The English Bulldog originated in the British Isles, descended from the ancient Asiatic mastiff. The English bulldog originated in the British Isles, descended from the ancient Asiatic mastiff. The dog was given the name “bull” because of its use in the sport of bull baiting and perhaps for its robust appearance, similar to that of a bull. They were aggressive, ferocious and courageous animals with the power to attack full grown bulls, which they did in arena combat before the practice was banned by law in the 1800s. After bull baiting was made illegal, their fierce characteristics were considered undesirable and were bred out of the breed. This was achieved in part by crossing the original old English bulldog with the smaller and more gentle pug. This pairing resulted in a shorter, wider dog with a brachycephalic skull and a mild temperament.

Group: Mastiff, AKC Non-Sporting

Recognition: CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR, DRA