Ok, you have all had your say. Now let me solve the problem. You should get a rough collie....a Lassie Dog. They do come in a variety of sizes. I have the large one and she weighs about 65 pounds.
First, every kid should have a dog. My dad bought me a collie when I was about seven. I slept with that dog for about a week. We became inseparable. I had her for grade school, jr. High and all of high school. What you really should consider, given the temperament of your kids what is the best dog to make memories with.
I have had cockers, German shepherds, mutts and border collies.
For twenty plus years, while ranching, I bred, raised and trained border collies. Without question they are the smartest bred and by no small measure. I disappointed a lot of city folk because I would not sell a border collie to them. Yes, I know you are a jogger. Border collies need more of a challenge than running in a straight line. They need a job, challenges and variety. Great dogs and I miss them all. A year ago our last border collie from my ranching days died. I did not consider getting another one because I don't have a cow herd anymore. This, I would not qualify.
Little jappy dogs drive me nuts. I recalled my collie and started looking. To my surprise, there are not that many breeders in Texas. Texas has a lot of border collie and gr. Shepherd breeders. The few collie breeders were raising show dogs and I did not need a show dog. The bred is a true companion dog. They have enough energy to keep up with kids and to entertain them. They have no odor. Very smart and affectionate. Plus they are beautiful. People frequently stop me just to get a closer look or to pet her. I know there are some nice looking breeds out there. But when I bring her to Petco, all eyes are on her.
Let's talk about shedding. Do not be mislead. Single coated short haired dogs shed. A friend has a shepherd and a golden retriever that keep his floors dusted with hair all the time. A collie is double coated, as are the border collies. She is a long haired dog and admittedly when she has her annual shedding you could build a small pony. However, she does not shed much the rest of the year. If you are willing to wait a hour or so for your wife to put her lips on, a two week shedding is not much of a hill to climb.
Dog hair can always be an issue. Go to a beauty supply store.....I know you have been there. They have a machine that sucks up hair. You sweep it up and put it in front of this contraption, hit a button and it sucks it up. My friend with the two dogs finally got one and it made things easier. I have not because the problem covers such a short time span.
If you are interested in a collie. Look up Colleycollies. They are outside Little Rock. Her website is very good and has a thorough discussion about the breed and is very helpful. That is where I got our dog and I am very pleased.
Dogs complete us. Hope this helps.