Well, our little #6 Sheltie sure outshines the next door neighbour's #92 ranked Beagles. Perfect pooch for this family, and the kids love her. The only downside would be the lack of 'asertiveness'. (Mostly, she can be suprisingly savage when need be, which is nice.) When they describe the breed as, "Eager to please", they ain't kidding!
If you're looking for a good family mutt and have young kids, I highly recommend the Shetland Sheepdog.