Tibetan spaniel

Bred as a companion and lookout in Tibetan monasteries, this small dog behaves more like a cat than most breeds: it likes a high perch by the window, keeps itself occupied and is less clingy than many toy dogs. That window habit has a downside in a block of flats, because it will announce visitors and passing dogs, so teach a quiet cue early. An hour of walking a day is plenty, the coat needs brushing a couple of times a week, and the breed has few widespread health problems, though breeders should DNA-test for an inherited eye disease.