Apologies to Melanie, but Chows are on the list of breeds I wouldn't own. Too much hair, and when we're talking about the ones that have all the heavy wrinkles and poof around their face, I find them hard to read. I also prefer a dog that is actively outgoing. (The hair and reserved personality are also the reasons I opted not to go with Akitas, even though I like that breed a lot.)
My short list that sadly rules out much of the canine kingdom:
Chows, Sammies, Poms -- too much hair
Chis, Affens, Tibbie Spaniels, MinPins, any breed under 30 lbs -- too small, also dislike bulging eyes
Danes, Mastiffs, Swissies, anything over 80 lbs -- too big
E. Bulldogs, Pugs, Frenchies -- don't like facial wrinkles
Coonhounds, Beagles, Bassets -- too vocal
Labs, Goldens, Cockers -- too PC (yes, I said that)
Wire-haired terrier breeds -- not down with hand-stripping
Most livestock guardian breeds -- always been fascinated with Anatolians, but like my dogs outgoing
Poodles, Bichons -- Curly hair nice to touch, but not for me