The character John Cleese plays, Mr Bridwell, apparently, he’s named after NORMAN Bridwell, the original creator of Clifford. Is the character actually meant to BE the in-universe Norman Bridwell or maybe a relative?
Clifford's Breed
What breed is Clifford supposed to be a vizla, a bloodhound, or a Labrador retriever.
Going by the books (where we meet Cliff's littermates and parents), he's definitely a crossbreed of some kind. His mama looked like a retriever and his daddy looked something like a terrier breed, while his littermates looked like some sort of mix inbetween.
It was probably meant to be in a more figurative sense. Ex: Because she loved him, she took very good care of him, which meant he was able to grow up (very) big and strong.
Addressed in the 2021 film, where it’s hinted Mr. Bridwell’s magic had something to do with it as well. When Emily asked him how big Clifford would get, he said “that depends on how much you love him”. And he meant it.
Overnight growth after one night?
Did the creators of the 2021 film even read the original books? In the film, Clifford seems to be a small puppy for only one night before Emily wishes him to grow to be big. But most of the books that feature Clifford as a puppy, as well as the series Clifford's Puppy Days suggest that Emily had him as a tiny puppy for several months before he grew into a giant red dog.
