I have to agree with you, there are breeds of dog which are great for living with families and retreivers are some of those, and there are working dogs.
I know the dogs currently in my family are a breed that have been bred as lap dogs since ancient times in China and you can see it in their behavior. Yes they get excited when "visitors" come around but as for biting "never". Although that said even a pug running to wards a child to give them a 'kiss" can be frightening to the child and may even knock a young child off their feet.
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I also have a long time friend who breeds security dogs. She will not sell to anyone who doesn't have a security licence and a need for a security animal.
It is all in being a responsible animal owner and/or breeder, and having breeds appropriate to one's need.