Getting my first dog. Help!

Question
Hey,

Recently my mother has decided that to try and fill the empty feeling in the house, we should get a dog(we already have a guinea pig).
Of course my younger brother(8 years) and myself(16 years) are happy because before we got our guinea pig we always wanted a dog. Now my mother is going to be working part time, it is possible. Now all we are have to do is think of what type of breed to get. We live in terrace house and have a small garden, however we have access to very large forests just 5 min away. We need a dog which can be alone for roughly 6 hrs a day and is friendly.
We have been to various web sites but have come up inconclusive. We need any tips that you could give regarding choosing a dog and any breeds you may suggest.
Thanks
Alice

Answer
Hello Alice;
I am happy to hear that you are thinking ahead! Before you buy a dog...you will need to figure out where he or she will be for the time during your school/work schedule...
So many bad habits start from being alone...and rather, would your Mom consider two smaller dogs...let's say dachshunds that will keep each other company, and not be such a lot of care!
And also, if you get a dog that is going to be in a small everyday area, I would go for a low energy dog, like clumber spaniel, or standard Poodle may be good...or a basset hound?
These are medium size dogs, and will be able to work with a smaller yard, and less energy to run all day!
These are also very friendly dogs, and the Poodle is a great Watch dog!
Let me know what you think!
Best regards,
Melissa