Mexican Bulldog
The Mexican Bulldog was initially developed from imported Perro de Toro Espanol and Alano Espanol representatives as a superiour large game hunting and bull baiting dog, but in the late 1800's early American Bulldogs and Pit Bulls were introduced to its bloodline to improve the breed's dog-fighting abilities. Some Perro de Presa Canario and Perro de Pelea Cordobes blood was reportedly added as well, resulting in slightly larger and sharper dogs in Mexico. During the 20th century crosses with the modern American Bulldogs and Dogo Argentinos were made with the intention to further increase the size and reinforce the presently valued white-based colouring of the Mexican Bulldog, even though the original dogs were usually fawn with black masks, uniform red and brindled, like their Spanish ancestors. In the past, different colourings were associated with specific regions of the country, as were some differences in size and temperament. The dogs found in southern parts of Mexico were reportedly slightly smaller than the ones found in the north and were usually not as driven, but these regional differences are no longer encountered. Traditionally, the best fighters were associated with the northern and north-eastern areas of the country, while the most valued hunting and baiting dogs were more common in central and southern Mexico. Some fanciers believe that these types were different enough to be classified into two groups and distinguished as separate breeds, these being the Mexican Bulldog and the Mexican Bull Terrier, based on their background and use, but this distinction was never officially observed. Although the local variants were bred to a fairly consistent appearance type in their home regions, there were never any attemtps to establish an official breed Standard for the Perro de Toro Mexicano.
This is a very rare breed today, relatively unknown even in Mexico. With the introduction of popular European breeds, such as the German Shepherd Dog, Neapolitan Mastiff, Boxer, Rottweiler and others, the number of Mexican Bulldogs declined, reportedly leaving less than 20 pure specimens in existence by the 1980's. The popularity of the Presa Canario and the American Pit Bull Terrier as fighting dogs has played an important part in the demise of the Perro de Toro Mexicano as well. However, there are a few bloodlines that managed to survive, thanks to the efforts of dedicated fanciers, but for now the breed remains unrecognized and routinely ignored in its homeland. Some authorities claim that there are presently more Mexican Bulldogs to be found in the United States of America than in Mexico, even though most American Bulldog and Olde English Bulldogge breeders would never admit if they were importing dogs from Mexico to improve their bloodlines. In its native country, the Perro de Toro Mexicano can occasionally still be found as a farm dog and property guardian, as well as a moderately successful pit-fighter.
Broad-headed, wide-chested and immensely powerful, the Mexican Bulldog is an impressive Molosser, an ideal candidate for the sport of Weight Pull. Due to its protective instincts, it makes an excellent watchdog. The Perro de Presa Mexicano is very aggressive towards other dogs, which is why it needs experienced and responsible handling. The ears and tail are usually left unaltered, although the docking of tails is still practiced in some regions.
The flat short coat is smooth and thick, coming in a range of colours, including yellow, fawn, red and brindle, but the most popular and common dogs today are white-coated, with darker markings of various shades. Average height is around 25 inches, although much smaller examples can still be found.
