The Olde English Bulldogge is a fairly new “designer” dog breed that is so regal, so fancy, so chic, they come with a few extra “e”s in their name. These dogs have been quickly gaining in popularity. An attempt to reinvigoration the classic bull baiting dog of the 18th century. Leading many to ask, are Olde English Bulldogges aggressive?
As a whole Olde English Bulldogges are not an aggressive breed. They are typically described as friendly, loyal, and loving family companion animals. That being said the Olde English Bulldogge is quick to protect and defend their family, and will rarely back down from another dog’s challenge.
If you are considering bringing an Olde English Bulldogge into your family this post is for you. Here I will cover some must know facts about this amazing breed’s temperament with people, kids, other dogs, and their general disposition.
There will also be a few useful tips to avoid aggressive behaviors from developing. Let’s dig in!
Are Olde English Bulldogs Aggressive?
The answer to the question, are olde English bulldogs aggressive is that these dogs have complex temperaments that require careful understanding. Old English bulldog temperament is quite good in general. They are affectionate and loyal companion. However, these dogs can display aggressive behavior. English bulldog aggressiveness comes in certain situations. With proper socialization and training, old English bulldog aggressiveness vanishes and they can make wonderful family pets.
English bulldogs are quite reliable watchdogs and protective of their owners and families. Aggression can be generated due to pain or stress. The right environment can make an olde English bulldogge temperament loving and sweet.
What Is The Temperament Of An Olde English Bulldogge?
The Olde English Bulldogge is often described as friendly, outgoing, loving, courageous, protective, docile, strong and alert. They are a unique breed that has the fun loving characteristics of a lap dog, and the high alert protection instinct to watch over their family.
Fact - The creation of the Olde English Bulldogge began in the 1970’s with David Leavitt. The goal of the dog was to bring back the look, athleticism, and health of the original 18th century bull-baiting dog, but with much less aggressive temperament.
Olde English Bulldogges love nothing more than to be around family. They are big goofballs in the home that will provide hours of entertainment. They are also fierce protectors and will go to the ends of the earth to defend their loved ones if threatened.
“Disposition should be outgoing and happy. While a watchful nature may be expected at home, human aggression without provocation is a disqualifying fault.”
International Olde English Bulldogge Association
Early socialization of the Olde English Bulldogge is vital. The protective nature can become over protective behaviors that can pose risks to friendly strangers.
Olde English Bulldogges can also have a fairly high prey drive. Introducing you OEB to as many people, children, dogs, and pets from a young age will help curb these potential problem behaviours.
Are Olde English Bulldogges Good Family Pets?
On average Olde English Bulldogges are good family dogs. They are sweet, gentle and loving family members. A loyal protector and excellent companion for any family. They have a high eagerness to please and can be very easy to train because of this desire.
Establishing yourself as the calm and strong leader in the household is key with Olde English Bulldogges. They respect positive reinforcement and clear direction when it comes to setting rules and boundaries.
The Olde English Bulldogge is also a very affectionate and gentle dog. They are never far from your side. Craving the attention of an ear scratch or belly rub, in return they remain faithful guardians of the home and any potential threats to the family.
Fact - Unlike the modern English Bulldog, the Olde English Bulldogge has been bred to much healthier. Common problems like difficulty breathing have been eliminated from this new breed. These improvements in health mean a happier dog, and less vet visits.
How to Reduce English Bulldog Aggressive Behavior?
Are old English Bulldog aggressive? Yes, but in certain situations. You can reduce their temperament by indulging them in various activities like exercise, toy engagement, assigning a role, etc. Regular exercise helps to burn excess energy, making them calm and relax.
Assigning roles and making yourself the leader sets a boundary between you and your dog and helps to reduce your English bulldog aggressive behavior. Rewarding them after desirable actions reinforces positive behavior. Always show positive reinforcement and be patient with them. Olde English Bulldogge temperament strongly shows the influence of their environment and training. By combining these methods, you help in reducing the dog’s aggression and bring manners.
For a more in depth article focused on the Olde English Bulldogge as a good family dog check out my related post below.
Related Article – Are Olde English Bulldogges Good Family Dogs?
Do Olde English Bulldogges Like To Cuddle?
As a general rule Olde English Bulldogges like to cuddle. They are a very sweet and loving breed that loves nothing more than to be curled up beside their owners. Whether watching t.v. on the couch, or reading in bed, the Olde English Bulldogge will be cuddling up next to you.
Owners have said that Olde English Bulldogges are so affectionate and crave cuddles, that they can be clingy at times. For some this is no big deal, for others this can reach a point of annoyance. Setting clear rules and boundaries can help an over eager cuddler.
Are Olde English Bulldogges Good With Children?
As a whole a well socialized Olde English Bulldogge is good with children. They are very patient, tolerant and loving dogs when it comes to kids. Early exposure to children when they are puppies is especially important. Both children in the home and outside the home should interact with your dog from an early age.
Fact - Olde English Bulldogges are naturally happy and outgoing dogs that are loyal protectors of the family. These dogs are especially fond of children within the family unit.
With any breed of dog it is important to monitor interactions with children. Accidents can happen from over excited play, and bites and scratches from rough play can lead to injuries.
Make sure that all play time and general interactions between a dog and children is supervised. Teach both the dog as well as the children the proper way to interact. Having fun with a dog is amazing, but rough, over excited or teasing play can lead to injury. Play safe.
Do Olde English Bulldogges Get Along With Other Dogs?
Olde English Bulldogges that are socialized from an early age will get along with other dogs as a general rule. Start introducing your dog to others from an early age and find fun, neutral places to walk and play with other dogs.
Fact - Though Olde English Bulldogges are generally good with other dogs, they can at times be reactive. They are not always looking for trouble, but are not ones to back down from a challenge.
Always monitor interactions with other dogs, and avoid chaotic environments like busy, over excited dog parks.
Olde English Bulldogges raised in the same home as other dogs and pets do very well. They are very pack and family oriented dogs, so even the cat can be considered a part of the family.
Fact - Olde English Bulldogges can have a very high prey drive. A fast moving cat might be very tempting for an Olde English Bulldogge. Early socialization with other small animals is very important.
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Final Thoughts
It is very uncharacteristic of an Olde English Bulldogge to display aggression. These dogs are generally happy, playful, and docile family companions. They are both alert protectors and fierce cuddlers, and make wonderful family pets.
Socialization, training, and strong leadership are all the important ingredients you need to raise a well balanced Olde English Bulldogge.