What areas in the greater-Denver metro are best for a growing family?

My husband and I are relocating to Denver from Chicago. We are moving so we can put own roots and start a family. Schools are important to us and we have 2 Boxer dogs (1 med, 1 large). While we'd rather buy (our budget would be approx $220,000), we would likely have to rent (budget of $1,700/month) for a while before saving enough to make a large enough down payment. It's rough looking for dog-friendly rentals in a good area. Any suggestions?