What would be a good dog for first time owners?

Are you just getting the dogs because they look cute or have your researched their breed characteristics and needs? My daughter is in high school and their honors english teacher made them do a research paper on a breed of dog and what they are like and their needs. My daugher thought she wanted a papillion before she did the project and changed her mind once she found out more about the breed. Maybe they would be good for you though. Do you know their good points and bad points? Do you know what the perfect dog for you should act like? How much exercise would you be willing to give them? Do you like a hyper busy dog or a softer lower energy dog? How much barking can you tolerate? Do you want a dog that is a guard dog, a watchdog or a dog who loves everyone? There are many good websites including one called "How to Buy a Good Dog" that review breed characteristics. Don't buy a dog based only on what he looks like, learn what the breed typically acts like.