I am looking to get a pet finally, want a dog. Don't want a pocketbook dog, don't want a huge one either.

Prefer dog to be mild mannered and social.

Any suggestions?

Am looking into an American bulldog/boxer mix - any advice?

Get a rescue pup! Actually, a grown dog would be better. Already house-broken and trained, or partially trained. A grown dog will love you just like a pup.

Anway the rescue folks have all breeds and even mixed breeds.

<-------best dog ever but, at 168lbs he may a bit bigger than you would like...

Thanks Junie, that's where I'm looking.

KC great dog but yes it's a big large for my taste.

What breeds/types (even if mixed) are good house dogs?

Frannie,

here is a link that might help you

http://www.justdogbreeds.com/dog-breeds.html

I think the mixed-breed dogs have some of the hyper bred out of them. It is kind of a crap shoot as to what will work for you. It depends on your personality and the dog's personality. You might even have to "try out" a dog. It sounds kinda cruel but better to acknowledge that a dog isn't a "fit" for you than regret getting the wrong dog.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portuguese_Water_Dog

that's my fear making the wrong choice.

short list of requirements:

short haired (I have allergies)
medium sized dog (live in townhome)
not an overly aggressive dog
nor a lap dog

confusing you yet?

There are a number of good breeds out there. Get yourself a dog book and read up on them. A bulldog boxer mix does not sound like a good choice for a first time dog owner. Mix breeds can be great. I have had a few of them. Dogs from the pound can also be a crap shoot. You don't really know their history or any behavior problems they may have developed. If you go for a pure breed dog make very sure you get it from a reputable breeder. Go to dog shows and talk to local dog clubs for information on breeders and possible puppies.

Thanks have been researching online but thought it could also help for feedback from previous or present dog owners.

What dog would you recommend for a first time dog owner? Your opinion.

Sounds like a yellow lab I once owned...best dog I have ever had!

cocker spaniel

what about a Border Collie?they're very smart and i haven't known many that were aggressive

short haired best for me (allergies)

aah ok.i'd go with a Boxer.when my Rat Terrier finally dies,that'll be my next breed of dog

You have to form your own opinion. It's going to be your dog after all. I would stay away from any of the highly active breeds, terriers, border collies, pit bulls, the new must have breeds. Hounds are usually pretty laid back but most grow fairly large. Mixed breeds can be a good choice. There are some tests you can do with a young pup to test his personality. After that it all depends on you and how you bring him up. Like I said go to some dog shows and see what appeals to you. When you do get a puppy make sure and take it to some training classes. This will not only help you train the dog but will also help socialize him as well.

Dachshund

Hungarian Vizsla

Had one. Great dog, excellent swimmer, good hunter. But rather large and hated people.

Rescue dogs seem to know you're their last chance, and seem grateful and loyal more than other dogs. JMO.. Alot of breed dogs have been inbred so much that they can be neurotic, or a little dum. Poor things. Please make sure, whatever you get- that you take it out for exercise- walking daily. I live in a townhome and many other people have all size dogs that never get out. Even regular homes. I have a friend that is sverely disabled and her dog runs out the front door every chance he gets because he needs exercise and exposure to the outside world, he's a great dog otherwise. She even asked me to switch my little one for him, poor baby (both of them).
Is this your first dog?