American bulldog cross

Question
I'm getting an 18 month old male American Bulldog cross from a rescue centre for stray dogs. He seemed really friendly when I went to te rescue centre, but i'm nervous that he could be aggressive because I won't be raising him from a puppy. Is it a good idea to get a dog of this breed without knowing his rearing history?

Answer
Did the rescue center do a behavior evaluation on him?  The fact that you didn't raise him from puppy hood does not in and of itself predict aggressiveness in dogs.  All dogs are a combination of their genetics, their socialization, and their training.  Temperament of the American Bulldog:
"The essential characteristics of the American Bulldog are those which enable it to work as a hog and cattle catching dog, and a protector of personal property. These tasks require a powerful, agile, confident dog with a large head and powerful jaws. The American Bulldog is a gentle, loving family companion who is fearless enough to face an angry bull or a human intruder; Good with children; Good with pets"  Dogs that are used as "protectors" should be well socialized as youngsters so that they can tell the difference between something that is innocuous versus something that poses a genuine threat.  Never adopt a dog just because you feel badly for it being in a shelter.  Be certain that your lifestyle and your abilities as a dog handler and trainer match the dog that you are adopting.  Frankly, if you are worried, you might want to call some American Bulldog rescue groups - they will be honest with you about whether this breed is a good fit.  If your behavior center did a behavior eval on him, then speak to the trainer or behaviorist about the findings.