Old English Bulldog Leavitt: A Comprehensive Guide to the Breed
If you’re in the market for a new pet or simply interested in the world of dog breeds, you may have come across the Old English Bulldog Leavitt. This breed is a unique and lovable one, with many traits that make them stand out from other bulldogs. In this article, we’ll explore the history, characteristics, temperament, and care of the Old English Bulldog Leavitt.
History of the Old English Bulldog Leavitt
The Old English Bulldog Leavitt is a breed that was created in the 1970s by a man named David Leavitt. He aimed to recreate the original bulldog breed that was popular in England in the 17th century. The original bulldog was a fierce and tenacious animal that was used in bull-baiting and other bloody sports. However, in the 1830s, bull-baiting was outlawed, and the breed was on the brink of extinction.
In the 20th century, bulldogs began to see a resurgence in popularity, but they were bred for looks rather than function. This led to a host of health problems and a bulldog that couldn’t perform the tasks it was originally bred for. Leavitt aimed to change this by crossbreeding English Bulldogs, Bullmastiffs, Old English Bulldogs, and American Bulldogs. This resulted in a breed that had the look of the original bulldog, but with a healthier body and a better temperament.
Characteristics of the Old English Bulldog Leavitt
The Old English Bulldog Leavitt has a distinctive look that is reminiscent of the original bulldog breed. They have a wide and muscular body, a broad head with a wrinkled forehead, and a short muzzle. Their coat is short and dense, and can come in a variety of colors including black, brindle, white, and fawn.
One of the most distinctive features of the Old English Bulldog Leavitt is their strong and powerful jaw. This is a breed that was specifically bred for working tasks such as guarding and hunting, so they have impressive strength and stamina.
Temperament of the Old English Bulldog Leavitt
Despite their intimidating appearance, the Old English Bulldog Leavitt is a friendly and affectionate breed. They’re highly protective of their family and make excellent guard dogs. They’re also highly intelligent and trainable, with an eagerness to please their owners.
This is a breed that requires a lot of socialization from a young age to prevent any aggressive behavior. They can be territorial, which makes them excellent guard dogs, but they also need to learn to accept other people and animals.
Care of the Old English Bulldog Leavitt
The Old English Bulldog Leavitt is a low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. They have a short coat that requires minimal brushing and bathing. However, they do shed, so it’s important to keep up with regular brushing to prevent excessive shedding.
This is a breed that requires a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. They love to play and need regular walks to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They also benefit from training and obedience classes to help them develop proper social skills.
FAQs
Q: Are Old English Bulldog Leavitts good with kids?
A: Yes, Old English Bulldog Leavitts are great with kids. They’re highly protective of their family and enjoy being around children.
Q: Are Old English Bulldog Leavitts good apartment dogs?
A: No, Old English Bulldog Leavitts are not good apartment dogs. They require a lot of room to run and play and need regular exercise to prevent destructive behavior.
Q: Do Old English Bulldog Leavitts have health problems?
A: Like all breeds, Old English Bulldog Leavitts can have health problems. However, they’re bred for a healthier body than the original bulldog breed, which means they have fewer health problems in general.
Q: Are Old English Bulldog Leavitts good with other pets?
A: Old English Bulldog Leavitts can be good with other pets, but they require socialization from a young age to prevent any territorial behavior.
Q: How much do Old English Bulldog Leavitts cost?
A: The cost of an Old English Bulldog Leavitt can vary depending on the breeder and location. On average, they can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000 or more.
Conclusion
The Old English Bulldog Leavitt is a unique and lovable breed that has gained popularity in recent years. They have a distinctive look and a powerful jaw that makes them excellent guard dogs. They’re also highly trainable and affectionate with their families. If you’re in the market for a new pet or simply interested in learning more about dog breeds, the Old English Bulldog Leavitt is a breed worth considering.