Which breed? X breed, for children and cats??

Question:
 Hi, I am Suzie and new to the board, wonder if anyone can help us. We are looking to get a dog over the next few months, and wonder what breed (if any) people advise to join a family of four with two cats and a hamster?? We had a GSD before, he was lovely, but hubby doesnt really want such a big dog again. The children are 7 and 18 months. We live in a house, and exercise for the dog will not be a problem... Infact I have been having withdrawal symptoms from my daily run around the park ... counting squirrels!! Regards Suzie. Hope this isnt against the rules, but we have a website, recently started that has a lot of pet stuff, (metalware) please take a look www.hoardersworld.com
Answer:
 There is no ideal breed for children and cats. Many breds considered dangerous are actually quite good with kids and can be with cats as well. Many smaller breeds have higher to high energy requirements and may be more "hyper" than many giant breeds if they do not get the exercise and mental workouts needs. Many smaller breeds like terriers may not be suited for life with cats should the dog not be properly socialized to cats and view them as prey. Other terriers may be just fine. Some rescue greyhounds can be excellent with cats and greyhound rescue should be a consideration: they are not called 35 m.p.h. couch potatoes for nothing. Basically, you will get out of a dog what you put into it from choosing a reputable source, training, maintaining and socializing. Also for the kids - even the best dog in the workd can be pushed to a bite if the kids are not properly trained and supervised. I teach a dog safety program and most of the bites I have discussed with kids have been often the direct result of the manner in which the child handled the dog that bit it. Only one was from a loose dog that was going after kids. And I presented to several hundred children in 2003 alone... So, what are you willing to do in regards to: time the dog will be home alone during the day? time you can spend formally exercising the dog during the day (and this is walking, playing ball, training, etc and not just putting out in the backyard)? time you can devote to grooming and how much grooming are you willing to do? what are your kids like? can you and will you take the dog to a good training program? etc... The best dog is the one that will fit into the needs of your household and that you feel your house is ready for and not any one specific breed.
Answer:
 I can empathize with the grooming! My Great Pyr looks like something the cat dragged in right now. She is going through a daily brushing regimen and stripping out! And I have two Shelties and an Aussie Shep cross... OK, Have you considered a Bullmastiff (though they are drooly - but not as bad as a Mastiff - English type)? Some of the larger working breeds are actually more docile and easier to manage in some respects than the herding breeds. A Smooth Coated Collie may also be a consideration - Collies are often not as intense as some of the other herding breeds but can still go all day with you if needed and the long walks would be great. However, I find Collies actually easier to maintain than Shelties and other herding breeds. Since you have had experience with a tougehr breed for a novice dog owner to work with, you may be a good candidate for a Rottie (just choose the source well). Rotties are lovely dogs but make sure your homeowner's insurance does not have breed restrictions :(. Canaan Dogs may be another idea (if you can find one). And of course, never forget your local rescue. A good rescue will really work with you to find the right match of a dog unlike many pounds which may not even have an understanding of what various breeds require for management and care let alone matching to a good home. I really would give thought to a rescue greyhound.