Never owned a dog...which breeds should I consider

Definitely get a rescue dog. I would recommend a boxer. I have a 5yr old and a 6month old, they get along great with my 5 year old niece they love going bye bye and for walks. My 5yr old doesn't bark unless the other two get her going. She has a very fine coat too. Make sure if you do adopt go there more than once and visit the dog you think you want to get. Take them for walks at the shelter and have your kids come. Make sure you are ready for another kid too!! Good luck!

hsavill, just an FYI in most cases short haired dogs shed a lot more than long haired dogs. The OP is in the states & as I said previously, staff's are considered pits for insurance & BSL purposes. Most say pit bull & any pit bull type/looking dogs.

Thanks again everyone for your input. I have not been to the local shelter yet. How do I know what kind of behavioral problems a dog may have? Never having owned a dog I would not be sure what to do without lots more reading! I have another question, I have a "common area" backed up to my backyard, we have a required 2 rail fence 36 inches high. Per the neighborhood rules we can put chicken wire up to 48" high along the fence for kids and animals safety, how concerned should I be about a dog jumping the fence? Someone suggested a boxer but I've heard they like to jump.... Getting a little closer to understanding all my options....