One of the best breeds has to be the Silky Terrier. I have had two and they are great with kids and very loyal to their family. Plus they are very intelligent and can do any tricks they want to learn. Great dogs!!
I also go for the mutts. My inlaws have a half daschhound half rottwieler and that was the sweetest dog on earth!! she looked like a rott. but had short legs and a long body like the dasch. Weird but sweet dog!!