My favorites are huskies—Siberian, Alaskan, Malamute (yes those are two different breeds)—and samoyeds. I used to have a lot of huskies, and they certainly don't let you slide. If you're not a strong leader, you get led. Samoyeds are just so good natured, though. To be honest, the ones I've had were not too bright, but loyal and affectionate. We currently don't have a dog, but if we ever did get another, I'd go samoyed or samo-mix.
Not a fan of golden retrievers. I do like short-furred labradors (the otter-tail ones, not the feathered-tail ones): all around solid companions for the outdoor type.
I have no truck with frou-frou dogs.