Traits to Consider When Buying an Old English Bulldog

Old English bulldogs, more properly known as "Olde English Bulldogges" among enthusiasts, are a registered breed with the American Kennel Club. Old English bulldogs are medium-sized with a muscular body and a pronounced head. This breed was developed in the 1970s by American breeders who were trying to recreate the look of the 18th-century English bulldog.

  1. Personality

    • Olde English Bulldogges are not docile dogs, but the original line was created to make a more mild-mannered variety of bulldog. These dogs come from the working dog family and as a result they have a focus and determination that can result in stubbornness. However, Olde English Bulldogges from reputable breeders are rarely violent or aggressive unless they are trained to act that way. These dogs make excellent pets, but they require training, especially if you plan to have them around small children, because they are a high-energy breed.

    Health

    • Olde English Bulldogges were specifically bred in part to be a healthier breed of bulldog. Becauce Old English Bulldogges were created from mixing bulldogs, bullmastiffs, American pittbulls and American bulldogs, they do not suffer from genetic problems that can result from limited gene pools. As a result, Olde English Bulldogges do not have as many health problems as American or French bulldogs, who often have breathing problems and cannot give birth without assistance because of the characteristic large heads of the dogs.

    Training

    • Olde English Bulldogges are sometimes bred or trained to be guard dogs or to be used for personal protection. Many Olde English Bulldogge clubs, such as the Olde English Bulldogge Kennel Club, decry such training because it can affect the public's perception of the Olde English Bulldogge as well as other bulldogs by encouraging the public to believe that these dogs are aggressive. If you plan to purchase your Olde English Bulldogge for a pet, buy one that was trained by a trainer who is familiar with this breed or purchase an untrained puppy and train it yourself.

    Breeders

    • Selecting a reputable breeder can be a challenge because, as of 2011, Olde English Bulldogges are not a breed that is accepted or standardized by the American Kennel Club. As a result, many smaller Olde English Bulldogge clubs exist and some have differing standards for their dogs. The North American Kennel Club recognizes the International Olde English Bulldogge Association, or IOEBA, breed standard for the Old English Bulldogge. If you are interested in purchasing a more recognized version of the Olde English Bulldogge, look for a breeder that is recognized by the IOEBA.