I love dogs, but I've never wanted a large breed. GSDs are great, but just too big for my tastes. We've got three dachshunds--two of them are doxie/chihuahua mix--and they're perfect for our needs/preferences. Growing up, I've been around Boston Terriers, mini Schnauzers, and Cocker Spaniels. It'll be doxies from here on down the line for us.