Our Breeds: Scottish Terrier

BREED: Scottish terrier.

WEIGHT: Adults, 19-23 pounds.

LIFESPAN: 12 to 15 years.

GOOD WITH CHILDREN: Yes. Just don't expect a Scottie to play anytime a child wants. Scotties — well at least my wife's — don't like being told when to do things. Don't worry, they'll let you know when they're down to play fetch, though.

QUIRKS: A Scottie really doesn't care what its owner thinks. The breed is known for being very independent and assertive, and more stubborn than a 3-year-old child.

ODD: Keep note of small areas, such as a space behind your couch or underneath your bed. Your Scottie is probably going to like to sleep there when he's had too much attention for the day. Or he could be just whining under there, like Vesuvius does when our Jack Russell (my dog and a much better breed, in my partial opinion) is getting all the attention (she is the definition of a lap dog.)

WHY YOU'LL LOVE A SCOTTISH TERRIER: It's kind of like owning a cat with the benefits of not owning a cat. Scotties are great dogs for the independent owner who doesn't want a dog on his or her lap all the time. If you're the kind of person who needs your space but wants a loyal companion, a Scottie is perfect for you.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY: They look like teddy bears when they're puppies. Buyer beware: It won't last forever, even though my wife swears it does. Really, Kristine, it doesn't. Also: Keep all electronics off the floor, such as Xbox 360 controllers, Xbox 360 Bluetooth headsets or you know, laptops — all things of mine Vesuvius destroyed when he was a puppy.

[ RYAN E. LITTLE/The Ledger ]