Recommendation for 1st Family Dog?

I would consider some type of retriever. I have a Golden and he pretty much fits that bill to a t.

All of the things that you listed he is good with, but there are some negatives. They shed (a LOT), drool when they're excited/stressed/tired and panting, and some can be quite energetic (mine is pretty well laid back).

I don't know very much about the other breeds you posted, but I'm sure someone else will chime in. Hope this helps.

I bet there are tons of mixed-breed pups -- even puppies -- at your local shelter who would meet all your criteria.  I'd maybe look for retriever mixes. 

Welcome to the forum! [] I also recommend a Retriever. Your post practically screams Lab or Golden Retriever! lol

I don't think a Doberman, German Shepherd, or Rottweiler is what you're looking for if you want a dog that's going to be friendly with neighbors, friends, all the animals in your neighborhood, etc. They're protective breeds that aren't naturally going to welcome everyone with open arms. Of course there are exceptions and socialization plays a role, but it just seems like what you're looking for in a dog doesn't match up with those breeds.

Plus with this being your first dog in many years, I would really recommend a less intense breed where there's more room for error. A Lab or Golden that isn't well trained or socialized is likely to jump on people and bowl them over with affection. An untrained, not well socialized Rottweiler, GSD, or Dobe can be aggressive and suspicious with strangers. In the best of hands they are AWESOME dogs, but in the wrong hands they can be a real liability. Edited to add, I realize that you said you're willing to go to obedience classes with your dog, so I don't mean to imply that you aren't planning on doing any training. But there is just so much more to properly socializing a guard breed than a Retriever or Beagle for instance. Plus, we all make mistakes with our first dogs and I don't think a guard breed is a good one to start with.

Well, you sound like good candidates for dog ownership... enough time and willingness and realistic expectations, I'd say you're off to a good start. GSDs are said to be not a great choice for inexperienced dog owners... I agree with the above poster that a Golden might be a good choice, possibly an older Lab (a Lab puppy is going to be very energetic!)... are you thinking of rescuing, buying, puppy, adult....?

Poodle (am I biased?). Although people often think of them as fru-fru dogs they are really easy first dogs, don't shed, learn easily and they are very good at accomodating the kids when they want to play and the cuddle when it's time for that. A large miniature or small standard would probably be just right.
 
Regarding  "I would like a larger dog, but our house is smallish so we would need one that isn't too "energetic""
 
Any breed - except maybe the toy varieties or some older dog - is going to have more energy they they can expend in a house. If they get enough exercise outside of the house then the size of the house isn't such an issue.

Well as a first dog I would not suggest a Rottie, Dobi or GSD. Rotties are over breed and so many of them have health conditions that are hard for first time owners to deal with. Both breed demand a whole lot of training. IMO they are the "look good on TV" type of dogs but can be really challanging. I'm not saying there is anything wrong with owning one but they do demand a whole lot. If your still interested in thoes breeds just be aware of the cons and be ready to deal with thoes.

I usally suggest an older dog as a first dog. I don't mean old as in senior but a dog 1 or more years old. By that age it's no longer a guessing game with it's behavore and most gentic issues are know by the age of 2, many older dogs are already house broken as well, most dogs of this age have some sort of traning either from their previos owners or foster parents, so what you see is what you get. A puppy on the other hand is full of surprizes, often you have no idea what is going to become of the pup, will it have social problems, will it like children, is it safe to leave it alone, then to add the time in training and taking care of a pup.

if you haven't yet try www.petfinder.com to search out the right dog for you.

ORIGINAL: bunni

Poodle (am I biased?). Although people often think of them as fru-fru dogs they are really easy first dogs, don't shed, learn easily and they are very good at accomodating the kids when they want to play and the cuddle when it's time for that. A large miniature or small standard would probably be just right.

I think a Standard Poodle is a great suggestion! They're such versatile dogs and I don't think most people realize that they were bred to retrieve so they're perfect for active families! Plus people tend to picture them with huge fluffy coats with pom poms; they can just as easily be shaved for very little coat maintenance and a sporty look.

While I don't normally place a gsd with a family that hasn't owned a dog before, there ARE exceptions.  It truly depends on the family and on the pup.
 
I will say that a german shepherd is going to require a LOT more energy than some other breeds but if you do really careful research (who knew that a gsd pup would EAT the recliner?  My cockers never did that) and still are inclined that way, find a GOOD breeder and get yourself a well bred dog.

I think you have been given some outstanding suggestions but I will toss in my [sm=2cents.gif] by suggesting you look into rescuing a retired racing greyhound. These dogs would also fit with what you are wanting and are a great dog for a first time dog owner... of course I am also a bit biased ...[]  
 
If you should decide to consider looking into this breed at all, please feel free to pm me as I am an owner, volunteer and placement represenattive for these wonderful companions![8D]
 
Good luck in your quest and welcome to idog!!!!!!![]
 
 

REscue greyhound is always nice. []

But, really, go to the local pet adoption organization and look for a suitable dog that has been exposed in foster care to children and whose personality is known somewhat. There's specific breed rescues and there's also all-pet foster programs in many areas. Many of them have "meet and greets" where you can go talk to foster parents and volunteers and they can meet your kids and see that they are well-behaved (lol).

Good luck!

First of all Welcome to the forum. How exciting, getting your first 'family' dog!

I would just like to put this out here for your consideration. I will lay good money that this dog is going to end up being your wifes dog, so try to consider her needs especially when chosing your dog. Don't get too much dog for her to handle. Although your kids are probably jumping up and down at the prospect of a dog and promising to walk, feed, play and care for it - in most cases kids lose interest really fast and if its anything like my house I have to beg them to take the dog for a walk. Not putting your kids down, but they just get more interested in their own 'things' as they get older.
Having said that, I will also give you another breed to consider. A Great Dane. They certainly fit the 'big' dog description, but they are not very energetic and do not require a lot of exercise. They don't require any special grooming which is a real time saver for a busy Mom. They are extremely gentle yet sturdy as far as rolling around with kids. For their size, they are actually quite easy to handle on leash. The only downside to a Dane is they do have a shorter life span than the average dog.

Good Luck!

I have to agree with the rescue greyhound, but there are issues with them:

They are not always the most affectionate of dogs.

They cannot be let off lead in an unfenced area. (EVER!)

Sometimes their play styles aren't that compatible with other dogs play styles.

The do not tolerate cold at all, so they need a jacket when it's cold.

I will say this though, they are some of the sweetest dogs ever to breathe life, and they can be so royal and regal.  They will adjust their energy level to the energy level of the household. 

Please, please look into rescuing a dog rather than purchasing a puppy.

Good luck in your search and let us know how it turns out.

I would seriously consider a Boxer as they fit all of your qualifications except they can be a bit energetic. If you can fit a few walks and some energetic play into the mix, I would check out that breed.
 
You mentioned a Rottweiler and they can make great family dogs. I own one and he does well with children and other dogs. They can be a bit protective but if you are willing to obedience train, which is a must with Rotties, and are willing to do some heavy socializing they might be great for your family as well. You might want to consider a Rottie rescue as they may have what you're looking for.

Other breeds to research?

 
Clearly I love the giants, but they are so nice with kids that I just can't pass it by!  Saint Bernards and Newfoundlands are both nice family dogs that aren't overly energetic.  Of course, most puppies are energetic, but these guys settle down nicely as a family dog.  Usually dog friendly as well, but of course it depends on the individual.  Saints are usually easy to come by via rescue group as well. 
 
My only thing with Goldens and Labs are the ability to fence jump and the energy level involved.  I don't think people realize how long a Lab can be active for in years!!  Again, depends on your lifestyle more than anything.  And, the height of your fence!