which breed for my family?

Question
hi, We have 2 children, nearly 5 and nearly 9. I have never had a dog bfore, but my husband grew up with german shepherds. I dont want a GSD as they shed way too much! My husband doesnt want a wimpy 'poodly' type dog ie Bichon Frise etc, as he would feel silly walking it! I want something that will not shed constantly or excessively, twice a yr is ok. Something that will be great with the kids, be company for me all day, and keep my husband happy! I dont want a tiny dog, nor a giant dog. we have a 155' garden, and live near the woods/fields etc. Am wary of a Staffordshire Bull terrier, incase they are too strong for me to control? and would prefer something 'cuter'
Ideally, something that can travel in the car with us.
Any suggestions! please?

Answer
Well, I am very prejudiced, but in the interest of fairness, I also had my 30-something daughter read your question, and her immediate response matched mine: "It sounds like a schnauzer!" *G*

You might want to take a serious look at miniature schnauzers. Their shedding is minimal, and if you keep them groomed and brushed out, you will NOT find any hair. They are also hypoallergenic for most people with allergies (which we have in this house). Schnauzers are very intelligent, and have a unique personality which is quite impossible to describe to someone who has never been around one; many of them quite literally carry on conversations with their owners, and I have heard of several who know the names of each of their toys. They should be 12-14" at the shoulder (about 12-20#), but some will go larger and some a bit smaller. Along the way, someone forgot to tell these dogs that they are *NOT* 500# dogs, and I think your husband will like that*G*. They really are a big dog in a small package! (By the way, my breed before this one was also GSD...)

There are several good places on the 'net to read up on schnauzers, and if you do decide on a schnauzer for your new family member, *PLEASE* buy from a reputable breeder as there are a slew of bad breeders out there in this breed.

http://members.aol.com/msbritmor/index.html

http://aimoo.com/forum/freeboard.cfm?id=471047