I second Prof M's sentiments....dogs require a lot of care and stimulation especially when they are young. Cats could care less if you're there or not.
But if you decide to go ahead with a dog, If you are planning a family you need to look at breeds that are known to be good with kids. German Shepards and Labs pop into my mind as great family dogs.
Nothing would suck more than getting attached to a dog then having kids and finding they can't co-exist
Dalmations, Chows and Huskies are not know to be very kid friendly.
Stay away from dogs that you can put through the Uprights...remember you have to be seen walking them
