puppy - descriptionThis is a small breed with Loads of Spunk. The Silky terrier is somewhat longer than tall and height is around 23cm, with weight being about 4kg. He has an athletic build and although the bone structure is refined, the small dog has amazing strength and durability with a keen, alert face. Small but sturdily built, the dark, almond-shaped eyes don’t miss a thing as do the small, erect v-shaped ears.

Full of fun and packed with character, the Silky Terrier isn’t your regular lap dog as he is bold, active, feisty and playful- always ready for action. He can be aggressive toward strange pets but becomes amicable with other pets in the home. He is sharp and clever, and can be trained to be an absolute pleasure in the home and a playmate for children trained to be kind to animals.

They are loving and devoted to their human family and can be excellent watchdogs even though they can’t offer much protection.

The Coat – the most Distinctive Feature

Of course, the Silky Terrier gets his name from the sleek, silky coat that if allowed to grow, flows down from their backs to the floor. It is the dogs most distinctive feature. They come in several solid colors and mixes of colors too such as blue/tan, grey/blue and cream.

He’s Adaptable

The Silky is an adaptable dog and even though he is energetic and will needs daily physical and mental exercise, he can be a country or an apartment dog, but will require plenty of exercise and getting out and about.

Characteristics

Children friendliness

antebellum bulldog dog - characteristicsAlthough the Antebellum Bulldog is quite intimidating, this dog can make a great pet thanks to its loving, patient, and extremely tolerant characteristics. This dog enjoys playing with young children as well as other members of the family although proper care should be observed to avoid injuring young toddlers due to their muscular bodies.

Special talents

The Antebellum Bulldog is a protective dog breed with very strong guarding instincts. New visitors will have to be very careful as these dog breeds are quite wary of strangers and will not treat them politely. However, if you become familiar with them, they are likely to know you and later accept you as part of a large family.

Adaptability

Speaking of adaptability, the Antebellum Bulldog is more of a working dog than a household pet. Although some people will prefer to keep them indoors, always ensure that your homestead has a backyard where they can exercise. Otherwise, these dog breed will prefer to be kept in rural areas where there are vast tracks of land for them to play on.

Learning ability

Finally, the Antebellum Bulldog is an intelligent dog with a very sharp memory. However, due to their extremely playful nature, they can become very stubborn and messy. Therefore, owners are advised to train them early enough before they are fully grown.

Caution with Small Children

australian silky terrier dog - characteristicsSmall in stature but with a strong personality, the Australian Silky Terrier is a keen, intelligent, active, energetic and spunky breed. He is affectionate and loyal towards his human family, and although good with older children and other pets, he may not get on too well with small children and their erratic movements.

Training Required for his Wilful Nature

Don’t leave him alone for too long as he becomes anxious and destructive. He is an active dog too and while he will adapt to apartment living, he will need exercise and games to keep him active, fit, stimulated and healthy. Your Silky is an intelligent dog but he is stubborn too and proper socialization and training will be important for Silky Terriers, as then he becomes quite sociable.

A firm but gentle hand will be needed to train this wilful little dog, but when you show him who’s boss, he becomes your devoted and loyal friend.

Health Problems

antebellum bulldog puppies - health problemsThe Antebellum Bulldog has a life expectancy of 12—15 years. Recognized as an emerging breed, this dog doesn’t have many health problems as compared to most other dog breeds. Although these dogs are muscular and very athletic, these breeds suffer from various health conditions which are caused by the nature of their coat. Among the common health problems of the Antebellum Bulldog include

Blindness

One major health problem that affects blue-eyed dog breeds (such as this one) is possible blindness. This condition is usually caused by diabetes, hypertension or Cushing’s syndrome. To treat this condition, you need to take your dog for regular veterinary checkups to know the root cause of the problem.

Hip dysplasia

Another health problem that is very familiar with most Antebellum Bulldogs is hip dysplasia. Since these dog breeds are usually muscular and very huge, this condition is most likely to affect them, especially at an early stage. Dog owners should, therefore, be very familiar with this condition and should take their pets for regular veterinary tests to avoid it.

Some Ailments to Look out For

australian silky terrier puppies - health problemsThe Australian Silky Terrier is generally healthy and he has a lifespan of 11 – 14 years. However he may suffer from some problems such as Legg-Perthes disease. This means degeneration of the head on the femur bone of the dog's hind leg, resulting is osteoarthritis. This ailment is commonly seen in miniature-, small and toy breeds and can result in lameness and pain.

Silky Terriers are also prone to certain eye disorders, including PRA or Progressive Retinal Atrophy as well as cataracts. PRA can lead to total blindness.

Vaccinating your Pet – what’s required?

Getting the right puppy shots and vaccinations is also part of good health care for your Silky and you can speak to your vet about what injections are due at 6 – 8 weeks of age and what booster vaccinations may be necessary.

Caring The Pet

Feeding the puppy

antebellum bulldog dogs - caringFeeding an Antebellum Bulldog is much similar to feeding other dogs. Owners are highly advised to stick to high-quality hypoallergenic diets that are rich in vitamins and nutrients. Now, since Antebellum Bulldog puppies are usually playful, feeding them with high nutrient food thrice a day will really help. Always avoid feeding your puppies with processed foods or foods with artificial sugars as they can expose the puppies to severe health problems.

Feeding the adult

When feeding senior Antebellum Bulldog, there are some small changes you’ll need to make. First, these dogs will require high-quality foods that are easy to digest. Wet foods are perfect for Antebellum Bulldogs as they will help to keep them hydrated. Buy dog foods low in calories and rich in essential vitamins and nutrients to match your dog’s energy.

Points for good health

Antebellum Bulldog can add extra weight if proper care is not observed when feeding them. Due to this reason, these dogs should be fed depending on their level of activity to avoid cases of obesity.

Games and exercises

Since their ancestors were used to guard rice plantations in Altamaha, Antebellum Bulldogs are very energetic and highly suited in rural settings over indoor lifestyle. However, if you decide to keep these dogs as pets in your households, it’s advisable that you provide them with some playing space in the backyard.

When it comes to training the Antebellum Bulldog, owners are advised to train them to be obedient at an early stage as they can get really stubborn in the future. These dogs are very intelligent and they never forget what they learn once they’ve mastered it.

Regular Brushing of the Silky Hair

australian silky terrier dogs - caringThe long, straight coat of the Silky will need a fair amount of brushing each day. This dog is considered a hypoallergenic breed, and although he doesn’t shed a lot, the length of the hair will require regular brushing to get rid of loose hairs but also ensure there is no tangling of the hair. If the hair of the dog is kept long, he may require a bath every now and then to keep his hair silky and clean and to get rid of dirt build-up.

Nutrition and Diet

A healthy, nutritional diet is important for keeping your canine friend healthy and free from disease and unhealthy skin. To stay health your pet will require correct amounts of vitamins and minerals.

Dog food companies make different types of dog food such as dry, semi-moist, and moist and these are available for dogs of different ages, activity levels and stage of life. Speak to your vet about selecting a dog food that is right for your Australian Silky Terrier and always ensure a bowl of fresh water is available to him.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Pomeranian vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  2. Maltese vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  3. Pug vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  4. Maltipoo vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Cockapoo vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  7. Cavapoo vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  8. Cavachon vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Papillon vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  10. Japanese Chin vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  11. Miniature English Bulldog vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  12. Bolognese vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  13. Italian Greyhound vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  14. Jug vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  15. Miniature Pinscher vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  16. Dorgi vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  17. Belgian Griffon vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  18. Carlin Pinscher vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  19. Dorkie vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  20. German Spitz (Klein) vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Doxiepoo vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  22. Bospin vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  23. Bantam Bulldog vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  24. Damchi vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  25. Lowchen vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Samoyed vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Alaskan Malamute vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  28. Bullmastiff vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  29. Great Pyrenees vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  30. Boerboel vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  31. Presa Canario vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  33. Labrador Husky vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  34. Argentine Dogo vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  35. Giant Schnauzer vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  36. Belgian Shepherd vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  37. Goldador vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  38. Bandog vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  39. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  40. Dogo Cubano vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  41. Dogo Sardesco vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  42. Beauceron vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  43. Central Asian Shepherd vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  44. Mackenzie River Husky vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  45. Black Russian Terrier vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  46. German Longhaired Pointer vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  47. Pyredoodle vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  48. Entlebucher Mountain Dog vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  49. Lurcher vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  50. Maremma Sheepdog vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds