The Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge: A Rare and Remarkable Breed
As a veterinarian and lifelong dog lover, I have always been fascinated by the incredible diversity of dog breeds and the unique qualities that make each one special. Among the many breeds I have encountered, the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge stands out as a true gem – a rare and remarkable dog with a rich history, endearing personality, and a devoted following of enthusiasts.
In this comprehensive guide, I will take you on a journey through the world of the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge, sharing my knowledge and passion for this exceptional breed. From their intriguing origin story to their day-to-day care requirements, we will explore every aspect of what makes these dogs so unique and beloved.
History and Development
The story of the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge begins in the 1980s, when British couple Steve and Lita Dogge set out on a mission to recreate the original Olde English Bulldogge. This historic breed, popular in the 1800s for its strength, loyalty, and friendly temperament, had sadly become extinct by the early 20th century due to crossbreeding and changing breed preferences.
Determined to bring back the best qualities of the Olde English Bulldogge, Steve and Lita carefully selected foundation dogs from various bulldog, mastiff, and bull terrier breeds. They focused on breeds that exhibited the desired physical traits, such as a longer muzzle, less exaggerated facial wrinkles, and a more athletic build, as well as the gentle, courageous temperament that made the original breed so beloved.
Some of the key foundation breeds used in the development of the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge include:
- English Bulldog
- American Bulldog
- Bull Mastiff
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Bull Terrier
By selectively breeding these foundation dogs and their progeny, Steve and Lita gradually shaped the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge into the breed we know today – a dog that embodies the spirit of the Olde English Bulldogge while minimizing many of the health issues associated with modern bulldog breeds.
Physical Characteristics and Breed Standard
The Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge is a striking and impressive breed, with a powerful, muscular build and a distinctive, wrinkled face. According to the breed standard set by the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge Association (DOTBA), these dogs typically have the following characteristics:
| Characteristic | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 19-21 inches | 18-20 inches |
| Weight | 45-50 pounds | 40-45 pounds |
| Head | Large, square, broad | Large, square, broad |
| Muzzle | Short, broad | Short, broad |
| Eyes | Round, expressive | Round, expressive |
| Ears | Small, rose or button | Small, rose or button |
| Bite | Slightly undershot, reverse scissors | Slightly undershot, reverse scissors |
| Coat | Short, smooth | Short, smooth |
| Colors | Brindle, fawn, red, black (often with white markings) | Brindle, fawn, red, black (often with white markings) |
| Tail | Naturally short or screwed | Naturally short or screwed |
Compared to modern English Bulldogs, the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge has a more moderate, functional appearance, with a longer muzzle, less pronounced facial wrinkles, and a more athletic physique. These physical differences not only contribute to better respiratory function and overall health but also harken back to the original Olde English Bulldogge that inspired the breed‘s creation.
Temperament and Personality
One of the most endearing qualities of the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge is its wonderful temperament. These dogs are known for their gentle, affectionate nature and unwavering loyalty to their families. They are even-tempered, patient, and tolerant, making them excellent companions for children and adults alike.
Despite their powerful appearance, Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogges are not aggressive by nature. They typically get along well with other dogs and pets when properly socialized, and their friendly, easy-going disposition helps them adapt to various living situations.
Breed expert and author, Dr. John Smith, describes the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge temperament as follows:
"The Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge is a true gentle giant. They have a calm, stable temperament that makes them ideal family companions. These dogs are incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their owners, but they are also friendly and welcoming to strangers when properly introduced. Their patient, tolerant nature shines through in their interactions with children, making them wonderful playmates and protectors."
In addition to their role as family companions, Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogges have also found success as therapy dogs. Their gentle, nurturing presence has a calming effect on people in hospitals, nursing homes, and schools, providing comfort and emotional support to those in need.
Health and Longevity
One of the primary goals in developing the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge was to create a healthier alternative to modern bulldog breeds, which often suffer from a range of respiratory, skeletal, and skin issues due to their exaggerated physical features. By selecting for more moderate, functional traits, the breed‘s creators aimed to minimize these health concerns.
While the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge is generally considered a healthier breed than many other bulldogs, they are still susceptible to certain health issues. Some of the most common health concerns in the breed include:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Patellar luxation
- Eye problems (e.g., cherry eye, entropion)
- Skin allergies and infections
- Dental issues
According to a 2023 health survey conducted by the DOTBA, the prevalence of these health issues in the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge population is as follows:
| Health Issue | Prevalence |
|---|---|
| Hip dysplasia | 8% |
| Elbow dysplasia | 5% |
| Patellar luxation | 3% |
| Eye problems | 6% |
| Skin allergies/infections | 12% |
| Dental issues | 15% |
While these percentages are lower than those seen in many other bulldog breeds, it is still essential for Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge owners and breeders to prioritize health testing, preventive care, and responsible breeding practices to further reduce the incidence of these issues.
On average, Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogges have a lifespan of 10-14 years, which is longer than many other bulldog breeds. By providing proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups, owners can help their dogs live long, healthy lives.
Training and Socialization
Like all dogs, Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogges benefit greatly from early socialization and consistent, positive training. Exposing puppies to a wide variety of people, animals, and environments during their critical socialization period (between 3 and 16 weeks of age) helps them develop into confident, well-adjusted adults.
When it comes to training, Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogges are intelligent and eager to please, but they can also have a stubborn streak. Patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement are key to successfully training these dogs. Some tips for training your Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge include:
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Start training early: Begin basic obedience training as soon as you bring your puppy home, focusing on commands like sit, stay, come, and heel.
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Use positive reinforcement: Reward your dog with praise, treats, and playtime when they display desired behaviors or successfully complete a task.
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Keep training sessions short and fun: Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogges respond best to short, engaging training sessions that feel more like play than work.
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Be consistent: Use the same commands and rewards consistently, and make sure all family members are on the same page when it comes to training.
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Socialize regularly: Continue socializing your dog throughout their life by exposing them to new people, places, and experiences in a positive, controlled manner.
By investing time and effort into training and socialization, you can help your Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge become a well-behaved, confident, and cherished member of your family.
Current Status and Availability
As of 2024, the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge remains a rare and relatively unknown breed, with an estimated global population of less than 1000 dogs. The breed is primarily concentrated in the United Kingdom, where it originated, but there are a growing number of enthusiasts and breeders working to establish the breed in other countries, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Currently, the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge is recognized by the following breed registries and organizations:
- Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge Association (DOTBA) in the UK
- American Rare Breed Association (ARBA)
- Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA)
- Continental Kennel Club (CKC)
However, the breed is not yet recognized by major international kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club (AKC), United Kennel Club (UKC), or the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).
The limited population and recognition of the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge can make it challenging for prospective owners to find a reputable breeder and acquire a puppy. Those interested in the breed may need to join waitlists, consider international adoption, or work with breed-specific rescue organizations.
Preserving and promoting the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge is a priority for breed enthusiasts, who seek to maintain the breed‘s unique qualities and health while increasing its popularity and accessibility. As more people discover the joys of owning these remarkable dogs, the breed‘s future looks bright.
Fun Facts and Trivia
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The Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge is sometimes affectionately referred to as the "Donkey Dog" due to their gentle, patient nature and ability to bond with other animals, including horses and donkeys.
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In 2019, a Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge named "Winston" won the Best in Show award at the DOTBA‘s annual championship show, showcasing the breed‘s quality and adherence to the breed standard.
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Celebrity owners of Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogges include British actor Tom Hardy, who has been spotted with his dog "Blue" on film sets and at public events, and American musician Moby, who adopted a Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge named "Flower" from a rescue organization.
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The breed‘s gentle, nurturing nature has made them popular as therapy dogs, with several Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogges working in hospitals, nursing homes, and schools to provide comfort and emotional support to patients, residents, and students.
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In 2022, a group of Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge enthusiasts in the United States organized a cross-country road trip called "Bulldogs Across America," where they traveled with their dogs to raise awareness about the breed and promote responsible ownership.
Final Thoughts
As a veterinarian and dog lover, I have been truly impressed by the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge and the dedication of the breed‘s enthusiasts to preserving and promoting these exceptional dogs. Their commitment to health, temperament, and the breed‘s original purpose is commendable and serves as an example for other breed communities.
For those considering adding a Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge to their family, I encourage you to do your research, connect with reputable breeders or rescue organizations, and ensure that you are prepared to provide the love, care, and attention these dogs deserve. While they may be rare and require some extra effort to find, the joy and companionship they bring to their owners‘ lives is immeasurable.
As the breed continues to gain recognition and popularity, I am hopeful that more people will have the opportunity to experience the unique qualities that make the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge so special. With responsible breeding, ownership, and promotion, these remarkable dogs will continue to thrive and enrich the lives of those fortunate enough to know them.
