Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog | Breed Info: Pics, Facts & Traits

The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is a true working dog in every sense of the term. Its origins are obscure. However, the breed appears to have come from the American South’s Mountain Bulldog, where it was known as a “catch dog.” Their job was to round up cattle and other livestock. That accounts for their alert and rugged demeanor that defines their personality.

As if their formidable appearance weren’t enough, the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog makes an excellent watchdog, with the brawn to back it up, too. While they are sometimes aloof, this canine isn’t overly aggressive with humans or other pets. However, they are territorial when it comes to their turf and their family. This breed is the result of selective crossbreeding with several dogs, such as Bulldogs.

The dog’s unknown origins also explain the various names for which they are known, like Silver Dollar, Otto Bulldog, and Catahoula Bulldog. Some pups have blue eyes, a trait believed to come from breeding with herding animals. They are a striking dog with an expression that tells you a lot is going on behind the scenes.

Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog Puppies

The essential thing to understand about the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs is that they are not ideal pets for families with small children or novice dog owners. Both their temperament and large size require an individual who can take firm control of training and socialization early in the pup’s life. They are intelligent dogs that need attention.

The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog isn’t a high-energy dog. However, they need daily walks to stay fit. It’s also essential for bonding. Establishing a trusting and loving relationship as a puppy is the best way to enjoy this working-class pooch. They don’t drool, but they do have a strong prey drive from their role as a protector of the homestead.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog

1. Early Examples of the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog Were as Tough as Their Owners.

Life on the homestead was harsh. Stockmen needed a canine to match the tough conditions and demands of the work. They selectively bred the Southeastern Mountainous stock dog to get the right stuff for the job.

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2. All Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs Are Southern Belles.

The breed has grown in popularity worldwide, with pups in homes across the globe. However, all have their roots in the American South.

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3. The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog Almost Joined the Ranks of the Extinct Breeds.

Part of the trouble the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog was a lack of a standard and the support of enthusiasts interested in the breed. That changed in 1979 with the establishment of the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog Association. Part of their mission is “protecting the genetic future of the breed.”

Temperament & Intelligence of the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog 🧠

A breed’s origins often provide vital clues about what you can expect from them as a pet. The same is true of the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog. Their job as a guard dog and protector gives them an independent streak that is tempered with self-assurance. They are alert, which is necessary to chase away the stray fox or coyote stalking a herd.

The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is a loyal and affectionate companion that will do well in the right home. While they are adaptable, they also need a solid foundation and consistent training. Early socialization is crucial to ensure proper canine manners.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 🏡

The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog isn’t a mean dog. However, they are large and can easily overwhelm smaller children. Their territorial nature also means that kids in the family must respect their space. On the positive side, this pup is a devoted protector of family and home. They will do best if they have a large, fenced-in yard to enjoy. The breed is naturally wary of strangers, requiring early exposure to other people in their lives.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets? 🐶 😽

As with any dog that has hunted varmints for a living, having an Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog in a home with other pets is sometimes problematic. Their strong prey drive and tendency to nip make this pup a challenge to own in a home with other dogs or cats. Our advice is that they should be the only pets in the household so that they can get all the attention.

Things to Know When Owning an Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog:

Dogs that have led an independent lifestyle, like the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog, often have demands that companion breeds don’t have. There are also issues with having a larger pet that exists across the board. The responsible, would-be dog owner will research these things before bringing a new puppy into their home. Let’s go over what you must know specifically about the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog.

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

Bigger dogs like the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog need dog food formulated for their metabolism and life stage. Ironically, they mature more slowly than smaller breeds despite their size. This pup is a muscular, heavy-boned canine with the appetite to match. As a puppy, you should feed them three times a day, with plenty of fresh water available at all times. Adults will do well on two meals a day.

We’d also suggest giving your Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog chew toys to keep them occupied during the day. The last thing any pet owner needs is a bored pup. Other soft treats are an excellent training aid and a way to establish trust with your dog. That is the key to a successful owner-pet relationship.

Exercise 🐕

The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog isn’t as active as the herding dogs in his bloodline. However, daily walks will keep them healthy, mentally and physically. Like other working pups, they thrive when they have a job or something to occupy them. They are not a pet to leave alone in the backyard for long stretches. They need companionship as much as distractions.

Training 🦮

Training an Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is a commitment to consistent instruction and reinforcement of your bond with them. They are smart, sometimes too much for their own good. You must take charge and direct the course of training early in his development. To be clear, we also give the same advice to anyone owning a larger dog.

The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is relatively easy to train. They are intelligent to pick up new commands and routines quickly. The challenges you may face are their independence and stubborn streaks. We suggest using positive reinforcement instead of stern reprimands. It’ll go further in establishing trust with your pet.

Grooming ✂️

The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog has a short, stiff coat that requires little maintenance. A weekly session with a hound glove or curry brush will keep it healthy and stimulate circulation. It’ll also allow you to check them for any skin conditions for which the breed is prone. After all, the earlier you catch it, the easier it is to manage.

• Related Read: 10 Best Dog Shampoos – Reviews & Top Picks

Health and Conditions ❤️

The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) recommends several health screenings for the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog. We recommend only buying from breeders who test their puppies. Cardiac evaluation is optional but suggested, given the Bulldog’s propensity for heart issues.

Male vs. Female

Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs can vary considerably in size. The former is a larger, more muscular dog with a bigger head to match. Consequently, they’ll be a greater challenge to manage. There is also the question of breeding. Both sexes are affectionate animals. As always, we suggest neutering if you don’t plan on your pup having a litter.

Final Thoughts: Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog

The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is the epitome of a working dog. Historically, he did it all on the homestead. They proved themselves as a loving companion and fierce loyalty to their family. They can bring the same thing to your home, provided you can give them the attention they need to thrive. While not a beginner pet, the pup will respond well to the right owner. Trust and respect are your allies.

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Featured Image Credit: Alapaha Blue-Blood Bulldog, AlapahaOtis, Wikimedia Commons CC0 1.0 Universal