Olde English Bulldogge: Modern Recreated Breed

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There aren’t many cases where breeders or scientists tried to revive an extinct dog breed, but the Olde English Bulldogge story is precisely one of those. This American designer breed attempts to restore or recreate the legendary Old English Bulldog that is the ancestor of many modern-day breeds we love and adore.

The Old English Bulldog was a working English breed often used for bloodsports such as bull-baiting and dogfighting, so these dogs had to be strong, agile, and immensely brave. These traits can be clearly seen in their modern-day descendants like the Staffordshire Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, or Bull Terrier; they have directly descended from the Old English Bulldog.

On the other hand, the Olde English Bulldogge is a “designer” breed created in the extinct breed’s image but with certain character adjustments. These dogs are better adjusted to the modern dog's role in our society. It is far from the aggressive, blood-thirsty breed that existed nearly four centuries ago.

It is certainly an interesting idea, so let’s see what information we can find about these dogs.

Olde English Bulldogge history and creation

The history and creation of this breed started in 1971 when a man named David Leavitt decided to re-create the Victorian-era Bulldog but with the character of a modern family pet. Mr. Leavitt believed that the Bulldog’s old version could be recreated by carefully breeding them with several other breeds.

One of his goals with the Olde English Bulldogge was to create a breed that would have fewer health issues than the modern-day Bulldog. They would have the old breed’s athleticism and alertness but a sweet, family-oriented character that could allow them to fit in the modern dog role. Dog breeds Mr. Leavitt used for this purpose were Mastiff, Bullmastiff, and American Bulldog. He followed a careful breeding plan, and after those planned breedings, the breed began to breed true.

Those that loved this designer breed formed the Olde English Bulldogge Club in 2001, and after 13 short years, this breed had its first international recognition. Keep in mind that the most prestigious cynology associations worldwide, like the Fédération Cynologique Internationale or the Kennel Club, still don’t recognize these dogs as a breed. There are still steps they should take as a breed to gain legitimate international recognition.

What should Olde English Bulldogges look like?

Even though they share a part of the name with their modern English cousins, the Olde English Bulldogge is easily distinguished. These dogs are much larger and have a more athletic build than the small, bulky English Bulldog. These dogs give an impression of strength and power, much like the Old English Bulldog did.

Unlike modern Bulldogs, the Olde English Bulldogge doesn’t have a flat face. These dogs have a longer muzzles, which gives them more athletic abilities and fewer breathing problems. They have a short shiny coat that lays close to their body. They come in a wide variety of colors that can also be found in the English Bulldog.

If you like this, check out this article: American Bulldog fun facts.

Olde English Bulldogge temperament

Unlike the breed they are based upon, the Olde English Bulldogge is not aggressive or blood-thirsty. They are often described as big softies, eager to please, affectionate, and good with kids. Those are all attributes that should represent a family dog, and it is certainly lovely that these dogs are like that.

Bulldogs are known for their persistence and courage. That is a trait that the Olde English Bulldogge has inherited as well. They are naturally protective of their family and will face any threat they believe is threatening their family. They are relatively active and will love any game you want to play with them. They can be a bit stubborn, but that is not something you wouldn’t expect from a Bulldog.

These dogs love playing, and they have a strong bite, so make sure their toys are durable and tough. Check out the Dogzilla Strong Chewer Dumbell Tough Dog Toy.

No matter what breed they might be, many different things can influence every dog’s temperament. Their genes will make an impact, but so will training and socialization. Even though your Olde English Bulldogge puppy is born shy, they can learn to get along with other dogs and strangers through consistent training and socialization. However, these dogs can be suspicious of strangers, so make sure you socialize with them early.

You can find useful socialization tips and tricks in the article: 8 Tips And Tricks - Puppy And Dog Socialization.

Health difference

Modern-day English Bulldogs are considered unhealthy because of their short snouts and potential breathing problems, but that is not necessarily true. Well-bred English Bulldogs are as healthy as any other breed; they just have certain physical boundaries that prevent them from running too much during hot weather.

When it comes to Olde English Bulldogge, their creators, and owners claim that they have fewer health problems and are generally healthier than their English cousins. Their longer snouts allow them greater physical capabilities, but there are still problems associated with these dogs that can bother other breeds. Those health problems are;

• Hip dysplasia
• Entropion
• Bloat
• Dermatitis

If you like Old English Bulldogge, then check out the full profile of the English Bulldog.

Olde English Bulldogge puppies and price

Designer breeds can be hard to find, especially outside the US. Even there, finding reputable and responsible breeders can be a problem. Getting an Olde English Bulldogge puppy can be a lengthy process that will require plenty of nerves and patience. Don’t buy an Olde English Bulldogge puppy just because you found an ad that says for sale. Check the breeder and ask them as many questions as possible about these dogs. Tell them about your lifestyle and let them help you make an informed decision.

If you are looking to buy an Olde English Bulldogge puppy, be prepared to spend $1.000 - $1.800 on average. If you are looking to get a puppy with the best pedigrees, you can spend up to $8.500. Designer breeds are often more expensive than registered breeds.

Photos by: Jesper Andersson

World Dog Finder team