The Victorian Bulldog is a result of dedicated “recreation breeding,” in which a breeder “resurrects” a lost breed by selecting modern breeds that most embody the breed. In London, in 1985, breeder Ken Mollett undertook the challenge of recreating the Victorian Bulldog breed, that was similar, but different from the more modern English Bulldog. He carefully selected fine specimens of English Bulldogs, Bull Terriers, Bullmastiffs and Staffordshire Bull Terriers to try to create a dog that evoked a bulldog that had the more athletic build, longer muzzle and legs and smaller heads of the dogs he had seen in photos and portraits of the early 19th century.

Using old photos, etching and artwork, Mollett slowly recreated the Victorian Bulldog to embody the characteristics he wanted. He only used dogs that were registered with the Kennel Club of Great Britain to keep the lines as pure as possible. What he eventually produced has become a much loved, though rare, line of dogs that many bulldog owners prefer for its athleticism.

The Victorian Bulldog is larger than the modern English Bulldog, and is more athletic. Males measure 17 to 19 inches (43-48 cm), and weigh in at 65 to 75 pounds (30-34 kg). Females typically measure 16 to 19 inches (41-48 cm) and weigh 55 to 65 pounds (25-30 kg). This breed doesn’t typically have the congenital problems associated with many other lines of purebred bulldogs. The Victorian Bulldog still has the muscular build, short legs and face, broad muzzle, large head, wide chest and short, smooth coat typically associated with bulldogs.

Victorian bulldogs typically have coats that range from solid white, red, brindle, fawn and fallow. Their coats shed an average amount, and are easy to groom. Temperamentally, Victorian Bulldogs are easy going and great for families. Loyal to their breed, they are excellent guard dogs as well. Because they are more athletic than their cousins, they’ll need regular exercise — a small yard will do. They tend to do best in moderate climates as they are easily chilled and have a difficult time cooling down in hot weather.

A Victorian bulldog should never be confused with the “Olde English Bulldogge,” breed which was created in the U.S., and is not associated with Mollett’s dogs’ lineage. As a breed, Victorian Bulldogs are quite rare, and if you are interested in owning one, research the dog’s papers to see if it is certified as a Mollett Victorian Bulldog.