All About The Old English Bulldog
Many historians believe that Old English Bulldogs derived from wardogs, mastiffs, or Alaunts. Some people on this subject disagree. Old english bulldogs were originally used for bull baiting, and sports like dog fighting in England. Up until the Cruelty to Animals act in 1835, the breed did very well. After the act, this breed went into decline. This led to a lack of interest in the breed and it almost going extinct altogether. With three dogs from the Duke of Hamilton’s Old English Bulldog strain being depicted in the famous painting names Wasp, Child and Billy this breed was immortalized before it did become extinct.
Some reincarnations of the Old English Bulldog have been found. One such instance are the old english bulldogges at the Ohio State University;s breeding program. Started in the 1970s, with a breeding program developed for cattle , with the aim of recreating the Old English Bulldog. This modern day version with its similar physical abilities does not include the violent temperament of the Old English Bulldog. This was done by starting with a half Bulldog, a Bullmastiff, a Pit Bull, and an American Bulldog.
They have had some success. This breed is very similar to the Old English Bulldog that had wrinkles, a short nose, and muscular legs. Often confused with the Old English Bulldog, the bulldog has a sweet temperament, but is has not maintained any of the speed or agility of that original breed.
By 1985 the old english bulldogges breed had been deemed stable, sound, and well suited for life with the breed. Many people have taken to this breed and are perpetuating the breed with further litters, and even showing them in the conformation ring and shows.
Old english bulldogges are a working breed, and were bred to be a thinking dog. With proper training, obedience training and careful supervision with a competent trainer and owner this dog welcomes family and even other pets openly and with non aggressive behavior. This friendly happy dog works well with an owner and his family and can do well around children and other pets. Old English Bulldogges are highly social animals and enjoy good company and being with others.
