the "Cave Canem" (beware of dog) sign beside the front door is no lie for this domus is defended by two dogs - a massive Molossian (ancient ancestor of most of today's Mastiff breeds) and a dainty little Melitta (Maltese). 
 

Don't let Argos frighten you.  He's big, but all bark.  Isn't he a fine specimen of a Molossian (ancient ancestor of most of today's Mastiff breeds)?

Actually little Issa is much more likely to draw blood, or so the servants tell me *G*.  But she's such a sweet little Melitta dog (Maltese)!