Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge

The Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge, like its English Bulldog cousin, originated in the United Kingdom thanks to a man named Steve Barnett. In the 1980s, he created a breeding programme dedicated to producing the ideal old-type bulldog from the Tudor era. The objective was not to recreate the old baiting and fighting dogs but to improve their health and temperament. He got inspired with the perfect dog he saw in paintings and drawings during the aforementioned era and used dogs with British kennel club bloodlines as his breeding stock.

He was successful in creating the Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge, often described as a true athlete boasting of an impressive amount of stamina, while still being a loyal companion. Modern Dorsets are great family pets that also get along with other animals. Although it has gained popularity, it still remains unregistered with major breed registries like The Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club.

The Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge is a medium-sized dog that embodies strength, confidence and pride. Standing tall and proud, it weighs 59 to 90 pounds and stands 48 to 61 centimetres. Its body is compact and well-muscled, having the traditional bulldog look. It has a large head with a slightly convex top, prominent cheeks, strong muzzles, rose-shaped ears that are set high, and a broad nose with opened nostrils.

The Dorset’s coat is short and close lying, often compared to that of a Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s. It comes in the following colours: white, black, brindle, slate grey/blue or a combination of these colours.

This breed has low grooming needs and would benefit from a weekly wipe and brush to keep it in top shape. Make sure its wrinkles are cleaned regularly to avoid sores that can lead to infections.

Since its coat is easy to maintain, owners have a lot of time care for the other parts of its body that need attention. This specifically includes its teeth and gums. Brush its teeth twice a week to avoid dental problems. Also clean its ears, trim its nails and ensure its skin does not have any bumps. You also need to watch out for fleas and ticks especially if your dog interacts with other pets outside.

The Dorset is an intelligent and willing-to-please breed, making it highly trainable. This breed may be docile but it sometimes has a stubborn streak, which is why a firm yet gentle hand is needed. It thrives in a household where the alpha role is established early on so it knows where to turn to for direction and guidance. It cannot be left for long periods as it develops separation anxiety. There should always be one member that stays at home to accompany it or it will do undesirable things to amuse itself.

As with any dog, the Dorset needs to be socialised early and exposed to different environments to become well-rounded dogs.

• Senior and less active: up to 1,500 calories daily
• Typical adults: up to 1,600 calories daily
• Physically active/working dogs: up to 1,870 calories daily

If you are looking to own a Dorset, the unfortunate news is that you have to go on a waiting list and expect to pay higher. There isn’t a lot of puppies bred every year in the UK and the price for a well-bred puppy won’t go below £500 to £900.

Aside from the initial purchase of the pup, here are some of the expenses that come with owning a Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldogge:

• Initial expenses for basic equipment – £200
• Monthly food expenses – £40 to £50
• Annual veterinary costs – up to £1,000
• Monthly insurance costs – £50 for basic cover, £120 for lifetime policy