Breed History:

The Olde English Bulldogge is a modern breed developed in the United States during the 1970s by breeder David Leavitt. The goal was to recreate the appearance and athleticism of the 18th-century English Bulldog while improving overall health, breathing ability, and temperament.

To achieve this, Leavitt crossed the English Bulldog with the Bullmastiff, American Pit Bull Terrier, and American Bulldog. The resulting breed retained the classic bulldog appearance but possessed a more athletic build, a longer muzzle, and fewer respiratory issues than many modern English Bulldogs.

Today, the Olde English Bulldogge is valued as a loyal family companion, guardian, and versatile working dog. While recognized by several breed registries, it is not currently recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).

Gender	Height	Weight
Male	43–51 cm	29–36 kg
Female	40–48 cm	23–32 kg

Size: Medium

Life Expectancy: 9–14 years

Breed Appearance:

The Olde English Bulldogge is a muscular, athletic, and powerful dog.

The breed commonly features:

• Large, broad head

• Well-developed, moderately short muzzle

• Dark, round to oval eyes

• Small rose or folded ears

• Broad chest and heavily muscled body

• Thick tail, either straight or slightly curved

Its coat is short, smooth, glossy, and close-fitting.

Common coat colours include:

• Brindle

• Fawn

• Red

• Black

• White

• Pied

• Solid or mixed colour combinations

The breed has a more athletic physique and a less exaggerated facial structure than the modern English Bulldog.

Breed Type – Companion and Guardian Dog:

The Olde English Bulldogge is a confident, affectionate, and dependable breed.

It is known for being:

• Loyal and devoted

• Courageous and confident

• Intelligent and eager to please

• Calm and stable

• Protective without being unnecessarily aggressive

The breed forms strong bonds with its family and is generally good with children when properly socialised.

Training:

The Olde English Bulldogge is intelligent and responds well to consistent training.

Training should focus on:

• Early socialisation

• Positive reinforcement methods

• Basic obedience

• Impulse control

• Mental enrichment activities

The breed enjoys learning and benefits from short, engaging training sessions.

Consistency and clear leadership produce the best results.

Health & Care:

The Olde English Bulldogge is generally healthier than the modern English Bulldog but may still be prone to:

• Hip dysplasia

• Elbow dysplasia

• Allergies

• Cherry eye

• Bloat (less common)

• Skin fold irritation in some individuals

Routine veterinary care, weight management, and regular exercise help maintain overall health.

Living Conditions:

The Olde English Bulldogge adapts well to many living environments.

Suitable homes include:

• Houses with secure yards

• Suburban homes

• Apartments, provided daily exercise needs are met

• Active families

The breed enjoys being close to its family and should not be left alone for long periods.

Exercise:

The Olde English Bulldogge has moderate exercise requirements.

Recommended activities include:

• Daily walks

• Interactive play

• Obedience training

• Hiking in cool weather

• Puzzle toys and enrichment games

Although more athletic than the English Bulldog, care should still be taken to avoid strenuous exercise during hot or humid conditions.

Grooming:

The short coat is easy to maintain.

• Weekly brushing

• Occasional bathing as needed

• Regular cleaning of facial wrinkles (if present)

• Routine ear cleaning and nail trimming

• Regular dental care

The breed sheds lightly to moderately throughout the year.

Advantages:

• Loyal and affectionate family companion

• More athletic and healthier than many traditional bulldog breeds

• Intelligent and responsive to training

• Good with children when properly socialised

• Low-maintenance coat

• Confident and dependable guardian

Disadvantages:

• Can be stubborn at times

• Requires early socialisation and consistent training

• May still be prone to some bulldog-related health issues

• Can be sensitive to extreme heat

• Moderate shedding

• Needs regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight

• May be difficult to find from reputable breeders outside North America