A Dog Question

[nikuman]

Sorry to interrupt the more serious regularly schedule programming, but I am looking for some advice on dogs. Many of you know that we lost a daughter a while back, and it's been hard - like you'd expect - on my second oldest daughter, who was about a year and a half younger.

So we're looking at getting a dog to at least help with the companionship part of the deal. Here's some info:

1. We need at least a medium sized dog. No dachshunds, etc.

2. We have a high aversion to shedding.

3. Normal backyard, but my wife would probably go jogging with it.

4. Small kids abound, so nothing mean (although big is okay).

5. Could be both an indoor or outdoor dog.

We're looking, preliminarily (and I realize that this represents two nearly opposite ends of the size spectrum) at either a beagle or a Great Dane. Any other breeds we should consider? Or any inputs on the two I listed? We plan to raise it from a puppy, prefer a neutered male, willing to pay for obedience school, etc.