Yes, I'm glad to hear differing opinions! We're keeping our options open but leaning toward a purebred waterdog of some sort. I'm sure I'll be back later with questions about how to integrate a new puppy in to a home life ruled by a cat (and with an African basenji in the mix)... :)
@AJs:
See, Dan? First you tick everybody off, now you make everybody cry.
But you're still not getting off the hook that easy. You will NOT be banned and in fact will be required to stay. :D
What?! That's it I'm going back to my stupid jokes!
That is a happy ending! My SIL's boxer ran out the door one Christmas morning at the other SIL's house. We all watched in horror as she dashed into the street and ran INTO an car. She bounced off the passenger door, and seemed completely unphased!