Tiny Terriers

You like tiny terriers.

Make no mistake, huge dogs rule. I'm a mastiff fan, fer sure. But just because you love giants, doesn't mean you can't like midgets. And small dogs are practical in ways 200-pounds behemoths aren't. The advantage of the smallest terriers is that you get toy dog size without toy dog wussiness. I'm a dog lover, but shih tzus? Maybe they're sweet and affectionate, I don't know, but they look silly, and they were bred to be throw pillows.

Terriers have character. They went underground and battled wild animals on their own turf. This working history, softened by companion breeding, has created dogs that are bold and friendly, tenacious and intelligent. Some of the smallest...

1. Border terrier: small but long-legged, so they can keep up on a jog. The distinctive otter-like face is adorable and they're known for their friendliness. But how cool is this little tidbit from their breed standard? "In the field he is hard as nails...and driving in attack." (http://www.akc.org/breeds/border_terrier/)
2. Norwich terrier: they may look like small teddy bears, and be known for their loyalty and affection, but they're brave little warriors, too: "A hardy hunt terrier - honorable scars from fair wear and tear are acceptable." (http://www.akc.org/breeds/norwich_terrier/)
3. Lakeland terrier: cute comes second with these alert but friendly hunters from the mountains of England's Lake District, but that's part of their charm - they look like a miniature version of larger breeds, such as the Airedale. (http://www.akc.org/breeds/lakeland_terrier/)
4. Yorkshire terrier: These little fellows are too often bedecked with bows. Ugh. These teacup terriers used to kill rats in mines, so they're the real deal, even if their typical owner is a dotty old lady. (http://www.akc.org/breeds/yorkshire_terrier/index.cfm)

And no, I don't advocate dog fighting or sicking pets on rabbits and squirrels, so fuckin' relax. You can like the qualities of a hunter - and admire strength you have no intention of testing - even in a pet.