The surname Phillips is thought to be a patronymic surname, i.e. one derived from a male given (first) name. An "s" added on to the name "Philip" tends to signify "son of Philip". The first name Philip or Phillip derives from Greek: "Philippos", a compound of "philein", to love, and "hippos", horse. Hence, "lover of horses" or "friend of horses."

A male American bulldog weighs 70 - 120 pounds (32 - 54 kg), while a female might weigh 60 - 100 pounds (27 – 45 kg).