English Bulldogs Rescues Breeders

English Bulldogs Rescues Breeders - Introduction and History

Picture source: Dogomania © 1998 m4d net

The English Bulldog descended from a Mastiff-type dog, called Molossus. These old bulldogs had muscular bodies, which allowed them to withstand tremendous physical strain, and an undershot jaw closed in a death grip, leaving a bull little chance for survival. Massive flat heads permitted the Bulldog to dodge blows. Bulldogs grabbed the bull's fleshy nose and pinned it to the ground. Bulls would choke on their own blood and die.

The history of bull-baiting started as early as in the 13th century. The Earl of Stamford witnessed a bunch of butcher dogs chasing a bull on the lawn near his castle. He was so impressed that he allowed butchers to use this lawn as a bull-baiting arena for annual competitions.

This tradition established itself in the minds of people as one of the most exciting sports for centuries to come, and it was not before 1835 that it was outlawed. After the prohibition came into effect, the breed's popularity started declining, and there was a threat of the breed's disappearance.

Fortunately, there was a bunch of devoted dog-loving enthusiasts, who assigned themselves to rescuing the species. They worked toward breeding out the dog's vicious inclinations and creating a friendly and amiable family companion. Due to their efforts, nowadays we can witness an amusing and loving friend instead of what was once a ferocious killer-beast. The breed was registered at the American Kennel Club in 1886. Modern English Bulldogs are smaller than their old ancestors were.