breed

[angelbow20]

i would say golden retreivers i have 2 and they are very active and smart and great dogs...they are so freindly. my 3 yr old son can lay on top of my male golden and he never once growled or barked at him and the other is sooo active and loves to play fetch and loves balls and running.

[Suki Wingy]

I'm thinking you want to look in the herding (pastoral) group and Sporting group. Just to name one, Bouvier des Flandres are very good dogs, a good deal of grooming is required though. Vizslas also come to mind.

[Genny]

What about a collie? They are herding dogs, and are active, but can also be very sweet and calm.

[*iluvskipper*]

well even tho goldens are usually a little bit bigger than what you're looking for, i think that a golden retriever would definately be one to think about