English Bulldogs - A Famous Breed

If you mention an English Bulldog in conversation, most people will instantly know what the dog looks like. The English Bulldog, despite its negative reputation for its use in baiting bulls, is a highly adored breed of dog and its image is recognizable to people all over the world. It is a symbol of strength and virility.

Great Britain, this type of bulldog's country of origin, uses the English (or British) Bulldog as their national symbol. The U.S. Marine Corps also utilizes the image of a bulldog as a mascot of sorts named Chesty. The chose the Bulldog because of its strong stature and stubborn nature. The Bulldog portrays the message, we will not be moved.

Many schools in the United States and England proudly have an English Bulldog as the mascot for their football, basketball, baseball, and many other sports teams. In fact, the English Bulldog even plays a role in mascot history! The first live mascot ever to be used in the United States was Handsome Dan of Yale University. He was adored and revered by students and alumni alike. There have been several Handsome Dans over the course of time, but Handsome Dan as a symbol and a dog has made his mark.

Another first for English Bulldogs was Uga V, the University of Georgia mascot. Uga V was given the title of College Mascot of the Year by Sports Illustrated, and was even featured on the cover of the magazine in 1997. He was the first living mascot ever to appear on Sports Illustrated's cover. The University of Georgia mascot also made a cameo in Clint Eastwood's movie Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. In 1996, Uga V made a big splash in the public eye after he chased a receiver from the opposing team down the football field in an attempt to take him out. Because of stunts like this, Uga V had one of the most recognizable careers of any living mascot.

Today English Bulldogs are loved by all. Almost everyone has seen the skate boarding bulldog, something they a very good at because of their low center of gravity. Many celebrities purchase expensive European bred English Bulldogs as a symbol of status. The Bulldogs great nature and high intelligence makes it a perfect candidate for anyones home. If your interested in adding a Bulldog to your family, do plenty of research and find a responsible breeder. Some English Bulldogs can be quite expensive to own because of their health deficiencies.