DOGS!
I enjoy dogs if they are polite (don't sniff "places"), keep all four feet on the ground, don't bark a lot, don't slobber everywhere and can appreciate friendly behavior without becoming wild. Essentially, I like well trained dogs. It takes a lot of work to get one of those, and money, too. I'm also a BIG dog person. If it doesn't weigh 100 lbs, it's TOO small!
I used to work in a store called Premium Pet (in CA only). It was a lot like Petsmart, and just as big. We had dogs come in all the time, so I got my fair share of exposure to all sorts of different kinds. Helped me figure out what I liked and didn't like. This is my list of dogs I LIKED!
Breeds I like and links if there are any. (happy often means a little hyper or energetic)
Where are Labradors and Golden retrievers? They aren't on my list of dogs I like because nearly every one I have ever met (and that is a big number, I'm sure-quite popular breeds) were hyperactive, jumping up all over the place, and taking my hand off when I gave them treats. YES this is a handling/training issue, but many breeds didn't act like that even with little training-and those are the ones I'll gravitate towards. The leonburger is the most incredible dog I've ever met. A puppy of barely 5 months (about the size of a golden) will simply sit and wait while the owner talks. It will take treats gently and quietly, and likes attention, but isn't bounding all over to get it. I haven't met many of those, but they were all incredible! I do like and have met plenty of good Labs and Goldens. My inlaws own a golden, in fact, and she's quite sweet and calm. However, basing it on the "average" of what I seen (I'd say at least 80-90%) they were both far too hyper breeds for me.
A COMMON MISNOMER
Pit Bulls have unfairly been given a bad wrap. (Staffordshire bull terrier is what I BELIEVE what they're called) I met a lot of pitbulls, in the store and on the streets. They all greeted me with friendliness and never ever showed an ounce of aggression. In fact, I'd argue the ones I saw didn't have a mean bone in their body! I don't believe any dog is mean simply because of what breed it is (Some may have that tendency more than others). Pit bulls are often misused and abused. Ill treatment will make a bad dog out of any breed. Some need to be cared for more carefully. Generally, they are great dogs. I love them and don't hesitate to approach the owner to ask to pet one. (Always ask first, of course!) They need great owners, like any breed, and will grow up according to the treatment they receive.
LINKS!