The Olde Pit Bulldogge: The Ultimate Companion Breed

As a lifelong dog lover, I‘m always on the lookout for breeds that combine the best traits of our canine friends. That‘s why I‘m excited to introduce you to the Olde Pit Bulldogge – a relatively new breed that‘s capturing hearts with its loyalty, affection, and bold spirit. In this in-depth guide, we‘ll explore what makes this breed so special and help you decide if an Olde Pit Bulldogge is the right dog for you.

Breed History and Development

The Olde Pit Bulldogge‘s story begins with two remarkable breeds: the Olde English Bulldogge and the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT).

The Olde English Bulldogge was developed in the 1970s by David Leavitt, who sought to recreate the healthier, more athletic bulldog of the early 1800s. These original bulldogs were used for bull-baiting – a cruel blood sport that was eventually banned in 1835. Leavitt carefully bred his dogs to eliminate breathing issues and other health problems while maintaining the breed‘s strength, courage, and friendly temperament.

The American Pit Bull Terrier, meanwhile, descends from the terriers and bull-baiting dogs brought from the British Isles to the US in the late 1800s. Originally used for dog fighting, these dogs were also prized for their loyalty and gentleness with humans. When dog fighting was outlawed in the 1930s, many APBTs transitioned to becoming beloved family pets and working dogs.

In the late 20th century, some breeders began crossing Olde English Bulldogges with American Pit Bull Terriers to create a functional working dog with the best attributes of both breeds. The goal was a dog with the stability and even temperament of the Olde English Bulldogge and the confidence and athleticism of the APBT. The resulting breed became known as the Olde Pit Bulldogge.

Physical Characteristics

The Olde Pit Bulldogge is a medium-to-large dog with a strong, muscular build. According to the United Kennel Club‘s breed standard, males typically stand 17 to 20 inches at the shoulder and weigh 65 to 85 pounds, while females stand 16 to 19 inches and weigh 55 to 75 pounds.

Key physical traits of the breed include:

• A large, blocky head with a broad skull and distinct stop
• A short, wide muzzle with a slight upturn of the nose
• Ears that may be cropped or left natural
• A short, close-fitting coat in colors such as black, red, fawn, and brindle, often with white markings
• A deep, broad chest and well-muscled shoulders and hindquarters
• A tapered, medium-length tail

One of the most distinctive features of the Olde Pit Bulldogge is its powerful, athletic appearance. These dogs are built for strength and agility, with a sturdy bone structure and well-defined musculature. They move with a confident, purposeful gait that showcases their balance and coordination.

Temperament and Personality

The Olde Pit Bulldogge is a dog of contrasts. On one hand, they are deeply devoted to their families and crave human companionship. They‘re known for their affectionate nature, often seeking out physical touch and always wanting to be near their people. Many owners describe their Olde Pit Bulldogges as oversized lapdogs!

On the other hand, these dogs have a bold, fearless spirit that makes them naturally protective of their loved ones. They‘re confident and self-assured, rarely backing down from a perceived threat. This courage comes from their bulldog and terrier ancestry, and it‘s an important trait to consider if you‘re thinking of adding an Olde Pit Bulldogge to your family.

With proper training and socialization, the Olde Pit Bulldogge can learn to channel their protective instincts appropriately. They‘re intelligent dogs that are eager to please, making them highly trainable. However, they can also have a stubborn streak, so patience and consistency are key.

Compared to similar bully breeds, the Olde Pit Bulldogge tends to be more even-tempered and less aggressive. They‘re generally friendly towards strangers, although they may be aloof at first. With other dogs, they‘re usually playful and tolerant, but early socialization is important to prevent potential same-sex aggression.

One of the most endearing qualities of the Olde Pit Bulldogge is their goofy, playful side. These dogs love to clown around with their families, whether it‘s playing tug-of-war, chasing a ball, or just romping in the yard. They maintain a puppy-like enthusiasm well into adulthood, keeping their owners laughing with their antics.

Training and Socialization

The Olde Pit Bulldogge is a smart, capable breed that thrives with positive reinforcement training. Like any dog, they need early socialization to develop into well-rounded adults. This means exposing them to a variety of people, animals, environments, and experiences from a young age.

Some specific training tips for Olde Pit Bulldogges include:

• Start training early, as soon as you bring your puppy home. Enroll in a puppy class to learn basic obedience and get socialization.
• Use high-value treats like small pieces of chicken or cheese to reward good behavior. Olde Pit Bulldogges are often food-motivated!
• Keep training sessions short and fun to hold your dog‘s attention. Aim for 5-10 minute sessions a few times a day.
• Be consistent with rules and commands. Make sure all family members are on the same page.
• Never use physical punishment or harsh corrections. This can damage your bond and lead to fear or aggression.
• Teach a reliable recall (come when called) and practice in various situations. This is an important safety skill for any dog.

As Olde Pit Bulldogges mature, they may test boundaries and assert their will. It‘s important to continue training throughout their lives and maintain your role as a calm, confident leader. If you‘re struggling with any behavior issues, don‘t hesitate to consult a professional dog trainer for help.

Exercise Needs

The Olde Pit Bulldogge is an athletic breed with moderate to high exercise needs. They require daily physical activity to stay healthy and happy. Aim for at least an hour of exercise per day, broken up into shorter sessions.

Some recommended activities for Olde Pit Bulldogges include:

• Brisk walks or hikes
• Running or jogging (once they‘re fully grown)
• Playing fetch or tug
• Swimming (many love the water!)
• Joining a dog sport like agility, rally, or weight pulling

In addition to physical exercise, Olde Pit Bulldogges need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Puzzle toys, games of hide-and-seek, and learning new tricks are all great ways to engage their minds.

It‘s important to note that Olde Pit Bulldogges can be prone to overheating due to their short snouts. Avoid exercising them in hot weather and always provide plenty of fresh water and shade. Limit their time outdoors on very cold days as well.

Grooming and Care

The Olde Pit Bulldogge has a short, smooth coat that‘s relatively easy to maintain. They shed moderately year-round, with heavier shedding in the spring and fall. Weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush or bristle brush will help remove loose hair and keep the coat shiny.

Some other grooming tips for Olde Pit Bulldogges:

• Bathe only as needed, every 1-2 months, to avoid drying out the skin. Use a mild dog shampoo.
• Check and clean the ears weekly to prevent infections. Wipe out any wax or debris with a damp cloth or cotton ball.
• Trim the nails every 2-4 weeks, or as needed. If you can hear the nails clicking on the floor, they‘re too long.
• Brush the teeth daily, or at least a few times a week, with a dog-safe toothpaste. This helps prevent dental disease.
• Clean the facial wrinkles and folds regularly to prevent skin irritation and infection. Use a damp cloth or baby wipe to remove any dirt or moisture.

Like many bully breeds, Olde Pit Bulldogges are prone to drooling. Keep a hand towel nearby to wipe up any slobber, especially after meals or drinks. Some owners like to keep a "drool rag" on hand when out and about.

Health and Lifespan

The Olde Pit Bulldogge is generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 9-13 years. However, like all dogs, they can be prone to certain genetic health conditions. Some health issues seen in the breed include:

• Hip dysplasia: an abnormal formation of the hip joint that can cause pain and lameness
• Elbow dysplasia: a similar condition affecting the elbow joint
• Hypothyroidism: an underactive thyroid gland that can lead to weight gain, hair loss, and other issues
• Heart disease: conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy have been reported in the breed
• Allergies: some dogs may be prone to skin or food allergies

To help prevent these and other health problems, it‘s important to work with a reputable breeder who health tests their dogs. The Olde Pit Bulldogge Association requires breeders to screen for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and heart disease.

As an owner, you can help keep your Olde Pit Bulldogge healthy by:

• Feeding a high-quality diet appropriate for their age and activity level
• Keeping them at a healthy weight (obesity can worsen joint issues and other health problems)
• Providing regular exercise and mental stimulation
• Staying up to date on vaccinations and preventative care like flea/tick and heartworm medication
• Scheduling annual vet check-ups and addressing any issues promptly

Nutrition and Feeding

The Olde Pit Bulldogge requires a balanced, nutrient-rich diet to support their active lifestyle and muscular build. Look for a high-quality commercial dog food that meets AAFCO standards and is appropriate for your dog‘s life stage (puppy, adult, or senior).

Puppies should be fed a food formulated for large breed growth to ensure proper development. Adults can be fed a maintenance formula, while seniors may benefit from a food with added joint support and lower calories.

The amount to feed will vary based on your dog‘s age, size, and activity level. A general guideline is 2-3 cups of food per day, split into two meals. However, it‘s important to monitor your dog‘s weight and adjust portions as needed to maintain a healthy body condition.

Some Olde Pit Bulldogges may be prone to food allergies or sensitivities. If you notice signs like itchy skin, ear infections, or digestive issues, talk to your vet about trying a limited ingredient or hypoallergenic diet.

Avoid feeding table scraps, as many human foods can be harmful to dogs. Stick to healthy, species-appropriate treats and chews, and limit them to no more than 10% of your dog‘s daily calorie intake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Olde Pit Bulldogges good with kids?
Olde Pit Bulldogges can be wonderful family dogs when raised and socialized properly. They‘re known for their affectionate, patient nature with children. However, their large size and exuberant play style may be too much for very young kids. Always supervise interactions between dogs and children.

Do Olde Pit Bulldogges get along with other pets?
With early socialization and training, Olde Pit Bulldogges can learn to coexist peacefully with other dogs and even cats. However, they may have a high prey drive and should not be trusted around small animals like rabbits or rodents.

Are Olde Pit Bulldogges aggressive?
Olde Pit Bulldogges are not inherently aggressive. In fact, they tend to be friendlier and more even-tempered than many other bully breeds. However, any dog can develop aggression if not properly socialized, trained, and managed. Responsible breeding, early socialization, and consistent training are key to preventing behavior issues.

Do Olde Pit Bulldogges make good apartment dogs?
The Olde Pit Bulldogge‘s size and exercise needs may not be well-suited for apartment living. They do best in homes with securely fenced yards where they can run and play. However, with enough daily exercise and enrichment, they can adapt to apartment life.

Are Olde Pit Bulldogges legal in all areas?
Some cities and counties have breed-specific legislation (BSL) that restricts or bans ownership of certain dog breeds, including pit bull-type dogs. Check your local laws before getting an Olde Pit Bulldogge to ensure they are legal to own in your area.

Why Olde Pit Bulldogges Make Great Companions

For the right owner, the Olde Pit Bulldogge can be an incredible companion. These dogs bond deeply with their humans and offer unwavering loyalty and affection. They‘re playful, goofy, and always up for an adventure, whether it‘s a hike in the woods or a game of tug in the living room.

Olde Pit Bulldogges are also highly trainable and eager to please. With consistent, positive training, they can learn to be well-behaved family members and even excel in dog sports or therapy work. They have a stable, confident temperament that makes them a joy to be around.

Of course, owning an Olde Pit Bulldogge is not for everyone. These dogs require dedicated owners who can provide plenty of exercise, training, and socialization. They may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners or those with very busy lifestyles.

But for experienced dog lovers who are ready for the commitment, an Olde Pit Bulldogge can be a wonderful addition to the family. Their love and loyalty know no bounds, and they‘ll bring laughter and joy to your life for many years to come.

As a lifelong dog lover and Olde Pit Bulldogge enthusiast, I encourage anyone interested in the breed to do their research and carefully consider if they‘re ready for the responsibility. Talk to reputable breeders, meet adult dogs, and honestly assess your lifestyle and living situation.

If you decide an Olde Pit Bulldogge is right for you, be prepared for a devoted friend who will steal your heart and become a cherished member of your family. With love, patience, and commitment, you‘ll have a loyal companion by your side through all of life‘s adventures.