Boxer, all the way man. I have had boxers my whole life. You'll never find a better friend. A good boxer wont break your bank either avg @ $600 on high end. They are smart and very easy to train. They do need alot of exercise though. you will never find a story of a boxer that bit or attacked a kid. Good Luck you'll love them!

Boxers are awesome family dogs, not too large and they usually have their tails docked, so they don't knock shit over. They have fine hair that thickens when the season changes, so they love the snow, im not sure how a Ridgeback would do in the cold, since they were designed for the African climate. Just make sure you get a puppy from a reputable breeder with paperwork and a kennel registration. You can see were the dog's genetics come from, and will usually not have hidden heath problems that shady breeders or pet shops try to hide. I have had my Boxer for 9 years and he has not had any major health problems, I was able to see his mother and grandmother before I purchased him. They looked completely healthy, and the breeders were recommended to us, which helped us commit to the decision. I hope you can find a good dog no matter what breed you choose, you will have this dog for years, so it is ok to be picky.

I have a friend with Ridgeback- he's a really nice animal, but not well-suited for life in an apartment. You're going to need to focus on breeds that are smaller/ dont mind being couped up during the day assuming you're gone off to work then.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are very hyperactive breeds. So if you have small children not necessarily the best choice not because they are mean or aggressive. But the will jump all over the place. Boxers are nice but they are in some cases predisposed to getting cancer. I am a pitbull lover myself my wife and I rescue them when we can from the kill shelters retrain them and place them. Some of the most loyal, affectionate self controlled dogs that I have every owned with. The ones we kept have been great with my 6 year old. Also Alapaha Bulldogs, very family oriented, but like bodybuilder said below these bull breeds you have to exercise. Honestly you will know when you see the dog it is not so much the breed imo as it is the bond that you sense.

I'd go with ol' reliable.... A mutt! Preferably still young! There are very good choices at rescue shelters. You'd be doing a kindness and gaining a best friend that will love you unconditionally. At least go check em' out and you might not make it out of there by yourself!!!

Rhodesians are the Navy seals of the dog world very high endurance, very high energy and need lots of space and exercise. Carl Lewis had some to take running with him if that tells you anything. They also have a high prey and defense drive which means the can be aggressive. They were bread specifically for the African Sahara to hunt lions. They were designed to run for long distances without tiring. They are a great breed but need lots of attention and exercise or they become destructive.

I think you should do a lot of research before you make a decision.. and base your decision not only on aesthetics but on how well the dog fits into your lifestyle .... google the breeds .. talk to some breeders and owners ... visits some breeders and play with meet the dogs.. do it more than once..

i have a 19 year old chiauaua is that how you spell it?

Bull terrier bro, just got to make sure they get enough exercise.