Jen, really think long about this dog. You have a husband whose not very interested in having a dog, let alone a big, intact male from a breed that while not deserving of the reptuation they have, is a breed that requires a strong leadership role from its humans. If your husband isn't into having this dog, you may find they have a lot of trouble living "together" since the dog is going to pick up on that in a flat second.

Also you have a cat and this dog isn't used to cats. Many dogs have a natural hunt instinct and dear, no matter how you try, they are going to run into each other. No one can be perfect in keeping a dog and cat apart (well maybe they can but gawd I wouldn't want the stress of trying it). If I had a cat I loved I wouldn't be bringing in any dog, let alone an larger adult intact male dog, without making absolutely sure he was cat safe. I grew up with very big, very intact GSDs. One was NOT cat safe. It was never easy dealing with that and he did manage once to kill a cat despite every effort to never let him near cats.

As far as confining a dog solely to a mud room or dog run, I personally couldn't do that. Dogs are pack driven, they need more interaction and stimulation than life basically living by themselves can give them. If you're wanting him as a guard dog, think about it - how effective is a guard dog if he's locked away while the bad guy is breaking in the front door?

I'm certainly not saying to not give this dog a home. I'm just saying that there are issues here to really think long and hard about whether this is the right dog for your family or the right time for a dog.