I see your boxer and raise you one shepherd, sir!



Unfortunately that is a constant shed-machine and makes my dad sneeze like crazy, so probably not a good idea if you have terrible allergies.

Ontopic! Do you mind the prey drive / crazy noses of hunting breeds? Springer Spaniels are pretty, and all the ones I've met have been very friendly. My grandma used to have one and he was a completely lazy rug in the house, but perked right up and was ready to romp around as soon as he got outside. The coat needs fairly regular maintenance, however.