When I started researching family dogs, I knew what I wanted, and I knew what I DIDN’T want. I wanted small but not tiny, sporty but not spazzy, and smart enough to train quickly. I did not want a dog that I couldn’t control physically if I needed to. I grew up with Basset Hounds, whom I loved but wished weren’t quite so stubborn. My husband also had preferences, and he was strongly anti-drool. Ultimately we landed on Fox Terriers, smart athletic dogs that run 14-18 pounds. They were small enough to suit our needs, but cool enough for R to not deem them “floofers.” We have two smooth FTs, Hank and Rosie, and one wire FT, Evie.

Two years ago a young man came into our life through our daughter. He had a Pit Bull named Tyson, and he also had plans to join the military. When he left for basic training, he entrusted Tyson to us. When he succeeded in special forces training, Tyson became ours.

So, remember that preference about not wanting a dog I couldn’t overpower if I needed to? Well… Tyson was a solid 65 pounds when we got him, and I don’t need to go into all the stories you hear about pitties on the news. But, he was extremely well-trained so we made him the fourth pup in our pack. He is now my writing buddy, nap buddy, snack buddy and now, my website mascot. <3