Let’s dive into the fascinating story of the Olde English Bulldogge, a breed with deep historical roots and a journey from near extinction to revival.
The Olde English Bulldogge is not just an ordinary pooch—it’s the original bloodline to the modern English Bulldog, first bred for the sport of bull baiting. This intense activity required dogs that were agile, strong, and fearless. The sport was banned in 1835, which almost led to the breed’s extinction.
Fast forward to the 1960s, and David Leavitt steps into the picture. Driven by passion and determination, Leavitt resurrected this nearly lost breed, ensuring that today’s Olde English Bulldogge remains strong, well-proportioned, and has fewer health issues compared to its modern descendant. This effort also prompted the formation of a registry for purity standards, so only the best Bulldogges stand the test of time.
These dogs, with their confident and docile temperament, make them excellent companions for families, especially those with kids. They love playtime just as much as they cherish snuggle sessions. However, like any breed, they require proper socialization during puppyhood to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adults.
Diet and exercise play crucial roles in their care. High-quality food rich in protein and fatty acids meets their energy needs. Daily physical activity like walks or games keeps them happy. Training, too, comes easily as they are eager to please—very similar to Labrador Retrievers.
In terms of health, buying from a reputable breeder is key to avoiding serious issues like hypothyroidism or heart disease. While they’re generally healthy, some may develop skin problems or allergies, so regular vet check-ups and grooming are essential.
The breed stands out for its natural ability to give birth, something that its modern counterpart struggles with due to body proportion issues. It’s also important not to confuse the Olde English Bulldogge with the term sometimes loosely applied; David Leavitt’s registry helps ensure only true Bulldogges carry the name.
Interestingly, males and females vary little except in size, with females being slightly smaller. However, this isn’t always noticeable and tends to depend on the specific dog’s lineage.
The Olde English Bulldogge embodies a successful comeback story in the canine world. Despite its lessened popularity compared to the modern Bulldog, this breed offers a glimpse into a bygone era with a healthier twist. It’s a reminder of the value in preserving true breed characteristics, avoiding the fate some bulldogs suffer today due to extensive selective breeding.
