What type of MEDIUM - LARGE dog should I get?

Since a significant number of dogs doesn't get along with cats and bunnies your best bet would be to look what your local shelters are which are run through foster homes. If a dog could peacefully coexist with cats, rabbits and kids in the foster home, odds are that the dog will coexist with all at your home.

Beagle.

While the entire family should be in agreement as to what family dog will be gotten the final decision is your Dad's, respect his decision, his house, his rules. If everyone is not in agreement then it's the dog who will suffer the most.

Without knowing the entire families lifestyle, finances and how much daily time every family member is willing to commit for providing for the family dogs basic care for the next 12--17 years, regardless weather, how they maybe feeling, (tired/sick/busy) school, homework, social life, extracurricular activities, household chores, childcare, and work, and any changes to any of the already mentioned during those 12-17 years, as well as keep everyone

("3 and 4 year olds"toddlers?) *S.A.F.E. - Supervise. Anticipate. Follow through. Educate. No one can nor should anyone even consider suggesting any dog.

That includes any pets, past/present/future such as, "a cat and 2 bunnies ( and 3 kits )" by whatever means necessary, dogs are prey animals, other pets are prey. Requiring constant supervision, immediate correction when caught in the act, secure separation/containment only when no one can supervise...

*Supervise. Keep them in your vision at all times or physically separated--child in play pen or dog in crate. And we mean at all times...

Anticipate. A dog only has a few ways of protesting. He can move away, hop up on furniture, or go under a bed. Once the dog has done this, he has no other means to stop a child other than a bark, growl, or nip. If you see your dog retreating from a child, stop that child! Anticipate problems before they happen. Do not expect your dog to tolerate something you wouldn't.

Follow through. If you say it, mean it. If you tell your child to stop bothering the dog, enforce that. If you tell the dog to sit, make him. All things are easier if your child and dog know that you mean what you say, and say what you mean.

Educate. This means both the dog and the child. Teach your child by word and example that animals are to be treated with care. Do not allow hitting, teasing, or other harassment.

Surely your DAD is capable of going to a rescue kennels and discussing his requirements of what he wants in a dog and what humans his family consists of, so that a suitable dog may be found that pleases him and also you.

Its essential that all family members agree on what dog is bought and that the dog is likely to fit in with the lifestyle of the family.

rottweiler

If you (and your FAMILY) are undecided about what breed, why not go to the local Shelter and offer one in there looking for a second chance of finding a good permanent and loving home.