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
I would say a good mid size dog could be a standard Schnauzer. These dogs are quite smart and very easily trained. They dont shed but they do require exstansive grooming in the way of stripping or clipping. Most pet owners opt for clipping as it takes less time and work. Staffys are awesome family pets and a very cuddly dog. I recently met with a breeder who had puppies(all spoken for) and I had my year old son with me. The dogs (a male and female-mom) let my son coddle them and play with the pups. They let him right into their crates with him and take toys right from thier mouth. Of course with any breed you must be smart and NEVER let children around dogs unsupervised. The staffys were living in an apartment with their one owner and she worked all day. Yet they were happy with minimal walks. And any dog will be easy to control as long as they are trained correctly. This means no harsh methods. Both these breeds are wonderful dogs who need stimulation and training in order to thrive. And any dog can be a wonderful travel companion, as long as they are used to it. They should always be restrained in a crate or with a doggy seatbelt. This is to ensure their safety and yours, in case you are in an accident they dont fly around the vehichle possibly injuring someone.

Again almost any breed from a repuatable breeder can be good with your family, as long as your willing to train and socialize. And make sure your kids are good around dogs. Do they know how to behave around them, not to tease, be harsh, or let the dog walk all over them. You and your family must be firm and consistant when traing a dog, at any age.

I also highly reccomend looking for a rescue dog. You know what they are like already, you don't have to housetrain, and they are usually cheaper than anywhere else. Of course if you want a puppy, look for a good, repuatable breeder. I wish you luck on your endevor. If you need any more help, say how to find a good breeder, just ask. --Emily