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Science & Nature • Dog Breed

Olde English Bulldogge

The Olde English Bulldogge is an American dog breed developed in the 1970s to resemble the earlier working bulldogs of 18th- and 19th-century England while aiming for improved health and athleticism.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Olde English Bulldogge is an American dog breed developed in the 1970s to resemble the earlier working bulldogs of 18th- and 19th-century England while aiming for improved health and athleticism. It was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 2014. The breed is distinct from the extinct Old English Bulldog and is not recognized by the American Kennel Club.

History

The Olde English Bulldogge was developed in the United States in the early 1970s by breeder David Leavitt. The breeding goal was to recreate the appearance and function of the historical bulldog while reducing the extreme physical traits associated with the modern English Bulldog. Foundation breeds included the English Bulldog, American Bulldog, American Pit Bull Terrier, and Bullmastiff.

Appearance

The breed is generally described as medium-sized, muscular, and athletic, with a broad head and short coat. Typical height ranges from about 16 to 20 inches (41 to 51 cm), and weight from about 50 to 80 pounds (23 to 36 kg), though figures vary by source and sex.

Recognition and breed status

The United Kennel Club recognized the Olde English Bulldogge in January 2014. It is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, and it should not be confused with the extinct Old English Bulldog.

Temperament and use

Breed sources describe the Olde English Bulldogge as a companionable, stable, and trainable dog with athletic ability. The United Kennel Club also describes it as suitable for working venues and service-related roles.

Key facts

  • Developed in the United States during the 1970s as a recreation of the historic bulldog type.
  • Associated with breeder David Leavitt, who began the breeding project in 1971.
  • Bred from crosses including English Bulldog, American Bulldog, American Pit Bull Terrier, and Bullmastiff.
  • Recognized by the United Kennel Club in January 2014.
  • The breed is distinct from the extinct Old English Bulldog.
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Canadian context

The Olde English Bulldogge is of interest to Canadian readers as an imported companion breed that appears in international breed registries and pet-owner resources, though it has no uniquely Canadian origin or official Canadian breed status in the sources provided.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Olde English Bulldogge the same as the Old English Bulldog?
No. The Olde English Bulldogge is a modern American breed developed in the 1970s, while the Old English Bulldog was an earlier breed that became extinct.
Who developed the Olde English Bulldogge?
The breed is associated with American breeder David Leavitt, who began the project in 1971.
What breeds were used to create it?
Sources commonly list English Bulldog, American Bulldog, American Pit Bull Terrier, and Bullmastiff among the foundation breeds.
Is the breed recognized by major kennel clubs?
It is recognized by the United Kennel Club, but not by the American Kennel Club.
What is the breed like physically?
It is usually described as a muscular, medium-sized dog with a broad head, short coat, and athletic build.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olde_English_Bulldogge
    Supports: UKC recognition in January 2014 and basic breed identification.
  2. Embark Veterinary — https://embarkvet.com/resources/dog-breeds/olde-english-bulldogge/
    Supports: 1970s development, American origin, and foundation breed mix.
  3. DogBreedInfo — https://www.dogbreedinfo.com/oldeenglishbulldogge.htm
    Supports: Size, weight, and lifespan ranges.
  4. United Kennel Club — https://www.ukcdogs.com/olde-english-bulldogge
    Supports: Breed history, 1971 project, breed purpose, and recognition status.
  5. International Olde English Bulldogge Association — https://ioeba.net/olde-english-bulldogge.htm
    Supports: Breed description, health-oriented breeding goals, and lifespan range.
  6. Wikipedia (French) — https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_English_Bulldog
    Supports: Distinction between the extinct Old English Bulldog and the modern Olde English Bulldogge.