Description: Dorset Old Tyme Bulldogge
The Dorset Old Tyme Bulldogge is a breed that has been engineered to resemble the historic bulldog breeds of the early 19th century, similar to the English Bulldog. Revived in the late 20th century in Dorset, England, this breed aims to reduce genetic health problems often associated with modern bulldog varieties. They possess a stocky, muscular build, with a distinctive broad head and short snout. Known for their loyal and protective demeanor, Dorset Old Tyme Bulldogges are characterized by their resilience and courage. This breed maintains the traditional bulldog appearance with enhanced agility and fewer respiratory issues, making them ideal for families and activities that require moderate exercise. They exhibit a calm and congenial temperament, pairing well with children and other animals, making them excellent companions.
Dorset Old Tyme Bulldogge ratings
Properties
The Dorset Old Tyme Bulldogge is a breed that captures the essence and appearance of the ancient bulldog breeds from England. It is distinct from the contemporary English Bulldog, being bred to resemble the historical bulldogs in terms of structure, ability, and temperament. This breed has garnered appreciation from dog enthusiasts who seek a dog with the physical and mental characteristics of old breed bulldogs, which were known for their utility and versatility.
Physically, the Dorset Old Tyme Bulldogge is robust and muscular, crafted through selective breeding to eliminate the excessive health problems that plague more modern bulldog variants. They possess a larger, more athletic frame than their English Bulldog counterparts and have greater respiratory capacity, enabling them to tolerate physical exertion and outdoor activities better. The breed typically showcases a broad chest, strong, muscular legs, and a medium-length muzzle which is less pronounced than that of the traditional English Bulldog. This physical setup contributes to their overall health, vitality, and longevity.
In terms of temperament, the Dorset Old Tyme Bulldogge is known for its loyal and protective nature. They are typically very affectionate with their families and can be good with children when properly socialized. They possess a natural inclination to protect their home and family, making them excellent watch dogs. Despite their tough appearance, they are generally friendly and social dogs, although they can be reserved and wary around strangers, which calls for proper training and socialization from a young age.
These bulldogs are also quite intelligent, displaying a keen ability to learn and follow commands, which makes them relatively easy to train compared to other breeds. However, their strong will and natural protectiveness mean that they respond best to firm, consistent training methods that emphasize positive reinforcement.
The Dorset Old Tyme Bulldogge is an adaptable breed that can live in various settings, whether it's a country home with lots of space or a more confined urban apartment, as long as they are given sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. Regular exercise is crucial to maintain their physical health and to prevent behavioral issues that stem from boredom and excess energy. A daily regimen of activities, including walks and play sessions, is recommended.
Overall, the Dorset Old Tyme Bulldogge makes a fine companion for those who admire the bulldog's historical attributes and wish to own a dog that embodies strength, courage, and loyalty.
Appearance
The Dorset Old Tyme Bulldogge is a breed that exudes strength and robustness, while maintaining an aura of friendliness and calm composure. Originally developed to revive the classic appearance of the English Bulldog from the early 19th century, this breed has been selectively bred to eliminate many of the health issues that plague modern bulldogs.
Typically, Dorset Old Tyme Bulldogges possess a wide, muscular frame with a significant amount of bulk, while maintaining more athletic ability and agility than many other bulldog breeds. They usually stand about 16-20 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 60-80 pounds, with males generally being larger than females. Their powerful, compact bodies are well-suited for strength-based activities and they carry themselves with a notable determination and vigor.
The head of the Dorset Old Tyme Bulldogge is one of its distinguishing features, being large and square with a short muzzle. Despite the shortness of the muzzle, it is less pronounced than in modern English Bulldogs, which helps reduce the breathing problems commonly associated with brachycephalic breeds. Their eyes are round and set wide apart, often conveying a kind and alert expression.
Their coat is another distinctive trait. It is generally short, smooth, and lies flat against the body, which makes grooming a relatively easy task. The coat comes in a variety of colors, including brindle, piebald, fawn, and white. Their skin should be taut and not excessively wrinkled; a marked difference from the more excessively wrinkled contemporary English Bulldog.
Moreover, Dorset Old Tyme Bulldogges are known for their powerful gait, displaying a surprising turn of speed and agility when motivated. Despite their bulky appearance, they are capable of quick movements and are quite playful, which makes them excellent companions in various activities. Their tail is set low, carried straight or screwed but never curled over the back, which fits well with their robust silhouette.
Overall, the Dorset Old Tyme Bulldogge presents an impressive balance of muscularity and agility, with a unique blend of historical aesthetics and modern health improvements. Their appearance not only harkens back to the days of the original bulldogs but also offers a healthier, more dynamic companion to those fascinated by this iconic breed.
History
The Dorset Old Tyme Bulldogge is a breed that harkens back to the historical bulldogs of England from centuries past, reimagined to restore the appearance and characteristics of the original bulldog breeds that existed before the modern English Bulldog was developed. This breed is not simply a recreation but a specific attempt to bring back the athleticism, health, and functional body structure that were integral to early bulldogs.
The journey of the Dorset Old Tyme Bulldogge started in the late 20th century in England, when breed enthusiasts became concerned about the health issues plaguing modern English Bulldogs. These issues were largely due to selective breeding for extreme physical characteristics, such as a pushed-in nose, which led to widespread respiratory problems, and a heavily wrinkled face, contributing to skin infections. Driven by a desire to resurrect the old type of bulldog depicted in historical paintings and literature, which show a more agile and healthier animal, breeders set out to reverse these unhealthy traits.
The aim was to produce a dog that could perform practical tasks like its ancestors, such as bull-baiting and farm work, though with a temperament suited to family life. The name 'Dorset Old Tyme Bulldogge' was chosen to reflect this connection to older bulldog types, leaning particularly on the historical roots in the Dorset area, a place steeped in the lore of English bulldogs. Breeders used a mix of English Bulldogs, American Bulldogs, Bullmastiffs, and other similar types to achieve a breed with greater genetic diversity and improved health.
Today, the Dorset Old Tyme Bulldogge is recognized as a distinct breed by some niche registries, though it is not as widely recognized as more mainstream breeds. It is appreciated for its loyalty, protective nature, and superior health compared to the modern English Bulldog. Its appearance is robust and muscular, yet free from the extreme physical traits that compromise the health of many modern Bulldogs. This breed serves as a reminder of what the old bulldogs were like, suiting today’s environment with their friendly but vigilant nature. The breed continues to gain popularity among those who prefer a healthier, more active bulldog that retains the classic bulldog look and feel without the associated health issues.