Q: Context: Spike and Tyke are fictional characters from the Tom and Jerry animated film series, created by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera. Spike Bulldog (who goes by different names in a few episodes-Killer for four episodes, Butch for two episodes, and Bulldog for one) is portrayed as an American bulldog, who is generally friendly and amiable, and a loving father to his son Tyke in several episodes. However, Spike's character also has a very stern, and fierce side, for occasions such as when he is defending his son Tyke.

Question: what kind of dog was spike from tom and jerry?
Let's give stream of consciousness below
To answer the question, consider the following: Spike Bulldog (who goes by different names in a few episodes-Killer for four episodes, Butch for two episodes, and Bulldog for one) is portrayed as an American bulldog, who is generally friendly and amiable, and a loving father to his son Tyke in several episodes. So the answer is an American bulldog.