I love German Shepherds, but I have seen to many end up with hip problems. I considered getting a Belgian Shepherd, but worried about hip dysplasia in them too. The best family dog in my opinion is the Golden Retrievers, but they are too big for what you are looking for. With that said, the only option is to get an Australian Shepherd :D . Medium sized, smarter than 7th grader, very loyal, protective, easily trained, energetic (good and bad), can smile, a true blue USA breed! And yes, this is a biased opinion. :brows: