[gemy]

You mentioned having a fear of larger dogs; that concerns me, for any larger breed you might get.

Large and Toy breeds each have unique needs. Well truly all dog breeds do. But to mix a larger size dog with a toy breed, (any breed that is under 20 lbs), takes a careful, conscious owner. Another point I'd like to make, is that you need to feel relaxed in your awareness of your dog's interactions. If you are very tense when this larger breed grows up to it's size, if you are nervous around the big dog, and always nervous around the large and small interacting; that doesn't make for a very enjoyable home life.

So think carefully, you are a new dog owner, just finding your way through the joyous world of dog ownership. Don't rush it. If your partner is worried about security at home; maybe think about an alarm system.

There is for the responsible dog owner, a whole world of training, that is so necessary with large dogs... and Goldens are anywhere from 60-80 pounds or so.

Keep working with your trainer, keep exposing yourself to large breed dogs. Talk to their owners, find out what they feel they need to do with their dog. Read lots.

I am a large breed owner and a Yorkie owner, and there are many adjustments I make to keep every-one safe around one another; but I am very experienced in this arena.

Brit is absolutely right when she says, many giant breeds are actually quite good with toy dogs; but that is with an owner that Does the requisite training, and after the Giant breed has matured.