menu_open Columnists
We use cookies to provide some features and experiences in QOSHE

More information  .  Close

Sorry, Pit Bull Owners. The Manliest Men Actually Own This Type of Dog

29 0
03.10.2026

Get unlimited access to everything VICE has to offer.

Turn off all ads on VICE.com

Exclusive New VICE Documentaries

Member Exclusive Features & Columns

Turn off all ads on VICE.com

Exclusive New VICE Documentaries

Member Exclusive Features & Columns

Turn off all ads on VICE.com

Exclusive New VICE Documentaries

Member Exclusive Features & Columns

4 Magazines Delivered to Your Door

Sorry, Pit Bull Owners. The Manliest Men Actually Own This Type of Dog

Share on X (Opens in new window)X

Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Facebook

Share using Native toolsShareCopied to clipboard

There’s something very funny about a man who looks like he could change a tire in the rain walking around with a six-pound dog named Princess. He also might be more secure than the guy getting yanked down the sidewalk by a giant Cane Corso.

Animal historian Stephanie Howard-Smith has a PhD in the cultural history of lapdogs. In her new book, Yap! A Short History of Small Dogs, out in October, she argues that a man carrying a tiny dog can “demonstrate [his] absolute confidence in his masculinity.” He doesn’t need the stereotypically macho breed to “aura-farm,” as the kids would say. Orlando Bloom has a teacup........

© Vice