Hello! I have done my research on most all dog breeds but I thought I would ask from some advice on what dog you think would be best for my family :)

I should probably start by saying I already have one dog, he is a Chihuahua/Yorkie mix but he's big for his breed, almost 15 pounds. Also, we have a 7 year old in the family and her and her friends are in and out a lot so my new dog must be good with kids. The new dog would be inside but taken on walks and exercised, but I do not have a big yard or much land so it can't be a super active dog. We want a bigger dog, but not to big, and this is where I ran into my problem. I have always wanted a German Shepherd but after I learned how big they can get, I wasn't as sure anymore. Then I thought maybe a German Shepherd mix of some kind so it wouldn't get so big, but I didn't know what mix would be best.. Again, I am not completely set on a German Shepherd, I just love those dogs :)

Any help will be much appreciated!
Thanks,
Jess

Great Danes are huge but adapt amazingly well to a cramped lifestyle. You do need to let them exercise when growing for proper bone and muscle growth, but they can actually do well in an apartment. They're good with kids as long as the kids don't try to saddle and ride them, too.

How do you feel about grooming?
I have miniature poodles and they are great dogs. Smart, friendly and very active, but also don't mind lounging about on the couch on lazy days. Mine are both asleep on the floor right now.

Downside to them is they do require regular clipping, but if you don't mind investing in a pair of clippers it's easy to do yourself. Mine don't get brushed very often, I just keep them clipped very short.