Leavitt Bulldog

Formerly known as "Leavitt's Olde English Bulldogge", the breed was developed by an American breeder David Leavitt in Pennsylvania as a re-creation of the 19th century working dog known as the "Regency Bull Baiter". Leavitt started working on this project in the early 1970's and had used the modern English Bulldog, Bullmastiff, American Bulldog and the Pit Bull Terrier in his breeding programme. The Leavitt Bulldog was universally known as the Olde English Bulldogge until recently, when the breed creator decided to change the name for easier distinction from other bulldogge re-creations, many of which carry the OEB moniker as well. It should be noted that there is also an official Olde English Bulldogge breed in existence, which, while also being originally David Leavitt's creation, is today a separate breed from the Leavitt Bulldog, but is also different than many other "alternative" bulldogge breeds out there.

The official OEB breed was abandoned by David Leavitt in 1995 and is now maintained by other breeders and its official registry, the OEBKC. The Leavitt Bulldog is seen by some as an off-shoot of the OEB, while the breed developer maintains that it is exactly the opposite. Regardless of the politics involved, name confusion and unclear history, the Leavitt Bulldog is not the same breed as the OEB, even though many similarities between the two exist, which can be attributed to the simple fact that both were created by the same man, David Leavitt. Reportedly healthier and less aggressive than its parent breeds, the Leavitt Bulldog is primarily a companion and watchdog, but it also excells in weight-pulling activities and therapy work.

Intelligent and playful, the breed is loving of children and devoted to its master, being reasonably confrontational around other dogs. Even though it is generally an even-tempered and stable, the Leavitt Bulldog requires proper socialization and firm handling. This is a strong and agile dog, with broad shoulders, a wide chest and a large head. The muzzle is short and powerful, with a protruding lower jaw and well-developed cheek muscles. The nose can be black or brown, but not pink. The tail is left in its natural state, as are the ears, which can be of either of "rose" or "button" type.

The coat is flat and short, coming in all common Bulldog colours, solid or with brindling and white markings. Average height is around 19 inches, although taller examples exist.