I would try a begonia, loves shade and is very forgiving.
you might also want to look into a ZZ plant, pothos, Cast Iron Plants (Aspidistra Elatior), ferns, spider plants (very pet hardy), ivys, parlor palms. the list goes on...there are MANY shade loving houseplants available to you. for easy care I would highly recommend ZZ and spider. As for curious pets, your ACD ( I have one too!) would have to eat the entire plant or be very young. and with good behavior training (ie. teaching him/her that the plant is yours and not theirs) your plant should be just fine. if not just put it up on a shelf or counter where they cannot get to it.