Country of Origin: USA
Group: Working; Unrecognized
Purpose: Cattle herder, livestock guard and companion
Average Life-Span: 10 to 13 years
Color: Blue/grey merle to black or tan to dark brown
Grooming: Brush weekly with a curry comb and wipe down with a wet wash cloth. Bathe as needed.
Height/Weight: Males: 20 to 24 inches at the shoulder; 70 to 90 lbs. Females: 18 to 22 inches at the shoulder; 55 to 75 lbs.
The Alapaha Blue-Blood Bulldog was developed in the southern enclaves of the United States during the 18th century. The breed originated from crosses of the now extinct White English Bulldog and one or more of the local herding breeds such as the Catahoula Leopard Dog and the Black Mouth Cur. The breed has been known by a series of names such as the Otto, Cow Dog, Silver Dollar and Catahoula Bulldog. It was originally bred for the sole purpose of coursing and catching wild and unruly cattle, afterward establishing itself on many farms, ranches and plantations as an all-around utility dog (guard dog, herder and varmint patrol). It was not bred to put on threat displays or even look a certain way, but it did need the right equipment to take care of its real bulldog duties. It needed to be strong enough to catch and hold ornery cattle and athletic enough to catch feral hogs. The Alapaha Blue-Blood Bulldog is a functional and exaggerated bulldog with a square head, broad chest and prominent muzzle. It is dutiful, highly trainable, possessive and attentive, which makes them eager companions for the family. They are protective of their property and establish territories at a young age. They are not suitable for kennel situations, preferring the role of devoted family companion. These bulldogs are intelligent, athletic and aloof with strangers. Training and socialization are recommended at an early age. The Alapaha Blue-Blood Bulldog is hardy, resistant to disease and requires minimal grooming.
Hey there. For anyone reading this "history" of the breed, though a lovely story is not correct. It is the romanticized version. The reality is that they first showed up in the 80's and the woman who developed them, Lana Lou Lane, was a teller of fish stories. They are not an ancient breed, but they are my breed of choice. In fact the dog in that picture was my old boy, Connors Baloo/Blue who passed in 2017. Best boy ❤️
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