FOR TSE: What a wonderful post! I enjoyed the story of the baby bulldogs a lot. (And I know I've heard a lot of stories about unscrupulous dog breeders. It's not just a problem in England.)
The second picture reminds me of our Winston -- who is a lhasa apso, so he's long-haired, but the basic body shape is the same. (So is the expression on his face.) He's a chunky monkey, too, but he likes it that way.
Lhasa apsos were originally bred to reside in Buddhist temples and let the monks know of intruders. Believe me, Winston is good at that. His bark, while not at all frequent, will go through you like a sword. No kidding. It's a bawling squall of alarm, and he will not shut up until whatever he's upset about gets fixed.
Also ... true to his Buddhist heritage, he insists on Peace in the Valley around here. He's been dubbed The Great Sheriff of the House because whenever any of the cats start getting into a row, he hops up and trots over to where the battle lines are being drawn. He places himself squarely between the would-be combatants ... and growls softly until one of them backs down.
It's the most remarkable thing I've ever seen. He just will not abide trouble if he can stop it. The United Nations could do with a few more like him. He is the perfect personality and temperament for us now. I've enjoyed him so much in the years that we've had him.
I'm convinced though that he thinks he owns this place and that we work for him. Perhaps you recognize that attitude.
Haha yes, they can be quite dominant for a little breed can't they! So much character! :D I think more people should follow dog's examples, the world would be a much more peaceful place ;)