The problem with labs at least in what iv’e seen is they tend to be hyperactive or extremely lazy. Iv’e yet to come across a middle ground. Fabulous dogs though.
I just got an Alaskan Malumite. Not sure what to make of her yet though, extremely quiet dog. They grow up to look like wolves.
I had a lab/shepherd mix growing up. Great dog. Very protective of me and my sisters, but gentle as could be with us and our friends, unless you bothered him while he was eating. Excellent theft deterent as well.
Had an Alaskan Husky as a teen and young adult. Also a great dog, but very independent and a bit too intelligent. Also very high energy dogs who need to run.
I had a german shepherd growing up as a kid (and 2 black labs). The shepherd (we called him raja) was really playful and gentle to my sister. I used to get him fired up so he got a little rough but never enough to cause any harm. They are extremely protective, he bit one of my friends during a wreslting match.
My uncle has two, expensive, american boxers which are sights to see.
Hunting stock beagles aren’t little lap dogs. But yeah, there still is a considerable size difference. I honestly don’t know… I didn’t meet the parents.
I will probably get a rott or a bich poo depending how much space I have. I grew up with a beagle and my parents have a jack russell and a maltese now.
Someone mentioned Ridgebacks - very cool dogs. My favorite is the Viszla (my next dog) followed closely by Weimeraners. I’m an active person and all three of these breeds fit that lifestyle.