ALAPAHA BLUE BLOOD BULLDOG BREED STANDARD
GENERAL APPEARANCE
The Alapaha Blue-Blood Bulldog is a powerful, athletic, medium-sized working bulldog, combining substantial bone and muscle with agility and speed.
The body should be strong, broad and well balanced without excessive bulk or exaggeration. The Alapaha should appear stocky and powerful, yet light and capable on its feet.
Males should appear distinctly masculine and females feminine, while both should retain unmistakable Alapaha breed type.
Above all, the Alapaha should look like a functional working bulldog — strong enough to hold livestock, athletic enough to work, and built for purpose rather than exaggeration.
HISTORY & ORIGINAL PURPOSE
The Alapaha Blue-Blood Bulldog developed from the working bulldogs of the Southern United States, particularly around Georgia and the Alapaha River region.
These dogs were used as all-round farm and plantation dogs, catching and controlling cattle and hogs, guarding property and livestock and protecting their families.
Lana Lou Lane became one of the best-known figures in the breed's development and preservation, although historical records show that a number of Southern breeders and working-dog lines contributed to the Alapaha.
In 1992, Lana was badly injured in a house fire which also killed her foundation sire, Marcelle Lane. Her breeding programme was subsequently rebuilt with assistance from other breeders.
The exact foundation history remains disputed between Alapaha organisations, but its original purpose is clear: a powerful, athletic and versatile working bulldog.
HEAD & MUZZLE
The head should be large, broad and powerful, with a strong square appearance and well-developed cheeks.
The muzzle should be broad, deep and moderately short, but never so short that breathing or function is compromised. The nose should be large with wide, open nostrils.
The head should show clear bulldog type without excessive wrinkles, loose skin or exaggeration.
EYES & EARS
Eyes should be medium-sized, well set apart and expressive, showing a confident, alert expression. Brown, amber or blue eyes are accepted, including odd eyes.
Ears should be small to medium, set high and carried naturally as rose or drop ears, fitting neatly with the head.
Excessively loose eyelids, entropion or ectropion are undesirable.
MOUTH & BITE
The jaws should be broad, strong and powerful, with large, healthy teeth.
A slightly undershot bite is preferred, with a level bite accepted. The lower jaw should be well developed without excessive exaggeration.
The mouth should close comfortably and remain functional and proportionate to the head.
SIZE & PROPORTIONS
The Alapaha is a medium to large, powerful and athletic bulldog, with males noticeably larger and heavier than females.
Males: approximately 20–26 inches
Females: approximately 18–24 inches
Historically, both heavier Bully-type and taller Classic-type Alapahas have existed within the breed. Both may be accepted provided the dog remains balanced, athletic and recognisably Alapaha.
Size should always remain proportionate and must never compromise movement, agility or working ability.
BODY & CONSTRUCTION
The body should be strong, muscular and well balanced, with a broad, deep chest, well-sprung ribs and a strong back and loin.
The front should be straight and well boned, with powerful, correctly angled hindquarters providing drive and agility.
The Alapaha should show strength without heaviness or exaggeration, remaining athletic and capable of its original working purpose. x
COAT & COLOUR
The coat should be short, close fitting and smooth, with a healthy natural appearance.
The Alapaha occurs in a wide variety of colours and patterns, including solid, brindle, pied and patched dogs. Merle is historically associated with the breed and is accepted.
Colour should never take priority over health, temperament, construction or correct Alapaha type.
MOVEMENT
Movement should be powerful, balanced and athletic, with good reach in front and strong drive from behind.
The Alapaha should move freely and confidently, showing the speed, agility and stamina expected of a functional working bulldog.
Movement should never appear heavy, restricted or cumbersome. x
TEMPERAMENT
The Alapaha should be confident, loyal, intelligent and naturally protective, forming a strong bond with its family.
They may be aloof with strangers, reflecting their natural guarding instincts, but should remain stable, confident and controllable.
Nervousness, unpredictable behaviour or uncontrollable aggression are unacceptable.
FAULTS
Faults include poor breathing, weak or unsound construction, restricted movement, excessive exaggeration, lack of correct Alapaha type or unstable temperament.
Faults should be judged according to their severity and effect on health, function and working ability.