Wikipedia says that the Tibetan Terrier is not a terrier. So does that mean they're okay off-lead? And how are they to housetrain?
I've previously had a LabX, GSD and KelpieX but now live in a inner city townhouse (with off-lead park and dog beach nearby). So I'm looking for a breed who is happy without a backyard at home (just a shrub-lined courtyard). But I prefer the big-dog personality. I love a dog who runs off-lead and comes when he's called (i.e. probably not a 'real' terrier). I like a dog who plays ball and swimming is a bonus. And he has to housetrain easily enough or I'll go nuts!
I'd love a shelter dog but my son really really wants a puppy. But I don't want the unpredictability of a mix-breed puppy. He's over-5 now so I'm happy to compromise (sacrifice!) and give him that experience. So I'm looking for the right pure-breed.
Does a Tibetan Terrier fit the bill?
ETA: My son wants the dog to be black! So I'm trying to limit my search to breeds that come in black. I'll talk him out of it if I really have to but I'm trying to find just what he wants :)