American Bulldog vs Olde English Bulldogge
The American Bulldog and the Olde English Bulldogge are often confused because of their similar names and appearances. However, they have very different histories. The American Bulldog is a direct descendant of the original Old English Bulldog, preserved in the American South for centuries. The Olde English Bulldogge is a modern recreation developed in the 1970s.
History and Origins
The American Bulldog descends from working bulldogs brought to America by English settlers in the 1700s. These dogs retained their original athletic build and working ability because they were used on farms for catch work and guarding. The breed was never crossed down into the flat-faced, stocky English Bulldog we know today.
The Olde English Bulldogge was created by David Leavitt in the 1970s by crossing English Bulldogs, American Bulldogs, Pit Bulls, and Bullmastiffs. The goal was to recreate the look and athletic ability of the original 18th-century bulldog while eliminating the health problems of the modern English Bulldog.
Physical Differences
- American Bulldog - 90 to 130+ pounds. Tall, athletic, and powerful. Two distinct types (Johnson and Scott).
- Olde English Bulldogge - 60 to 80 pounds. Shorter, more compact, with a wider chest and more pronounced underbite.
Which is the Original?
The American Bulldog is the closest living descendant of the original working English Bulldog. It preserved the form and function of the old bulldog type through continuous use as a working dog. The Olde English Bulldogge, while well-intentioned, is a modern creation that attempts to recreate what the American Bulldog already preserved.
Decided on an American Bulldog? See which American Bulldog type fits your family before you contact breeders.