Old Tyme Bulldog breed guide: Care, training, and fun facts
Breed guide overview
About Old Tyme Bulldogs
Temperament
Exercise
Grooming
Training
Diet
Health
About the Old Tyme Bulldog breed
Old Tyme Bulldogs, also known as Old English Bulldogs, are a robust and muscular breed with a rich history.
They are descendants of the original English Bulldogs, which were widely used for bull-baiting in the past. These dogs were valued for their strength, agility, and tenacity.
Old Tyme Bulldogs have a distinctive appearance with a strong, broad head, a powerful body, and a sturdy build. They have a medium-sized, compact frame.
Weight, height and life expectancy
On average, males stand between 38 and 46cm in height, while females are slightly smaller, measuring between 35 and 43cm.
The weight of an Old Tyme Bulldog can range from 25 to 32kgs.
Their average life expectancy is around 10 to 12 years.
What is the temperament of an Old Tyme Bulldog like?
Old Tyme Bulldogs have a loyal, affectionate, and gentle temperament. They are known for their friendly nature and can make excellent family pets.
They are particularly fond of children and often form strong bonds with their human family members.
These dogs have a calm and confident demeanour, but they can also be protective when it comes to their loved ones. Early socialisation and training are essential to ensure they develop good manners and become well-rounded companions.
With proper guidance and positive reinforcement, Old Tyme Bulldogs can be obedient and well-behaved.
If well-socialised from a young age they tend to get on well with other dogs and pets, but can be unsure of unfamiliar pooches.
Our Old Tyme Bulldog Community
"He loves snuggles on the sofa after lots of play with his toys. He is friendly and likes attention and a good bum scratch!"
Duggie’s owner, Jodie from Greater Manchester
"Reggie is a very energetic pup who loves his outside space and is mad for sticks (the bigger the better). He is adorable!"
Reggie’s owner, Robbie from West Sussex
How much exercise does an Old Tyme Bulldog need?
Old Tyme Bulldogs have moderate exercise needs and require approximately 1 hour of exercise per day. Regular exercise is crucial to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
They love to play, so interactive toys can be a great way to entertain and mentally engage them.
Old Tyme Bulldogs are prone to overheating in hot weather so be sure to avoid exercising them during the hottest parts of the day and provide access to shade and fresh water to prevent dehydration.
Puppies have growing bodies and developing joints, so their exercise should be limited to short, low-impact play and walk sessions.
Although there is no scientific basis to the 5 minutes of exercise per month of age “rule”, it can be a guide to make sure you don’t over-exercise your puppy. Bulldog pups could get 5 minutes of exercise per month of age once or twice a day, but reduce if it feels like too much.
In addition to walks, mental stimulating games can entertain and tire an active pup.
Full exercise at an adult level can generally be achieved around 12 to 15 months of age.
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Do Old Tyme Bulldogs need a lot of grooming?
Old Tyme Bulldogs come in a variety of different colours including white, red, brindle and combinations of these colourings.
Old Tyme Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming.
Brushing once or twice a week with a soft-bristle brush or grooming mitt helps to remove loose hair and keep their coat looking neat.
Additionally, occasional baths can be given when needed, using a gentle dog shampoo.
Like any dog, regular tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste twice daily is ideal. If you can’t manage that often, just do it as often as you can.
Are Old Tyme Bulldogs easy to train?
Old Tyme Bulldogs are intelligent and eager to please, which can make them relatively easy to train. However, they can also be independent and stubborn at times, so consistent and patient training methods are important.
Positive reinforcement techniques work best with Old Tyme Bulldogs. Use praise, treats, and rewards to motivate and encourage them during training sessions.
It's important to start their training early and provide them with consistent guidance to establish good behaviour patterns.
Obedience training and socialisation should be a part of their training regimen to ensure they become well-mannered and sociable dogs.
And remember to keep training sessions short and engaging to maintain their interest and prevent boredom.
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What do Old Tyme Bulldogs eat?
Feeding your Old Tyme Bulldog a balanced and nutritious diet is vital for their overall health and well-being. A good quality dog food is ideal.
Feed them puppy food 3-4 times a day when they are young, reducing to twice a day at 6 months and feed puppy food until about 12 months old, or as advised by your pet food supplier and/or vet.
As adults, divide their meals into two portions a day.
They are deep-chested so at increased risk of bloat, so be careful to keep them relaxed after they have eaten or drunk.
Are Old Tyme Bulldogs healthy?
Old Tyme Bulldogs are generally a healthy breed, but like any dog, they can be prone to certain health conditions. Some potential health concerns to be aware of include:
Bones and joints
Elbow Dysplasia - this condition is where there is an issue with how the bones fit together at the elbow joint.
Hip Dysplasia - a condition where the thigh bone and pelvis do not sit together properly at the hip joint.
Eyes
Cherry eye - this is when there is popping out of the third eyelid gland.
Gastrointestinal
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) - this occurs when the stomach twists and gas and contents get trapped inside. It is a very serious condition and a vet should be contacted immediately!
Respiratory system
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) - narrow airways which can make breathing and temperature regulation difficult.
Skin
Atopy - when the immune system overreacts to an allergen and results in skin irritation.
Interdigital Cysts - inflamed, swollen and often infected tissue found between your dogs toes.
This list is by no means comprehensive, so if you have any concerns about the health of your dog or want to discuss further if an Old Tyme Bulldog is right for you, consult with your vet.
Vet top tip
Always take water with you on warmer days. And during the summer months exercise your Old Tyme Bulldog during the coolest part of the day, plan shaded routes and if in doubt skip the walk and opt for a mental stimulation game indoors.
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Information on this page should never replace advice given by your veterinarian. Potential health issues presented are given as a guide only and are not meant to be comprehensive. If you ever have any concerns about your dog's health, contact your local vet.
