american bulldog behavior

Question
  A friend of ours recently offered to sell his 5-month old american bulldog. We like the appearance of the dog but we are somewhat hesitant to buy since we are not really sure the current temperament of the dog. Is it safe to go on with our plan to buy the dog and have ourselves continue training the dog? We are really particular with our safety since the dog didn't start young in our home.Is there any way the dog will pose any danger to us? Do you think the dog will be aggressive against us?

Answer
Hi Carlito,  American Bulldogs are generally great dogs.  I would not worry at all about adopting a 5 month old -- or a 5 year old for that matter.    Does the dog let you approach him/her without cowering away? If the dog does, you will know that he will need more socialization.   Does the dog come to you for attention?   This is a really good sign of a friendly outgoing dog.     You should ask the current owner to take a toy away from the dog and see how he/she reacts.       The american bulldog is a very powerful and loyal dog.     I would recommend you go to training right away and be sure to take the dog out and about as much as possible.   But, again - I would not hesitate to adopt a 5 month old.   That is still very young.

Please take a few minutes and look at the following website.  They have many tips on temperment testing a dog which may be helpful to you.

http://www.paw-rescue.org/PAW/dog_tips.php