I want a happy-go-lucky dog. What kind of breed should I look for?

[bigschweeler]

I still say Brittany. It fits all of your criteria - between 30-40 pounds, a hunting dog so it has the stamina to keep up with you on hikes, intelligent and a flat coat.

 

[bigschweeler]

boxer

females 45-60lb
males 50-75lbs

these dogs have the absolute best personality ever..

no "killer instinct" and no reason to ever worry about them with your kids..

not annoying at all.. i.e. jack russell

available in brindle, reverse brindle, fawn, white short hair

athletic as hell..

not the smartest dog.. but capable of learning enough tricks to keep them fun..

Yeah but they're droolers! They're cool dogs, but I don't want dog drool all over the house.

 

[amaritto]

Yeah but they're droolers! They're cool dogs, but I don't want dog drool all over the house.

And they can become BIG dogs. My cousins is lean as fuck and still weights 85+.

 

[Norman Bates]

Golden Retriever, not my kind of dog but i heard he get´s along good with kids and is really cute.
But likes water... sounds like a mess if you live next to a river.

 

[HappyScrappy]

douschounds (sp?) are cool dogs - some are nuts, some aren't... all of the wirehaired and all of the red head ones that I've ever "known" (maybe 5 of each) were totally insane - but the traditional short hair dark coat ones are very sweet and nice dogs and great for apts b/c they can get all their exercise in small walks or even aroudn the apt and they are too small to leave too massive a dump.

either that or a bull mastiff.

 

[TheProject]

I had a Keeshond for 13 years. Great dog. Perhaps not the smartest of breeds, but he wasn't stupid either. The breed is known for their pleasant demeanor and are good with kids. As far as other dogs, I never had any problems, but I think that varies from dog to dog. He was about 40-45 lbs at his peak, and stayed pretty healthy up until his last year.

The only one of your criteria the breed doesn't meet is the fur. Keeshonds are long haired dogs, but look decent if you have their fur clipped short.

 

[amaritto]

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a medium-size, versatile sporting dog. He is also an even-tempered and loyal family watchdog and companion. His endurance, intelligence, and nobility are reflected in his handsome appearance: a deep chest, smooth pace, and dignified expression.

The American Staffordshire Terrier was once considered an "all-American" dog. In fact, in World War I an AmStaf named Stubby earned the rank of sergeant and was the most decorated dog of the war.

While very loving toward his family, the Shar-Pei has an independent nature. He may seem uninterested in other people around him and cautious with other animals. Because he is able to think for himself, obedience training requires a strong and patient person. This is a serious and dignified dog.

 

[frorider6]

I don't mind a little craziness in a dog as long as they love everyone. I've been around too many dogs that have "problems". Can't stand them.

I just want a cool compact sweet dog that I can take places without worrying about her running off or getting in a fight.

 

[crimson coal]

I would say a Lab or a retriever. All around good family dogs.

 

[frorider6]

I guess I didn't make it clear. I'm going to get a pound dog, which means a mix. I don't think I'll find many of the exotic breeds.