Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog

The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog (ABBB) or Otto is an American rare breed developed in southern Georgia. Displaying an unexaggerated and natural bulldog type, the Alapaha is nevertheless a sturdy, well-developed and muscular breed. Descriptions of its size vary greatly, calling for males anywhere from 55 to 130 pounds (25 to 59 kg) standing 19 to 26 inches (48 to 73.5 cm) in height, females smaller at 50 to 90 pounds (22.5 to 41 cm). Ears and tail are natural, with no cropping or docking. Colors of the Alapaha are varied, typically white or different shades of black, grey, red, fawn, brindle, brown, buckskin, or mahogany, always with white markings; some dogs are piebald spotted.

The breed was developed by the Lane family of Rebecca, Georgia, in a sustained effort over many decades to preserve the "plantation dog" of south Georgia from extinction. Detractors say that the ABBB is identical to the American Bulldog and that nothing distinctive is found in the Otto. Alapaha owners appear to disagree and photos seem to indicate a fairly distinct type.

The ABBB is described as trainable, dutiful and responsible, with impressive capabilities as a guardian of family and property, but aggressive only in defense of these. They are friendly and relaxed until the need arises to defend their own.

The breed is quite rare with a population of living dogs probably around two hundred. Primary registry for the breed is the Animal Research Foundation in Quinlan, Texas.

External Links:

Animal Research Foundation http://animalresearchfoundation.com - primary registry for the ABBB