We have two pure breed Basset Hounds. The first we bought (Chester) and we adopted the second (his litter mate) Baxter. Our cat was also adopted. Bassets make great family pets (aside from a little slobber here and there). They are very friendly. They are NOT lazy dogs, as commercials would lead you to believe. They are tracking dogs, and love to go out and run. Also, because they are pack dogs, they tend to get along well with other animals and people, and they are very affectionate.
No matter what type of aninmal you wish to have, adoption is a great way to go.
Check out:
http://www.pgaa.com/rescues.html#states
There are plenty of great animals out there that would make you a great pet!