It depends on how familiar you are with handling dogs, your environment, and your ability to train a dog. ANY breed of dog is likely to be aggressive if it is mistreated or untrained. Please regard that with the highest importance, and take great care to consider if you have the time and energy to devote to training this dog properly.On the same note, any breed of dog can be great with toddlers, if treated well and taught that toddlers are higher up in the "pack" or "chain". This starts with NEVER allowing your dog to even so much as snarl at your toddler, but it also means "training" your toddler to not provoke your dog, and to handle it gently. Also you should teach your toddler not to bother dogs while they are sleeping, eating, or worn out.I think it would be a better idea to choose a breed based on your ability to provide it with it's "ideal" environment. This would ensure that the dog would be more comfortable to begin with, and not be restless or grouchy. If you live in an apartment and don't go out much, choose a small dog who doesn't require much exercise, like a Bulldog. Also make sure that the average temperature where you live is good for that breed, as some short-nosed dogs like Pugs can't handle extreme heat.Finally, find out the disposition of the parents. While most of the dog's behavior is going to be related to it's training and environment, there still will be some intelligence and disposition that is genetic.Also, I would caution you about setting a price limit of $250 on a dog. Vet bills, food, toys, the cost to repair chewed furniture, deworming, neutering, training courses, and other unforeseen costs can put you in the $1000-5000 range in the first year alone. If you don't feel financially prepared to take on this burden, perhaps a dog is not right for you.
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