¶Table of Contents
¶Quick Facts
The Olde English Bulldogge is a modern American bulldog breed with its own standard from the United Kennel Club (UKC). It is not the same breed as the English Bulldog, and its name does not mean that it is an unbroken continuation of the historic English bulldog. There is no FCI breed standard for the Olde English Bulldogge, so it is not an FCI-recognised breed.
- Background: an American breeding project begun in 1971 to create a more functional, older-style bulldog.
- Recognition: the UKC recognised the breed on 1 January 2014. The FCI has no standard for the Olde English Bulldogge.
- Size under the UKC standard: adult males are approximately 43–51 cm and 27–36 kg; females approximately 41–48 cm and 23–32 kg. These figures apply from two years of age, and balance matters more than maximum size.
- Overall impression: medium-sized, very muscular and powerful, yet balanced and mobile.
- Coat: short, close-fitting and fairly easy to maintain.
- Most important check before buying: assess the actual dog's breathing, movement and temperament, and verify documented health screening for the parents and close relatives.
Because the breed has no FCI standard, buyers need to pay particular attention to identity. Ask which registry issued the pedigree and compare the breeder's information with that registry's current standard. The figures above are UKC guidelines and do not describe every dog sold under the breed name.
¶Appearance & Coat
An Olde English Bulldogge should combine strength with function. The UKC describes a powerful, slightly rectangular dog with a broad, deep chest, well-muscled legs and a fluid, energetic gait. At a trot, the legs should not cross, the feet should not interfere and the front stride should not become heavy or pounding. A very large or heavy dog is therefore not automatically more typical of the breed.
The head is large in proportion to the body, but must not be so exaggerated that it affects sight or breathing. The muzzle is broad and deep, the nostrils should be open, and heavy wrinkling is undesirable. Look at the dog from the front and side: the nostrils should have a clear opening, the eyes should be unobstructed, and the dog should be able to rest with its mouth closed without struggling for air.
The UKC prefers a full, natural tail and accepts a straight tail or the characteristic shape it likens to a crank or pump handle. A natural bobtail, screw tail or sharply kinked tail is outside the standard. This is a useful practical point to check, as a very tight tail pocket may need extra attention even though the rest of the coat is straightforward.
The coat is short, close and smooth. Brush it when loose hair needs removing, using the opportunity to check the skin, ears, paws and claws. If the dog has facial folds, keep them clean and dry as needed. The frequency varies between individuals. Redness, odour, discharge, itching or recurring irritation should be assessed by a vet rather than hidden with additional cleaning products.
¶Temperament & Personality
The UKC ideal is a confident, friendly and alert dog. That describes the aim of breeding, not how every individual will automatically behave. Genetics, early experience, socialisation, pain and the owner's daily routine all affect the outcome. An adult that is extremely fearful or shows unprovoked aggression is far removed from the temperament described in the standard.
This is a physically powerful breed. Even a friendly dog can knock over a small child, pull an adult off balance or make a tense encounter with another dog difficult to manage. Loose-lead walking, calm behaviour at doors and the ability to release objects are therefore more useful than labels such as “good family dog”. Dogs and young children should always have an adult present, and the dog needs its own place where it can rest undisturbed.
The same care applies around other animals. Some individuals live happily with dogs or cats, while others need more distance and management. Ask for factual information about the behaviour of the parents and the dog concerned, arrange meetings on neutral ground and introduce resident animals in stages. The breed name does not guarantee that the animals will get along.
¶Training & Exercise
The Olde English Bulldogge is best trained through clear routines, short sessions and rewards the dog genuinely values. Harsh corrections are not needed to manage a strong dog; they can increase stress and conflict instead. Reward the right behaviour and raise the difficulty only when the dog understands the task.
Prioritise practical skills from the outset:
- walking on a loose lead and turning with the handler;
- waiting at doors and leaving the car on cue;
- returning when called and disengaging from an activity;
- exchanging and releasing objects without conflict;
- settling in a designated place;
- accepting calm checks of the mouth, skin folds, ears, paws and tail.
The breed needs daily physical activity and mental stimulation, but a fixed number of exercise minutes says little about what a particular dog can manage. Build fitness gradually through walks, scent work, balance exercises, training and play with controlled breaks. Puppies should not be exercised like mature dogs, and a heavy adult needs a gradual return to loading after rest or injury.
Let breathing, movement and recovery determine the intensity. Stop if the dog's breathing becomes clearly noisy, if it starts struggling with an open mouth during light work, loses coordination or recovers slowly. Exercise at cooler times on hot days and choose gentler activities when the dog's breathing or condition on the day requires it.
¶Health
The Olde English Bulldogge was created with a sound, functional body as an aim, but an aim is not proof that the breed or an individual dog is healthier than an English Bulldog. There is not enough evidence to make reliable general promises about health or lifespan. Judge documented results and the dog in front of you, not a slogan about how the breed was “rebuilt”.
Ask the breeder which examinations were carried out on both parents, when they were done, what the results were and why those particular examinations were selected. Search independently for the parents and close relatives in a database such as the OFA or an equivalent registry. A claim that a dog is “tested” means little without the test name and result, and a missing public record should not be treated as a pass. Also ask about recurring problems in earlier litters and what the breeder has changed in response.
Breathing deserves a separate check. Wide nostrils and a moderate head are positive external signs, but some airway problems only become apparent after exertion. Listen while the dog is resting, sleeping and after brisk movement. Clearly laboured or noisy breathing, open-mouth breathing during light activity, slow recovery, disturbed sleep, repeated retching or difficulty in warm conditions call for a veterinary assessment. A dog with bluish gums or tongue, collapse or an inability to cool down needs urgent treatment.
Watch the movement as well. The dog should be able to rise, walk and trot without obvious lameness, stiffness, crossing limbs or reluctance to bear weight. Check that skin or hair does not irritate the eyes, that skin folds and any tail pocket are healthy, and that the dog can maintain an appropriate body condition.
For a litter bred in Sweden, the parents must be in good physical and mental health. Breeding that risks disease, disability or serious whelping problems in the offspring is prohibited, and dogs used for breeding must be able to reproduce naturally. Do not ask only about laboratory tests. Find out whether mating, pregnancy and whelping take place naturally, and whether both parents can breathe, move and cope confidently with everyday life.
¶History & Origins
The Olde English Bulldogge is an American reconstruction, not the historic bulldog preserved unchanged. The UKC describes a breeding project begun in 1971 with the aim of recreating the appearance of the more athletic bulldog type from the English Regency period. The spelling “Olde” and the word “Bulldogge” were chosen to distinguish the new breed from today's English Bulldog.
Its background refers back to bulldogs used in the prohibited English sport of bull-baiting. The history of the modern breed itself, however, begins with the American project of the 1970s. Calling it simply an “old English bulldog” without that explanation gives a misleading picture of its origin.
The UKC recognised the Olde English Bulldogge on 1 January 2014 and publishes its own standard. The FCI's current breed nomenclature has no standard for it. The English Bulldog and Continental Bulldog are separate FCI breeds; their names or standards do not prove the identity of an Olde English Bulldogge.
¶Living with the Breed
The Olde English Bulldogge suits someone who wants to live with a compact but very strong dog and is prepared to examine function as carefully as appearance. It can live in a flat if it has daily time outdoors, physical and mental activity, and can settle indoors. The size of the home does not solve pulling on the lead, noise, separation distress or difficulty in warm weather.
Time alone must be introduced gradually. Begin with very short, uneventful periods when the dog feels secure and has been taken out, increasing the duration only if it can rest. A camera can reveal pacing, panting, barking or attempts to escape. Puppies cannot be left like adult dogs, and adults also vary widely.
Before buying, you should be able to answer yes to the following:
- The registry and pedigree are clearly identified and can be checked.
- Relevant health results for both parents are shown with names and dates.
- You have seen at least one parent or the adult dog concerned both at rest and after a brisk walk.
- The dog breathes without obvious effort, moves freely and recovers within a reasonable time.
- The breeder discusses variation and previous problems openly rather than promising a “problem-free bulldog”.
- There is a realistic plan for reward-based training, children or other animals, exercise in cool conditions and gradual alone training.
The most important choice is therefore not between two breed descriptions, but between actual dogs and breeding decisions. A functional body, stable everyday temperament and verifiable information should carry more weight than an unusual colour, the largest possible head or the heaviest possible build.
¶Characteristics
| Characteristic | Value |
|---|---|
| Breed Type | Crossbreed |
| Aggressiveness | 3/5 |
| Child Friendly | 3/5 |
| Energy | 3/5 |
| Hair Shedding | 3/5 |
| Health | 3/5 |
| Intelligence | 3/5 |
| Grooming Needs | 3/5 |
| Learning Ability | 3/5 |
| Barking Level | 3/5 |
| Height | 38 – 48 cm |
| Weight | 20 – 30 kg |
| Life Expectancy | 0 – 0 years |
¶Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an Olde English Bulldogge and a modern English Bulldog?
This breed was developed to resemble the athletic bulldogs of the 18th century, with a more functional muzzle, longer legs, and a lighter, more muscular build. Modern English Bulldogs are typically heavier in the front, have a shorter nose, and are more prone to breathing and joint issues. The Olde English type is generally more active and often has fewer severe conformational problems, though it is not free from health concerns.
Are Olde English Bulldogges good family dogs and how do they behave with children?
They are usually affectionate, people focused, and form strong bonds with their families, including children. Most are tolerant and sturdy enough for family life, but their strength and enthusiasm mean supervision and teaching children respectful handling is important. Early socialization and clear boundaries help channel their protective nature in a positive way.
How much exercise does an Olde English Bulldogge really need?
They are more athletic than the modern Bulldog and generally need at least 45 to 60 minutes of daily exercise, divided into a couple of sessions. Brisk walks, controlled play, and low impact strength activities suit them well. They can overheat more easily than many athletic breeds, so exercise should be adjusted in hot or humid weather.
Do Olde English Bulldogges have breathing problems like other bulldog breeds?
They usually have a slightly longer muzzle and more open airways than some companion Bulldogs, which can reduce the risk of severe brachycephalic breathing issues. However, poorly bred dogs can still have narrowed nostrils and elongated soft palates. Breathing quality should be evaluated carefully in puppies and adults, and any heavy snoring, noisy breathing, or quick fatigue should be discussed with a veterinarian.
What health problems are most common in Olde English Bulldogges?
The breed can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, cruciate ligament injuries, skin fold infections, allergies, and some eye conditions. Orthopedic screening and responsible breeding help reduce joint issues, but owners should still budget for possible musculoskeletal care. Keeping them lean, well muscled, and on appropriate joint support as advised by a vet can lower the risk of problems.
Are Olde English Bulldogges aggressive or difficult to train?
Most have a confident, sometimes stubborn temperament, but they are usually eager to please their primary people. They respond best to firm, consistent, reward based training that starts early and continues through adolescence. Proper socialization with other dogs and people is essential, as some individuals can be pushy or test boundaries if not guided well.
How much grooming does an Olde English Bulldogge need and how do you care for their skin folds?
Their short coat is low maintenance and usually only needs weekly brushing and occasional baths. However, any facial or body wrinkles should be checked regularly and gently cleaned and dried to prevent moisture buildup and infections. Owners should watch for redness, odor, or soreness in folds and around the tail, which may require veterinary treatment.
Can an Olde English Bulldogge live comfortably in an apartment?
They can adapt to apartment living if they receive adequate daily exercise, mental stimulation, and structured training. Their relatively calm indoor demeanor helps, but their size, strength, and potential for occasional barking should be considered. Access to nearby outdoor spaces and adherence to leash manners is important in smaller living environments.
How heavy do Olde English Bulldogges get and what body condition is healthy for them?
Adult males often weigh between 60 and 80 pounds, with females somewhat smaller, but ideal weight depends on bone and muscle. They should look powerful yet athletic, with a clear waist and ribs that are easy to feel under a thin fat layer. Many individuals are kept too heavy, which increases joint and breathing stress, so monitoring condition is more important than a number on the scale.
Are Olde English Bulldogges suitable for first time dog owners?
They can be suitable for dedicated first time owners who are prepared to invest in early training, socialization, and consistent leadership. Their strength, determination, and protective instincts may overwhelm someone who prefers a very easygoing or independent breed. Working with a reputable breeder and possibly a trainer from the start greatly improves outcomes for novice owners.¶Comparisons with other breeds
Compare Olde English Bulldogge with other breeds and see the differences in temperament, activity level, and care to make a confident choice. Show all comparisons
