Sometimes a “good old mutt” from the pound will surprise you, I am in Southern California and we can go on line to see who is in the pound. I too lost my babies, all 3 in a nine month period of time, they were 16 and 17 years old. I too will start looking for a new dog, I agree with you no terriors, too hyper. Protection is what I miss, if someone walks up my driveway I use to hear about it. My boy Buddy was a Rott Husky mix 120 pounds and a real love, I would love to find another like him. Have you thought about a lab, or is that too big for you? a boxer mix is a good dog. There are retired police or rescue dogs you might like to check into. Would love to know what you end up getting.,