[Jenn218]

I have had labs all my life and when well trained they are not as hyper as you think. I currently have Luke who is over 100lbs and is a HUGE baby...loves to be loved on and loves the little ones.
We have Sophie who is a rescued German Shepard and she was so abused, it was horrible. We have had her for 3 years or so (I can't really remember) and we have worked w/ her...and she has become a wonderful dog...she is like the "mother" to them all. So, I really think German Shepards are good too.
We have Rusty (yellow lab) that we "rescued" from our neighbors...he was mistreated as well...and he isn't fixed like the other ones......and he is the hardest one of them all to train and "reteach". BUT, with time and love, he will get there (and getting fixed...that seems to help).

Growing up, we had a cocker spaniel and she was one of the best dogs we had growing up...I think she was the only dog we didn't rescue from the pound.

For a brief time, I had rescued a sickly Shih-tzu (my big heart thinking I could make him all better)....and he was the braviest and most loving little guy....even thru all of his suffering...I think they are a great breed.

I haven't personally known anyone w/ a Maltese...but I have known several w/ poodles....they are great dogs too........but I honestly think it is all in how they are raised and treated...I think that is one big factor as to how they will act.

Are you thinking of getting a new dog???