I rescued an American Bulldog that is the sweetist lovein companion Icould have hoped for.:P We are so lucky to hsve each other. I would suggest spending at least a week visiting the dog at the shelter and if they will allow taking it to you home and introduceing it to what will be thier surroundings b4 adoption. I have 2 older cats and it was a little difficult in the 1st weeks but now they all know thier place in the pack. It took several weeks and due dilagance but all is pretty smooth after 8 months. Be willing to invest a lot of time for haromny.