Pyrenean Shepherd vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison

The history of the Antebellum Bulldog dates back the 1600s where it was used as a lasting solution to drive away hogs in rice plantation farms in Altamaha River in Georgia. After the plantation system became dominant in most parts of the United States, a majority of the farmers had to think of a more creative way of driving away wild feral pigs and cattle. Having caused multiple deaths to humans due to their massive bodies and extremely sharp horns, farm owners had no option but to employ bulldogs as the only means of security.

Although these dogs served their purpose of protecting their masters while still being family companions, their age of extinction came during the Civil War where the economy at the Altamaha region was permanently altered. After the fall of plantation farming and abolition of slavery, the Antebellum Bulldog became a forgotten breed something which led to its extinction. However, as years passed by, this rare breed was eventually reintroduced by the Maxwell family under strict guidelines by the Animal Research Foundation.

The Pyrenean Shepherd hails from Spain where he has always been used to herd sheep. Some people believe he is a descendant of the French Catalan Sheepdog while others say from the Briard. Nobody is too sure.

He is actually the smallest of the French herding breeds. It is interesting to note that he still does this herding job today. It was in the 19th century that a few of these dogs left for America with shepherds who found work herding flocks in the American West.

These dogs were also used in World War 1 as messenger dogs.

It was during the 1970's and 1980's that breeding programs were started for the dog and The Pyrenean Shepherd Club of America was formed in 1987. The dog was also recognized in 2009 by the American Kennel Club.

The Antebellum Bulldog is a recently introduced breed that was developed with an aim of recreating the historic working bulldog or Southern breed. First introduced in the United States, this bulldog was initially bred to be used as a working dog in rice plantations in Altamaha River Valley, a region in South East Georgia.

By nature, the Antebellum Bulldog is an extremely loving, loyal, affectionate, and very intelligent pet. Due to that reason, this breed is a perfect choice for a family dog. If we can get back to history, it’s evident that this dog breed was used in plantation farms to secure the rice from damages caused by cattle and wild hogs. Relating these tasks to the dog’s overall personality, you will find that indeed the Antebellum Bulldog is one such breed that can be trusted as a watchdog in today’s homes.

Appearance

The Antebellum Bulldog is very similar to the American Bulldog only that it’s a little bit larger and bulkier with a proportionally bigger head. These breeds usually range from bigger to biggest with males weighing around 36 to 68 Kg (80—150 pounds) and females 32 to 50 Kg (70—110 pounds). Similar to the American Bulldog, the Antebellum Bulldog has a rough coat, long legs, an athletic body and short tail/ears that don’t require any cropping.

Temperament

Despite of their intimidating appearance, the Antebellum Bulldog is an extremely loving, passionate, and loyal pet that will suit perfectly as a family dog. These dogs will lie down to their masters and will need nothing more than constant company. According to professional breeders, the Antebellum Bulldog is most likely to form a close attachment to one member of the family although they still do enjoy hanging out with the rest of the family members.

As it is the case with most American Bulldogs, the Antebellum Bulldog has a very strong protective instinct that makes it react violently when strangers step into its territories. Something else you need to know about this Bulldog breed is that it does get along well with kids to a point of being overprotective. Since puppies are usually over playful, adults are highly advised to watch out as they can accidentally bowl or knock over your toddler.

Grooming needs

The Antebellum Bulldog doesn’t have to be professionally groomed as is the case with most dog breeds. Apart from a weekly brushing of the coat, the other grooming needs you’re supposed to observe include; regular brushing of the teeth and trimming of nails from an early stage.

The Pyrenean Shepherd is a medium-sized dog standing at between 38 and 50cm in height and weighing between 14 and 20kg.

His head is fairly small with large, bright, expressive eyes. The ears are semi-erect. The tail has always traditionally been docked but often left long these days.

He comes with two different coat types – rough and smooth with sometimes both types being in the same litter. The dog is a regular shedder. The coat can be medium length or long and slightly wavy with a harsh texture. The coat can be of the shorter type with finer, softer hair. The coat is available in different colors and patterns, and can be a fawn color or grey and you will find a black overlay occasionally with some white. The coat can be tri-colored or he can be in solid colors such as cream or white.

Temperament:

Your feisty Pyrenean Shepherd is a dog with plenty of personality. He is also full of energy and will love to live with a outdoorsy-type family who are always on the go, because he’s in on everything.

He is distrustful of strangers and this together with the fact that he is so alert, makes him a splendid watchdog too.

He will need to be trained and socialized as he can be overly robust. He becomes obedient and well mannered, being totally dedicated to his owner. It isn’t easy for him to be separated from his beloved human owner.

Children friendliness

Although the Antebellum Bulldog is quite intimidating, this dog can make a great pet thanks to its loving, patient, and extremely tolerant characteristics. This dog enjoys playing with young children as well as other members of the family although proper care should be observed to avoid injuring young toddlers due to their muscular bodies.

Special talents

The Antebellum Bulldog is a protective dog breed with very strong guarding instincts. New visitors will have to be very careful as these dog breeds are quite wary of strangers and will not treat them politely. However, if you become familiar with them, they are likely to know you and later accept you as part of a large family.

Adaptability

Speaking of adaptability, the Antebellum Bulldog is more of a working dog than a household pet. Although some people will prefer to keep them indoors, always ensure that your homestead has a backyard where they can exercise. Otherwise, these dog breed will prefer to be kept in rural areas where there are vast tracks of land for them to play on.

Learning ability

Finally, the Antebellum Bulldog is an intelligent dog with a very sharp memory. However, due to their extremely playful nature, they can become very stubborn and messy. Therefore, owners are advised to train them early enough before they are fully grown.

The Pyrenean Shepherd is essentially a one-person dog, becoming totally attached to one particular person in the family.

He is known as a dog who becomes totally loyal to his human family, getting on well with children as well as with other pets in the home.

He is aloof and wary of strangers. Training and socialization is important so as to avoid aggression and fear. This is one dog that requires being diligently exercised every day.

He is a great watchdog, and when you add up all his fantastic qualities, you get to realize what a splendid companion and pet this wonderful dog makes.

The Antebellum Bulldog has a life expectancy of 12—15 years. Recognized as an emerging breed, this dog doesn’t have many health problems as compared to most other dog breeds. Although these dogs are muscular and very athletic, these breeds suffer from various health conditions which are caused by the nature of their coat. Among the common health problems of the Antebellum Bulldog include

Blindness

One major health problem that affects blue-eyed dog breeds (such as this one) is possible blindness. This condition is usually caused by diabetes, hypertension or Cushing’s syndrome. To treat this condition, you need to take your dog for regular veterinary checkups to know the root cause of the problem.

Hip dysplasia

Another health problem that is very familiar with most Antebellum Bulldogs is hip dysplasia. Since these dog breeds are usually muscular and very huge, this condition is most likely to affect them, especially at an early stage. Dog owners should, therefore, be very familiar with this condition and should take their pets for regular veterinary tests to avoid it.

The Pyrenean Shepherd is such a jovial little dog that you just can’t imagine him ever being sick. When he is lethargic, you'll know there is something seriously wrong with him because he is always as bright as a button.

He can however get sick, and there are a few dog illnesses such as epilepsy, eye problems and hip dysplasia that can be very painful ad debilitating for such an energetic dog. You don’t have to be too concerned though, as he is a dog known to have minimal health issues.

Feeding the puppy

Feeding an Antebellum Bulldog is much similar to feeding other dogs. Owners are highly advised to stick to high-quality hypoallergenic diets that are rich in vitamins and nutrients. Now, since Antebellum Bulldog puppies are usually playful, feeding them with high nutrient food thrice a day will really help. Always avoid feeding your puppies with processed foods or foods with artificial sugars as they can expose the puppies to severe health problems.

Feeding the adult

When feeding senior Antebellum Bulldog, there are some small changes you’ll need to make. First, these dogs will require high-quality foods that are easy to digest. Wet foods are perfect for Antebellum Bulldogs as they will help to keep them hydrated. Buy dog foods low in calories and rich in essential vitamins and nutrients to match your dog’s energy.

Points for good health

Antebellum Bulldog can add extra weight if proper care is not observed when feeding them. Due to this reason, these dogs should be fed depending on their level of activity to avoid cases of obesity.

Games and exercises

Since their ancestors were used to guard rice plantations in Altamaha, Antebellum Bulldogs are very energetic and highly suited in rural settings over indoor lifestyle. However, if you decide to keep these dogs as pets in your households, it’s advisable that you provide them with some playing space in the backyard.

When it comes to training the Antebellum Bulldog, owners are advised to train them to be obedient at an early stage as they can get really stubborn in the future. These dogs are very intelligent and they never forget what they learn once they’ve mastered it.

Grooming:

This will depend on the coat type. Both coat types will essentially require you brushing him twice a week.

Exercise:

The Pyr Shep’s activity levels are very high and this dog will require living with people who love outdoor activities. He’s the perfect companion for those camping trips or hikes. He is always ready to join you on your walks and will be ready and waiting to jump right in when he sees you with a ball or frisbee.

Diet:

For all that energy, your Pyrenean Shepherd will be needing the best dog food there is. Food full of preservatives and colorants can be bad for your pet, detrimental to his health.

Good food full of vitamins and minerals will ensure your pet stands a good chance of living a long, healthy life. If you feed him commercially manufactured dog food, ensure its the best there is, with labeling on the packaging that tells you its for his age, his size and energy levels.

Consistency and simplicity is what your Pyrenean Shepherd wants, and home-made food can enhance his dry kibble. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots all chopped up and mixed into the dry kibble once or twice a week will ensure your pet’s eyes are continuously bright and alert and his tail constantly wagging.

Some raw meat added in occasionally will also go towards ensuring his good health. Always make sure he has access to fresh, cool water.