Why is it called the Russian bear?

Question

Do you fancy a hug, or do you prefer a Bulldog?

The Russian bear, the British bulldog, the German rottweiler, the French poodle, the American bald-headed eagle and the rest of the international menagerie ...

The Chinese Dragon (or Panda?), Australian Kangaroo, Egyptian Camel, Greek Dolphins ???

Answer 1

I think it just means that the mascot(s) of a nation have come to symbolize that nation and something about that nations personality - the animal is also usually if not always a native of the nation in question.