HAve you tried Golden Rescue?

Golden Retreiver Rescue of Wis (GRROW) is a great organization and they have lots of wonderful dogs. I have worked with them, and they will work with YOU to find a 'match' for your household.

http://www.grrow.org

I wouldn't write off ALL goldens as being too 'mellow' - esp if you look at a golden mix. They also adore being outdoors and they love water.

Take a look at the sweet and spunky boy we just lost -
Tristan -

http://groups.msn.com/TristansPlace/pictures

We adopted Tristan from Rescue here in Illinois - and he was a golden/ chesapeake bay retreiver mix. I have also seen many other golden mixes - generally they seem to retain that wonderful easy, outgoing temperment of the golden, while pulling the better traits of other breeds.

Tristan was a great ambassadoor for rescue - as he charmed everyone he ever met. He wasn't formally trained, but we could take him anywhere, under any conditions, and he just took it all in stride. He was the mascot of our boy scout troop, and often went with us camping, canoeing, swimming, to fund raisers, parades - you name it, he went.

Sadly, Tristan had Lymphoma, and he died a month ago. there will never be another one just like Tristan - but I see his 'attitude' in alot of Goldens, chessies, and labs.

Pits ARE a nice breed - and individually, they are loving, charming and loyal. however, alot of people are (unreasonably) fearful of them, and if you are going to be taking the dog with you lots of places, it is a consideration.

whatever you choose, good luck in your search - I'm sure some lucky dog will find you!

laura