The Olde English Bulldogge is a muscular, medium-sized dog breed developed in the 1970s to recreate the healthier, athletic bulldog of the 18th century. Bred for strength, agility, and a balanced temperament, it combines the best traits of English Bulldogs, American Bulldogs, Bullmastiffs, and American Pit Bull Terriers. The breed is known for its loyalty, confidence, and affectionate nature, making it a great family companion. Unlike some modern English Bulldogs, the Olde English Bulldogge is generally healthier, with fewer breathing issues and a more athletic build
Olde English Bulldogge
Alternate Names:
Old Bulldog
- Country of Origin:
- Height:
- Energy Level:
- Shedding:
- England
- 16–20 inches (41–51 cm)
- High
- Moderate
- Life Span:
- Weight:
- Exercise Requirements:
- Temperament:
- 10–12 years
- 50–80 pounds (23–36 kg)
- 1–2 hours per day
- Brave, tenacious, focused
About this breed
Breed History
Bulldogs were originally created for the English sport of bull baiting, practiced from approximately 1100 until the 1800s. By the middle of the 1800s, the sport was made illegal and the athletic bulldog began to disappear. Because the bulldog was later revived solely for the conformation venue, selective breeding for appearance severely compromised the health and lifespan of this once agile, athletic and happy breed.
In the 1970s a breeding project began with the goal being to create a healthier, more athletic bulldog that more resembled the original working bulldogs of England, now named the Olde English Bulldogge (OEB) to clearly differentiate the new breed from the modern English Bulldog.
In order to create the OEB, several dogs were carefully crossed including:
- English Bulldogs (for their appearance and loyalty)
- American Bulldogs (for their athleticism and endurance)
- Bullmastiffs (for their protective nature)
- Pitbull Terriers (for their strength and agility)
By selectively breeding for health, structure, and temperament, the OEB was born, successfully reviving the balanced, physically capable bulldog of the past.
Todays Olde English Bulldogge matches the looks of the original bulldogs of the early 1800s and they are, first and foremost, excellent companions, while also possessing the drive, temperament and agility to perform in numerous working venues as well as being service dogs.
Temperament and Personality
The Olde English Bulldogge is a loyal and devoted companion, known for forming strong bonds with its family. These dogs thrive on human interaction and enjoy being part of everyday life, often following their owners from room to room. Their deep sense of loyalty makes them affectionate and loving, particularly with children, and they tend to be gentle and patient, making them excellent family pets.
Confident and courageous, the Olde English Bulldogge has a natural protective instinct. They are typically calm and composed, but they will not hesitate to stand their ground if they sense a real threat. This makes them reliable watchdogs, though not aggressive by nature. With proper training and socialisation, they are polite with strangers and friendly with other animals.
While playful and energetic in their youth, these dogs usually develop into more laid-back adults. They enjoy physical activity and playtime, but they also appreciate lounging with their owners. This balance of energy and calmness makes them adaptable to various lifestyles, as long as they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation.
The breed is intelligent and capable of learning quickly, though it can be somewhat stubborn. They respond best to firm, consistent, and positive training methods. Early socialisation is important to help them become well-rounded adults, comfortable in a variety of settings and around different people and animals.
In temperament and personality, the Olde English Bulldogge stands out as a brave yet affectionate dog with a stable and loyal disposition. With the right guidance, they make deeply devoted companions and well-mannered members of the household.
Physical Characteristics
The Olde English Bulldogge is a muscular, medium sized dog of great strength, and possessed of fluid, agile movement. They are well balanced and proportioned, while appearing capable of performing without any breathing restrictions in either heat or in cold.
Their sturdy frame is characterized by broad shoulders, a wide chest, and a strong back, giving them a confident, grounded presence.
One of the most notable features of this breed is its large, square-shaped head with a pronounced jaw and short, broad muzzle. Unlike the overly flat face of modern Bulldogs, the Olde English Bulldogge has a slightly longer muzzle, which contributes to improved breathing and overall health. Their expressive eyes are usually wide-set and medium-sized, often giving them a watchful, thoughtful appearance.
Their ears can be rose-shaped or button-style, sitting high on the head, and their tail is typically natural—either straight or slightly curled, but not docked. The breed’s coat is short, smooth, and tight to the body, requiring minimal grooming. Coat colours vary widely and can include brindle, red, white, fawn, black, or combinations of these.
Overall, the Olde English Bulldogge has a look that conveys strength, endurance, and confidence without sacrificing the charm and warmth often associated with bulldog breeds. Their athletic physique, combined with a more functional structure, allows them to lead active, healthy lives while retaining the classic bulldog expression.
Health Issues
The Olde English Bulldogge was specifically bred to be healthier and more physically sound than the modern English Bulldog, and overall, it is a more robust and athletic breed. However, like all dogs, it can still be prone to certain health issues that potential owners should be aware of.
One of the major improvements in the breed is better respiratory health. Thanks to their longer, less compressed muzzles, Olde English Bulldogges are far less likely to suffer from brachycephalic airway syndrome, which affects many flat-faced breeds. This means they tend to breathe more easily and tolerate heat and exercise better than their modern counterparts.
Despite these advantages, they can still be prone to joint issues, particularly hip and elbow dysplasia—conditions where the joints do not form properly, which can lead to pain or mobility problems as the dog ages. Responsible breeders will test for these conditions to reduce the risk in their litters.
Another potential concern is skin irritation and allergies, especially in the folds of their skin. If not cleaned and maintained regularly, these areas can become infected or inflamed. Cherry eye, an issue involving the gland of the third eyelid, can also occasionally occur in this breed, although it is less common than in traditional Bulldogs.
Some individuals may also be at risk for bloat (gastric torsion), a serious condition where the stomach twists and fills with gas. While not common, it is important to be aware of the signs and to feed appropriately to reduce the risk.
In general, with proper breeding, regular veterinary care, a healthy diet, and an active lifestyle, the Olde English Bulldogge can live a healthy and fulfilling life, often reaching 10–12 years of age—longer than many other bulldog-type breeds. Choosing a responsible breeder and staying proactive with health care can go a long way toward minimizing potential issues.
Grooming Needs
The Olde English Bulldogge has relatively low grooming needs, making it a practical choice for owners who want a clean and manageable dog. Its short, smooth coat doesn’t shed excessively and is easy to maintain with regular brushing. A simple brushing once or twice a week with a soft-bristle brush or grooming mitt is usually enough to remove loose hairs and keep the coat looking healthy and shiny.
Bathing is only needed occasionally—typically every few months or when the dog becomes particularly dirty or develops a doggy odor. Over-bathing can strip the natural oils from their skin, so it’s best to keep baths infrequent unless medically necessary. Use a mild dog shampoo to avoid skin irritation.
While the breed is not as wrinkled as the modern English Bulldog, some individuals still have facial folds or skin creases that require attention. These areas should be checked and gently cleaned on a regular basis to prevent moisture buildup, irritation, or infection. A soft cloth or pet-safe wipe works well for this purpose.
Routine grooming also includes ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care. Their ears should be checked weekly for signs of wax buildup or infection. Nails should be trimmed every few weeks to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. Daily or at least weekly brushing of the teeth helps maintain good oral health and prevent tartar buildup.
Overall, grooming an Olde English Bulldogge is simple and not overly time-consuming. With basic upkeep and regular attention to hygiene, they can remain clean, comfortable, and healthy with minimal effort.
Exercise Requirements
The Olde English Bulldogge has moderate to high exercise needs, especially compared to the modern English Bulldog. Bred for strength and stamina, this breed benefits from regular physical activity to stay healthy, happy, and well-behaved.
Daily exercise is essential—ideally 30 to 60 minutes of activity per day. This can include brisk walks, play sessions in the yard, short hikes, or games like fetch. They enjoy structured activities that engage both body and mind, and they do well with basic obedience or agility exercises if introduced gradually and safely.
Despite their muscular build, they are not hyperactive dogs. Once their exercise needs are met, they tend to be calm and relaxed indoors. That said, without regular activity, they can become bored, which may lead to unwanted behaviors like chewing or excessive barking.
While they are more heat-tolerant than the modern Bulldog, caution is still needed during hot or humid weather. Because of their stocky build and shortened snout, they can be prone to overheating if pushed too hard. Exercise during cooler parts of the day and always provide access to fresh water and shade.
Mental stimulation is also important. Incorporating puzzle toys, basic training, or scent games can help satisfy their need for engagement and reduce restlessness.
In summary, the Olde English Bulldogge thrives with a consistent routine of moderate physical and mental exercise, making them a good match for active families or individuals who can commit to daily interaction and movement.
Training Tips
Training an Olde English Bulldogge can be highly rewarding, but it requires consistency, patience, and a thoughtful approach. These dogs are intelligent and eager to please but can also be independent and occasionally stubborn. The key is to strike a balance between firmness and positive reinforcement.
Start training early, ideally when the dog is still a puppy. Early socialization—exposing them to a variety of people, dogs, sounds, and environments—helps build a confident, well-adjusted adult. The more positive experiences they have during their formative months, the more adaptable and manageable they’ll be later in life.
Positive reinforcement is the most effective training method. Use treats, praise, and play as rewards for good behavior. Harsh corrections or punishment-based training can backfire with this breed, leading to resistance or mistrust. Keep sessions upbeat and rewarding to maintain their interest and motivation.
Because they’re strong and confident, establishing clear leadership is important. Set consistent rules and boundaries, and stick to them. Mixed signals can confuse them and lead to pushy behavior. Calm assertiveness—not aggression—earns their respect.
Keep training sessions short and engaging. Bulldogges can lose focus if training drags on too long or becomes repetitive. Aim for 10–15 minute sessions, a few times a day, especially when introducing new commands or behaviors.
Work on basic obedience commands early—like sit, stay, come, leave it, and leash walking. A well-trained Bulldogge is not only easier to live with but also safer and more confident in different environments.
Lastly, remember that consistency is key. Reinforce desired behaviours every day, even in casual situations. With the right mix of structure, patience, and positive interaction, the Olde English Bulldogge becomes a well-mannered, loyal, and deeply rewarding companion.
Nutrition and Diet
Proper nutrition and diet are essential to maintaining the health, energy, and longevity of the Olde English Bulldogge. As a muscular and active breed, they require a well-balanced diet that supports their physical build and prevents common issues like obesity, joint stress, and skin problems.
Choose a high-quality dog food that preferably lists real meat as the first ingredient and avoids unnecessary fillers like corn, soy, or by-products. Whether you feed nuts, canned food, or a raw/fresh diet, make sure it’s formulated for their life stage—puppy, adult, or senior—and sized appropriately for a medium to large breed.
The Olde English Bulldogge tends to gain weight easily, so portion control is important. Follow feeding guidelines on the food packaging as a starting point, and adjust based on your dog’s activity level, metabolism, and body condition. Most adults do well with two measured meals per day, rather than free feeding.
Some Bulldogges may have food sensitivities or allergies, which can show up as itchy skin, ear infections, or digestive upset. If you notice these symptoms, talk to your vet about trying a limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic diet.
Joint health is another consideration, especially since the breed can be prone to hip or elbow dysplasia. Including omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin in their diet—either through food or supplements—can help support their joints and reduce inflammation.
Always provide access to fresh, clean water, and avoid overfeeding with treats or human food. Treats should be used sparingly and ideally made from wholesome ingredients.
In summary, a balanced, protein-rich diet tailored to their needs, combined with controlled portions and nutritional support for joints and skin, will help keep your Olde English Bulldogge in top condition throughout their life.
Does this breed make a good family pet?
The Olde English Bulldogge makes an excellent family pet for the right household. They are known for their loyal, affectionate, and protective nature, which makes them especially well-suited for families looking for a dependable and loving companion.
These dogs are typically gentle and patient with children, often forming strong bonds with the younger members of the family. Their sturdy build also makes them more tolerant of the bumps and noise that come with family life, although, as with any breed, playtime with small children should always be supervised to ensure safety on both sides.
Olde English Bulldogges are also known for being devoted and people-oriented, meaning they thrive on interaction and companionship. They enjoy being included in family activities and tend to be happiest when they are near their loved ones. They are usually calm indoors and adapt well to a structured home environment.
Their protective instincts make them natural guardians of the home. While not overly aggressive, they are alert and self assured, and will confidently respond if they sense a threat to their family. With proper training and early socialization, they are friendly with guests and accepting of other pets.
That said, they do best with families who can provide clear leadership, regular exercise, and consistent training. While they’re not high-strung or overly demanding, they do need engagement and boundaries to bring out their best behavior.
In short, the Olde English Bulldogge is a loving, loyal, and dependable family companion, especially well-suited for households that can offer structure, affection, and moderate activity.