Old English Bulldog American Bulldog Complete Guide

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Posted Oct 20, 2024

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White And Brown English Bulldog
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The Old English Bulldog and American Bulldog are two distinct breeds with a rich history. They originated in England and the United States respectively.

The Old English Bulldog has a more ancient history, with roots dating back to the 13th century. It was a popular breed among English sailors and traders.

American Bulldogs, on the other hand, were bred in the 18th and 19th centuries for their strength and tenacity. They were often used for guarding and working on farms.

Both breeds are known for their sturdy build and short coats, but they differ in terms of size and temperament.

Health and Care

Old English Bulldogges and American Bulldogs are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they're prone to certain conditions. Hip and elbow dysplasia can be extremely painful if not addressed, so making sure they're getting enough exercise and appropriate food is crucial to keep them at a healthy weight.

Some common health issues in American Bulldogs include hip dysplasia, brachycephalic syndrome, and head tremors. Regular physical examinations, X-rays, and skin scrapings can help identify potential problems early on. It's also essential to monitor their breathing and watch for signs of trouble.

Credit: youtube.com, Important tips on American Bulldog care | Dog Care

In terms of genetic health conditions, American Bulldogs are prone to Canine Multifocal Retinopathy 1 (CMR1), Hyperuricosuria (HUU), Ichthyosis, and Nemaline myopathy. Knowing if your dog is a carrier or at-risk for these conditions can help you and your veterinarian plan for their lifelong care.

Here are some key health considerations for Old English Bulldogges and American Bulldogs:

Health

American Bulldogs are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they're prone to certain conditions.

Hip and elbow dysplasia are common issues in larger breeds like American Bulldogs, which can be extremely painful if not addressed. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help keep them at a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the joints.

Avoid giving your pup too many treats, as this can add to weight gain and worsen joint problems. Treats can still be incorporated into your pet's total daily calories while providing balanced nutrition.

Breeds in the bulldog group will have various degrees of breathing difficulties. This is a common issue that should be closely monitored by pet parents. Take a trip to the vet if you notice any significant changes in breathing, like trouble with exercise or excessive noise.

English bulldog
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Some health conditions that affect American Bulldogs include hip dysplasia, brachycephalic syndrome, and head tremors. They're also prone to patellar luxation, entropion, cherry eye, obesity, demodactic mange, and other eye and skin issues.

A full physical examination and X-rays are important diagnostic tools for veterinarians to identify potential health problems in American Bulldogs. Regular check-ups with your vet can help catch any issues early on.

Here are some common health issues that affect American Bulldogs:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Head tremors
  • Patellar luxation
  • Entropion
  • Cherry eye
  • Obesity
  • Demodactic mange

Hypoallergenic?

American Bulldogs are not hypoallergenic dogs. Their short coat sheds an average amount, which can lead to dander spreading around the house.

Dander is made up of dead skin cells present in the fur, and it's a common allergen that can trigger reactions in people with allergies.

If you're allergic to dogs and considering bringing an American Bulldog into your home, be aware that their shedding can exacerbate your symptoms.

Regular grooming can help reduce the amount of loose hair and dander, but it's not a guarantee that it will completely eliminate the problem.

Sleep

Portrait of English Bulldog
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Sleep is crucial for American Bulldogs, and they need a lot of it! On average, an adult American Bulldog needs 12-14 hours of sleep per day.

Puppies, however, require even more rest, sleeping around 18-20 hours a day to support their growth and development.

Excessive sleeping can be a sign that something's wrong, so if you're concerned, it's always best to speak with your vet.

On a similar theme: National Boston Terrier Day

History and Origin

The English Bulldog has its beginnings in the 13th century and was originally put to work in the bull-baiting ring. He had his beginnings in the 13th century and was often depicted in many historical works.

The American Bulldog is considered the closest surviving relative of the Old English Bulldog, and experts believe Bulldogs arrived in the United States as early as the 17th century. They were brought over by immigrant farmers and ranchers who used them as farm guardians, stock dogs, and catch dogs.

Credit: youtube.com, History of Medieval Old English Bulldogs

By the late 1940s, the Bulldogs approached extinction, but thanks to breeding programs set up by John D. Johnson and Alan Scott, the American Bulldog survived. The Johnson type, also known as the classic or bully type, and the Scott type, also known as the standard or performance type, were developed from these breeding programs.

Group

The American Bulldog's breed group is a topic of interest for many dog owners.

Their breed group is not explicitly mentioned in the article, but Wisdom Panel's DNA tests can help identify the breed.

The American Bulldog's history and origin are closely tied to their breed group.

Unfortunately, there's no information available about their breed group in the provided article section.

History

The English Bulldog has a rich history that dates back to the 13th century, with the ancient Mastiff as an ancestor.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the English Bulldog was in the bull-baiting ring, where they were put to work. This ferocious side of the breed has long since been bred out, and today they're known for being calm and loving.

View of an Old Manor
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The American Bulldog is the closest relative of the English Bulldog in the United States, having arrived in the 1800s with immigrants. They were popular as working dogs for farmers and ranchers in the deep South.

In the late 1940s, the American Bulldog approached extinction, but thanks to breeding programs by John D. Johnson and Alan Scott, the breed survived. The National Kennel Club officially recognized and registered the American Bulldog breed in 1970.

David Leavitt, a breeder from Pennsylvania, attempted to recreate the "Regency Period Bull Baiter" in the early 1970s by developing the Olde English Bulldogge. He used a cattle line breeding scheme to create a dog with the look, health, and athleticism of the original bull-baiting dogs.

The Olde English Bulldogge was developed using foundation crosses of one-half Bulldog, one-sixth American Bulldog, one-sixth Bullmastiff, and one-sixth of other breeds. Leavitt formed the Olde English Bulldogge Association to maintain the breed's stud book and issue registration papers.

In 2001, the Olde English Bulldogge Kennel Club was formed, and in 2005, David Leavitt was involved with merging the Olde English Bulldogge Association's registry with that of the OEBKC's.

Consider reading: Leavitt Bulldog

Coat and Grooming

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The EngAm Bulldog has a short and rough coat that's perfect for a low-maintenance pet.

Their coat can come in a variety of colors, including white with red patches, brindle, and fawn.

American Bulldogs, on the other hand, have a smooth, short, and dense coat.

They can be solid white or white with all shades of brindle, brown, red, fawn, or tan.

Their coat sheds significantly all year round, but brushing them once a week can help manage this shedding.

In fact, American Bulldogs shed more in the spring and autumn when the weather conditions change.

Their natural tail is thick at the base and tapers to a point, and they tend to drool, so it's essential to wipe between any folds in the skin to avoid bacteria buildup.

Bathing them every two to three months is usually sufficient, but this may vary depending on their activity level.

Regular nail trimming and ear cleaning are also crucial to prevent infections.

Their ears should be cleaned regularly, and their nails should be trimmed every few weeks at home or at a groomer's.

If this caught your attention, see: Life Span of French Bulldogs

Maintenance and Care

Credit: youtube.com, What it's REALLY like caring for an English Bulldog

Maintenance and care for your Old English Bulldog American Bulldog requires attention to their grooming needs. Brush them two to three times a week to maintain a healthy coat and remove dirt.

Their short, smooth coat makes a slicker brush a good choice for removing loose fur. Bathing should only occur when necessary to avoid stripping their skin of natural oils.

Bulldogs can be prone to skin irritation, so use dog-friendly products and keep their wrinkles and folds clean and dry. Regular nail trimming, twice a month, is also important to prevent overgrowth.

Maintenance

Maintenance is a crucial aspect of owning an American Bulldog. They require regular grooming to maintain a healthy coat.

Brush your American Bulldog two to three times a week to remove dirt and loose fur. A slicker brush works well for this task.

Bathing should be done sparingly to avoid stripping the dog's skin of its natural oils. This can lead to skin irritation, which is a common issue with Bulldogs.

Two Adult Tan-and-white English Bulldogs on Seashore
Credit: pexels.com, Two Adult Tan-and-white English Bulldogs on Seashore

American Bulldogs need regular dental care to prevent tooth problems. Brush their teeth a few times a week to keep them clean and healthy.

Their nails also need regular trimming to prevent overgrowth. Aim to trim them twice a month.

Some breeds that are similar in maintenance requirements to the American Bulldog include the Golden Boxer, Bluetick Rat Terrier, Russian Spaniel, Doberdane, and Griffon Fauve de Bretagne.

Exercise

American Bulldogs are a highly energetic breed that requires at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be broken down into shorter sessions, such as three 10-minute walks, to keep them engaged and active.

Brachycephalic breeds like American Bulldogs are more at risk of heat stroke than other dogs, so it's essential to be cautious when walking them in hot temperatures. Temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit can be particularly hazardous.

As short, single-coated dogs, American Bulldogs also struggle to exercise in cold or rainy weather, and may need to wear a coat for protection. Temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit are best avoided.

On a similar theme: English Bulldog Exercise

Charming English Bulldog Strolling in Autumn
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Engaging your American Bulldog in playful activities like tug-of-war or teaching them new tricks will keep them both mentally and physically stimulated. This can prevent destructive behavior around the house due to boredom or restlessness.

American Bulldogs often struggle when left alone for long periods, so it's crucial to provide them with plenty of attention, walking, and playtime. Meeting their needs for physical and mental stimulation can help prevent behavior problems like chewing or digging.

To keep your American Bulldog active and engaged indoors, try playing fetch or teaching them new tricks when walking isn't possible. This can be especially helpful during extreme weather conditions or when you're short on time.

Expand your knowledge: English Bulldog Walking

Nutrition

American Bulldogs are prone to weight gain, which can worsen joint issues, so it's essential to be mindful of their food intake.

Overfeeding can lead to a range of problems, including joint issues, so it's crucial to monitor their food portions carefully.

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They require a high-quality diet formulated for large dogs to meet their nutritional needs.

To ensure slow and steady growth, feed them large-breed puppy food for the first 14 months of life.

Consult with your veterinarian to help you build a balanced diet, as managing your dog's diet on your own can be challenging.

American Bulldogs can be susceptible to food allergies, so keep an eye out for signs like excessive coughing, itching, or upset stomachs.

They should not eat foods with added calcium until they are eating adult food.

Discover more: English Bulldog Diet

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the American Bulldog the same as an old English bulldog?

No, American Bulldogs and Old English Bulldogs are distinct breeds with different characteristics, including body structure and energy levels. While American Bulldogs can reproduce naturally, some Old English Bulldogs may require artificial insemination.

What two breeds make an Old English Bulldog?

The Olde English Bulldogge is a cross between the American Bulldog and the Bullmastiff. This unique breed combines the strength of the Bullmastiff with the gentle nature of the American Bulldog.

What is the difference between an American Bulldog and an Olde English Bulldogge?

The American Bulldog is generally taller and leaner than the Olde English Bulldogge, with a more athletic build. This difference in physique reflects their distinct origins and purposes, with the American Bulldog bred for work and the Olde English Bulldogge for companionship.

What is an American and English Bulldog mix called?

The American and English Bulldog mix is commonly known as an EngAm. This unique hybrid breed combines the loving and gentle nature of its parent breeds.

Edwin Grimes

Senior Assigning Editor

Edwin Grimes is an accomplished Assigning Editor with a passion for curating engaging content. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the publishing industry, Edwin has established himself as a trusted expert in his field. Edwin's areas of expertise include canine diet and nutrition, where he has successfully overseen the development of numerous articles and series.