They are not real popular here either, at least not in Michigan. They will settle down. They are extremely intelligent, playful but love to cuddle....they love being up high, like on the back of the couch, etc.... I, like you, always had big to med sized dogs, lab...and wasn't sure how a little dog would fit with us. He fits perfect, they are very versitile. Packed with personality, not ankle biters. Tanga is now 4 and he still likes to fight, my 13 year old mix in my avatar has to put him in his place at times when they are play fighting. I love when Tanga gets excited and does his 'howl'....other than that he rarely barks. I will definately be getting another someday....the only downside I've found to this breed is the shedding...yes the hair is short but they shed horribly...worse than any dog I've ever owned....with yours being mostly black, forget wearing anything white....with mine forget wearing anything dark colored cause his little white hairs are like glue! Come to think of it your girls have lots of white too...you may not be able to wear anything...lol. Have fun with them, great little dogs!
