Is the English Bulldog fierce?
The English Bulldog, usually called simply the Bulldog, is a breed that originated in Britain in the nineteenth century. Before bull-baiting was banned in England in 1835, it was a very common breed. After that, through selective breeding, its temperament gradually became more elegant and moderate.
The ancestors of the famous national dog of Britain can be traced back to the Molossus, an ancient fighting dog named after the Molossi people of Greece. As its name suggests, the Bulldog was originally used mainly for bull-baiting. Its expression is distinctive and full of character. From as early as the middle of the twelfth century, it was already being used in bloody bull-baiting arenas. Over the centuries the breed was constantly modified. After the practice was abolished in 1835, the dog gradually transformed into a guard dog, police dog, and eventually a family companion.
In the United States, there is even a tradition of honoring a Bulldog that has contributed in military settings, and other Bulldogs are also given special treatment. Today, the English Bulldog has become a companion dog that many people see as a symbol of personal style.
Although it comes from fighting-dog ancestry, the modern English Bulldog is not especially aggressive. In the past, its temperament was far fiercer, but now it has become much gentler. Despite retaining a rugged original appearance, its character is usually kind, loyal, and obedient. Because of this contrast, people often describe the breed as having a powerful beauty that shines through an ?ugly? face.
