Hey Patrick,
I'm going to suggest a breed that many have not heard of, but being from the South, you may have.
Ever consider a Catahoula? Very well mannered dogs (past the puppy stage

). People pleasers, and very loyal. You just can't beat their personalities. They, like some others, can take a firm hand, but extrememly smart and affectionate. They are very active, but all of mine would find ways to entertain themselves (current one will grab a toy/stick and play by herself for hours)
I have had 4. 2 pures, 2 Cat/crosses. The first one I had to rehome because of school (he was a very good hog-dog and went to a hunting buddy, the next 2 were with me until death (14 and 11 yrs old), and my current one will be with me as long as she is alive (A few of the members here have met her). Even the crosses have exhibited the Catahoula behavior caracteristics.
I mention the crosses, because that's what you will mostly find in shelter / rescue situations.
I have a ton of stories about each dog, but one of the most memorable was my last one. One of the bad things about him, was that since my daughters were so young when I got him, he matured believing that I was the Alpha, and he was 2nd in command. If I wasn't home, he believed that he was in charge and wouldn't listen to my gf or my daughters.
However, on his own, he became one of the best guard dogs I've ever had. That's not what may immediately come to mind.....
Now, realize that I am NOT a dog trainer. I can train simple stuff, or even for sports events, but what he did was self taught.
If someone knocked on the door, or came onto the property while the girls were outside and I wasn't home, he would place himself between the stranger and my gf/daughters. He never barked or made a sound, unless the stranger would reach out,or try to get closer to them. Then, all he would do was a short, deep growl, and that was enough to give them a clue. According to my gf, he never showed teeth, or barked, or lunged, just the growl.
Unfortunately, I never got to witness this because if I was home, he considered his duties over, lol.
I know you didn't ask to hear all of this, but thanks for the chance to remember "Bruiser".
Check 'em out on the web. Very attractive dogs too.
My partner has a Basenji. They are small and don't have the ability to bark. Great for single people (content to lay around almost all day :smile

, but has issues with strangers and other animals. Not sure what your situation is, but could be a possibility.
If breed isn't real important, I'm a huge supporter of pound/shelter "mutts".
And this isn't for you, since you know better :wink:, but for the unsuspecting dog novice who may be considering a new family member,
NEVER buy from a Pet Store

!! Disaster waiting to happen :frown1: