We purchased an adorable "bulldog" sculpture. We knew if left outside it would rust but now we don't like how it looks nearly as much. Is there a way to remove the rust and then protect the metal from rusting again?

You can use a rust remover solvent and clean the sculpture. That would be faster than sanding. Then use a rust preventative like a Rustoleum to coat it. The preventatives are available in multiple colors, including clear. These items can be purchased at a home center such as Lowes.