
Corgi! They are very hardy, intelligent dogs [pastoral breed] which can cover long distances despite their short legs. They have a lovely easy maintenance coat which comes in various handsome colours - they do moult bi-annually but not for very long and not a huge amount. Regular brushing helps this. They make excellent companions and are not yappy - in fact they are very alert and will tell you when there is someone at the door. Their bark sounds like one of a much bigger dog. As they are a working dog they would love herding things in your garden but are also happy to laze in front of the fire.
Mine is very affectionate with both me and husband. I could go on but there are some good descriptions on the internet if you do a search. Try www.PedigreeDogs.co.uk.
Last but not least - they are not timid and if well socialised with other dogs they make friends very easily with any size of dog.
EDIT - I forgot - ours like cats too even after being swiped by one.
please let us know what you decide.
cissy