This willful group was bred to hunt and fight small vicious creatures, such as rats and opossums. Despite their size, they are known for a fierceness that generally does not mix well with small children.

If you cannot resist the spunky terrier personality, consider the Border terrier, quieter and more predictable than most of its cousins. Border terriers look like Benji, and though they may be hard to find they are worth searching for: They are highly trainable, very healthy and as affectionate as they are cute.

The soft-coated Wheaten terrier is another potential family dog in this category. Wheaten-fanciers claim their dogs are mild mannered, playful and, believe it or not, hypoallergenic.