We used to have a dog. Not sure what she was, but we knew that she had some Chocolate Lab and I think some Husky in her. Named her "Socks," because her paws were white while the rest of her was dark. Very fluffy, soft fur, but all that needed to be done with it was the occasional trim and comb-through.
She was the friendliest, gentlest creature that I've ever had the pleasure of meeting, I think. Very good with kids. Would go chasing after a thrown treat, and them come running back with her tongue hanging out and her tail wagging.
We had to have her put down because she was getting old and her bowels were getting dysfunctional, among other things.
I like cats, but I prefer dogs. If I were to get a cat, I would get a few barnyard kitties to eat the mice, and wouldn't keep them indoors all the time like some people do. Maybe on the really cold nights, but if it responds to cuddle attempts with hissing, scratching, and general kvetching, then it's not living in my house as a pet.