I need some help finding a good breed

[MagicMindy]

I haven't had a dog in years and I've been missing having one around. I think it's time to take the leap and get one. I'm looking for a dog with a moderate activity level, maybe even a low one. I like to get out for a couple walks a day, maybe for about twenty minutes each time. I have a decent-sized backyard they could run around in during the day. My other requirements:

- Good with children
- Minimal shedding (Although I'm fine with taking them to the groomer often if that really helps with the shedding)
- Not a toy dog
- Easy to housetrain
- No aggressive breeds (Unfortunately, almost all of the rescue dogs in my area are mixed with a breed that's considered aggressive. I know there's a stigma attached to some breeds that might not be deserved, but I'm not willing to risk it around my small grandchildren.)

Does anyone have any suggestions?

[Kidless]

Have you looked at the Australian Shepherd?  I know they are good with children and will keep them herded up.  They are a good natured dog and I think they are beautiful.

[Treasure]

Australian shepherds are so pretty, and I've heard that they're good with kids too. I think with that breed it would be ideal to get one that is out of the puppy phase because they do have a lot of energy. They're easy to train too. However, there will be some shedding. You can keep their hair cut short though to keep it to a minimum. If shedding weren't an issue, I'd say go for a collie because they are like the other herding dogs, but their energy levels are a bit lower.

[haidyl]

Have you heard of the Boxer breed whose origin is Germany? They love playful interaction, have a love for children and are generally a people-oriented breed.

[MagicMindy]

Thank you so much for all of your suggestions! I love australian shepherds and border collies. We had a border collie growing up. However, like Treasure said, they're very high energy. I'm not sure I have enough space or energy to keep up with them. A collie might be a good compromise but, goodness, I don't know if I could deal with all of that hair! I hadn't considered a boxer, Haidyl. I'll have to look into them! Have you had one before?