Olde Pit Bulldogge
The Olde Pit Bulldogge is a cross between the American Pit Bull Terrier and the Olde English Bulldogge. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Olde Pit Bulldogge. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
American Pit Bull Terrier
The American Pit Bull Terrier is a medium-sized, solidly built dog that projects an impression of strength, confidence, and athletic ability. Males typically weigh between 35 and 60 pounds and stand 18 to 21 inches tall at the shoulder, while females range from 30 to 50 pounds and stand 17 to 20 inches in height. The breed displays a well-defined muscular structure with a balanced, athletic build that emphasizes power without sacrificing agility. The body is slightly longer than tall, with a broad, deep chest that extends down to the elbow, strong shoulders, and a firm, level back. The hindquarters are powerful and well-muscled, providing the drive necessary for the breed's impressive athletic capabilities. The head of the American Pit Bull Terrier is distinctive, being medium in length with a broad, flat skull and a wide, deep muzzle that gives the appearance of strength. The cheeks are prominent and well-developed, though the head should never appear exaggerated or disproportionate to the body. The jaws are strong and well-defined with a scissors or level bite, and the teeth should be large, evenly spaced, and meet properly. The eyes are medium-sized, round to almond-shaped, set low and wide apart, and can be any color except blue. The ears are typically set high and can be cropped or natural, with the natural ear being rose or half-pricked. The coat is short, smooth, glossy, and stiff to the touch, lying close to the body and showing off the breed's muscular definition. All colors and patterns are acceptable except merle, which is not considered part of the breed standard. The tail is medium length, set low as a natural extension of the topline, thick at the base, and tapering to a point. American Pit Bull Terriers move with a confident, springy gait that is effortless and smooth, demonstrating both power and grace. The overall impression is of a well-conditioned athlete capable of performing demanding physical tasks with enthusiasm and endurance.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament American Pit Bull Terriers may display dog-directed aggression or selectivity, a trait that stems from their historical breeding and requires responsible management from owners. Early socialization with other dogs and ongoing training throughout their lives helps minimize potential issues, though some individuals may never be reliably safe with other dogs. The breed's strong prey drive should also be considered in homes with smaller animals. Despite these considerations, American Pit Bull Terriers remain devoted family companions who bring immense joy, loyalty, and protection to their households when raised responsibly and placed in appropriate homes that understand their needs.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Hypothyroidism occurs at higher rates in American Pit Bull Terriers than in the general dog population, affecting metabolism and potentially causing weight gain, lethargy, skin problems, and other symptoms. This condition is easily managed with daily thyroid hormone supplementation once diagnosed. Eye conditions including progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and various hereditary eye diseases have been documented in the breed, making regular eye examinations important. Cardiac conditions occur occasionally, and some breeders screen for heart abnormalities. The breed's average lifespan is 12 to 14 years, reflecting their overall robust health when properly cared for.
Olde English Bulldogge
The Olde English Bulldogge is a medium-sized, powerful, and athletic breed that was developed to recreate the healthier working bulldogs of the 18th century. Males typically stand 17 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 60 and 80 pounds, while females stand 16 to 19 inches and weigh 50 to 70 pounds. The breed displays a muscular, well-balanced build with a slightly rectangular body that emphasizes strength and agility without the extreme exaggerations found in modern English Bulldogs. The chest is wide and deep, providing ample lung capacity, while the back is broad and shows moderate roach behind the shoulders, with well-sprung ribs and a slightly arched loin. The head of the Olde English Bulldogge is large, broad, and square with prominent cheeks and well-developed temporal muscles that extend to the skull. The muzzle is broad, deep, and short, but significantly longer than that of the English Bulldog, allowing for improved breathing and temperature regulation. The nose is large and wide with open nostrils, and the breed possesses a defined stop with moderate wrinkling on the forehead and muzzle. The jaw is slightly undershot with a strong, wide chin, while the eyes are medium-sized, round, set wide apart, and come in all colors. The ears can be rose, button, or tulip-shaped, set high on the skull. The breed's coat is short, close, and of medium density, lying flat against the body. All coat colors are acceptable according to breed standards, with brindle variations being particularly common. The tail is set low, thick at the base, and tapers to a point, either hanging down in a pump-handle fashion or having a slight curve. The Olde English Bulldogge moves with a balanced, powerful gait that demonstrates both athleticism and confidence, distinguishing it from the shuffling movement characteristic of more brachycephalic bulldog breeds. The overall appearance conveys strength, health, and capability as a working dog.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Olde English Bulldogges are typically good with other pets when properly socialized, though some individuals may display dog-selective tendencies that require careful management. They thrive on human companionship and do not do well when left isolated for long periods, potentially developing separation anxiety or destructive behaviors. The breed's combination of affection, protectiveness, and trainability has made them popular choices for families seeking a bulldog-type companion with a more balanced temperament and improved physical capabilities. Their courage and determination remain intact, but these traits are channeled into devotion to their families rather than aggression.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Skin conditions including allergies, hot spots, and fold dermatitis can affect Olde English Bulldogges, though typically less severely than in breeds with more excessive wrinkling. Regular cleaning of facial folds and proper grooming help prevent skin infections and irritation. Eye conditions such as entropion and cherry eye occur in the breed, and breeding dogs should receive eye examinations. Hypothyroidism has been noted in some lines and can be managed with medication once diagnosed. The breed's average lifespan is 9 to 14 years, which is considerably longer than the English Bulldog, reflecting the overall improvements in health that the breeding program has achieved. Most Olde English Bulldogges can breed and whelp naturally, representing a significant advancement over other bulldog breeds.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Olde Pit Bulldogge may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the American Pit Bull Terrier and Olde English Bulldogge to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.