I have my son's dog a lot. Her name is Zoe. A short name is best although two syllables is ok. I had a dog once I named Idot which he was. I like girl dogs now as when spayed they aren't trying to get out of the house or aggressive.
She's a Boxer and they are terrific and my first view of the breed.
I don't want one myself as I may not outlive it or it may not outlive me which are both bad. If I were to get a dog then I'd get one who didn't shed. A GoldenDoodle, standard poodle, LabraDoodle or the like are great. Get good genes. Boxers and some breeds have shorter lifespans and some breeds also have too many genetic problems.
You should also consider adopting a working dog as they are well trained and have great temperments. I'm talking about a service dog here not a cattle dog.
You can also rescue an unwanted dog. Find one you like who appears interested in you and appears to have a good temperament. You cannot change a dog's temperament only work with it. Also a mutt is a hybrid which generally have hybrid vigor and less genetic problems than some breeds. Ask the kennel workers who thy like.
Finally, if you get a purebred dog then buy from a kennel that actually really has a great rep and can furnish you with an animal that is more likely than not to not have some genetic disorders. You probably don't need a potential champion but you can get a very good dog. Also, look for longer lived breeds and stay away from high energy, high demand, and potentially aggressive dogs. There are some breeds that bite more. I'd stay away from true working dogs like Malamutes, Huskies, cattle/sheep dogs yada. They need to work. Some breeds must be exercised vigilantly daily or they are a big problem. A Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a great looking dog but too much energy and has to be worked.
Good genes, good breeds, good temperament and house, people, other dogs, and esp children friendly.
