If a dog is raised, breed, socialized and traines properly yes they can get along with other dogs & cats. My gsd mix loves other dogs. If you get one from a rescue they can tell you if it gets along w/ dogs & cats & if it is a digger, likes car rides etc... KYS had some good ideas to help prevent digging, the main reason most dogs dig is either due to boredom (lack of excersize & mental stimuli) or to find a mate, so if you have your dog neutered & provide obedience training, excersize & a job it should be fine. As far as liking car rides just work slowly with the dog and have good experiences only in the car (see my reply to the "I have a howler monkey for a dog" under the dog behavior section). Also by getting one from a rescue you are saving a life!! Good luck.