I would go to a shelter and get myself a shepherd mix, preferably a female. Also, preferably an adult dog. Shepherd mixes can come in a variety of sizes/energy levels.

Since I personally think it's mean to keep a highly social animal alone while you are at work, you might want to consider two dogs or a dog and a cat. They can be company for each other while you are gone.

A small yappy dog combined with a larger dog often keep most people from bothering your home.

I have a shepherd mix who is a total sweetheart, but who has the great deep alert bark. She is a "watch" dog, but a good one. She does need other dogs as well as people, so I have more than one dog and I take her to a dog park.

Whatever you do, you need to give your dog 100 kisses a day, good food, good vet care and enough exercise.

Good luck.

If you decide on a Jack Russell/Parson Russell Terrier please contact me privately. I can help you with more information regarding the breed. And I can help you with a puppy or a rescue. They are great big dogs in little bodies. They are loyal companions, and fearless to a fault. But not always the breed for everyone.