 The designation 'bull' was applied because of the dog's use in the sport of bull baiting. Over the centuries, dogs used for bull-baiting developed the stocky bodies and massive heads and jaws that typify the breed as well as a ferocious and savage temperament. Bull-baiting was made illegal in England by the Cruelty to Animals Act 1835. This amended the existing legislation to protect animals from mistreatment and included (as 'cattle') snakes, dogs, owls, and donkeys, so that bull and bear-baiting as well as cockfighting became prohibited.