RE: Outside dog
I agree that a dog can be kept outoors and be happy. However, no dog can be kept outdoors and FORGOTTEN most of the day and be kept happy!
I like my dogs in the house. I think it makes for a calmer, more mentally stable, animal. Dogs left alone all day in a kennel tend to get a little on the neurotic side.They are pack animals, and I believe it is kinda unfair to keep one all by itslef for 20 hours out of the day.
Along those lines, if you give the dog proper shelter, exercise, and training, get whatever breed you like.