Reply #8: How about a rescued Akita?

[scucci]

They are extremely loving and loyal. You have to have a very firm voice when training but they do learn and do not forget what they are taught. They should never be trained as guard dogs because they are that way naturally. We've had our baby for a few years and have never had a problem. She's great about doing her business outside but she's primarily an indoor doggy. She wants to be with us all the time. They are extremely sweet and intelligent animals. They're just a big cuddly bears really when they are properly trained. The only downside is that they are BIG. The breeds you're looking at are small in comparison.

Just trying to give you some ideas. Check out this site for more info. :)

http://www.akitarescue.org/