Background: This breeding was developed in the southern enclaves of the United States during the late 18th century. The breed originated from crosses of the now extinct Old English Bulldog and one or more of the local herding breeds like the Catahoula Leopard Dog and Black Mouth Cur. The breed has been known by a series of names such as Otto, Cow Dog, Silver Dollar, and Catahoula Bulldog. It was originally bred for the sole purpose of coursing and catching wild and unruly cattle, afterwards establishing itself on the farms, ranches and plantations as an all around utility dog (i.e. guard dog, livestock working dog and varmint patroller). It was not bred to put on threat displays or to look a certain way. But, it did need the right equipment to take care of its real bulldog duties. It needed to be strong enough to catch and hold ornery cattle and athletic enough to catch hogs that were allowed to free range in a semi-wild state

Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog enthusiasts tells me that this Bulldog takes his work as a protection and watchdog seriously and they can easily tell a bad guy from a good one. They are great family dogs and protect their loved ones with their lives, as a good Bulldog should. It is said that when PaPa Buck got killed by a train in 1943, and one of his "Otto's" proved his undying devotion by constant visitation and guard duty over the grave.

The Alapaha is a functional and unexaggerated bulldog with a square head, broad chest and prominent muzzle. It is dutiful, highly trainable, possessive and attentive which makes them eager companions for children. They are protective of their property and establish their territory at a young age, always demanding attention. They prefer the role of devoted family companion. These bulldogs are intelligent, athletic, and suspicious of strangers. Training and socialization are recommended at an early age. The Alapaha is hardy, resistant to disease and requires minimal grooming.