[Red Cabbage]

We had to put our most perfect dog to sleep a few months ago, and are just starting to consider a pup, but not sure what breed to go for. (we have a male amstaff x currently)

She was APBT, and obviously with BSL the way it is now, we can't consider another.

So, what we would like is, a dog which is likely to want to spend every spare minute with the kids (supervised of course), a dog which isn't too hyper, and can learn not to knock kids over, something that loves water possibly, walking, inside living (low shedding).

Any suggestions, where should we start?

[Oriental lily]

A standard poodle fits your requirements and for something a bit rarer a lagotto romagnollo.
The latter looks looks very similar to the many oodle crosses around but ethically bred and pure.

Or if you want to go the rescue look out for an oodle cross.

A greyhound also is a good fit but I know their not everyone's cup of tea in looks department.

This post has been edited by Oriental lily: 14/11/2012, 02:21 PM

[robot sm]

Have you thought about asking at your local animal shelters? I know people worry because you never know exactly what you'll end up with, but you should be able to spend some time with the dog, and bring your other dog in as well to meet them before committing to the adoption. We have a beautiful Kelpie x Rottweiler who is great with our friends' kids, loves to be patted and brushed, is very affectionate and also trained to do the usual sit, stay, drop, etc as well as to stay out of things that aren't hers (like the cat's bowl), wait before crossing the road (as we walk her to the park without a leash), and to come when called away from things. In some cases shelters have quite a bit of info on dogs that have come in, it's definitely worth a look!

[la di dah]

A lot of greyhounds I've met are a bit retiring and quiet, pleasant with kids but in that "okay go play I'll watch from where I'm perched over here..." way and not very into water.

Standard poodles seem to be a bit more extroverted? Or just the ones I've met anyway.

Personally I haven't yet decided between non-shedding (which has grooming needs and clipping) vs. smoothcoat that does shed but is less work. Indecisive me.

[jameses mum]

I had a mastiff x, he was the most gentle, sweet-natured dog I have ever known. Looked scary, but he was a delight and I miss him every day.

[The Old Bag]

Another staffy?

[Red Cabbage]

We want a puppy, and rescue is too hard with us being rural and far away from everything, they want to check yards etc. We'd prefer a pure bred puppy.

We're not convinced to go staffy again, and if we did it would be a papered dog due to BSL.