We have 2 Jack Russel terrier mixes and they are just plain smart(the female being the leader and the smartest). Never really house trained them, they just never go potty in the house, although they are out more than in. I would like to have a soft, cuddly dog, but it won't be with the 2 that rule here now. Used to have a shitzu, and she never shed and she loved me.