What Is the Difference Between an Old English Bulldog & an English Bulldog?

Bulldogs and Old English bulldogs have similar appearances, but clear distinctions exist between the breeds. The Old English bulldog results from crosses between bull mastiffs, American pit bulls, American bulldogs, and bulldogs. Development of the Old English bulldog breed was an attempt to recover the historic look and health of the bulldog, which had deteriorated over time. The Old English bulldog imitates the original bulldogs of the 1800s. Both were developed for baiting bulls, but since that sport became illegal, the breeds have been bred to have more gentle tendencies.

  1. Size

    • Bulldogs weigh 50 to 55 lbs. and stand 12 to 14 inches high. Old English bulldogs are a larger breed, weighing 65 to 105 lbs. and standing 20 to 25 inches high.

    Nose Differences

    • An Old English bulldog has a longer nose than a bulldog's. This difference was intentional when breeding the Old English bulldog. The longer nose eliminates the breathing problems common with the shorter nosed Bulldog.

    Hardiness

    • Old English bulldogs endure more extremes of cold or heat than the more sensitive bulldog. Also, bulldogs tire more easily, while Old English bulldogs are more athletic.

    Life Span

    • While bulldogs live five to eight years, Old English bulldogs live 10 to 12 years.

    Ease Of Birth

    • Difficulty giving birth is another genetic problem the bulldog has but the Old English bulldog does not. Bulldog puppies tend to have large heads and often need to be delivered by Caesarean section.

    Eyes And Skin

    • Bulldog eyes are prone to entropion and cherry eyes and have easily irritated skin. Old English bulldogs do not often succumb to these problems.