John, I'm going to suggest a Tibetan Spaniel, a small but sturdy breed that's described as a big dog in a small dog's body.
We've always owned working-type dogs...border collies & shelties but for 4 years we've had our first Tibetan Spaniel. And we're delighted with the breed's compact size, beautiful but wash 'n wear coat, & intelligent charming temperament.
I've attached a picture of our Tibbie, Angel, who'll be 8 yrs old this year. She's golden but Tibs come in many colours.
Tibetan Spaniels were bred for centuries in the Buddhist monasteries of Tibet where they were companions to the monks & alert watchdogs. In the harsh conditions of Tibet, humans & animals had to think quickly to survive...so Tibetan Spaniels have a characteristic intelligent independence of mind. They're also warmly responsive to their owners & are often used as therapy dogs.
Our Angel does pet therapy work. She was also nominated for a Canine Hero Award for saving the life of a tiny child by alerting people when she'd wandered onto a busy road. So our little Tibbie was up there with the big, brave dogs. Our city's Tibbie owners have their own website, where you can see more pics of Angel & Brock her black Tib cousin & other Tibbie pets.
http://www.home.gil.com.au/~kmorcom
There's also lots of information about Tibetan Spaniels on their Global Village site. You'll find links to the North American Tibetan Spaniel Rescue (which may have tibs available) & to lists of breeders.
http://www.tibbies.net
Marie
Here's a pic of our Angel.
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