How do you work out the right dog for you? (I need help deciding!)

Right... yes here I go again..
When I move out I want to get another dog.
This will probably about 4-5 years down the line.

I don't want (or expect) to decide on one exact breed just yet. But would like a few options I can research.
At the moment I would be researching most breeds...

I have no idea what will happen in the next 4-5 years, but as it stands I will be living on my own, small house and small car.

I would loveeee a big dog, but possibly after having moved out into my own small place, a big dog may not be the best plan?

I want something that isn't too headstrong (rottie, akita etc), but i can feel safe when walking/in the house on my own. (GSD is an option).

But then again, if I have a small place and small car I might be better getting something like a cocker spaniel or something.

I know a lot will depend on money/circumstances at the time, but I love researching so would like a few breeds to focus on just now

I was just curious how you decided on the right breed for you?

Some of my options at the moment are:
Cocker spaniel
King Charles spaniel
Labrador
GSD
Boxer
Hungarian Vizsla (sp?)
Miniature Schnauzer
etc etc...

Ideally... I would like something taller than alfie (not hard ), not too head-strong, would bark at the door, not too much drool
Then on one hand I would say, is small enough for a small house/small car (practicality wise I suppose this should be a main one), but then I love bigger dogs too..

So..... how did you decide, and can any one help me?

Situations change so fast I would wait and see .lol
Not helpful i know but its a truth i have come to realise..

I know, I know this myself and people keep telling me, but it is hard to try and not think about it at all

If i was going to match a shih-tzu cross to a breed on your list ,not difficult for me it would be a Boxer

Of course
I do love boxers..
They are a "definite" to research into

Actually if I am reallllly honest, I have loved boxers for a long time and would realllly love one
But again, not done lots of research to see if they would be "right for me" but I love them

They match well..

Awww
I am looking at videos of boxers on youtube at the moment...
One thing, do they drool a lot?

staffordshire bullterrier Happy to live in a small house

Of course! Thanks
....see.... so many breeds!!