We have just adopted a little dog from the local RSPCA shelter. We've visited him practically every day for a week in order to get to know him and to judge whether we think he's suitable for us, and us suitable for him. DH has been very enthusiastic about it all, whereas I have had my doubts. DH grew up with dogs; I grew up with cats, and the only dog we have ever had in our household, had to leave us as he became aggressive towards not only myself, but Jacob, and he had also become very anxious to the point where it was driving us all mental - and it was certainly no life for him.

So my experience with dogs is not good and although I know that this little dog is different in his personality, I still fear the same thing will happen, i.e. that he too will become very anxious (i.e. whine, whinge all day and night like our previous dog) and more to the point, that he will become aggressive.

DH doesn't feel this will be the case, but I'm having trouble overcoming my own anxieties and worry about whether I'll ever trust the new addition to the family? He's only small, so he will be sleeping inside (in our laundry) and can come/go during the day as he pleases. How can I learn to trust him around Jacob? So far (during our visits to him, and at home here on his first day) he's been nothing but good and Jacob has fallen over and howled, ran around like a headless chicken and generally put the works on, but so far, the dog has been fine.

Does anyone have any suggestions? Is this more my problem and something I have to overcome? Does anyone else have similar concerns about introducing a pet? How have you overcome it? Obviously I'm also worried since there will be a new baby on the way and if the dog is inside a bit, he will be around the baby too........but like I said, so far so good......he's not jumped up on any of us uninvited and doesn't seem 'excitable' IYKWIM.

Thoughts anyone?!?!