Olde English Bulldogge

Breed Type: Crossbreed
Common nicknames: Leavitt Bulldogge, Bulldogge, OEB
Life expectancy: 8-12 years
Color & patterns: Red
Hero image
Nope, that’s not a spelling error. The Olde English Bulldogge is a distinct (mixed) breed that’s different from the English Bulldog. In the U.S., it’s considered a mixed breed that results from crossing the English Bulldog with an American Bulldog, but crossing these breeds is such a long tradition that the Olde English Bulldogge is a recognized breed in the U.K. Olde English Bulldogges are also called OEB or Leavitt Bulldogges after David Leavitt, the breeder who first developed the new breed. There are “mini” versions of the breed that result from crossing two smaller dogs. The mixed breed is known for being gentle, loyal, and fun-loving.

Olde English Bulldogge characteristics

Learn about about Olde English Bulldogge basics like their fur colors, shedding levels, how much grooming they need, and other Olde English Bulldogge facts.

Average height

18-26 inches (45.7-66.0cm)

Average weight

60-100 pounds (27.2-45.4 kg)

Average lifespan

8-12 years

Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
Grooming needs
OccasionallyFrequently
Full-grown size
Teeny tinySuper size
Good with cats
Likely to chaseHey, new pal!
Good with kids
Needs lots of supervisionReady to play
Training aptitude
HeadstrongEager to please
How long do Olde English Bulldogges live?

Olde English Bulldogges have a lifespan between eight and 12 years and were bred to reduce many common health problems associated with Bulldogs.

Are Old English Bulldogs extinct?

The Olde English Bulldogge is the ancestor of the purebred Old English Bulldog, which is an extinct breed. In 1835, England passed the Cruelty to Animals Act that banned the bloody sport of bull-baiting, which decreased numbers of Old English Bulldogs until the breed disappeared.

David Leavitt created the modern Olde English Bulldogges by mixing the English Bulldog, American Pit Bull Terrier, Bullmastiff, and American Bulldog. The United Kennel Club dates the breed’s lineage back to 1971, and it became a recognized breed in 2014.

This mixed breed mimics the appearance and athleticism of the original Old English Bulldog breed. Olde English Bulldogges are still muscular but more agile, heavier, and much healthier. Another difference between English Bulldogs and Olde English Bulldogges is that Bulldogs are known for their large heads, medium size, and wrinkles. In comparison, Olde English Bulldogges have a more proportionate head size and are larger, with little to no wrinkles.

What size is a full grown Olde English Bulldogge?

Olde English Bulldogges have the same stout, stocky looks as their parent breeds, and when fully grown, they stand 18 to 26 inches tall and weigh between 60 and 100 pounds. English Bulldogs are much shorter and lighter than American Bulldogs, and crossing them results in a mixed breed that falls between the breeds, size-wise.

Do Olde English Bulldogges shed?

Olde English Bulldogges have fine glossy coats that shed moderate amounts. Brushing them from nose to tail two to three times a week will keep their coats looking good. During periods of heavier seasonal shedding, use a rubber curry brush before the soft brush to remove excess hair and to keep shedding down.

What colors do Olde English Bulldogges come in?

Olde English Bulldogges have similar colors and patterns to English Bulldogs and American Bulldogs. Their short, sleek coats can be white, fawn, red or black; red, fawn, gray, or black brindle. They can also be “piebald,” which means a solid-color coat and white markings.

Olde English Bulldogge temperament

Learn about about the Olde English Bulldogge temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Are Olde English Bulldogges good guard dogs?

While English Bulldogs were bred for bull baiting and American Bull Dogs were often used as guard dogs, careful cross-breeding has led to mixed-breed dogs who are sweet, affectionate and fun-loving with good-natured temperaments and patient dispositions.

How active are Olde English Bulldogges?

Given their stout appearance, it would be easy to assume that Olde English Bulldogges are oversized couch potatoes, but they are energetic dogs who require regular, moderate exercise. On a cool day, a long walk will be sufficient to tire out an Olde English Bulldogge — but skip the outdoor activities when it’s hot or humid outside.

Can Olde English Bulldogges swim?

Olde English Bulldogges aren’t swimmers. Even if you could find a lifejacket to fit around their ample frames, Olde English Bulldogges aren’t well suited to swimming or other water sports because their stocky bodies aren’t very buoyant. Wading in shallow water on a hot day is fine, but skip that lake plan.

Are Olde English Bulldogges good family dogs?

Yes, Olde English Bulldogges are calm, affectionate, eager to please, and make great family pets. These dogs tend to develop strong bonds with their families, but training is a must. Socialization and training to establish routines, teaching boundaries, and teaching basic commands will help Olde English Bulldogges always be on their best behavior.

Are Olde English Bulldogges good with cats?

Bulldogges may have the instinct to chase, so they may not be the best pets for those with cats. Of course, each dog has their own preferences and temperament, so if you introduce your properly socialized and trained Olde English Bulldogge to your cat, it could be a different story.

Are Olde English Bulldoggs easy to train?

Bulldogges are very smart dogs and always eager for playtime, but they have a stubborn streak and protective natures that may prove challenging to train. Training is a long-term commitment for any dog, and it's important to prioritize training activities, such as hide and seek, which allow these pups to challenge their bodies as well as their minds. Skip the harsh criticism and focus on positive reinforcement; toys, treats, and praise will make OEBs want to master basic training. Start training your pup early to avoid unwanted behaviors, such as digging, barking, and chewing.

Olde English Bulldogge health

Learn about about the Olde English Bulldogge health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Are Olde English Bulldogges hypoallergenic?

Sorry, allergy sufferers; Olde English Bulldogges are not considered a “hypoallergenic” breed.

Are Olde English Bulldogge healthy?

Olde English Bulldogges are healthy but they are still prone to some of the same health issues as their parent breeds. Hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, laryngeal paralysis, and hyperthyroidism are just a few potential health problems your veterinarian can help you identify. Other health concerns include:

  • Canine multifocal retinopathy 1 (CMR1): The eye disorder, also known as CMR1, can cause the retina to decay, which affects dogs’ vision. Rarely, CMR1 can lead to blindness.

  • Hyperuricosuria: Olde English Bulldogges with HUU are at a higher risk of developing urinary stones, including kidney or bladder stones.

  • Breathing problems: While Olde English Bulldogges might not have the same breathing difficulties as other brachycephalic dog breeds, these short-nosed dogs can still have trouble breathing when it’s too hot outside. They will need to burn off energy with indoor activities, such as fetch, tug-of-war, or hide and seek with the air conditioner turned on high.

Find Olde English Bulldogge puppies near you

Adopting an Olde English Bulldogge

We don't see any Olde English Bulldogges available for adoption in your exact location or cities near you, but here are some adorable similar breeds in Columbus, OH.

Photo of Lala

Lala

American Bulldog

Female, adult

Columbus, OH

Color
Tricolor (Tan/Brown & Black & White)
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Story
You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website. Fill out an Adoption Application HEADLINER : LaLa PERSONALITY : Lala is a super sweet dog who loves people. FAVORITE ACTIVITIES : Lala is a high energy pup that loves to play with other dogs. MEDICAL ISSUES : None. WHAT WOULD BE THE BEST KIND OF HOME : Lala would love a home with a canine companion to play with and a fenced yard where she could run around to her heart’s content. Application Fees, Adoption Donations and Rescue Policy: Please know that 100% of our fees and donations pay for the costs of rescuing dogs. These include but are not limited to pull fees from shelters, veterinary examinations, vaccinations, medications and care, microchips, neuter/spay surgeries, heartworm treatments, behavior evaluations, and foster care, as needed. Important notes before applying. Adopters must have their primary residence in one of the following states: Pennsylvania, Ohio, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, and parts of North Carolina. We will not adopt giant breed dogs to renters. Homes with children under 6 years of age will not be approved for adoption. Homes with children should have a fenced yard. Pets currently in the applicant's home must have a history of appropriate veterinary care. Homes with intact dogs will not be approved for adoption. Proof of any of the following exceptions is required: The intact dog is a working member of a law enforcement, or search and rescue/recovery team. The intact dog is registered under the auspices of the American Kennel Club and is actively being shown. A veterinarian has determined the sterilization procedure would harm the intact dog. We believe in Force Free Training Methods and do not approve of methods or devices using pain or force to control the dog, or to deter undesirable behavior. Homes with highly varnished steps must have carpeting, securely fixed stair treads, or a non-skid surface. **We encourage you to remediate potential safety issues while your application is under review, prior to the home visit. For additional information please review our FAQs or contact mastiffstomutts@gmail.com **Mastiffs To Mutts Rescue reserves the right to approve or deny any adoption that occurs through this organization without disclosure. We reserve the right to make exceptions for special circumstances. **PA Kennel License: 05845Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet. March 21, 2025, 11:21 pm
Photo of Elliott (Spike)

Elliott (Spike)

American Bulldog Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Male, young

Columbus, OH

Color
Tan/Yellow/Fawn
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website. Fill out an Adoption Application Brief description: Elliot is a sweet little low-rider fellow who wants to be by your side at all times. Weighing in at about 40 lbs, he is a perfect lap dog. He’s your ride or die, always willing to do whatever you’re in the mood for, whether its having a lazy on the couch or taking a hike in the woods. He enjoys being around people and just wants to be the center of attention. He’s house and crate trained and responds well to commands. He is quite the quirky character and will make you laugh with the way he hops around when he’s happy or lays with his legs straight up in the air when he’s sleeping. Likes: Loves attention from his humans. He likes to sit by your feet all day, whether you’re working at your desk or watching TV, he’ll be right there with you. Did you say ‘get the ball?’ Elliot’s favorite game is playing fetch. This makes him very happy, and you can tell because he starts hopping like a bunny when he’s playing fetch to show his enthusiasm. He’s very food motivated and will do anything you ask him when a treat is involved. Dislikes: The only thing that seems to annoy him is when his foster brother tries to hump him, but to be expected, lol! Personality: Elliot is very cuddly and touchy and wants to be involved in everything you do. He doesn’t know the concept of personal space. He listens well and is down for anything; he can be spunky or chill and will adapt to your mood. He has a very happy-go-lucky attitude and just wants to please you. If you’re looking for a snuggle companion, he’s your guy. Temperament: Very friendly to everyone he meets and can be quite the little ham. When he wants attention, he’ll jump right into your lap and stare up at you until you pet his head. He is always good for a laugh with his quirky little ways. If traveling is your thing, he’s good in the car, enjoys taking walks, and adapts well to new environments. But what he enjoys most is being a lap dog. Energy level: Spurts of energy when he wants you to play, then other times he is very chill and lazy. Favorite activities: Playing fetch with the ball, walks, car rides, playing with toys, and chilling on the sofa. Good with cats, dogs, and kids (over 6)?: Elliot would probably be best as an only dog or in a home that has a calm or older female dog. He has been around other male dogs but takes a while to warm up to them. He has a few scars around his face, so he may have been attacked by other dogs who weren’t so nice to him in his past life. He seems to get along better with calmer dogs who aren’t intrusive of his personal space. He’s good with people in general; men, women, & children. Kids under 10 are probably not good idea only because he can get wound up and hyper-focused on his toys, especially when playing with his ball. Not good with: He’s never been around cats so not sure. Housetrained: YES, Elliot is fully house trained. As soon as you let him outside, he’ll pee and poop right away, he doesn’t waste any time doing his business so he can get right back to you. Crate trained: Yes. If you say “crate” he’ll walk right in and waits for his treats. Other times, he goes in by himself just to chill. Requires a fenced yard (physical fence and/or invisible fence)?: Elliot would do fine either with or without a fenced yard. He has a good recall, but still needs to be leashed for safety. Walks well on a leash?: Does well on a leash and enjoys taking walks. Doesn’t pull and listens well. Challenges: He’s very easy going and adapts quickly to his environment. However, he has a tendency to be very invasive of your space and will try to get in your lap at all costs, whether it means stepping on your laptop or knocking your drink out of your hand. But that’s being pretty nit picky, as he’s a pretty darn near perfect. Any Medical issues?: No What would be the best kind of home?: Elliot would do well in a home that gives him plenty of lap-time, snuggles, and attention. He would do well as an only dog or in a home that has a calmer, more chill dog. If you work outside of the home, that’s no problem. He’s house-trained and well-behaved; he doesn’t chew or get into things he not supposed to. He’d probably do best with kids over 10 only because he can be intense when he plays and gets hyper-focused on his toys. Application Fees, Adoption Donations and Rescue Policy: Please know that 100% of our fees and donations pay for the costs of rescuing dogs. These include but are not limited to pull fees from shelters, veterinary examinations, vaccinations, medications and care, microchips, neuter/spay surgeries, heartworm treatments, behavior evaluations, and foster care, as needed. Important notes before applying. Adopters must have their primary residence in one of the following states: Pennsylvania, Ohio, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, and parts of North Carolina. We will not adopt giant breed dogs to renters. Homes with children under 6 years of age will not be approved for adoption. Homes with children should have a fenced yard. Pets currently in the applicant's home must have a history of appropriate veterinary care. Homes with intact dogs will not be approved for adoption. Proof of any of the following exceptions is required: The intact dog is a working member of a law enforcement, or search and rescue/recovery team. The intact dog is registered under the auspices of the American Kennel Club and is actively being shown. A veterinarian has determined the sterilization procedure would harm the intact dog. We believe in Force Free Training Methods and do not approve of methods or devices using pain or force to control the dog, or to deter undesirable behavior. Homes with highly varnished steps must have carpeting, securely fixed stair treads, or a non-skid surface. **We encourage you to remediate potential safety issues while your application is under review, prior to the home visit. For additional information please review our FAQs or contact mastiffstomutts@gmail.com **Mastiffs To Mutts Rescue reserves the right to approve or deny any adoption that occurs through this organization without disclosure. We reserve the right to make exceptions for special circumstances. **PA Kennel License: 05845Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet. March 18, 2025, 11:00 pm
Photo of Debo

Debo

American Bulldog

Male, 4 yrs 3 mos

Lewis Center, OH

Color
White
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with dogs
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Story
Meet Debo! He's a big giant baby and thinks he's a lap dog. His owner found himself homeless living in a condemned building. He agreed to surrender Debo considering his living conditions.He's great with other dogs but not yet cat tested.Debo has also had two weeks of intensive training. He has learned to walk beside his person, sit, stay, lay, and go to his place.House-trained, crate-trained, fully-vetted & microchipped.Debo does have a fear of certain strangers and needs to be kept safe by his owner when meeting new people.Apply to meet this handsome guy at ricopetrecovery.org
Photo of Stevie

Stevie

American Bulldog American Staffordshire Terrier

Female, 2 yrs 2 mos

Lewis Center, OH

Color
White
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Good with cats
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Stevie wins the prize for her Moo Deng costume with her foster mom Zoo Keeper! Stevie is approximately 2 yrs old and appears to be an English Bulldog mix. Stevie was surrendered with terrible skin infections, no hair and overall poor condition. She has come a long way! Her fur is growing back, she is a happy go lucky pup that is good with kids, cats and other dogs. She visited everyone she met at a recent adoption event. She has adjusted well to indoor living and is doing great on a leash. She loves walks and rolling in the grass! Apply to to meet this little hippo at ricopetrecovery.org!
Photo of Big Andy

Big Andy

English Bulldog

Male, 3 yrs 8 mos

Lewis Center, OH

Color
Brindle
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Good with cats
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Meet Big Andy, the ultimate couch potato and cuddle buddy! This squishy-faced charmer is as laid-back as they come. Big Andy spends most of his day sleeping and sunning himself and comes alive in the evenings to play with his friend James and run zoomies around the house. He loves attention Big Andy has one quirk that makes him extra specialhe needs a little help wiping his booty after outdoor adventures! You see, Big Andys boy parts never fully developed so his body compensated by making another opening so everything comes out ok! Hes the perfect companion for someone who loves a good laugh and doesnt mind a little extra TLC for their four-legged friend. Big Andy is 3 yrs old and approximately 70 pounds.He could stand to lose a few You can apply to meet him at ricopetrecovery.org
Photo of Pepper

Pepper

Bulldog Boxer

Female, 10 mos

Columbus, OH

Color
Black - with White
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Good with cats
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
What an adorable little firecracker !! FULL of personality and afraid of nothing! She is confident, curious, LOVES the water and her baby pool. Often times she's the only one willing to get in. OOFIE lives to be with other dogs and especially adores her humans. She is literally always happy! You cannot rain on her parade! She is kennel trained and almost house trained! She is a joy to have as part of our foster family. LAMAREY is with me in my home in Memphis, Tn. Once adopted , she will travel via Rescue Vet Transport to her new forever family. Once an application has been submitted and approved , I would be happy to speak with you and tell you all of the wonderful things about her ! You will find our volunteer team to be very responsive so please refrain from submitting an application until you are ready to welcome a new forever family member. Transport runs each weekend, leaving Memphis Tennessee Friday morning around 6 AM at which time they start a group chat with the two drivers and all the adopters who have a A Pet on board.