Bulgarian Shepherd vs Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog - Breed Comparison

Bulgarian Shepherd vs Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog - Breed ComparisonAlapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is originated from United States but Bulgarian Shepherd is originated from Bulgaria. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog may grow 14 cm / 5 inches shorter than Bulgarian Shepherd. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog may weigh 10 kg / 22 pounds lesser than Bulgarian Shepherd. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog may live 42 years less than Bulgarian Shepherd. Both Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog and Bulgarian Shepherd has almost same litter size. Both Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog and Bulgarian Shepherd requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Working dog
undefined
United States
Bulgaria
Height Male:
55 - 61 cm
21 - 25 inches
65 - 75 cm
25 - 30 inches
Height Female:
50 - 57 cm
19 - 23 inches
63 - 72 cm
24 - 29 inches
Weight Male:
40 - 47 kg
88 - 104 pounds
45 - 57 kg
99 - 126 pounds
Weight Female:
36 - 45 kg
79 - 100 pounds
40 - 52 kg
88 - 115 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
45 - 57 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 8
5 - 10
Size:
Large
Large
Other Names:
Alapaha dog, Otto, Otto Bulldog
Karakachan Shepherd Dog, Karakachan
Colors Available:
white with marks
BlackWhiteTricolor
Coat:
short
Single
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Courageous, Energetic, Independent, Intelligent, Loyal, Protective
Alert, Courageous, Independent, Intelligent, Loyal, Protective, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

History

alapaha blue blood bulldogAlapaha has a very interesting history. Their origin dates from one family that lived near Alapaha river in Georgia, in the USA 200 years ago. The family rescued dying breed of Plantation Bulldog. They actually had this breed for 80 years and every dog was named Otto. This breed was not just saved, but the family created a perfect guard dog. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog started to expand and by 1980s they spread through the country.

bulgarian shepherdThe Bulgarian Shepard Dog comes from the ancient line of Molossers of Central Asia and Tibet, and the shepherds of the Balkans, Turkey and Caucasus. Among the oldest and most valued of the working dogs of Europe, the Bulgarian Shepherd breed was created by mixing the Balkan breeds with the dogs from Central Asia by the proto-Bulgarians around the 7th century. The Karakachanskoto Kuche was introduced to Bulgaria and accepted by the sheep herders. Mixing this breed in with the Balkan and Central Asian mix developed the Bulgarian Shepherd we know today. In the long run the original Karakachanskoto Kuche became extinct, replaced entirely by the Bulgarian Shepherd even in places where the new breed is still called by the Kuche name. Although the breeds are not the same, most of the dog world does not know the difference.

In Bulgaria however the Karakachan is a national treasure and the history of the breed runs deep. One Kuche could run up to 1200 animals and hundreds were used by the herdsmen in the mountains of Bulgaria. There were many regional types of Bulgarian Shepherds with very little difference between those types. These dogs were so prized by the shepherds that the dogs ate first before the people. The dogs however ate a vegetarian diet of milk, wheat, water and oats. The Bulgarian Shepherd lives a long life of often over 20 years. The Bulgarian Army made good use of these dogs early in the 20th century.

Following World War II, the wolves were close to extinction and property in Bulgaria was nationalized. There was no longer a need for a large force of working dogs. The Communist government exterminated large numbers of sheep dogs including the Bulgarian Shepherd. Only those species on government owned farms and in remote regions survived. When the government farms were disbanded in the early 20th century, these dogs were exterminated as well. Only those in the mountains survived. Commercial breeding of the Bulgarian Shepherd in the end of the century has resulted in controversy as other breeds came into the breeding program.

Use of breeds such as Sarplaninacs, Caucasian Ovcharkas, St. Bernards, Central Asian Ovcharkas and Bosnian Tornjaks in these programs resulted in Bulgarian Shepherd or Karakachans that were a lot different from the original breed. There is therefore some concern about the future of the breed in Bulgaria, yet they received official Bulgarian national recognition in 2000. Today’s Bulgarian Shepherd is a guard dog for both property and livestock.

The official standard for the breed came about in 1991 and in 2005 it was recognized by the Bulgarian State Commission for Animal Breeds. Only those dogs that meet this standard are considered “true” Karakachans. The Bulgarian Shepherds are willing to fight bears and wolves in defense of its family and flock. The dog is brave and loyal, dignified and powerful. They are recognized by both the Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA) and the Bulgarian Republican Federation of Cynology (BRFC) a member of the FCI.

Description

alapaha blue blood bulldog puppy - descriptionAlapaha Blue Blood Bulldog height is approximately 61 cm, while their weight variates from 34-47kg. Have in mind that females are slightly smaller than males.

A lifespan of Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is approximately 11-13 years, but it depends from dog to dog, and with proper care, they can live much longer.

Litter Size of this breed depends but average is 4-8 puppies.

Other Names for Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs are Alapaha, Otto, Otto Bulldog.

bulgarian shepherd puppy - descriptionA massive, powerful and muscular Molosser, the Bulgarian Shepherd is strong, agile, powerful and fast. They are intelligent and reliable. They have a long, thick, harsh coat in white with patches of black. Their skull is massive and broad with a furrowed forehead. The muzzle is massive as well while the nose has wide nostrils and is fairly large. It has close fitting, thick lips with strong, scissor bite jaws. The Bulgarian Shepherd’s eyes are deep, oblique and small. They are either hazel or dark. They have an intelligent and confident, yet firm almost grim expression.

Their ears are low set, small and v-shaped. They sit close to the head which sits on a powerful but short neck. They have a broad back, well-muscled body with a deep chest and long, rough tail. Their gait is a trot with a spring in their step. There are two types of coats – longhaired and shorthaired with no undercoats.

Characteristics

alapaha blue blood bulldog dog - characteristicsAlapaha breed is not just beautiful and unique breed, but they are also great family dogs. They are very loyal, but also very protective and sometimes possessive. Alapaha will require a lot of attention. It is very important to train your dog properly from the early age. A steady and firm hand is important so if you are first time owner, consider having this breed twice. You should not punish your dog, or implement any types of old-fashioned way of training. They do not respond well to that. Overall, they are very smart and quick learners. Alapaha needs to be socialized with other animals from the early age. They can be aggressive towards dogs that they don’t know. At first, you can train them around the house with family and friends, and after the puppy receives all the vaccines, you can start with socialization with other dogs. If you are first time owner and you want this beautiful breed, you should advise with more experienced breed owner. They simply have more experience than you and they know and understand the puppies, so you will receive more accurate advice. Have in mind that every dog has its own personality. Overall, if you train your dog properly you will have a happy and healthy dog that will be amazing with other animals and especially family members.

bulgarian shepherd dog - characteristicsThis is a working dog, intelligent and independent guard dog. Reserved around strangers but loyal and devoted with his family. Tolerant of children in their family if they were raised with them. Not only will she defend human family members, she will guard and defend household pets as well. He is quite capable of making her own independent decisions. These are very intense guard dogs that will respond aggressively if they think their people are being attacked.

Health Problems

alapaha blue blood bulldog puppies - health problemsAlmost every breed has health issues. That doesn’t mean that your dog will have the same health problems that are typical of the breed. If you choose puppy carefully, from the right breed owners, and if you take them to the regular vet checks with proper diet, most likely that you won’t be having any problems. Alapaha’s usual health problems are hip dysplasia, congenital deafness, entropion- this is an eye related problem, and sometimes they can have skin problems too. Again have in mind that this breed is very healthy and they do not have as many problems as regular bulldogs. The best way to protect yourself from getting a sick dog, you can require tests from the breed owners. If they are reluctant to do that, or they are assuring you that they have healthy dogs, have in mind that something is probably wrong. It is the best to choose a puppy with someone who has more experience with this breed.

bulgarian shepherd puppies - health problemsThe breed itself is known to be healthy but they do face some of the usual health issues of the massive, giant breeds. This includes knee and elbow dislocation; hip dysplasia; bloat; entropion and osteosarcoma. All of these conditions require medical intervention, but bloat and osteosarcoma are the deadliest. Bloat needs immediate attention and osteosarcoma is a deadly bone cancer.

Caring The Pet

Feeding the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog

alapaha blue blood bulldog dogs - caringFeeding of this breed variates on the size of the dog and activity. If your dog is big and very active, you will have to feed it more. Overall, 2-4 cups of high-quality dry food would be enough. It is the best if you divide that into 2 meals per day.

Feeding the puppy

If you have a puppy, it is the best to feed it 3-5 times per day in smaller portions. That is the best way to develop your dog into a healthy and happy adult. In the first year, you should feed your dog this way.

Grooming the breed

Grooming Alapaha dog is very easy actually. They have a short coat, so occasional grooming is all that this breed needs. Of course, you can bath your dog when gets dirty, but not too often. With occasional bath and semi-regular brushing, you will have a perfectly clean dog.

Feeding

bulgarian shepherd dogs - caringThese are large dogs with large appetites, but you want to keep them lean and active. Feed them at least twice a day with a high quality large or giant dog dry food. Four to five cups of food per day is the maximum.

Health issues

Patellar Luxation – a floating kneecap or dislocated knee. Will cause lameness.

Bloat - distended or twisted stomach. Can cause death.

Osteosarcoma – bone cancer must be treated immediately as it is potentially fatal.

Entropion – eye issues when the eyelid turns inward and damages the eye.

Hip Dysplasia – May cause lameness and arthritis.

Exercise and games

The Bulgarian Shepherd needs a good amount of exercise every day. Remember this is a working breed and they need a job. Long walks every day are essential for his well-being.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Bulgarian Shepherd vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Bulgarian Shepherd vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Bulgarian Shepherd vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Bulgarian Shepherd vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Bulgarian Shepherd vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Bulgarian Shepherd vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison