Help me find a dog breed that would be perfect for our family!

[Orange80]

In a couple of years, i'd really like to get a dog. I say in a couple of years, because I'd like my kids to be through their baby years first.

I'm obviously getting excitedly ahead of myself (!) but trying to work out which dog breed would suit us best.

Which breeds are good with young children?

We have a garden that is about 50ft (though we're also by two very big parks). I work from home so there'd be constant company and walls.

But I don't think a big dog would work for us. We have a typical london terrace house. Plus I am not a fan of shedding

My favourite breeds are either red setters or labradors, without knowing much about them except that they seem so loving and friendly. As a child we had Kings Charles spaniels.

Also: I grew up with dogs (as I mentioned) and love them. BUT I am a mega clean-a-holic. I can't stand dirt or smells. My husband says this makes me incompatible with dog ownership! Is that true? I hope not.

I second greyhounds. My parents have started a collection, most chilled out dogs ever.

They have one that was massively abused and therefore doesn't really like children or anyone except my dad but the other two without the horrible past are amazing with DC's of all ages (16-4 months DC and GC)

A greyhound! Cute, affectionate, lazy, big but folds up into an unbelievably small ball of woof.

Just to back up the foldy up-ness. My dad has a 5 seat Almera Tino (basically bigger then average but not huge). Last week he and my mam fit themselves, two teenagers, one toddler in a car seat, a schnauzer, a springer and 3 large greyhounds in said Almera to go on holiday.

It was quite a sight apparently.