This is a great topic, story. I have raised, as pets only, over 8 great English bulls. They are absolutely the best dogs around. The ironic thing, is that every single one on my dogs as well as my friend's dogs does the exact same thing at age 1-1.5 years. I do not see this published, but it is scientifically proven beyond a reasonable doubt in my observation. My friend's bulls, just turned 14 months, stated the dogs wanted to bite the mail man and they wanted to give them up. I told them , give them 3 months and you will have to wake them up in the laundry room floor. If you give them up you will never forgive yourself. My friends thought I was a psychiatrist guru because I was correct. One other point, If you really want to be in charge of the house, the English bull is not a great choice, because he/she is stubborn and has no real reason to think you know more than they do. When you ask an English Bull to come, and he / she doesn't, trust me they must have a good reason, too tired etc. You will never out control a Bull, that is what makes them great. For some reason English bull dogs go through a terroristic phase for 3-4 months, then they get old very quickly and you will regret the playful moments.