Wolf63 you are wrong about small dogs. I have had several amazing Irish Wolfhounds, a wonderful St. Bernard, two very messed up rescue Great Danes (after which I, my garden and my house desperately needed rescuing I may add!) a beautiful Irish Setter, a totally crazy Cocker Spaniel and now have a very intelligent and perceptive Shih-Tzu ( but he is fairly big for his breed). ALL were absolutely delightful dogs!! If you don't think so, have a look on my site :
www.serenehound.spaces.live.com/
My Sammy (Shih-Tzu) is like my Irish Wolfhound Finnegan and my Irish Setter were, a very perceptive dog. If I am in pain he will go and get someone to help me, then come back and stay with me until I am better again. He does the same for my mother and for anyone staying in my home. He has won several good citizenship awards, is fabulous with children and is about to become a PAT dog. Mind you, he is convinced he is really a big dog, even has a dark low bark, but only barks to alert or warn of danger. So you see, little dogs can be great too. I will admit though that I am partial to my Irish Wolfhounds and look forward to Sammy having one as a buddy some day.