If candidates were dogs: Fred Thompson - English Bulldog
Description: Powerful and sturdy, with a massive skull and a peculiar rolling gait, the Bulldog was originally from Greece and Egypt, where it was used as a guard and attack dog. Later in England, they were bred smaller and began to be used as bull baiters. Bred for tenacity and a high pain threshold. Noted for distinctive loose skin, especially at the head neck and shoulders.
Behavior: Stubborn and difficult to train, but devoted and often clownlike. Bulldogs do not take kindly to being screamed at. They are known to ignore their owners when their mood moves them.
They can be pensive and aloof, sweetly loyal and highly entertaining.
Tendency to bark: Low
Level of aggression: Medium
Suitability as a guard dog: High
(Candidate photo by AP; sketch by Susan Donley, petspictured.com; breed photo by Baltimore Sun)
(To see the full Dog Lovers' Guide to the Presidential Election, click here.)
