Discovering the Olde English Bulldogge: A Journey Through History

Discovering the Olde English Bulldogge: A Journey Through History

The Olde English Bulldogge, a breed with a rich yet tumultuous history, stands as a testament to the enduring nature of a truly iconic breed. This canine's history is not only fascinating but also crucial for understanding the modern-day Olde English Bulldogge and other bully breeds.

The Ancestral Lineage

Unraveling the mysteries surrounding the Olde English Bulldogge begins in the period between 1600 and 1700 in England. This era saw the emergence of the original Olde English Bulldogge, which would later branch out to birth other notable breeds like the American Bulldog and the modern English Bulldog.

Bull Baiting: A Dark Chapter

The initial purpose behind breeding the Olde English Bulldogge was far from noble. They were bred for a cruel sport known as 'Bull Baiting', where these dogs were set upon a tethered bull, often resulting in severe injuries to both animals. The Olde English Bulldogge's peculiar appearance was tailored for this dangerous pastime; their distinctive jaw structure and facial wrinkles served them well in the gruesome sport.

However, the fate of bull baiting took a turn when it was outlawed in 1835. This development led to a decline in the breed's popularity, and the Olde English Bulldogge faced the threat of extinction.

Resurgence and Transformation

Thanks to the efforts of breed enthusiasts, the Olde English Bulldogge found a new lease of life. By crossbreeding with other breeds, they aimed to eliminate the aggressive traits while retaining the breed's iconic appearance. Over time, this led to the development of a more docile yet equally majestic English Bulldog, which we are familiar with today.

Dispelling Common Myths

Misconceptions have shrouded the bully breeds, often leading to unwarranted fear and restrictions. Here, we debunk some common myths associated with the Olde English Bulldogge:

  • Myth: They are big and dumb.

  • Truth: Bulldogs were bred for specific purposes, reflecting in their distinct personalities and capabilities. Training any dog, regardless of breed, largely depends on the handler's expertise.

  • Myth: Olde English Bulldogges are vicious.

  • Truth: Early enthusiasts invested significant efforts in breeding out aggressive traits, resulting in a friendly and playful breed.

  • Myth: Olde English Bulldogges are synonymous with English Bulldogs.

  • Truth: The original Olde English Bulldogge from the 17th century differs significantly from today's breed, owing to years of selective and cross-breeding.

A Healthier Breed

Unlike many modern bulldog breeds prone to health issues, the Olde English Bulldogge stands out as a relatively healthier breed. Their ability to breathe without restrictions in varying temperatures contributes to their robust health profile.

Embracing the Olde English Bulldogge

The Olde English Bulldogge is an epitome of loyalty, strength, and a gentle spirit. Their journey through history paints a tale of resilience, transformation, and an enduring legacy. As you delve deeper into the world of bully breeds, the allure of the Olde English Bulldogge is hard to resist.

For more insightful articles and to delve deeper into the world of bully breeds, subscribe to Bully Girl Magazine at BGM Warehouse. Don't miss out on our Bully Girl Mobile App, available for download on the Apple and Google Play stores, to stay updated on the latest happenings in the bully breed community.


Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.