Have to agree with everything above, and just add that you might want to avoid anything husky too! We have a beagle/husky pup (8 months old nearly), and we find that he's delightful, but aloof, likes to do his own thing (follow his nose to food mostly!), he's not big on cuddling (likes to be with you, but not ON you). He's also not reliable on his recall at the park, in the yard, or anywhere else, if there's a scent in the air.
I do think that there are many many puppies out there waiting for homes in shelters that you should take a look at. Don't discount "big" dogs out of hand, but just take a look through petfinder, or local shelters, and help save a puppy. A mutt/mongrel/mix is generally a great family pet.