OLDE ENGLISH BULLDOGGE
This breed can be thought of as "controversal" when it comes to the "true recreation" or revival of the breed. The Olde English Bulldogge is said to have originated in England between the 1600 and 1700s. They were used in the sport of bullbaiting. They resembled the modern english bulldog (UGA) but were more athletic and able to perform more duties. A man by the name of David Leavitt wanted to recreate the bulldog from the 17th century. He wanted to keep the wrinkles and bully look but create a dog that could actually perform task without troubled breathing and movement. He used 50% percent modern day English Bulldog and the other half was comprised of American Bulldog, mastiff, and APBT. Leavitt has since then renamed his Olde English Bulldogge the Leavitt Bulldog to distinguish the difference between his line from other lines that were created without using the APBT. I have seen OEBs from different lines and am impressed with them all. The IOEBA works to classify these different lines as the OEB with the common goal to create a dog that resembles the modern day English Bulldog(AKC) minus those known heatlh issues the AKC English Bulldog faces today. The Olde English Bulldogge should be a fun, brave, and loyal dog. While their looks sometimes can be fierce this dog is a gentle-natured dog who loves human affection. They should be protective of their property and families but not aggressive at all. As all bulldogs are to some extent, the OEB can be stubborn and is not for the passive owner.
THE AMERICAN BULLDOG
Today, the American Bulldog can be categorized into about five different types which include various colors, sizes and body types. However, the majority of American Bulldogs you will come in contact with today are either identified as Johnson/bully, Scott/performance, or hybrid bulldogs. You will have some that say the American bulldog should be of solid stature, shorter muzzle, heavy- boned, with the traditional bully look and then you will have other fanciers who believe the American bulldog should be of smaller stature, longer muzzle, with slender athletic features. I believe both lines can be great and are needed to preserve and improve the American bulldogs. Most people fail to realize that initially Johnson and Scott shared dogs with each other for their respective programs until they came across some disagreements. The American Bulldog is not for everyone. they sometimes can be stubborn and strong-willed. A confident and strong leader is needed to set rules, show discipline, and practice socialization. Skin allergies and Hip Displaysia can occur with this breed. The American Bulldog needs its daily exercise. They thrive off attention and care. When these practices are applied you will have a dog with the ability to love people, adore kids, get along well with other animals, and protect his family and property with pride and dignity!!