I just got my first poodle in March and I am now a poodle addict I would recommend one strongly. Mine happens to be very submissive but I have also known some more dominant poodles. If you got a puppy though, he/she would grow up knowing Rocky is top dog and there shouldn't be a problem. If you wanted a bigger dog, you could go for a standard poodle. Pam has one and I'm sure she'll agree they're wonderful dogs. There are poodle rescues but I doubt you'd find a puppy in one. Let us know what you decide.