Here's a good picture of a blue tick hound:
http://www.rappahannockanimals.org/images/needadoption/Hunter-4-19-2003.jpgI would definitely classify them as full-size dogs. My Uncle Bennett always kept one to use for hunting. On the way to the hunting ground he'd put the dog in the trunk of the car!
Edit--I can't think of any particular breed that I'd recommend for your family, not that I'm an expert. Border collies are the most intelligent, but they are very attention-demanding as well as hyper. I love German Shepherds--not only are they extremely intelligent, they just
look regal. Gut-feeling is probably good. Oh--I've known two Chows that suddenly bit their longtime owners; and I saw advertising when the latest 101 Dalmatians was coming out that Dalmations are not good around kids. Let us know, will you please?
